Modern curtains are defined by their simplicity, streamlined appearance, and no-fuss aesthetic. If you want to give a room a quick pick-me-up consider getting some new modern curtains. Curtains help give a room a softer look and feel. They also provide an opportunity to add color, pattern, and texture into a room. Whether you purchase ready-made curtains, or you opt for a custom design, modern curtains are a great option for modern homes.
Modern Curtain Styles
Contemporary curtains are simple and clean looking. There are no swags, balloons, or decorative tassels. They should be simple fabric panels that hang straight to the floor. Avoid extra embellishments and if you need tiebacks, opt for simple bands of fabric or plain metal hooks.
Fabric
When it comes to fabric there are a lot of options.
Colors
There's really no such thing as a modern color. While neutrals such as white, beige, brown, and black work well in modern designs, don't be afraid to use bold colors as well. The key is to make sure that the color complements the design of the room.
Patterns
Geometrics, stripes, and clean-lined patterns are all staples of modern design. Avoid traditional patterns like paisleys and florals as they look a little too classic.
When choosing a pattern for contemporary curtains, a good rule of thumb is to pick one that won't overwhelm the space. While it can certainly be a focal point, make sure that it's balanced with the other items in the room. Make sure there's something of an equal visual weight on the other side of the room, or the room might look lopsided.
Materials
Many fabrics can be incorporated into modern design. Cottons, linens, microfibers, grasscloths, silks, and just about everything else can be used. The key to making it modern is the style and pattern.
Curtain Headers
Headers can have a big effect on the appearance of curtains. For a contemporary look go for simple tops like tabs, eyelets, and grommets. Avoid anything that gathers the fabric in a decorative way. Remember, the key is simplicity. The header should be the starting point for a clean, slim line. Pleats, fullness, and gathered fabric will all look too traditional.
Rods and Finials
The curtains or valance are hung from curtain rods. The rods are available in several different materials such as brass, iron, steel, and acrylic. Sometimes they come with coordinating rings that fix to the hooks on the heading of the curtains. These are usually quite simple and make a good match for modern drapes. Where they can start to get too decorative is with the finials.
Finials are the decorative accents at the end of the rods. They, too, come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Often they're quite decorative and are in the shapes of things like pineapples, fleur-de-lys, arrowheads, and more. If your look is contemporary try to find something as simple as possible. A plain ball will do nicely.
Another option that takes away the need for finials is the tension rod. Commonly used for shower curtains, a tension rod can be positioned on the inside of the window frame and is held in place by a spring system. It doesn't work with every style of window or curtain, but if it works for yours, it can give the window a definite modern look.
Modern Materials and Designs
When it comes to contemporary curtain designs, don't be afraid to think outside the box. Designers are always coming up with new and wild ideas such as magnetic and glass curtains. They aren't always suitable, but they're definitely worth checking out.
As with any décor item you bring into your home, make sure that your contemporary curtains suit the style of the space and complement the other items in the room.
