Bet on short curtains
It's good that the kitchen has windows. Otherwise it would look like a basement workshop. However, if the proper design is not followed, then the corresponding room, even with glazing, will turn into a workshop: it is enough to decorate the windows with long and thick curtains - and the interior of the kitchen leaves much to be desired.
A completely different matter are short curtains that:
- Allow windows to let in more light;
- Easy to move due to low weight;
- Visually they do not create a busy effect;
- Safe (due to their location at a height and small area, the products rarely become the object of fire due to the stove);
- They do not require complex care and are easy to wash.
The main thing is that the thematic frame matches the style of the interior. In particular, we are talking about creating contrast between the background, furniture, textiles and the curtains themselves.
Criterias of choice
Typically, curtains differ sharply from the interior decoration, which serves as a background. In second place is furniture, in comparison with which the curtains look very light. However, light, light fabric is not a prerequisite for choosing short curtains. Moreover, the latter may look similar to:
- Kitchen aprons;
- Tablecloths and towels;
- The upholstery of the seats and the façade of individual parts of the headset.
If the window profile is made of plastic, then it will be perfectly emphasized by the dark design of short curtains for the kitchen. In this case, natural lighting will be optimal, because... themed curtains cover only a small part of the glazing.
Deciding on a color palette and pattern
Curtains for a modern room are selected when the interior decoration has already been determined. There are several approaches that will help create a harmonious design in the kitchen:
- Color harmony. Preference is given to plain curtains, which echo the shades of the wall decoration or furniture set.
- Contrasting combinations. They help to add fresh notes to the monochrome interior of the kitchen. At the same time, color compatibility is maintained, for example, the dominant light green shade of the interior is diluted with models of short curtains in emerald tones.
- Accent unit. This technique is most suitable for short photo curtains, which will become a striking element of the entire kitchen interior. Although there are other window design options.
When choosing shades, pay attention to several factors:
- Modern interior style. Rustic Provence and country, eco-friendly trends are comparable to warm tones. Laconic loft and high-tech are based on cool shades. Classic and modern are distinguished by their democracy, so there are no strict restrictions in choosing the color scheme of curtains.
- Kitchen area. A competent approach to the design of a modern interior allows you to create a harmonious design even in a small kitchen. To do this, preference is given to light colors, avoiding the presence of dark areas. The choice of short models is all the more reasoned. Laconic curtains will not create an atmosphere of cluttering the space. The spacious area of a modern kitchen provides a greater springboard when choosing the color palette of short curtains.
- Level of natural light. A sunny kitchen with windows facing southeast can be decorated with cool shades. For the interior of a darkened room on the north side, it is preferable to choose short curtains in warm and light colors.
- Wall decoration. The absence of noticeable images on the walls allows you to choose short curtains with bright patterns. If the wallpaper has a pattern, this is enough to enrich the interior of a modern kitchen, so it is better to decorate the window with plain curtains.
The curtains for the kitchen in the Provence style look original in the photo:
Optimal length
Short curtains are not necessarily curtains that go all the way to the window sill. This option is welcome when it comes to wicker translucent curtains, blinds or Roman blinds. The listed models perfectly hide the interior space.
In other cases, it is enough to use curtains 30-40 cm long. They serve more to complete the interior than to hide it.
What's fashion now?
Minimalism, simplicity and naturalness are still in fashion in 2021. These principles also apply to curtains in the kitchen.
Designers advise against:
- multilayer;
- outdated tulle with a voluminous pattern;
- blinds.
Lately, simplicity and minimalism have remained in fashion.
At the peak of popularity now:
- natural fabrics or their imitation;
- deep rich colors without large patterns;
- lack of tulle;
- curtains in the minimalist style (roller or Roman);
- blackout curtains.
The main thing is that the curtains do not disturb the overall picture.
Curtain shape
Even small fabric or wicker fabrics that are hung on one plane can attract the eye. The secret is that curtains and blackout curtains can be combined with each other. But sometimes a short curtain is enough if it extends from one slope to another in a special way:
- A wavy arc in the shape of a rainbow;
- An arc with one long edge and the second short;
- Uniform teeth;
- Multi-level scheme.
