In the interior of each room, especially the kitchen, small details add up to the overall picture. Sometimes one little thing can ruin the entire decor or, on the contrary, transform the room beyond recognition. Before you begin a major or cosmetic remodel of your kitchen, you should initially choose a design style and decide on the materials.
Every little detail is important in kitchen design
Before you start transforming, you should think through everything in advance
The kitchen is a place where you need to plan everything in advance.
How to beautifully decorate a window in the kitchen
A window is not just an opening in the wall designed to let light and air into a room. If desired, this part of the kitchen will become a work of art or a useful, but stylish addition to the interior. Before you start transforming your kitchen window, you should pay attention to such details.
- Practicality - materials used for decoration should be easy to clean and replace, since small particles of fat and odors are easily and quickly absorbed into textiles. Also a practical point can be attributed to the protective functions that curtains or other parts should perform: you can “protect” the kitchen from sunlight and prying eyes.
- Matching the style - in order for window decoration to be completed successfully, not only taking into account the practical value of textiles or blinds, you need to select curtains according to the style and color of the room.
- Room area. The fewer rooms, the worse the massive details will look in it - even amateur designers know this.
When choosing window textiles, you need to pay attention to the combination of the color of the walls and the curtain fabric. To make the space harmonize with the window opening, for decoration it is worth choosing a fabric that is 2-3 lighter or darker than the walls.
A window in the kitchen can become a decorative element
The window in the kitchen should be practical and match the style of the room
See alsoKitchens with a gas boiler: design
Classic kitchen design (“Classicism”)
For a kitchen with a limited room size, it would be original to design the kitchen window and the entire interior in a classic style. It combines clarity, rigor, symmetry of lines, predominantly light (white) tones of color. Just as in Rococo, human sculptures play a significant role in Classicism. The only difference is that they are made exclusively from white plaster or stone.
By implementing such a design idea in your home kitchen, you can visually expand the dimensions, give the room lightness and at the same time severity.
Link to the style of the kitchen. Window decoration in the kitchen: from classic to avant-garde
The combination of basic details and subtle details is the key to successful interior design. When decorating a window in the kitchen, it is important to select the type of textiles to match the decor. Each interior style is appealing to different types of curtains.
- Modern style, modern, hi-tech will ideally complement Roman or Japanese curtains, ordinary blinds made of metal or wood.
- The classics are emphasized by massive curtains in tandem with openwork tulle. It is better to choose curtains with monograms, floral or floral patterns.
- Oriental style will be decorated with photo curtains with calligraphic patterns. Multi-level curtains with swags, jabots, and lambrequins are also ideal.
- Provence - this style is best complemented by light curtains with small floral prints, always in warm pastel shades.
- Country - wooden blinds are a good option. When choosing textiles, you need to take into account that it should be intertwined with other fabric elements - tablecloths, chair covers.
- Minimalism – the best option would be translucent roller blinds.
- The avant-garde is emphasized by light, flowing, long curtains of bright colors. The ideal combination is bright fabrics with black decor. For example, scarlet or emerald curtains, complemented by a black and white lambrequin.
When choosing the ideal combination of “interior style - curtains”, you need to take into account an important point - which side the kitchen windows face. If to the north or west, then dark colors will not be relevant.
Textiles for the kitchen need to be selected to match the overall style of the room
Floral print curtains are usually used in Provence style
For modern styles, roller blinds are often used
See also: Italian style kitchen interior
Baroque
The Baroque style came to us from the 17th century. Originally from Italy. It combines strange and at the same time luxurious forms of sculptures. This style began to appear in interiors and furniture at the beginning of the 18th century in France, and was called “Rococo”. It is mainly used to decorate bedrooms, living rooms and bathrooms. It combines smooth, curled lines, warm shades of color, luxurious frames of mirrors, windows, wooden cabinets and stools, and complex composite walls.
Previously, this style was used on the large country estates of the nobility and aristocracy.
Pearl accents, figurines and silhouettes of people (children) on the carved frames of room decoration elements. Sheer luxury. Try to breathe luxurious “life” into the window. Now the store sells many substitutes for expensive materials that are not inferior to them in use, and some of them are superior. Decorate the window frame with carved decor, paint the inner window space in soft gold or pink peach. Place human figurines on the windowsill.
It is possible to make glass in the form of a fresco with mosaic elements, etc.
