I actually really like having blinds with a side curtain....yes open windows are beautiful but at night - who wants to risk having someone being able to see into your home...is it just me?
Me too! I hate the idea of people looking inside at night. When we lived on the water I had no curtains on my bedroom windows- all view. Now, that we have moved and have neighbors, blinds and drapes are a requirement.
@@emiliebova people can see through those blinds if standing in the right place outside, I had wooden blinds professionally installed, I had a window peeker for a couple of months, several of my neighbors caught him, they ran him off, I ended up chasing him to his aunts house, I told her what he was doing, I never saw him again. I went and stood where he kept standing, I could see right into my livingroom, so I wouldn't be so secure if I was you, plus those blinds were very time consuming to keep clean.
I do too but I’m in the south and west facing. Lol. It gets sooo hot! I have a clear storm door and I had a wreath on the door that I guess used low temp hot glue. Haha. It melted and pieces fell off and the glue dripped.
I do as well. I am in the process of changing out blinds for insulated top down, bottom up shades. We put one in our bedroom and it's made a huge difference. They're just not cheap.
I live in Canada and I agree that’s another reason I’ve got them too as the extra layer of a blind and draperies adds insulation for cold Winter days. I’ve a natural gas furnace now, but I lived in places with baseboard electrical heating and the bills can get very high in Winter.
@@cassiefisher4236 I live in a south facing apt, I needed several layers of cloth white sheets to block out the sun ☀️ then a layer of those folding tin bubble car Windshield shades, all between my drapes and windows. It was dark in here during the Heat Dome last summer but an air conditioner could just barely keep the temp down to 80*
There is absolutely nothing wrong with blinds and curtains together lol. I agree, a lot of design “rules” are based on personal opinion. In my opinion, blinds are great for privacy and curtains are great for those of us who have issues staying asleep when there is too much light. Currently I’m only adding sheers so that the wall with the window looks finished. Also, I think it depends on the type of home you have. I think the blinds/window curtain combo comes from apartments/condos and also homes that are closer together. If you live in a neighborhood where the houses are farther apart, I can see how only installing curtains would be feasible.
We just bought a historic (1845) home in Virginia and your videos have been super helpful. I appreciate your sense of style, practicality and expertise. Thanks so much for the useful information (and for pronouncing the "t" in the word "curtain."
I use lighter sheers for Spring and Summer to make the room feel lighter and more airy. Then in the fall and winter I add velvet curtains to save on my electric bill, but also to make the room feel more cozy. In addition to switching out curtains for the seasons, I also switch my lampshades, afghan’s, accessories and pillows between the lighter colors and darker warmer colors.
I’m in Australia and we, generally, don’t get the marked difference in seasons. It’s usually hot and less hot. I’ve found a little nook in the country where we have seasons! I love velvet curtains & I can’t wait to put them up for winter!
I was lucky enough to have Valentina in my home. She had plenty of ugly stuff to comment on but the only thing she said was, “So…. Are we taking those blinds down?” Haha. “Yes!! First thing to go” I think she was happy about it!!
she clearly doesnt live in a heavily populated area...without my blinds i would be constantly the centre of attention the footpath is right outside my cottage window.
@@maggiefisher48 my blinds had had their day. I bought the house with them. They needed replacing for sure. I’m from Huntington Beach Ca where we could practically shake hands with our next door neighbors from our windows so I get it. 👍🏼
Thank You For Your Great tips. What I love about your suggestions is you are clear with what should be done but very kind in getting rid of the tacky. Always great watching your videos.
Thanks for the tips! I was considering ditching blinds from most of my rooms and you gave me permission to go ahead. In a few rooms I bought 100% cotton flat sheets and hung them with rings that clip to the top. Very inexpensive and they look fabulous. I've had people complement my window treatments and inside I'm thinking, "It only cost $20 bucks!"
100% cotton sheets aren't $20 anymore but I've thought of exactly the same thing! I have curtain rods and the clip rings to hang them. How freeing it feels to be able to do something imaginative and inexpensive. ❤
I'm doing whole house remodel/redecorate right now and curtains are currently on my radar. Shopping, choosing, installing is a lot of work and I don't want to repeat all that by making mistakes and choosing poorly. I took comfort in knowing I'm on the right track with my rods, ring/clips, and curtain panel materials and colors. Thank you so much Valentina for this great video! Very helpful and very appreciated!
Just bought a new house (literally close on it tomorrow morning) and I've really been enjoying buying new window treatments for every space. It's been fun curating each individual area with various window treatments. My living room has two windows and I did linen sheers with a beautiful stripes curtain. In my bedroom I did velvet curtains and my kids rooms have curtains that match their aesthetic, paired with roman shades. I never cared about windows before and didn't realize how expensive they are! I've already spent at least $500 and still have a long ways to go to be done w all my window treatments. Lol. Buying a new home is expensive!!
I live in the sw desert and it gets very hot in the summer! I need both blinds and curtains to keep the energy bills down! I love the natural light when it’s nice out, but when it’s 120 degrees it’s better to have some insulation from the heat 🥵 Thanks as always for the great recommendations on hardware and curtains Valentina 💕 I’ve been wanting to check out west elm!
I totally have two sets of curtains for my open living/dining room! One that is lighter for spring/summer, and one that is thicker for fall/winter! I mainly did it because after looking at zillions of curtains and buying like 8 different sets trying to find the right ones, I found 2 that I loved and matched my space!
