Curtains Do Not Always Hide a Window

Window coverings are traditionally used to hide a window.  They cover, conceal and block out the light.  Curtains are also used to help retain heat in the winter and keep the house cool in the summer.  However, sometimes curtains do not always hide a window and are used for other purposes.  If you are looking for a unique window treatment, try some of the non-traditional curtain uses below.

Frame It Up

Framing a window with curtains is a great way to accent the view beyond.  In fact, many designers use curtain panels that are intentionally too small to cover the window to accent the space.  This is especially true of formal living rooms and dining rooms.  Typically, there are sheer panels that hang between the curtains and the window itself.  This helps provide privacy, but allows the curtains to act as accent pieces, as opposed to traditional window coverings.  In addition to sheer panels, many homeowners also install blinds or shades to give them added security from the glances of passersby.  If you would like to use curtains to frame out your windows, more formal curtain panels are recommended.  Whimsical patterns do not provide the same look and intensity that more formal styles take on. 

So Sheer

Curtains come in many different weights and fabrics.  One such weight is the sheer.  It is made of a see through material, usually an acrylic blend or silk, and is used primarily to filter light and prying eyes.  It is a curtain that does not hide a window, so much as it shelters it from being unprotected.  Sheers come in a variety of colors to match any decor, and many sheers can be found with patterns and textures.  Beyond the window, sheers are good for creating a separation between sides of a bedroom shared by two teenage sisters, or just to create an interesting backdrop by being hung on a wall as a headboard.  While most people choose sheers that are almost the same color as the main curtains themselves, there is no reason why you cannot choose an accent color to really create a visual focal point in the room.

Away From the Window

While sheer curtains are sometimes used in lieu of headboards, heavier weight curtains can also be used in the same manner.  Curtains can be used in place of doors, especially for closets.  Simply remove the closet door and hang a curtain rod with a heavy curtain in its place.  Other creative curtain uses include using them as shower curtains over a clear, plastic liner and turning sheers into a fairy princess bed tent.  The possibility for using curtains beyond their intended purpose is limited only by your imagination.

Curtains may not always hide a window, but they can accent a window and other areas of the home quickly and easily. Like other accessories and wall decor from modern black metal wall sculptures to rustic southwestern wall art, details and creativity make a room special.  The next time you are looking for a creative window treatment, closet door solution, or teen headboard, consider using curtains to get the desired effect.