Choosing curtains for a kitchen with a balcony
What type of curtains are ideal for decorating a kitchen window is not up to the designers, but to the apartment owners. But if the room has access to a balcony, which is closed with curtains, then they will constantly be opened and closed. And this must be taken into account so that a month after purchasing new curtains or tulle you do not buy new ones. The main requirement for curtains in a kitchen that opens onto a balcony is the use of durable fabrics that are resistant to stains and mechanical damage.
Another nuance is asymmetry, that is, in the window area the curtains should be short, and in the door area – long. You can choose an alternative option - long curtains covering the entire window opening along with a balcony door. Thread products, satin or satin curtains are ideal for this.
If the kitchen has access to a balcony, it is not recommended to hang ordinary curtains
Curtains should not block natural light from entering the room
See alsoFeatures of caring for countertops made of artificial stone: useful tips and recommendations.
Functionalism
This direction comes from Germany. Apparently, the Germans also wanted to touch the beautiful and created their own original style, you might think. Yes, that's true, but with only one thing. This style includes a purely functional design, that is, in simpler terms - nothing superfluous, no frills.
Strict fulfillment of the kitchen’s assigned functions.
Of course, this is not a particularly lifestyle style, but it was necessary to pay tribute to the Germans. And if you are a lazy person, then you can, with a bit of dignity and pride, safely declare to visiting guests that the kitchen is completely made in the unique and original “functionalism” style.
Functional kitchens delight the eye with magnificent design and impeccable execution.
The right choice of material is a guarantee of a good result
Before you decorate a window in the kitchen, you need to familiarize yourself with the popular materials from which window textiles are sewn. The table shows suitable natural and synthetic fabrics, their pros and cons.
Name fabrics for window textiles | Advantages of the material | Disadvantages of fabric | |
Fabrics of natural origin | |||
Cotton | Does not attract dust, does not accumulate electrical charge, and is easy to wash | Slightly loses shape after washing, light cotton turns yellow when exposed to sunlight, | |
Linen | The canvas is not electrified and does not attract dust. Linen is a durable material that, after many years of use, does not lose its shape and does not become covered with pills. | Large weight, linen curtains need to be hung on strong, stable curtain rods | |
Silk | Resistance to electrification, saw accumulation, mechanical damage. Silk curtains will never be caught by moths | High cost of window textiles, difficulty in maintenance (protection from excessive solar radiation, water, heat) | |
Wool | Wool curtains are stain resistant and do not become deformed if properly cared for. | The material absorbs unpleasant odors, so it needs regular ventilation. Also, woolen curtains can only be dry cleaned (you can also wash them, but this will harm the products); moths can appear in their folds | |
Materials made from synthetic (man-made) fibers | |||
Polyester | Does not wrinkle, does not shrink with regular stretching, is easy to wash, easily subject to deformation (for example, the formation of folds) | Poor air permeability | |
Acrylic | Acrylic curtains are easy to clean and do not change shape | Over time, pellets form on the canvas, especially after washing or as a result of frequent hand touching. | |
Nylon | The fabric does not get dirty, does not wrinkle, does not lose shape after wet washing | Burns out in the sun |
Fabrics are also classified not only by composition, but also by type. For sewing curtains and curtains for kitchen windows, thin fabrics like satin, satin, voile or tulle are best suited. If textiles must protect from the sun, then it is better to use products made from flock, taffeta or blackout.
Before looking for curtains for the window, familiarize yourself with their variety
In some cases, decorating the window does not make sense
Remember that textile curtains get dirty easily and absorb odors.
See also: MDF countertops for kitchen units: features, classification, selection tips.
What can be placed under the window
Making the most of the free space under the window will make the kitchen functional and comfortable. In addition to using the window sill as a worktop or sink, there are several other options:
- closed storage areas for kitchen electrical appliances;
- a cabinet or cabinet with shelves for an additional set of dishes;
- open or closed shelves for kitchen textiles: towels, tablecloths or napkins;
- a high window sill allows you to place a washing machine or dishwasher;
- a low-lying window sill can be used as a place to relax and read books;
- arrange a bar counter with high chairs in front of the wide window;
- use a low window sill as a seat, moving the dining table towards it.
When organizing any space under the window, you need to think through all the details. In a small kitchen, it is better not to leave shelves open, as this will create a cluttered appearance and ruin the overall impression of the room.
You should not store food on shelves under the window. The presence of a hot radiator will have a bad effect on their safety. For the same reason, you should not store books there; hot air has a bad effect on paper. It is better to opt for dishes, textiles and kitchen utensils. Don't forget about the material from which the shelves are made. It should be wear-resistant and easy to clean.