I can’t let this pass through because I always see this in some apartment makeover vlogs. I agree with you that blinds and curtains don’t go together. I am not an interior designer but my ordinary eyes are flustered whenever I see windows with combined blinds and fabric curtains installed. I love every tip you shared in this video. Thank you!
Long time fan of the floor length back-tab velvet curtain for the climate where I now live: San Fran bay area (and in the '90s in Manhattan). However, when I lived at the beach in LA, it was all about letting that sunshine in with sheer light cotton that would gently flow effortlessly in the breeze when the windows were open during the day, allowing the unmuffled sound of the waves to be the soundtrack of your life and the scent of night blooming Jasmine to waft into your home, . You don't need heavy velvet curtains there because it never gets below freezing, and it looks too overly formal for the beach. Generally, the most unobstructed view possible is considered desirable. That said, if I were still living in Manhattan, where any number of many urban neighbors have a direct view into one's abode (sometimes from multiple angles, and...for the super creepy ones, a telescope: wish I were kidding), you need something more solid at night once you turn your inside lights on: a solid shade inside and heavy velvet curtain to draw (added insulation for temperature extremes in summer/winter). For me, there is a lot someone might need to consider, depending on urban/suburban/rural, city/mountains/beach/desert/view, climate/seasons, how close to their neighbors they live (obscenely expensive land in California means neighbors are CLOSE...but not as close as Manhattan/Chicago/San Francisco), and do you WANT to be able to see the view outside a particular window and/or others to be able to see in? So much to consider : )
I completely agree, there is so much to consider. My neighbors are so close & we all can see perfectly into each room of each other’s homes. There’s always that one creepy neighbor…Blinds & curtains at night are must for me.
Love this video and you totally validated my husband's request to take down our faux wood blinds that came with the house and maybe get curtains instead. I took them all down and our windows look so much nicer. Now we are having it all repainted and we're combing magazines for directions how to do classy and sophisticated curtains for our high ceiling bedroom and living room windows. I previously thought of curtains as an older/outdated/cheap/lazy look compared to "clean and simple" blinds, but now I know why- it's those old outdated curtain styles I was thinking of! Lol. Thank you for "schooling" me on this and all things interior design!
Thank you thank you thank you for this video. You have saved me so much time, effort and money. I was thinking of putting curtains into our cornicing in a bright trendy colour. After watching your video I'll be buying stylish curtain pools with neutral linen or cotton curtains. ❤
I’ve been waiting for this video! I’m getting ready to refresh the curtains in my house so this is perfect timing :) thank you for continuing to inspire me! I love your channel!! ❤️
Another super video, Valentina, filled with great information and tips. I’ve got expensive custom made lined silk draperies on my bigger windows in my home for the master bedroom, living and dining rooms; Roman shades on the other smaller windows. They go floor to ceiling on the draperies as they’re hung from rods mounted just below crown moulding / trim work - and I love the look. The one thing to point out though that’s important to think about when choosing fabric is also the cleaning. Window treatments come into contact with airborne dirt and dust particles inside and elements from outside when you’ve got your windows open. My silk bedroom draperies are pleated 64” x 86” on each panel. They were just sent off to the cleaners before Christmas and cost me $335🇨🇦 to have cleaned (yes, American dry cleaning costs are way lower). Plus, there was some renting on the fabric on one edge due to apparent sun exposure/damage so these are other considerations when choosing fabric. Silk is particularly susceptible to sun damage. I’ve also got blinds on those same windows for privacy and to block out damaging sunlight, and I heard what you said Valentina about the importance of natural light and you hate this look, so when these need replacing, I’m going to look into linen or another fabric like velvet, and see what will work better.
You’re absolutely right about the trends I purchased some curtains just last year and they’ve got to go I’m tired of looking at the pattern already. I did however have some burnt orange curtains in my old home which were gorgeous I never got tired of looking at those😊. Thank u for all the great tips you’re definitely helping me
I found this video very helpful. My husband and I just closed on our new build at the end of last year and so many of these questions have been floating around in my head. Thank you so much for the info.
Totally agree. So easy to cheapen your look . hate the one drape on each window..that is so common now. Could not believe people was doing that when it started.
The more I look at your videos the more I realized we have the same thoughts on sooooooo many things....I also learn something new....I love your elegant simple practical lifestyle...you are my mentor....lol ...would love to meet you one day....I am in Atlanta as well!!!!