For the last option, three curtains of different lengths are used - 30, 50 and 70 cm. Therefore, you often have to make short curtains for the kitchen with your own hands. The edges of the corresponding triplet, if the curtains are curtains, are often decorated with decorative horizontal stripes.
Advantages and disadvantages
The kitchen is usually small in size compared to other rooms in the apartment. Therefore, it is necessary to arrange the interior so that everything has a logical placement and appropriate dimensions.
The use of short curtains in the kitchen interior has a number of positive aspects:
- They do not burden the space (the room seems more spacious and “lighter”).
- Easy to care for (short curtains are easier to wash and iron).
- They do not “steal” height with a low ceiling.
- Pollution takes longer, since most of the dust and dirt collect at the bottom.
- Maintain unobstructed access to the window sill (even when the curtains are closed).
- They make it possible to arrange an area near the window (put a table, cabinet, etc.).
- They are a budget version of window decoration (sewing is cheaper, less fabric is wasted).
Among the disadvantages are:
- Not suitable for kitchens with low ceilings.
- Reuse in another interior is almost impossible, since such curtains are sewn for a specific window, taking into account its features.
- When old radiators are installed in the kitchen, they are not able to cover their appearance.
There are many more advantages than disadvantages, so short curtains in the kitchen are quite popular.
When choosing the best option for curtains, you should pay attention to the layout of the room, functionality, ease of cleaning, and appropriateness of use in this case.
Austrian curtains
Curtains from Eastern Europe look good on a white background if the canvas itself is dark. But don't chase deep colors. Indeed, when lifted, Austrian canvases acquire many folds, which by default compact and darken the product.
The main thing is that the corresponding effect does not affect natural light in any way.
Aristocratism of English and Austrian curtains
Comfort and at the same time a festive atmosphere are present in the modern interior, where short curtains with scalloped folds hang on the windows. There are 3 main types of curtains:
- English, some designers call them London;
- French;
- Austrian.
The latest model is a kind of hybrid between classic French and modern Roman blinds. If you close the window completely, short Austrian curtains look like a straight linen. The absence of transverse fasteners ensures the formation of beautiful folds during assembly, the principle of operation of which is similar to the Roman models.
London curtains are collected in two places, closer to the edge of the canvas. The central part remains in a straightened state. A modern interior allows the use of both natural and synthetic fabrics in the manufacture.
Attractive curtain design for the kitchen in the photo below:
The use of short French curtains in the interior of a modern kitchen is impractical due to the large number of folds that quickly become dirty.
Roman curtains
Thick one-color fabric or light light fabric with patterns is what is typical for Roman blinds. Also, they have folds and an “accordion” mechanism for lifting the canvas. Therefore, Roman blinds are mainly suitable for tall or standard windows with a plastic profile.
Roller curtains
The name speaks for itself. The main thing is that the roll can be rolled up and unfolded to a certain level so that the glazing is completely open, half open or closed. This default feature makes roller models relevant for photos of short curtains for the kitchen. The same can be said about the Roman analogues.
Modern
The main difference between modern curtains and classic ones is restraint and simplicity. You won’t find such an abundance of decorations and colors here. Drawings and patterns are rare, and if they exist, they look inconspicuous and minimalistic.
Natural materials (bamboo, wood, paper) or fabrics (cotton, chintz, linen) are used in the design of curtains in the Scandinavian, loft or eco style.
Short curtains for a loft kitchen
The most popular types of short curtains for decorating a kitchen window in Scandinavian style or hi-tech, modern, minimalism, eco, loft.
Blinds
Can be made of plastic or wooden slats.
Horizontal or vertical blinds differ accordingly in their assembly mechanism.
Roman
Sewn from any fabric. They rise “accordion-style” like horizontal blinds. Can be fixed at any height as needed.
Simple Roman blinds in a small kitchen
Rolled
The window opens from the bottom and can also be fixed at the desired height. They take their name from the mechanism of their lifting - rolling into a roll.
Often made of polyester or thick paper.