When installing a washing machine under a window, you need to remember several important rules:
- The machine should be kept as far as possible from the refrigerator, oven and dishwasher. Any vibrations, even minor ones, negatively affect the operation of fans and compressors.
- In order to load or unload linen and clothes, there must be a free open space of at least 1 sq.m. in front of the machine.
- To connect the washing machine, powerful wiring with individual grounding is used.
- It is necessary to provide access to hoses and pipes for repair and maintenance.
In some cases, if it is impossible to provide access to the rear surface of the machine, it is installed on rollers or special devices for free extension.
However, placing the washing machine in the kitchen has its advantages:
- loading laundry is possible at any time, even if someone is cooking in the kitchen;
- frees up space in the bathroom;
- the humidity in the kitchen is not so high, so the machine will last longer;
- in the interior of the kitchen it is much easier to hide the body of the washing machine, without taking up a lot of free space;
- possible hum and vibration will not interfere with complete relaxation while taking a bath.
At the same time, there are not many disadvantages of installing a washing machine:
- the loading hatch must remain open to avoid the formation of mold, which can cause some discomfort while in the kitchen;
- vibration from a running machine can be transmitted to furniture, which will be felt during lunch or dinner.
These two small problems can be ignored if the kitchen area is large. In addition, you can start washing after eating, and temporarily close the hatch.
A wide window sill and a beautiful view from the window will help organize a cozy place to relax. A comfortable soft seat will allow you to spend time with your favorite book and watching a TV series using a laptop or wall-mounted TV.
Seating areas framed by bookcases look impressive and cozy.
Psychological effects of color
The kitchen is a place where people eat and communicate with each other, so the color scheme of the room should be conducive to this. According to psychologists, red, green, crimson, orange and yellow colors awaken appetite. The shade depends on the effect the color will have on a person. If the goal is to awaken a person’s appetite, then the shades should resemble natural colors - the colors of vegetables, fruits, drinks.
Curtain color plays an important role in kitchen design
Choose curtains according to the style of your kitchen
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"Eclecticism" in the kitchen
A completely different attitude to interiors than “Functionalism” is manifested in “Eclecticism”. It's a mixture of styles. The most unexpected and unimaginable. Everything comes together here. In history, “Eclecticism” arose by itself, when an era and style changed to another. Then the restoration of buildings, premises, etc. took place. And at a time when they had not yet completely abandoned the old style, and had not yet arrived at the new one, “Eclecticism” arose.
You can literally do whatever you want in your kitchen.
If you want to combine the sophistication of “Baroque”, the severity of “Classicism” and the tranquility of “Japanese aesthetics” - then this is “Eclecticism”. You can constantly change styles, be on the lookout, and show your originality and knowledge of art to your friends over a cup of coffee. “Eclecticism” allows you to create miracles.
Come up with your original, unique style, bring it to life - all this is “Eclecticism”.
Plants on the windowsill
To stylishly decorate a window in the kitchen, sometimes it is not enough just to choose textiles; plants often create a positive atmosphere and comfort in the room. Since the kitchen is the place where food is prepared, frequent ventilation cannot be avoided. This means that for the kitchen you need to select indoor plants that are not afraid of drafts, hypothermia or overheating, in general - unpretentious species.
- Beautiful flowering plants are royal pelargonium, begonia, Saintpaulia (violet), Kalanchoe or azalea.
- Flowerpots with leaves of unusual shapes and colors - coleus, croton, dracaena or schefflera.
- Fruit species - hot pepper, lemon, coffee tree.
- Succulents – cactus, money tree, agave, crassula.
Plants on the windowsill will perfectly decorate the kitchen
Non-whimsical plant species are best suited for the kitchen.
You can place flowerpots with flowers not only on the windowsill but also on the furniture itself
In order not to regret later that the plant could not withstand “kitchen stress” - temperature changes, it is better to select inexpensive types for the kitchen. It is also important to consider the location of the kitchen: for example, a coffee tree, cactus or azalea will be suitable for south, south-east and east windows. For northern, northwestern and western windows it is better to choose dracaena, croton or royal pelargonium.
If you assume that the plant may die in such conditions, then it is better to focus on inexpensive species
It is also important to consider the location of the kitchen
See alsoEuropean style of kitchen design: distinctive features and interesting design ideas, photos of interior examples
Additional features of plastic windows
Protection . Every person has a desire to preserve the property acquired by him and his family members. In our country, unfortunately, the crime situation leaves much to be desired: one of the most common types of offenses is burglary, committed by pressing the window sash. Professional “burglars”, with the appropriate skills and with the tools they have, are able to open a standard window in just one minute, without resorting to breaking the double-glazed window... This problem is especially relevant for residents of the extreme floors of multi-storey buildings, since it is their apartments that are the most vulnerable in this plan.