LOVE this!! ( curtains are also my pet peeve ). However, the only time I use blinds is if there is a lot of space between the top of the window and the ceiling - ie in order to make the window look larger I will hang the rod and curtains as close to the ceiling as I can - which often leaves a large expanse of wall between the top of the window and the rod ( when the curtains are open ). This bothers my eye - and makes it obvious that the window doesn't go up that high - so I hang a blind right up under the rod and lower it only enough to cover the exposed wall section and a bit of the window frame - never the glass!. It's basically to fool the eye into thinking the window goes all the way up to the rod at the ceiling - and the blind remains stationary - but the curtains can still open and close over it. Hard to explain without a picture. Does that make sense? xoxo from Canada
Thank you Valentina I finally got the guts to take down my old ugly curtains even if my husband thinks they're fine I look at them and I hate them thank you again I'm excited to go shopping for new curtains this weekend 🥰👍😀
Really useful info. I just wish I’d found it before I started the project I’m in the middle of right now. I’m making curtains for our condo - lined curtains for five windows and a door in the living room/dining room. Over the years I’ve made many curtains, even full fledged draperies but I’m always learning something new and useful. I enjoyed your help with how to hang the curtains in different situations, the height, length, etc.. our condo has 9’ ceilings so I’m excited about seeing the final result. I’ve been using the black clip/rings too for the last three sets of curtains I’ve made and I highly recommend them. I do have a tip for anyone making their own. This time I spent a small fortune on the fabric so when I finally decided I was going to line them (mostly for insulation as we live in Canada and face south, even though the fabric is a heavy cotton), I was hesitant about putting out more money. Then I remembered I have lots of unused bed sheets in solid neutrals, all cottons that are perfect for the job. And to think I almost had given them all away this spring when cleaning out the closets!
A timely video, thanks so much! We have very large windows in our new custom house. I value light, as well, Valentina, but also privacy. We live in the centre of a major city, and bare windows invite gawking (I’m guilty of that sometimes, myself!). So, I installed very sheer sheers, pleated 3.5 times the window widths, in my public rooms and principle bedroom,. They work like one-way glass - we see out, but no one sees in (it helps that our “main” floor is on the second level, like a brownstone). Our living room window is a large bay, almost 12 ft. wide and faces north, while my dining room windows look onto the side of my neighbour’s house, and the third floor principle bedroom, second floor family and ground floor reception rooms all face south and have floor-to-ceiling, wall-to-wall windows and sliding doors. The rest of my windows are clad in white zebra shades set into the frames. These shades provide privacy while letting in a great deal of light. They are made of a sheer fabric that, when doubled (ie, closed), is opaque, but, miraculously, doesn’t block all the light. I just had my “drapery guy” here today finalizing my order: silk full-length, pinch pleated panels in the living and dining rooms (over the sheers), same in the principle bedroom, and beautiful cotton toile pinch-pleated full-length curtains over the blinds in the guest bedroom that faces north over the street. I am re-fashioning the striped silk draperies, lined in a matching solid colour silk, from the living and dining room our old house into a bedspread and bed skirt for another bedroom that also faces the street, and reusing the matching scarf valance over the two long windows in that room that have zebra blinds. I have another set of these drapes that aren’t long or wide enough to be full length curtains, but might be sufficient for roman blinds. I shall probably leave the rest of our much smaller windows, in bathrooms, and the larger south-facing kitchen and north-facing study windows, unadorned except for their zebra shades. Regardless of what I might do inside to each window, the sheers and zebra blinds provide consistency to the exterior facade of our house, which, I think, is imperative to presenting a high-end, luxurious and finished look to any property, inside and out. No matter how lush the landscaping, or how fabulous the elevation, nothing distracts from the curb appeal of a house faster than a mish-mash of styles and colours adorning its windows. When I encounter that phenomemon, I assume I’m looking at a frat house!
Yes natural light! I bought a cottage that had blinds on every window. I took off every single one of them and only have curtains on two of them and left the others bare. At first I felt like it was so open and I needed more privacy but after a few months I’m loving it open. I wake up every morning to open up the two windows with curtains. I need the light and I want to see the outside. Great video I will check west elm for nice curtain rods.
Yeah.....my number one goal with window treatments is to block out sunlight..... specifically UV rays. I have roller shades that let in visible light and block out UV. It's a nice modern minimal look, but now I want drapery over them to dress it up.....but I also have the old radiator problem.....🤔🤔
I love watching your videos have you ever done a video where someone could send a photo in and you could give a little advice on what type of Curtains would look best in a room this is something that I’m struggling with Thank you for sharing such wonderful videos and decorating ideas
Thank you for this video. I totally agree with the center curtains. It feels like a very 80's thing to do. I was hoping to hear your opinion on how to hang curtains when there is a baseboard heater under the window. They can't go to the floor as it would be a safety hazard. What length would you use, or would you use another window treatment?
LOVE these tips! I just moved into a new house with a large living room window that needs curtains so this video could not have come at a better time! I also love the tip of removing outdated blinds and getting curtains! Never would have thought something so simple could elevate a space! Thank you for your tips!!!!
Hi Valentina! First, I must say, I'm fairly new to your channel (a couple of months). I found you (sounds funny), while perusing decorating ideas..so glad I did. I'm almost 63 and find your style refreshing and beautiful. You can tell you're great at designing and your personality is just so warm and approachable, and fun! Love the episodes as well with both you and your husband. You two are are fabulous and fun to watch lol. Now, a funny coincidence you posted curtain ideas. I'm always looking to update my curtains through the year (at least twice per year,). In fact, just the other day I've purchased two gorgeous pairs for my living room - on the sheer side, with a very light embroidery of leaves (NOT tacky, I assure you lol), in a soft grey/blue, they are beautiful as I have an alternate color near my lanai. I was laughing when you said you hate blinds. While I really don't like them, I have a "paranoid" issue lol, I know. Honestly, I live in a nice quiet community now and I shouldn't feel this way, but it's sort of inbred in me - thank you NY! 😅 I'm retired now - South. My husband teases me with the blinds. I keep them half way and he would open them way up to the top...I would too If I wasn't so paranoid, he shakes his head. Watching your video helped though. I could add a thicker curtain. Not that I haven't done so in the past. Any other suggestions? I know I can't be the only one. Thank you so. Love you guys! 😍
Great video with awesome advice! Just a heads up.. The big rings in the curtains you are referring to are actually grommets 😉 Have a great day Valentina! 👌
I love these pointers . . I just moved and have a LARGE picture window . . Was thinking blinds in curtain . . Now I will invest in curtains . . #highendlooks
I love velvet curtains all year round. They just look so luxurious...I have them in every room and I love my curtains kissing the floor so high end....
