Keep the View: How to Use Curtains Without Blocking a Thing
You've got an amazing view from your window. Maybe it’s a sprawling city skyline, a peaceful garden, or the ocean. You love it, and you don’t want to hide it. But what about privacy? What about that harsh afternoon sun?
The good news is, you don’t have to choose between a beautiful view and functional window treatments. With a few smart tricks, you can have both. Here’s your guide to using curtains without blocking a view.
The Right Fabric Is Everything
When your goal is to preserve the view, the fabric you choose is the most important decision. You're not looking for something to block light; you're looking for something to filter it.
Sheer Curtains: These are your best friend. Made from delicate materials like linen, gauze, or voile, they soften harsh sunlight while keeping the outside world visible. They create an ethereal, dreamy vibe without sacrificing your view.
Light-Filtering Fabrics: Think beyond sheers. Fabrics like light-colored cotton or thin linen can provide a bit more privacy than a sheer but still let plenty of natural light through. They offer a great balance of function and style.
Smart Hardware for a Wider Look
This is a professional designer secret you can totally use at home. Instead of hanging your curtain rod right at the edge of the window frame, extend it.
Go Wide: Install a curtain rod that's at least 10 to 12 inches wider than your window on each side.
Hang Them High: Place the rod several inches above the window frame.
This simple trick makes your window look bigger, and more importantly, it allows you to pull the curtains completely off the glass. When they're open, they'll stack neatly on the wall, leaving your view totally unobstructed.
Keep the View: How to Use Curtains Without Blocking a Thing
You've got an amazing view from your window. Maybe it’s a sprawling city skyline, a peaceful garden, or the ocean. You love it, and you don’t want to hide it. But what about privacy? What about that harsh afternoon sun?
The good news is, you don’t have to choose between a beautiful view and functional window treatments. With a few smart tricks, you can have both. Here’s your guide to using curtains without blocking a view.
The Right Fabric Is Everything
When your goal is to preserve the view, the fabric you choose is the most important decision. You're not looking for something to block light; you're looking for something to filter it.
Sheer Curtains: These are your best friend. Made from delicate materials like linen, gauze, or voile, they soften harsh sunlight while keeping the outside world visible. They create an ethereal, dreamy vibe without sacrificing your view.
Light-Filtering Fabrics: Think beyond sheers. Fabrics like light-colored cotton or thin linen can provide a bit more privacy than a sheer but still let plenty of natural light through. They offer a great balance of function and style.
Smart Hardware for a Wider Look
This is a professional designer secret you can totally use at home. Instead of hanging your curtain rod right at the edge of the window frame, extend it.
Go Wide: Install a curtain rod that's at least 10 to 12 inches wider than your window on each side.
Hang Them High: Place the rod several inches above the window frame.
This simple trick makes your window look bigger, and more importantly, it allows you to pull the curtains completely off the glass. When they're open, they'll stack neatly on the wall, leaving your view totally unobstructed.
The Art of Layering Curtains
A layered approach gives you ultimate control. It allows you to adapt to the time of day and your specific needs.
Sheer + Blackout: Start with a sheer curtain on a main rod. Then, use a second rod or track system to add a thicker, more opaque panel behind it. You get to enjoy the view during the day and have total privacy at night.
Roman Shades + Side Panels: If you prefer a clean look, install a Roman shade inside the window frame. It can be pulled up and out of the way. Then, add decorative drapes on the sides of the window to frame the view and add a pop of color or texture.
Color & Style: Frame Your View
The right color and style can actually enhance your view, treating it like a piece of art.
Stick to Neutrals: Light colors like white, cream, or light gray are perfect. They blend into the background and don’t distract from the scenery outside.
Pops of Color: Want to make a statement? Use a bold color or a fun pattern on your side panels. These curtains will frame your window beautifully without blocking the light.
Ready to find the perfect curtains that let your view shine?
