Boost Your Vertical Blinds with These Curtain Ideas
Vertical blinds are a popular choice for controlling light and privacy in homes and offices. With sleek, modern slats that rotate open and closed, they provide flexibility and functionality.
But for some, the linear look of vertical blinds can appear too stark and industrial. Their harsh lines and metallic materials often conflict with a room's cozy aesthetics and decor scheme.
Challenges of Vertical Blinds' Appearance
While valued for their adjustable light filtering and privacy control, vertical blinds present some stylistic challenges. Their slim, suspended slats can evoke an impersonal, commercial feel rather than homey warmth. Vertical blinds tend to make windows appear generic and boring instead of an intentional design element.
For spaces with more traditional, softer furnishings, the cold modernism of vertical blinds can feel out of sync. Their sleek functionality doesn't always align with the overall look and vibe of a living room, bedroom, or dining area.
Benefits of Using Curtains Over Vertical Blinds
The solution? Layering curtains over existing vertical blinds for the best of both worlds. Curtains beautifully soften the blunt modernism of vertical blinds in several ways:
- Add visual texture and interest
- Provide an extra layer of light filtering
- Introduce color, patterns, and different fabrics
- Give a finished, intentional look to windows for a focal point
- Allow vertical blinds to still function for adjustable lighting and privacy control
Curtains over vertical blinds create a coordinated, cohesive aesthetic. Windows transition from an afterthought to an accent that brings harmony to the decor.
Choosing the Right Curtains
Not just any curtains will complement vertical blinds. To find styles that enhance instead of compete:
- Opt for lightweight, semi-sheer fabrics like linen, voile, and silk
- Avoid heavy fabrics like brocade or velvet that will overwhelm delicate slats
- Skip loud patterns and favor solids or subtle prints
- White and neutral tones tend to work with most color schemes
Layering With Sheers
Sheer curtains that gently filter light are the perfect companion for modern vertical blinds. The gauzy, transparent fabric softens harsh lines and creates beautiful luminosity. Hang sheers close to windows and draw them open during the day to allow sunlight to penetrate. At night, close sheers over blinds for added privacy and insulation.
Using Patterned Curtains
While bold patterns usually compete with the strong vertical lines, sometimes that contrast is the point. Choose patterns like modern geometrics or graphic florals that make a statement against the blinds. Opt for medium-scale prints and avoid anything too overpowering. The key is finding the right visual balance of lines, colors, and shapes.
Considering Blackout Curtains
For bedrooms and media rooms, blackout curtains are ideal paired with privacy-providing vertical blinds. Light-blocking blackout curtains mounted behind blinds give complete darkness. During the day, adjust blinds and curtains together to modulate sunlight and visibility. At night, close blackouts over blinds for zero light infiltration, which is essential for peaceful sleep and home theater experiences.
Choosing Embellished Curtains
Tassels, fringe, pom poms and other embellishments introduce a playful, bohemian vibe that complements the modernism of sleek blinds. Opt for minimal embellishments in similar neutral tones as the base curtains. This creates a subtle layered effect while allowing the strong vertical lines to still stand out. Eclectic accents bring a cheeky, bespoke feel to otherwise generic window treatments.
Experimenting With Fabrics
Light, breezy fabrics like silk and linen curtains filter light beautifully and create an airy counterpoint to structured metal blinds. Opt for rippled textures over flat for softness. On the other end, rich velvet or brocade curtains make a luscious, dramatic statement juxtaposed with stark verticals. The contrast highlights both elements for an opulent look.
Hanging Curtains Over Vertical Blinds
Inside vs Outside Mount
For hanging curtains over existing vertical blinds, an inside mount with the rod extending within the window frame is ideal. This allows curtains to tuck behind blinds seamlessly. Outside mounting with brackets requires extension rods or a specialty ceiling mount system to allow adequate clearance. Account for draw and stack back so curtains aren't obstructed.
Proper Mounting Height
Mount the curtain rod at least 3-4 inches above the clearance needed for vertical blinds to fully rotate open and closed. Check manufacturer specifications. Allow for curtain stack back space so materials don't bunch up. Extend the mounting brackets wider than the window frame for a seamless outside mount look.
Sturdy Brackets Are Key
Reinforced extension mounting brackets maintain the proper curtain rod positioning and provide support for the rod plus curtain weight. For wide windows, ensure brackets can handle the span when choosing an outside mount. Securely screw all hardware into wall studs for safety.
Decorating Tips
Once vertical blinds are softened with lush curtains, use and enjoy them together:
- Draw curtains open during the day to enjoy ample sunlight filtered through sheers
- Close curtains fully at night for increased privacy and insulation
- Tie back curtains to keep windows unobstructed as needed
- Change curtain and blind positioning with the seasons as light and privacy needs evolve
Well-chosen curtains enhance generic vertical blinds in any room. With the right fabrics and intelligent installation, windows become an intentional, complementary element showcasing personalized style.
Vertical blinds provide practical light and privacy control, but their linear aesthetic can feel cold and dated. By layering lightweight, neutral-toned curtains over blinds, you boost their appearance and functionality. Curtains seamlessly unify window treatments with surrounding decor for a finished, purposeful look. With clever innovations, generic vertical blinds transform into an inviting, intentional design feature.