Fortunately for owners and unfortunately for burglars, you can find models of plastic windows on sale, the design of which is already prepared for burglary attempts. Due to their special design, burglary-resistant plastic windows provide effective protection in a complex: a special mushroom-shaped pin is responsible for the impossibility of pressing the frame, and triplex technology ensures the safety of the glass.
Decoration . Installing a so-called layout will help make a window located in the kitchen original and stand out from the background of other windows. The layout consists of slats assembled in a specific pattern, made of plastic and attached both to the outer glass and between the glass panes of the double-glazed window. As a rule, to make a window look richer, it is decorated with a gold layout, but various variations in color are also possible - it all depends on the capabilities of the company that sells light-transmitting structures. Therefore, decorating a plastic window with a layout is quite capable of transforming the kitchen space, making it more comfortable and visually richer.
Cafe style
This type of curtains, called “cafe”, is a new design feature. Cafe-style curtains got their name for a reason - their name comes from the place where this type of curtain is most often found. They are distinguished by their shortened length and can be attached to the cornice using metal rings, ties, braid or drawstring. The texture of these curtains is a flight of fancy for the designer. All types of fabrics are suitable for sewing cafe-style curtains, the main thing is that they are not very heavy and dense.
It’s not for nothing that they are often used to decorate a kitchen window: thanks to their shortened design, they do not clutter up the space of even small kitchens with an area of 4-8 sq.m. But when choosing this type of curtains, it is worth remembering that they are best suited for decorating window openings in country and Provence style interiors. Such decoration is in no way suitable for minimalism and other ultra-modern solutions.
Cafe style decor has appeared quite recently
Decorating with short curtains is more suitable for country and Provence styles
See alsoStylish small kitchen design in 2022
Basic principles of window design without curtains
Having resolved the problem of bright sunlight entering the apartment and getting rid of prying glances, you can think about the decor itself.
Of course, even the most modern “bare” window will not improve the interior of the home and certainly will not add comfort and warmth to it. In order for the window to evoke a pleasant impression and, together with the opening, to fit harmoniously into the decor of the apartment, it is not necessary to decorate it with massive and eye-catching elements. This method works well in spacious halls and halls, but in modern apartments it often creates an oppressive feeling, visually reducing the area. For this reason, minimalist window design methods are becoming increasingly popular, in which decorations only emphasize the beauty of structures, unobtrusively framing them and placing accents.
The basic principles of this design are to preserve natural light in the apartment as much as possible, and also to avoid a clutter of unnecessary details that depersonalize the window and deprive it of its individuality.
Decorating a kitchen window with curtains
Small curtains, also called “curtains,” are a good option for decorating a window opening in the kitchen. The reason for this is their versatility; short curtains are less demanding to care for and at the same time look stylish and modern. But there is one nuance - they will well emphasize the atmosphere in a well-renovated room, since they do not cover the area under the window. This decoration option is also suitable for interiors where the window sill is used as a tabletop or seating area.
Remember that curtains absorb odors very well
When decorating a window in the kitchen, remember that it should be in harmony with the interior of the room
For kitchens it is best to use Roman blinds
See also Ceramic countertop for the kitchen: features, pros, cons, how to make it yourself.
Arabian night
Remember the fairy tales “1000 and one night”. Remember the Arab sheikhs. Carpets, furs...
The contrast of such an interior, additional lighting in niches (or the previously described organization of lighting with roller blinds), complex, ornate patterns. All this can be realized in real life in the kitchen of your dreams (fairy tale).
Kitchen design in an oriental style is not only comfortable and unusual, but also very beautiful and modern.
The achievements of past and present designers, as well as limitless human imagination, truly make it possible to create unimaginable miracles of design. From a spacious kitchen you can create a unique, inimitable beauty of style, or a mixture of styles. Try mixing different styles and be surprised what it can lead to.
The results always exceed expectations. The process of creation is addictive and captivating.
By designing a kitchen window with your own hands and indulging in your ideas, you can pleasantly surprise yourself, your acquaintances and friends.
You are always looking for solutions, be it designing a kitchen window, or a comprehensive renovation of the entire kitchen. This will allow you to take into account all the necessary nuances and find a solution to any task.
