Suddenly, Short Curtains Have Got My Attention in the 'Long vs Short Curtain' Debate

Traditionally, interior design has dictated that curtains should gracefully "kiss the floor," a standard that has largely persisted since the 1990s when shorter curtains fell out of vogue, deemed old-fashioned. However, recent sightings in homes of influential creatives, such as the founders of the Danish fashion brand Ganni, Sophie Rowell of Cote de Folk, and Reath Design, suggest a potential resurgence of short curtains. This trend, possibly influenced by the cottagecore aesthetic, challenges the long-held design principle. Interior designer Sophie Rowell of Cote de Folk is a proponent of shorter curtains, advocating for their use when appropriate for the space. She highlights practical benefits, such as accommodating radiators beneath windows, and aesthetic advantages, noting their playful nature. Additionally, shorter curtains require less fabric, making it feasible to use more luxurious or expensive materials without exceeding budget, as demonstrated in a client's room with Décor Barbares fabric. Rowell advises that the key to successfully incorporating short curtains lies in precise measurement; they should extend slightly beyond the windowsill to avoid looking "skimpy" or disproportionate. Conversely, Rebecca Constable of Rebecca Constable Design firmly favors traditional long curtains. She argues that long curtains contribute to a room's perceived height and do not create the horizontal line that shorter curtains do, which she believes can visually cut off the space. While long curtains require more fabric, she points out that affordable options are available from retailers like The Pure Edit, Zara Home, and La Redoute. Olivia Caplan of Olivia Caplan Design shares this sentiment, expressing a strong aversion to short curtains. She believes they disrupt the visual flow of a room, creating a muddled appearance, and advocates for curtains that gently touch the floor to enhance elegance and height. Caplan also suggests positioning curtain poles as high as possible to maximize the illusion of height. For situations where short curtains are a practical necessity, such as bay windows with built-in seating or in children's rooms where avoiding yanking is important, designers offer alternatives. Caplan recommends cafe curtains or blinds, particularly relaxed Roman blinds, for their organic feel and movement. Constable concurs that Roman blinds can be a stylish and practical solution where full-length curtains are not viable. Both designers emphasize that if short curtains must be used, they should be intentional in design, with playful fabrics and dimensions that complement the window's shape, rather than appearing as an afterthought. This ongoing debate reflects a broader discussion within interior design about balancing traditional aesthetics with contemporary trends and practical considerations, challenging designers and homeowners to reconsider long-standing rules. #InteriorDesign #CurtainTrends #HomeDecor #WindowTreatments #DesignDebate #Cottagecore #ModernInteriors #DecoratingTips #HomeStyling

The concept of using curtains instead of traditional doors to delineate spaces within a home has emerged as a divisive yet stylish trend in interior design. This approach offers a departure from both rigid traditionalism and the open-plan layouts that are gradually losing favor, providing a middle ground for homeowners seeking both separation and fluidity. Proponents of curtain doors, such as Lauren Saab of Saab Studios and MK Bokyin Smith of Smith Interior Design, highlight several benefits. Saab emphasizes the softness and texture curtains bring to a space, allowing for a gentler transition between rooms compared to solid doors. She notes that curtains can offer separation when needed without creating a complete shut-off, making movement between areas feel more relaxed and less formal. Smith echoes this sentiment, stating that curtain doors are a deliberate design choice for her firm, contributing to definition, softness, texture, and warmth within an interior. Unlike doors, they are not rigid or permanent, preserving flow while fostering intimacy. The versatility of curtain doors is another key advantage. Designers can choose from a wide array of fabrics, colors, and textures, ranging from deep jewel-toned velvets to soft neutral linens, to match specific aesthetic goals and create varied moods. This flexibility allows for significant personalization, enabling the curtains to actively shape the space rather than merely serve as functional barriers. However, Saab cautions against using flimsy fabrics, advising that substantial materials are crucial to ensure the curtain doors appear intentional and add personality without looking like an afterthought or weighing down the room. Conversely, some design professionals, including Sara Swabb of Storie Collective, express reservations about the trend. Swabb believes that while curtain doors can possess a whimsical quality, they often compromise a home’s architectural integrity. She prefers to layer spaces with lasting materials and meaningful details, advocating for timeless elements over what she perceives as trend-driven fabric overlays. Swabb argues that natural materials age gracefully and gain character over time, a quality she finds lacking in fabric doors, which she feels rarely age as well. This perspective underscores a preference for enduring structural elements that contribute to a home's long-term design value rather than temporary, decorative solutions. This trend is observed in various settings, from residential primary suites where curtains section off reading nooks to commercial spaces like clothing retailer Tuckernuck’s Madison Avenue store, where fringed curtain doors subtly divide garment sections while maintaining an inviting atmosphere. The discussion surrounding curtain doors highlights a broader ongoing debate in interior design regarding the balance between functionality, aesthetics, and permanence, with designers weighing the benefits of flexibility and softness against concerns about architectural coherence and material longevity. The choice ultimately depends on individual preferences and the specific design goals for a given space. #CurtainDoors #InteriorDesignTrends #HomeDecor #RoomSeparation #DesignDebate #ArchitecturalIntegrity #FabricDecor #ModernLiving #FlexibleSpaces

