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With or without curtains?

Just as lighting and accessories set the mood in a room, curtains can be the perfect item to complete a room. Without curtains, a room can feel empty and even a little dull. In addition to the decorative benefits, curtains also offer a number of practical aspects. Curtains can provide privacy, keep out light, provide insulation and protect your decor pieces from the sun. When are curtains a good choice and when not?

It can be a tough decision, with many factors to consider:low ceilings, high ceilings, windows behind sofas or beds, etc. While every room is unique, we've put together some tips to help you decide on curtains or a different type of window decoration.

When no curtains?

Sometimes the architecture of the room prevents curtains from being an option. One example is a room with floor-to-ceiling bookcases flanking all the windows. But even if you have a decorative finish around your windows, hanging curtains aren't ideal with all that beautiful woodwork. In this case, you may want to avoid hanging curtains. Opt for a pleated curtain, which adds the softness of the fabric without hiding the beautiful finish. Depending on your needs, pleated blinds can add privacy and block out the light.

Living conditions can also prevent you from wanting to hang curtains. Cats love to hang in curtains. It's a nice place for them to hide. And small children and dogs also find it nice shelters. If you have little ones, hairy or not, think carefully about whether you want curtains.

Do you have a great view? If the view is the thing, you may want it to be the overall focus of the room. Whether it's a beautiful canal or a pretty cityscape, if your view isn't obstructed by neighbors, you probably don't need much privacy.

When should curtains be used?

Uneven windows
Curtains over uneven windows is a definite "yes." They are ideal for disguising unequal sizes.

Privacy
If you like your privacy and the room has a view of the street, curtains are the best option.

Keep heat in
If you live in an old building and the windows may not be as insulated as they should be, curtains are a must.

Hollow sound in the living room 
With curtains you are guaranteed to reduce noise pollution.

Protect interior
Is the sun shining on your furniture or other accessories? You can protect them with a curtain.