I have heaters under my windows so I stopped my curtains just above heaters. What would you suggest instead? I live is a very cold climate. Thank you so much in advance ☺️
Thank you Valentina! 🖤 Can you please comment on how wide to hang the curtain rod? You explained the height, but I didn't hear your advice on the width of the rod on either side of the window. ☺
I've heard to hang them wide enough so when the curtains are all the way open they don't block the side of the window. I usually do about 6-8 inches depending on the weight of the fabric
There are lots of RUclips videos on hanging curtains-I’ve watched several. It’s good to watch a variety b/c you find different tips from different ppl.
I just wanted to say thank you so much for sharing your gift of design with us. I have been enjoying making changes throughout our home - step by step. If you get a chance, I have allergies to feathers, would you have a down alternative duvet insert or a comforter option that you like or could recommend?
Thank you for your videos. You are so enthusiastic and fun to listen to! You showed a door with 2 side lights and mentioned what not to do, which I have done. Lol I do need something for privacy and have shear white curtains now. I sometimes time them for a change. Any suggestions would be welcomed 😄
Great tips Valentina! ❤️❤️ I totally agree w/almost everything except I don’t mind grommets as long as the fabric is neutral, classy & the curtains are high quality.
I have 2 1/2 inch white wood blinds and they are ALWAYS OPEN exposing the natural light in but I hate looking at the window framing. Pushed them all the way up a few times and it didn't bring in anymore light into the room then when they are down but opened up. Also, I hung just the corners with material drapes which are stationery with the blinds and it adds texture and softness to the room. Anyone who comes here comments how well it looks. I think you can do it right.
She doesn't mention white sheers or layers. Curtains to the side to fame and sheers across the center. I never see my blinds, but I have sheers to diffuse. I use the blinds for evening to keep passing eyes from seeing in. Sheers aren't her style but that doesn't mean they're not an option to do well.
I actually really like having blinds with a side curtain....yes open windows are beautiful but at night - who wants to risk having someone being able to see into your home...is it just me?
Nope.. not just you.. me too
One person’s personal opinions but not realistic at all.
Me too! I hate the idea of people looking inside at night. When we lived on the water I had no curtains on my bedroom windows- all view. Now, that we have moved and have neighbors, blinds and drapes are a requirement.
@@emiliebova people can see through those blinds if standing in the right place outside, I had wooden blinds professionally installed, I had a window peeker for a couple of months, several of my neighbors caught him, they ran him off, I ended up chasing him to his aunts house, I told her what he was doing, I never saw him again. I went and stood where he kept standing, I could see right into my livingroom, so I wouldn't be so secure if I was you, plus those blinds were very time consuming to keep clean.
@@katheleenwaters4315 you have to slant them the opposite way. Then the person outside can only look up and won’t see much.
I do have blinds and curtains simply because I live where it snows so they both help keep it warmer in my house and my heating bill lower.
I do too but I’m in the south and west facing. Lol. It gets sooo hot! I have a clear storm door and I had a wreath on the door that I guess used low temp hot glue. Haha. It melted and pieces fell off and the glue dripped.
I'll keep mine, too. Living in town after being in the country, I prefer having my privacy.
I do as well. I am in the process of changing out blinds for insulated top down, bottom up shades. We put one in our bedroom and it's made a huge difference. They're just not cheap.
I live in Canada and I agree that’s another reason I’ve got them too as the extra layer of a blind and draperies adds insulation for cold Winter days. I’ve a natural gas furnace now, but I lived in places with baseboard electrical heating and the bills can get very high in Winter.
@@cassiefisher4236 I live in a south facing apt, I needed several layers of cloth white sheets to block out the sun ☀️ then a layer of those folding tin bubble car Windshield shades, all between my drapes and windows. It was dark in here during the Heat Dome last summer but an air conditioner could just barely keep the temp down to 80*
There is absolutely nothing wrong with blinds and curtains together lol. I agree, a lot of design “rules” are based on personal opinion. In my opinion, blinds are great for privacy and curtains are great for those of us who have issues staying asleep when there is too much light. Currently I’m only adding sheers so that the wall with the window looks finished. Also, I think it depends on the type of home you have. I think the blinds/window curtain combo comes from apartments/condos and also homes that are closer together. If you live in a neighborhood where the houses are farther apart, I can see how only installing curtains would be feasible.
I love white curtains in the summer. They look refreshing to me.
Roller blind fan here! I have them in every room and love them. It’s a modern minimal look❤️
I was honestly and truly about to go curtain shopping right after checking in on RUclips. I'm grateful for the PERFECT timing of this video!
I agree with you about the grommet curtains. They remind me of some hotel shower curtains.
Grommet top draperies are everywhere now! I’ve been searching for a classic drapery for a small budget and can find almost nothing besides grommets.