The author expresses a strong preference for specific drapery styles and introduces the rising trend of knotted curtains, highlighting their relaxed yet luxurious aesthetic as particularly suited for the current season. This window treatment approach is described as a versatile option that adds personality to a room. Elizabeth Vergara of Vergara Homes notes that the appeal of knotted curtains stems from their casual, DIY-inspired yet elevated appearance, with the knot detail transforming the room's energy to something both informal and intentional. Jennifer Cataldo, an interior designer and founder of Maison Cataldo, further supports this, calling the trend a more whimsical alternative to traditional curtain pleats. The article suggests that heavier fabrics like velvet or linen enhance the drama of knotted curtains, especially when chosen in earthy or jewel tones. This combination is noted to create a cozy, layered ambiance, making it an effective way to introduce seasonal warmth without a complete decor overhaul. The author, meticulous about how curtains hang, observes that the knotted top might offer an ideal solution for achieving a perfectly draped look, influenced by various curtain header types such as eyelet, pinch pleat, and tab top. To facilitate readers' adoption of this trend, the article presents a curated selection of knotted curtain options. These range from casual, large-knotted styles that evoke an organic modern feel to delicate velvet bows that add a playful touch. Featured products include the Urban Outfitters Knotted Window Curtain, praised for its cinematic drape and popularity, the Madison Park Rivau Light-Filtering Single Curtain Panel, offering a more polished aesthetic in multiple colorways and lengths, and the Anthropologie Cotton Dobby Striped Sheer Tie-Top Curtain, recommended for a romantic look with tied bows and semi-sheer fabric. Additionally, the No. 918 Odelia Distressed Velvet Tab Curtain Panel from Target is highlighted for its sophisticated crushed velvet texture at an accessible price point, along with another Urban Outfitters Velvet Tie Window Panel for its polished velvet bows. The Ballard Designs Linen Sheer Tie Top Drapery Panel is also mentioned for its natural linen texture and how its knotted details enhance the light-filtering effect. The author concludes by noting their ongoing interest in various drapery styles, having recently experimented with velvet window treatments for a closet, indicating a continuous exploration of cozy and stylish home decor solutions. The new trend for knotted curtains is positioned as a current favorite due to its unique blend of ease and elegance, making it an exciting addition to contemporary interior design. #KnottedCurtains #WindowTreatments #InteriorDesignTrends #HomeDecor #FabricSelection #SeasonalDecor #DraperyStyles #TextileDesign

This article, part of the 'Design Talk' series for Daily AD, features an interview with Manhattan designer Miles Redd, who shares his insights into the growing popularity of unlined curtains in interior design. The conversation aims to explore current design ideas and trends, offering practical tips and trade secrets. Redd addresses the common perception that curtains can appear overly 'Victorian,' 'heavy,' or 'fussy,' suggesting that unlined curtains offer a refreshing and modern alternative. He observes a shift towards lighter window treatments, which he attributes to a potential reaction against periods of high color and elaborate designs, emphasizing the 'lightness' these curtains bring to a space. Contrary to the notion that sheer curtains might be reminiscent of dated styles, Redd highlights the variety of contemporary options available. He cites an example from architect Gil Schafer’s country house, where a paper-thin handkerchief linen fabric from Rogers & Goffigon called 'Gasoline' was used on every window. This choice created a cohesive and masculine aesthetic throughout the home, demonstrating the versatility of unlined fabrics. The discussion also touches upon specific design details, such as the use of contrasting tape or ribbon stitched along the edge of linen panels, simply tied back. Redd appreciates this detail, noting that it adds a 'graphic sharpness' to a room, likening it to a precise, elegant detail in fashion. While Redd expresses a personal preference for unlined silk taffeta, he provides a practical caution: this material does not hold up well in bright, intense sunlight due to its tendency to rot quickly. For sunny areas requiring curtains, he subtly suggests considering fabrics that incorporate polyester, indicating a balance between aesthetic preference and material durability for different environmental conditions. The article concludes by inviting readers to explore further topics related to news, prominent designers, and interior decor. #InteriorDesign #CurtainTrends #MilesRedd #HomeDecor #WindowTreatments #FabricSelection #ModernDesign #DesignTalk

