Dress and decorate country windows

When dressing large windows, consider the scale of pattern; too large a print can overpower, too small looks fussy and will blend into the background. Choose a simple curtain heading and pole.

Window dressings serve a number of functions, from drawing together an interior scheme to cutting sunlight and creating a sense of privacy.

If you're a fan of curtains, whether modern or theatrical, the options available to you are extensive, so you should have no problem finding something to suit your style.

1/10 Curtains for floor to ceiling windows

Try Jane Churchill at Colefax and Fowler for similar fabric. 

2/10 Use a blind to add privacy

Consider shading just the lower part of the window to add privacy. Pleated and roller blinds can be mounted from the base up on the windowsill, or can be fitted right-way-up to the centre bar of a sash window.

For similar pleated blinds, try Hillarys.

3/10 Curtain a sloping window

Fit curtains to the top of a sloping attic window, then hold them in place at the bottom of the window with a dowelling rod, threaded through brackets with a circular eyelet. Let the curtains pool on to the floor.

For similar fabrics, try Vanessa Arbuthnott. 

4/10 Combine shutters and curtains

Fit shutters for shade and a curtain to soften the look. Extend the pole beyond the window frame so that the curtains can be drawn right back. Shutters can also be hinged to one side to accommodate a curtain.

For similar shutters, try Shutterly Fabulous.

5/10 Frame a window seat

Surround a window seat with cosy interlined curtains, made up with narrow curtain heading tape. Mounting curtains in front of the recess means they can be drawn right back to allow light in.

For similar curtain fabrics, try Cabbages & Roses.

6/10 Add a blind to a childÂ’s room

A delicate butterfly design is perfect for dressing a child’s room and won’t date. This sheer blind is held in place by ribbon ties; add heavier curtains if you need to cut out the light.

For similar fabric, try Osborne & Little.

7/10 

In a large bay window the curtain fabric is the star so choose a discreet pole, rather than a chunky one. Fit a flexi pole that is easily bent to fit and has passing rings to enable the curtain to move easily around the brackets and bay.

For similar fabric and pole, try Laura Ashley.

8/10 Dress a cottage window

Draw attention to a small cottage window with a dramatic block-print fabric. Make up the curtain with a large slot at the top to thread the pole through and fit the pole as close to the top of the window as possible.

Find similar fabric at Lewis & Wood.

9/10 Fit a pelmet to a window

Adding a pelmet to a window is a useful device for creating an illusion of height or changing the proportions of a window. Consider a box-shape stiff pelmet for a classic look, or go for a gathered design to create a country feel.

For similar fabric, try Kate Forman Designs.

10/10 Choose a bold kitchen blind

A graphic design of bold leaves adds wow factor to a kitchen blind. This Roman blind pulls up in neat, flat pleats – a practical look for the kitchen.

Find similar fabric at Clarke & Clarke.

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