Simple curtains
Without elaborate details and patterns, with drapery on eyelets, rings or hooks, made of natural (cotton, chintz) or artificial (organza) fabrics. Such curtains are almost universal and, despite their simple and laconic design, are suitable for decorating a window in a modern kitchen.
Blinds
If the window frame is not made of fabric, this does not mean that it cannot be called short. Blinds, for example, cover only one window opening, i.e. the slats do not go down to the flooring.
And if you remember the many modern interiors that can be used inside the kitchen space, then you cannot do without blinds at all. In any case, slats always come to mind when users need additional functionality and simplicity.
Blinds are available vertical and horizontal. The first option can help to visually “raise” the kitchen. Horizontal blinds expand the room.
It is recommended to choose light-colored blinds for the kitchen so that the space in the room remains bright.
Additional recommendations
The kitchen is a room that combines all four elements. There seems to be no room for Earth here. However, curtains and other light curtains harmonize perfectly with small flower pots located on the windowsill (it is advisable to focus on an odd number or a single copy).
The easiest way to arrange modern short curtains for your kitchen is to order a model with eyelets of the required length. Moreover, the product must be made of dense fabric.
Although kitchen curtains get dirty faster than others, the wear and tear can be slowed down by using artificial fabrics - viscose, acrylic, nylon. There are also universal patterns - taffeta, blackout, jacquard. Among natural fabrics, cotton and satin have proven themselves well in the kitchen. But linen and silk are expensive and quickly deteriorate.
The most popular models of short curtains
I have considered general points regarding the choice of curtains. Now I will move on to a more detailed description of the most popular models of short curtains.
English (London)
English curtains look very elegant
With London curtains the interior will acquire a certain chic
The design (most often made in the shape of a semicircle), gathers into neat, beautiful folds and is fixed at the required height. If desired, you can adjust the length of the material depending on the size of the window opening.
London curtains are made from plain or soft fabric decorated with floral motifs.
London curtains - for lovers of exquisite decor
This model of curtains will fit perfectly not only into the characteristic British shabby chic, but will also decorate a kitchen designed in the style of:
- Provence;
- country;
- Italian classics;
- Scandinavian motifs.
Classic interior and London curtains - a spectacular combination
Roman
Even though Roman blinds are less strict in shape than English ones, they look no less elegant in appearance. This model will fit perfectly into any interior - from modern to rustic.
Roman blinds are one of the most successful options for framing a window in a high-tech interior
There are a lot of variations of patterns on Roman curtains
Adjust the height of the drapery to suit your needs
The design of short curtains for the kitchen, made in the Roman style, is varied and allows you to choose something to your liking. Adherents of strict classics can opt for plain models; lovers of interesting colors can easily find curtains with a checkered, striped or floral pattern.
French and Austrian
Cute and charming Austrian curtains
Soft folds of fabric look very presentable
Another stylish model that folds with beautiful draperies. Their height is conveniently regulated by a special cord (although it is not always available). Such curtains are ideally suited for spacious kitchens designed in the Empire or classic style.
As a decorative addition to French curtains, lambrequins with all kinds of molds, de jabots and swags are often used. Still, I would not recommend using such complex decor in the kitchen; it would be more appropriate in the bedroom.
Lambrequins are a frequent companion of French curtains
Cafe curtains
Short curtains for a cafe-style kitchen look incredibly cute and cozy, but, alas, they are not suitable for every interior. For example, for classics or minimalism they will be an inappropriate addition. But Provence, country, shabby chic or Scandinavian interiors will only benefit from such a window frame.
Cafe curtains cover the bottom of the window
This model of curtains is mounted not above the window opening, but in it
For such curtains, the cornice is not mounted above the window, in the depth of the slope at the selected height.
Rolled
Roller curtains are one of the best options for decorating very tiny kitchens. They take up minimal space and still look very stylish.
For each window, you can choose a separate roller blind or purchase one large one.
For each type of interior you can choose the appropriate model
In addition, the main advantages of roller blinds include ease of care. Simply wipe the material with a damp sponge and all stains will be easily washed away. Also, rolls combine perfectly with other curtains - for example, you can combine them with light translucent organza curtains.
Convenient mechanism adjusts the height of the drapery