Being in the kitchen will inspire you to new achievements in the culinary field.
Luxury window: rules of unique design
In order for window textiles in the kitchen to look no worse than in fashion or specialized design magazines, you need to take into account such points.
- The fabric should not be flashy - it is better to choose discreet shades and simple styles.
- Cornice - sets the tone for the decorations on the window. To create a luxury interior, it is important that the cornice does not look cheap. Therefore, instead of a plastic base, it is better to choose a metal or wooden one.
- Combination of colors, interior style with window textiles.
By taking into account simple but useful tips, you can transform your kitchen and create an interior worthy of the praise of professional designers.
See also Pyrolytic cleaning of the oven and how to choose an oven with a pyrolysis function
Japanese aesthetics
The subtle structure of Japanese style philosophical culture includes idolatry, minimalism, and at the same time calmness.
The Japanese have never overloaded space with unnecessary details.
Japanese shoji sliding doors, Buddha figurines (netsuke), a window frame in the shape of a ritual arch of a destroyed temple in Nagasaki, incense smoking sticks - all this will create in your kitchen a unique atmosphere of a small corner of Japan in your apartment and even in your area.
Japanese interior style is ideal for small spaces.
A place to relax, read books and have a snack
The window sill can be turned into a cozy soft corner with a couple of decorative pillows, where it is pleasant to sit, read a book or leisurely drink a cup of coffee. Even in the kitchen, such a solution will look original, but appropriate. A significant drawback is the need to clean textiles more often than in other rooms. We must not forget that the kitchen has its own microclimate, and no matter how well the hood works, particles of fat and odors will still be absorbed into the fabric. This solution is perfect for private houses with bay windows. A small niche offers privacy, and a short break will take place in double comfort if the window offers a wonderful view of the city or countryside. Wide windows usually have low sills, which can simply be strengthened from below and covered with a mattress to fit. In standard apartments, you will have to dismantle the too-high “shelf” and replace it with a full-fledged mini-sofa, on which guests or the hostess, tired of preparations, can sit. If the width of the window allows, then on one side install several narrow shelves for storing books and decorative trinkets, which will only add coziness.
We design the window and slopes
If the apartment does not have window sills or you do not want to bother with their design, you can limit yourself to decorating the window itself and the adjacent slopes. There are many materials for designer window decoration, and therefore there are more than enough finishing options.
Stained glass windows
Installing double-glazed windows with stained glass will add atmosphere to the room and make it less cold. To decorate the windows in the apartment, you can use fully stained glass units or models with inserts in certain areas.
Window stickers
Hypermarkets and hardware stores today offer a large selection of adhesive-based decorative film, which can be used to create interesting decorative elements. If you don’t have the energy and time to express your creative inclinations, you can buy ready-made stickers for glass and decorate the double-glazed window and slopes with them. This option is good for decorating a window in a children's room - the kids will be happy with the funny pictures on the windows, and when they want something new, the stickers can be easily changed.
Decor of window slopes
The design of slopes can also be bright; special slope systems of various colors or with photo printing will help in this matter. You can choose a ready-made stylistic solution offered by manufacturers, or create a unique decor that will fit perfectly into the interior of your home.
Beaded curtains
Decorating a window with beaded curtains will appeal to those who don’t feel entirely comfortable without the usual curtains. The original decoration creates the illusion of a closed window, making it unusual, interesting and light. Curtains made of beads go well with similar door decor, because it was this that designers took as a basis when creating this type of window decoration.
Dining area by the window
This is another modern option. If the window faces the street, then the dining area becomes “one-sided”. For those who are accustomed to eating at a “round table” face to face with their dining companions, this option may seem strange. But even we began to practice placing the dining area in one line, like in a cafe. This method is convenient for quick snacks and significantly saves space. If the window sill is significantly higher than the working areas in the kitchen set, it will not have to be seriously modified; you just need to buy high stools. In addition, eating with a beautiful view of the street improves your mood.
Windows in the bay window
Bay windows look stylish and elegant. If they represent a whole composition of several meters, then the window sills are completely removed and the same curved kitchen set is installed. The entire work area will be constantly illuminated from the street, and the hostess will enjoy the panoramic view. The bay window can also be used to arrange a resting place. A low curved sofa will become a separate mini-room in a large kitchen, where those who want privacy can hide. A dining area is being set up right next to the bay window. The windows themselves are decorated only with classic long floor-length curtains. Diners will have a great opportunity to breathe fresh air in the summer and admire the local beauty.