We just bought a historic (1845) home in Virginia and your videos have been super helpful. I appreciate your sense of style, practicality and expertise. Thanks so much for the useful information (and for pronouncing the "t" in the word "curtain."
This was so helpful!! Love idea of getting velvet for the winter and a lighter set for summer!
I use lighter sheers for Spring and Summer to make the room feel lighter and more airy.
Then in the fall and winter I add velvet curtains to save on my electric bill, but also to make the room feel more cozy.
In addition to switching out curtains for the seasons, I also switch my lampshades, afghan’s, accessories and pillows between the lighter colors and darker warmer colors.
I’m in Australia and we, generally, don’t get the marked difference in seasons. It’s usually hot and less hot. I’ve found a little nook in the country where we have seasons! I love velvet curtains & I can’t wait to put them up for winter!
Valentina you are amazing, my favorite decorator in the internet. I totally agree with you about the curtains, I'm learning a lot thanks to you.
I was googling whether I should take down a valance RIGHT BEFORE I CAME OVER TO YOUR CHANNEL FOR THE DAY. Mind. Blown.
I just found your channel and I love it! So many great tips. Now trying to binge watch every single video but there are not enough hours in the day!
I was lucky enough to have Valentina in my home. She had plenty of ugly stuff to comment on but the only thing she said was, “So…. Are we taking those blinds down?” Haha. “Yes!! First thing to go” I think she was happy about it!!
she clearly doesnt live in a heavily populated area...without my blinds i would be constantly the centre of attention the footpath is right outside my cottage window.
@@maggiefisher48 my blinds had had their day. I bought the house with them. They needed replacing for sure. I’m from Huntington Beach Ca where we could practically shake hands with our next door neighbors from our windows so I get it. 👍🏼
@@maggiefisher48 roman shades instead of blinds.
Back tabs all the way! I’ll never go back! Nice to know I’m doing something right!! Thanks for another great video!
I spent the weekend shortening drapes. They skim the floor. It was so satisfying to watch them swoosh and fall perfectly. Lol
I felt that moment for you. 😁
@@SimplyBeautiful516 I wish I could bottle that feeling. I added weights to the hem and it was just the most perfect moment.
@@SimplyBeautiful516 loved your show & used to tape them. I learned SO much from watching you. Thanks a million!!!!
I like hearing your pet peeves, especially the ones about things looking low-end and cheap.
Thank You For Your Great tips. What I love about your suggestions is you are clear with what should be done but very kind in getting rid of the tacky. Always great watching your videos.
Thanks for the tips! I was considering ditching blinds from most of my rooms and you gave me permission to go ahead.
In a few rooms I bought 100% cotton flat sheets and hung them with rings that clip to the top. Very inexpensive and they look fabulous. I've had people complement my window treatments and inside I'm thinking, "It only cost $20 bucks!"
100% cotton sheets aren't $20 anymore but I've thought of exactly the same thing! I have curtain rods and the clip rings to hang them. How freeing it feels to be able to do something imaginative and inexpensive. ❤
I've done this too. 😀
Wow of course i found this video late but i never thought of that good idea i have a big lots in town sometime they have a better buy thanks 😊
I needed this one about curtains!
Thank you!😊
I'm doing whole house remodel/redecorate right now and curtains are currently on my radar. Shopping, choosing, installing is a lot of work and I don't want to repeat all that by making mistakes and choosing poorly. I took comfort in knowing I'm on the right track with my rods, ring/clips, and curtain panel materials and colors. Thank you so much Valentina for this great video! Very helpful and very appreciated!
Just bought a new house (literally close on it tomorrow morning) and I've really been enjoying buying new window treatments for every space. It's been fun curating each individual area with various window treatments. My living room has two windows and I did linen sheers with a beautiful stripes curtain. In my bedroom I did velvet curtains and my kids rooms have curtains that match their aesthetic, paired with roman shades. I never cared about windows before and didn't realize how expensive they are! I've already spent at least $500 and still have a long ways to go to be done w all my window treatments. Lol. Buying a new home is expensive!!
Home buying aka securing a mortgage is expensive on all levels.💯
I live in the sw desert and it gets very hot in the summer! I need both blinds and curtains to keep the energy bills down! I love the natural light when it’s nice out, but when it’s 120 degrees it’s better to have some insulation from the heat 🥵 Thanks as always for the great recommendations on hardware and curtains Valentina 💕 I’ve been wanting to check out west elm!
Agree. 😊
I love your videos because you are down to earth nice a lot of interior decorators are stuck up.
I totally have two sets of curtains for my open living/dining room! One that is lighter for spring/summer, and one that is thicker for fall/winter! I mainly did it because after looking at zillions of curtains and buying like 8 different sets trying to find the right ones, I found 2 that I loved and matched my space!
I can’t let this pass through because I always see this in some apartment makeover vlogs. I agree with you that blinds and curtains don’t go together. I am not an interior designer but my ordinary eyes are flustered whenever I see windows with combined blinds and fabric curtains installed. I love every tip you shared in this video. Thank you!
Long time fan of the floor length back-tab velvet curtain for the climate where I now live: San Fran bay area (and in the '90s in Manhattan). However, when I lived at the beach in LA, it was all about letting that sunshine in with sheer light cotton that would gently flow effortlessly in the breeze when the windows were open during the day, allowing the unmuffled sound of the waves to be the soundtrack of your life and the scent of night blooming Jasmine to waft into your home, . You don't need heavy velvet curtains there because it never gets below freezing, and it looks too overly formal for the beach.