The article explores the simple yet impactful design idea of hanging shower curtains closer to the ceiling and extending their length to the floor to create a more chic and elegant bathroom aesthetic. This concept, often used for window drapes to make windows appear larger, is shown to apply equally effectively to shower curtains. The author notes that while they previously hadn't considered the length of shower curtains in detail, a viral Instagram video highlighted the transformative power of this design choice. Gabriela Eisenhart of Silo Studio Design confirms that this is a timeless and classic style that can significantly elevate a bathroom's appearance. She explains that long shower curtains were traditionally a prominent bathroom trend and are now re-emerging in transitional bathrooms, which blend modern and traditional interior design elements. While standard shower curtains typically measure around 72 inches and hang about a foot below the ceiling, stopping a foot above the floor, longer curtains (84 inches or more) are designed to be ceiling-mounted or hung very close to the ceiling, creating a continuous, floor-to-ceiling visual line. This seemingly minor alteration offers several benefits. Firstly, it introduces an unexpected visual interest, adding a touch of sophistication to the bathroom. Secondly, it creates an illusion of height, drawing the eye upwards and making smaller bathrooms feel more spacious, a principle consistent with hanging window drapes higher. Designer Wendy Smit emphasizes that ceiling-mounted shower curtains instantly evoke a sense of drama and height, transforming the bathroom into a more intentional, luxurious, and refined space. Melissa Rosenberg of Rosenberg + Gibson + Sava Design points out practical advantages as well. Ceiling-mounting eliminates the need for a traditional shower rod, thus avoiding drilling into side walls. This method also enhances water containment and privacy within the shower area. The article highlights that adopting a long shower curtain is a cost-effective way to update a bathroom without undertaking a full renovation, providing a stylish and seemingly larger appearance. However, the article also advises considering the existing design and frequency of use before making this change. For instance, if a freestanding clawfoot tub is a prominent aesthetic feature, a shorter shower curtain might be preferred to showcase its details. Additionally, long shower curtains involve a significant amount of fabric, which can be less practical for high-traffic bathrooms. Therefore, Gabriela Eisenhart suggests that they are ideally suited for guest bathrooms or those not used daily. The article concludes by recommending specific long shower curtain options available online, emphasizing that this simple change can make any bathroom appear more expensive, elegant, and even larger, all for an affordable price. #InteriorDesign #BathroomDecor #ShowerCurtain #HomeImprovement #DesignTips #SmallSpaces #LuxuryDesign

This article addresses the query of whether short curtains are an acceptable and practical choice for home decoration, especially in Victorian terraces with large windows, considering factors like cost, aesthetic appeal, and functionality. The author, Fiona McKenzie Johnston, a decorating columnist and agony aunt for House & Garden, provides a comprehensive response that delves into the historical context and contemporary relevance of curtain choices. The article begins by acknowledging the cost-saving potential of short curtains, particularly for those with expensive taste in fabrics, as they require less material and labor. It also notes that short curtains can effectively block light and drafts, especially when radiators are located beneath windows. However, it quickly moves to challenge the notion that these are the primary purposes of curtains. Drawing on the insights of design figures like Dorothy Draper, who famously stated that "windows are the eyes of our house" and "nothing looks so forlorn as inadequate curtains," the article emphasizes the decorative and architectural role of window treatments. A historical overview reveals that curtains, when first introduced in Tudor times, served primarily as status symbols, showcasing wealth through luxurious fabrics. Over centuries, their design evolved to include intricate trimmings, pelmets, and layering. The Georgian era saw the introduction of internal shutters for heat retention, blinds to protect furnishings from light, and what were then called 'snob screens' (now café curtains). The Victorians embraced a maximalist approach, incorporating multiple layers and elaborate detailing. Short curtains gained popularity with the romanticization of cottage living, aligning with aesthetics like 'cottagecore.' They are deemed suitable for low-ceilinged cottages or log cabins and are a practical choice in kitchens where long curtains might interfere with sinks or units. Other appropriate locations include attic dormers with window seats and children's bedrooms, where they contribute to a cozy and casual atmosphere. Historically, short curtains also reflected a 'make-do-and-mend' attitude, particularly during times of fabric rationing. However, for homes beyond these specific styles or functional needs, the article highlights the drawbacks of short curtains. They can diminish the "beauty of the drape" and visually reduce the height of a room, negatively impacting its proportions. Long curtains, on the other hand, can cleverly disguise architectural imperfections and enhance a room's symmetry and balance. The author, drawing from personal experience with a Victorian terrace, notes that Victorian builders often relied on elaborate window dressings to compensate for architectural irregularities. Practical advice is offered for integrating long curtains, even in challenging spaces. This includes extending curtain poles to ensure curtains stack against the wall when open, using pelmets to adjust window height, and treating different-sized windows identically to create visual harmony. The article also suggests incorporating sub-curtains or voiles for sun protection and blinds to manage light and drafts while allowing radiators to heat a room effectively. The layering approach, reminiscent of Georgian design, is presented as an ideal solution for both aesthetics and functionality. Recognizing the financial implications of long curtains, the article provides several cost-saving strategies. It recommends reconsidering expensive fabrics, advocating for the use of more affordable materials in generous quantities, as championed by Dorothy Draper and Rita Konig. Incorporating trims or using expensive fabric only for the leading edge are presented as alternatives. Sourcing fabric from mill shops or finding discounted remnants is also suggested. Additionally, the article encourages a patient approach, allowing time for saving and for personal style to evolve. It advises starting with temporary solutions like self-made voiles and exploring second-hand options, which can be altered to fit. Ultimately, while acknowledging the appeal of short curtains for specific aesthetics or budgetary reasons, the article generally advocates for the timeless elegance and practical benefits of full-length window treatments, emphasizing their historical significance and enduring decorative power. #CurtainDesign #HomeDecoration #InteriorDesign #VictorianArchitecture #Cottagecore #FabricSelection #WindowTreatments #BudgetDecorating #HistoricalInteriors