Dramatically Transform any Kitchen with Curtains, Valances and Swags
Kitchen curtains, valances and swags offer an easy yet dramatic way to elevate the style of any kitchen. With the right fabrics, patterns and creative styling, your kitchen windows can be transformed from blah to beautiful in no time.
Whether your kitchen decor leans traditional, modern or somewhere in between, there are so many options for dressing up plain windows. Cafe curtains, pretty swag valances, layered tiers and more can infuse color, texture and visual interest.
Versatile Cafe Curtains Brighten Small Kitchen Windows
Cafe curtains are a go-to choice for small kitchen windows. Typically measuring 24-30 inches long, they cover just the lower portion of the window. This allows light to filter in from above while maintaining privacy at eye level.
Opt for breezy, lightweight cottons or linens so cafe curtains can billow gently with any window breezes. Cheery printed fabrics like classic gingham or fruit and veggie motifs complement country kitchen decors. For modern spaces, opt for solid colors or simple patterns in neutral palettes.
Creative Styling Ideas for Cafe Curtains
Gather cafe curtains onto a decorative rod or wood dowel for a casual gathered look. Or hang them from sleek metal rods for modern flair. For extra cottage character, tie back the sides with ribbons or trim.
Layer longer sheer curtains behind short cafes. This filters light while allowing you to still see out. For extra pop, hang cafes outside the main curtains.
Tiered Curtains Make a Stylish Statement
Tiered curtains create visual drama and elegance. Layers of graduated lengths cascade down the window for lots of texture and movement.
Longest tiers hang in back, with shortest draping in front. Or alternate long and short for an asymmetrical look. Each tier mounts on a separate rod, exposed or concealed behind valances.
Choosing Fabrics and Patterns for Tiers
Lightweight cottons, sheers or linens suit the flowing look of tiers. Neutral solids or subtle ombres work universally. Or pick bold, energetic hues like cyan or golden yellow if your kitchen can handle color.
Consider lively florals, geometrics or other prints. Choose a pattern in the same color family or mix coordinating designs. Just take care that it doesn't veer into overkill.
Elegant Swag Valances and Soft Swag Curtains
Swags add a touch of elegance to kitchen windows. As a valance, swag fabrics are draped in graceful cascades over a window or top of curtains.
Swags can also be used as curtains themselves. The swooping, swagged shape results from gathered fabric, with swag clip mounts keeping the shape.
Tips for Hanging Swags
For swag valances, hang swags above regular curtains. Choose lightweight, drapable fabrics like sheers or linen so they cascade beautifully.
As standalone swag curtains, hang them high above the window so the swags don't obstruct views when open. Use two mounts per swoop for optimal shaping.
Add tailored or ruched jabot side panels on swags for a finished frame. Tiebacks keep stationary side swags out of the way when open.
Valances Add Decor and Conceal Hardware
Valances provide a decorative focal point atop the window. They come in every style from ruffled to sleek, tailored looks.
Valances cover and camouflage curtain rods and hardware. They allow you to embellish with trims, pleats and fabrics too heavy for regular curtains.
Measuring and Hanging Valances
Measure the exact width of the window, adding 12-16 inches to each side for returns. Take desired drop length from rod to bottom of the valance.
Mount high to give curtains space. Let an inch of wall show above for a framed look. Check proportions to ensure valance doesn't overwhelm the window visually.
Select a coordinating, decorative rod and ornate finials. Curtain rings on the rod allow curtains to slide freely behind.
The options for kitchen curtains, valances and swags are virtually endless. Discover how these accessible window treatments can impart loads of style. Cafe curtains, tiered layers, framed swags or decorative valances truly transform plain windows.
Explore colors, patterns and textures that complement your overall kitchen decor. Draw the eye upward and frame views beyond, all while elevating your space. Start simple or go bold -- either way, your kitchen will shine.