Generally, the most unobstructed view possible is considered desirable. That said, if I were still living in Manhattan, where any number of many urban neighbors have a direct view into one's abode (sometimes from multiple angles, and...for the super creepy ones, a telescope: wish I were kidding), you need something more solid at night once you turn your inside lights on: a solid shade inside and heavy velvet curtain to draw (added insulation for temperature extremes in summer/winter).
For me, there is a lot someone might need to consider, depending on urban/suburban/rural, city/mountains/beach/desert/view, climate/seasons, how close to their neighbors they live (obscenely expensive land in California means neighbors are CLOSE...but not as close as Manhattan/Chicago/San Francisco), and do you WANT to be able to see the view outside a particular window and/or others to be able to see in?
So much to consider : )
I completely agree, there is so much to consider. My neighbors are so close & we all can see perfectly into each room of each other’s homes. There’s always that one creepy neighbor…Blinds & curtains at night are must for me.
Love this video and you totally validated my husband's request to take down our faux wood blinds that came with the house and maybe get curtains instead. I took them all down and our windows look so much nicer. Now we are having it all repainted and we're combing magazines for directions how to do classy and sophisticated curtains for our high ceiling bedroom and living room windows.
I previously thought of curtains as an older/outdated/cheap/lazy look compared to "clean and simple" blinds, but now I know why- it's those old outdated curtain styles I was thinking of! Lol. Thank you for "schooling" me on this and all things interior design!
Thank you thank you thank you for this video. You have saved me so much time, effort and money. I was thinking of putting curtains into our cornicing in a bright trendy colour. After watching your video I'll be buying stylish curtain pools with neutral linen or cotton curtains. ❤
Agree with all your tips, ooh hoo, i never thought of summer n winter curtains and i love it 🫢Thank you
Thank you sooooo much for this video! I really, really enjoyed this video! This is real good tips!
Thanks for the tips. I'm lucky to find this content
I’ve been waiting for this video! I’m getting ready to refresh the curtains in my house so this is perfect timing :) thank you for continuing to inspire me! I love your channel!! ❤️
Thank you Valentina. I’ve learned so much from this video. Time to do something better with my curtains!! Armed with knowledge.
Spot on with me
Couldn't agree more
With almost everything she said
Another super video, Valentina, filled with great information and tips. I’ve got expensive custom made lined silk draperies on my bigger windows in my home for the master bedroom, living and dining rooms; Roman shades on the other smaller windows. They go floor to ceiling on the draperies as they’re hung from rods mounted just below crown moulding / trim work - and I love the look. The one thing to point out though that’s important to think about when choosing fabric is also the cleaning. Window treatments come into contact with airborne dirt and dust particles inside and elements from outside when you’ve got your windows open. My silk bedroom draperies are pleated 64” x 86” on each panel. They were just sent off to the cleaners before Christmas and cost me $335🇨🇦 to have cleaned (yes, American dry cleaning costs are way lower). Plus, there was some renting on the fabric on one edge due to apparent sun exposure/damage so these are other considerations when choosing fabric. Silk is particularly susceptible to sun damage. I’ve also got blinds on those same windows for privacy and to block out damaging sunlight, and I heard what you said Valentina about the importance of natural light and you hate this look, so when these need replacing, I’m going to look into linen or another fabric like velvet, and see what will work better.
To each it own, but I agree with Valentina, I do not like blinds. I absolutely love curtains... The longer, the better.
Very informative, thank you!
Love those tips for the curtains
I will have to write some of these tips down but I learned a lot. Thank you
💞Thanks, darling, love your professional advice and enthusiasm 💃🕺🏻
I have been wanting to change my curtains and have been assistant to buy some but this video has really helped me decide which ones to buy! Thank you!
Top tier content! Thank you so much!
those rods that are suggested are so nice, I have been traditional up to now and going with the west elm rods
Love the video I’m a curtain person and I had really need those tips very helpful thank you
Fabulous! Please do this on other items: pillows, lamps, etc. It’s these details I dont’ even realize are bringing my room down.
Spot on, could not agree with you more 👌🏽
You’re absolutely right about the trends I purchased some curtains just last year and they’ve got to go I’m tired of looking at the pattern already. I did however have some burnt orange curtains in my old home which were gorgeous I never got tired of looking at those😊. Thank u for all the great tips you’re definitely helping me
Thank you for all of this! Beautiful, full curtains are exactly what I’m going for in our new home!
Very helpful video. Thank you for posting.
You’re so welcome!
Taken down my blinds… finally getting my hubby on board.
yes, great video Valentina and very inspiring. Thank you ! I do like the idea of doubling the curtains and have more fabric.
I found this video very helpful. My husband and I just closed on our new build at the end of last year and so many of these questions have been floating around in my head. Thank you so much for the info.
Thank you Valentina, I needed to hear and see this video, I have been struggling with what to buy for curtains fir my home, thank you, thank you :)
Totally agree. So easy to cheapen your look . hate the one drape on each window..that is so common now. Could not believe people was doing that when it started.
I'm trying to decide what type of curtains to get. You provided lots of tips, so big thanks!!
Wow I’m proud of myself! I’ve done everything you said in my new construction home and I’m a newbie at drapes/curtains🥰
Great tips! Thanks again & again
The more I look at your videos the more I realized we have the same thoughts on sooooooo many things....I also learn something new....I love your elegant simple practical lifestyle...you are my mentor....lol ...would love to meet you one day....I am in Atlanta as well!!!!
LOVE this!! ( curtains are also my pet peeve ). However, the only time I use blinds is if there is a lot of space between the top of the window and the ceiling - ie in order to make the window look larger I will hang the rod and curtains as close to the ceiling as I can - which often leaves a large expanse of wall between the top of the window and the rod ( when the curtains are open ). This bothers my eye - and makes it obvious that the window doesn't go up that high - so I hang a blind right up under the rod and lower it only enough to cover the exposed wall section and a bit of the window frame - never the glass!. It's basically to fool the eye into thinking the window goes all the way up to the rod at the ceiling - and the blind remains stationary - but the curtains can still open and close over it. Hard to explain without a picture. Does that make sense? xoxo from Canada
Thank you Valentina I finally got the guts to take down my old ugly curtains even if my husband thinks they're fine I look at them and I hate them thank you again I'm excited to go shopping for new curtains this weekend 🥰👍😀
Really useful info. I just wish I’d found it before I started the project I’m in the middle of right now. I’m making curtains for our condo - lined curtains for five windows and a door in the living room/dining room. Over the years I’ve made many curtains, even full fledged draperies but I’m always learning something new and useful. I enjoyed your help with how to hang the curtains in different situations, the height, length, etc.. our condo has 9’ ceilings so I’m excited about seeing the final result. I’ve been using the black clip/rings too for the last three sets of curtains I’ve made and I highly recommend them. I do have a tip for anyone making their own. This time I spent a small fortune on the fabric so when I finally decided I was going to line them (mostly for insulation as we live in Canada and face south, even though the fabric is a heavy cotton), I was hesitant about putting out more money. Then I remembered I have lots of unused bed sheets in solid neutrals, all cottons that are perfect for the job. And to think I almost had given them all away this spring when cleaning out the closets!
Great tips. You answered all my questions. Thank you for sharing
A timely video, thanks so much! We have very large windows in our new custom house. I value light, as well, Valentina, but also privacy. We live in the centre of a major city, and bare windows invite gawking (I’m guilty of that sometimes, myself!). So, I installed very sheer sheers, pleated 3.5 times the window widths, in my public rooms and principle bedroom,. They work like one-way glass - we see out, but no one sees in (it helps that our “main” floor is on the second level, like a brownstone). Our living room window is a large bay, almost 12 ft. wide and faces north, while my dining room windows look onto the side of my neighbour’s house, and the third floor principle bedroom, second floor family and ground floor reception rooms all face south and have floor-to-ceiling, wall-to-wall windows and sliding doors. The rest of my windows are clad in white zebra shades set into the frames. These shades provide privacy while letting in a great deal of light. They are made of a sheer fabric that, when doubled (ie, closed), is opaque, but, miraculously, doesn’t block all the light. I just had my “drapery guy” here today finalizing my order: silk full-length, pinch pleated panels in the living and dining rooms (over the sheers), same in the principle bedroom, and beautiful cotton toile pinch-pleated full-length curtains over the blinds in the guest bedroom that faces north over the street. I am re-fashioning the striped silk draperies, lined in a matching solid colour silk, from the living and dining room our old house into a bedspread and bed skirt for another bedroom that also faces the street, and reusing the matching scarf valance over the two long windows in that room that have zebra blinds. I have another set of these drapes that aren’t long or wide enough to be full length curtains, but might be sufficient for roman blinds. I shall probably leave the rest of our much smaller windows, in bathrooms, and the larger south-facing kitchen and north-facing study windows, unadorned except for their zebra shades. Regardless of what I might do inside to each window, the sheers and zebra blinds provide consistency to the exterior facade of our house, which, I think, is imperative to presenting a high-end, luxurious and finished look to any property, inside and out. No matter how lush the landscaping, or how fabulous the elevation, nothing distracts from the curb appeal of a house faster than a mish-mash of styles and colours adorning its windows. When I encounter that phenomemon, I assume I’m looking at a frat house!
Great advice!
This video is so helpful!👍🏻
Yes natural light! I bought a cottage that had blinds on every window. I took off every single one of them and only have curtains on two of them and left the others bare. At first I felt like it was so open and I needed more privacy but after a few months I’m loving it open. I wake up every morning to open up the two windows with curtains. I need the light and I want to see the outside. Great video I will check west elm for nice curtain rods.
Yeah.....my number one goal with window treatments is to block out sunlight..... specifically UV rays. I have roller shades that let in visible light and block out UV. It's a nice modern minimal look, but now I want drapery over them to dress it up.....but I also have the old radiator problem.....🤔🤔
Great tips!! Thank you!!
Thank you, I loved this video ! So helpful and informative.
thanks for all the great tips :)
I love watching your videos have you ever done a video where someone could send a photo in and you could give a little advice on what type of Curtains would look best in a room this is something that I’m struggling with Thank you for sharing such wonderful videos and decorating ideas
Great information! Love this channel.
Thank you for this video. I totally agree with the center curtains. It feels like a very 80's thing to do. I was hoping to hear your opinion on how to hang curtains when there is a baseboard heater under the window. They can't go to the floor as it would be a safety hazard. What length would you use, or would you use another window treatment?
LOVE these tips! I just moved into a new house with a large living room window that needs curtains so this video could not have come at a better time! I also love the tip of removing outdated blinds and getting curtains! Never would have thought something so simple could elevate a space! Thank you for your tips!!!!
Love the linen and velvet curtain tip. Thank you for this video!
Thank you for your tips Valentina 🙏🏻🇬🇧xx
Hi Valentina! First, I must say, I'm fairly new to your channel (a couple of months). I found you (sounds funny), while perusing decorating ideas..so glad I did. I'm almost 63 and find your style refreshing and beautiful. You can tell you're great at designing and your personality is just so warm and approachable, and fun! Love the episodes as well with both you and your husband. You two are are fabulous and fun to watch lol.
Now, a funny coincidence you posted curtain ideas. I'm always looking to update my curtains through the year (at least twice per year,). In fact, just the other day I've purchased two gorgeous pairs for my living room - on the sheer side, with a very light embroidery of leaves (NOT tacky, I assure you lol), in a soft grey/blue, they are beautiful as I have an alternate color near my lanai.
I was laughing when you said you hate blinds. While I really don't like them, I have a "paranoid" issue lol, I know. Honestly, I live in a nice quiet community now and I shouldn't feel this way, but it's sort of inbred in me - thank you NY! 😅 I'm retired now - South. My husband teases me with the blinds. I keep them half way and he would open them way up to the top...I would too If I wasn't so paranoid, he shakes his head. Watching your video helped though. I could add a thicker curtain. Not that I haven't done so in the past. Any other suggestions? I know I can't be the only one. Thank you so. Love you guys! 😍
I agree with everything you saying 👍🏿👍🏿👍🏿👍🏿👏👏👏👏
thank you!
Great video with awesome advice! Just a heads up.. The big rings in the curtains you are referring to are actually grommets 😉 Have a great day Valentina! 👌
Great info!!!! Love these tips
I love these pointers . .
I just moved and have a LARGE picture window . . Was thinking blinds in curtain . . Now I will invest in curtains . . #highendlooks
I love velvet curtains all year round. They just look so luxurious...I have them in every room and I love my curtains kissing the floor so high end....
I also love silk or a high quality faux silk year round. Esp in the bedroom
I have heaters under my windows so I stopped my curtains just above heaters. What would you suggest instead? I live is a very cold climate. Thank you so much in advance ☺️
Good content, thank you!
I'd love to see what you suggest for patio doors.
Great video long awaited not disappointed. Thank you 😊
Thank you Valentina! 🖤 Can you please comment on how wide to hang the curtain rod? You explained the height, but I didn't hear your advice on the width of the rod on either side of the window. ☺
Yes please.
I agree… I was waiting for advice on the width. I go wide so drapes are on the wall and barely cover the sides of the window.
I've heard to hang them wide enough so when the curtains are all the way open they don't block the side of the window. I usually do about 6-8 inches depending on the weight of the fabric
There are lots of RUclips videos on hanging curtains-I’ve watched several. It’s good to watch a variety b/c you find different tips from different ppl.
@@CA_Doc Yes there is so much more info out there, on RUclips and on Google.
Right after I put up a little curtain this morning 🤣 thank you V
Love all the tips, I'm getting ready to refresh my dining area curtains. Thank-you Valentina!
Very informative, as always. Thank you
What should you do when you live in Florida where the summers are so hot? Wouldn’t the blinds help keep the heat out?
I just wanted to say thank you so much for sharing your gift of design with us. I have been enjoying making changes throughout our home - step by step. If you get a chance, I have allergies to feathers, would you have a down alternative duvet insert or a comforter option that you like or could recommend?
Thank you for your videos. You are so enthusiastic and fun to listen to! You showed a door with 2 side lights and mentioned what not to do, which I have done. Lol I do need something for privacy and have shear white curtains now. I sometimes time them for a change. Any suggestions would be welcomed 😄
Super helpful tips .. was wondering which material may wash best but I’ll ask at Pottery Barn or West Elm 💕
Agree with everything you said. I do like pencil pleat curtains though, they look luxurious. Thanks for the video 🙂
I like high-water drapes! Vacuuming and mopping are so much easier.
Again so helpful Valentina thank you!!! love your channel :-)
Great tips Valentina! ❤️❤️ I totally agree w/almost everything except I don’t mind grommets as long as the fabric is neutral, classy & the curtains are high quality.
I have 2 1/2 inch white wood blinds and they are ALWAYS OPEN exposing the natural light in but I hate looking at the window framing. Pushed them all the way up a few times and it didn't bring in anymore light into the room then when they are down but opened up. Also, I hung just the corners with material drapes which are stationery with the blinds and it adds texture and softness to the room. Anyone who comes here comments how well it looks. I think you can do it right.
I agree. As she stated, many of the tips are her personal preferences. I enjoy my wooden blinds with lightweight curtains (open) on the ends.
She doesn't mention white sheers or layers. Curtains to the side to fame and sheers across the center. I never see my blinds, but I have sheers to diffuse. I use the blinds for evening to keep passing eyes from seeing in. Sheers aren't her style but that doesn't mean they're not an option to do well.