Suitable and beautiful curtains for the balcony can add coziness to any interior. Original textiles make window decoration stylish and fashionable. Once upon a time there was not such a wide choice in curtain models and materials. Fortunately, the decoration market has developed greatly in recent years, giving you a huge range of classic curtains and blinds. But how to choose?
Roller or roller blinds
The products have a laconic, neat appearance. In combination with a convenient folding and unfolding mechanism, they make them a favorite type of curtains for a loggia or balcony. They are a textile fabric that is wound on a roller attached to the top of the window. Can be mounted on a window profile, on a sash or on a wall. Roller blinds have several options:
- The canvas is attached only at the top, while the bottom and sides are not fastened and hang freely.
- The canvas is fixed at the top, and movement up and down occurs along vertical guides. They are called cassette roller blinds.
If the sash has a ventilation mode, then it is recommended to install the second option on such a window. It tightly fixes the fabric when unfolded. In addition, when the window is open, roller blinds are silent, because they do not sway from the wind.
There are two types of lowering mechanism:
- manual using a control chain;
- electric, controlled from a remote control.
Rolled structures use dense fabric impregnated with moisture- and dust-reflecting compounds. The canvases are easy to care for - just wipe them with a damp cloth while unfolded. When assembled, the roll is practically invisible and does not clutter the window profile, but slightly reduces the opening angle of the window.
They are made from various materials, in any color scheme. You can choose a roller blind to suit any interior.
Decorating a balcony block with tulle
When choosing tulle for a room with a balcony, you should focus on the design of the window and door unit. It is important that the curtains do not interfere with free access to the loggia and do not interfere with the comfortable use of the adjacent space.
The difficulty in decorating the exit to the balcony with tulle is the presence of a door. Constantly pushing away thin fabric with your hands, in fear of tearing it with the opening flap, is not the best option.
You can solve the problem if you hang two separate canvases - on one double-row cornice or on two separate ones. To prevent the door from clinging to them, the cornice is placed at a greater distance than above the window (deeper into the room).
Multi-level design of a balcony block
Another option is to mount a hook in the corner next to the door. Using a tieback, you can secure the curtain to it once for the whole day.
A good solution for a balcony block is a combination of roller blinds or Roman blinds with tulle. The first ones are hung on the door frame, the second - above the window.
If the block has a large protruding window sill, it is recommended to use two curtains: a short one for the window, a long one for the door. If the window and door are completely glazed and visually represent a single canvas, short curtains are inappropriate - it is better to use long textiles that cover the entire block.
A short curtain allows you to maintain the functionality of the window sill
A solid curtain completely covers the balcony exit
Another option is a single long tulle: the exit to the balcony remains partially open and is decorated only with the assembled main curtain, and the window with a window sill is covered with background translucent textiles. This option is suitable for those cases when the loggia is always open and serves as an extension of the living space.
A good way to emphasize the verticality of the door and the height of the ceiling is to use mesh fabric with a vertical pattern or complement it with muslin.
Roman
They have a more elegant appearance compared to their rolled counterparts. Roman blinds on the balcony are a convenient and beautiful way to decorate a window. When rolled, they fold into small horizontal sections. This drapery gives the loggia a cozy look, reminiscent of a rustic interior. Often Roman, or Romanesque, curtains are used in Provence style.
The fabrics used are natural and dense, treated with impregnation. It protects against dust, exposure to ultraviolet rays, and high humidity. It is easy to care for such curtains. Depending on the material, they are washed or simply wiped.
Often Roman curtains for a loggia are made of thick fabric that does not allow sunlight to pass through. And in addition to them, light tulle curtains are installed on the loggia. In cloudy weather, the window is covered with a translucent curtain, and on sunny days and at night - with a Roman blind. By lowering the canvas to different levels, you can adjust the degree of illumination of the balcony.
Roman curtains also perform a heat-saving function. During the cold season, they retain warm air in the room and prevent cold air from entering. On hot days, the lowered canvas does not allow hot air inside. Roman curtains are the easiest option for making curtains for a balcony with your own hands.
What to do to avoid overpaying for blinds?
The price discrepancy between individual blinds models is very large. Therefore, first of all, you should think about your real needs. The cheapest ones to buy will be aluminum curtains, which can be adapted to any interior. You just have to pay attention to the color of the material and the level of protection from sunlight. Good quality curtains can be a combination of durability, impressive appearance and affordable cost.
With a modern choice of curtains for the balcony, you can significantly improve a small loggia in your apartment for relaxing and enjoying the street panorama. View fashionable examples in the photo gallery to decorate your home.
Curtains
Fabric curtains are always an appropriate classic as curtains for the balcony. They are especially appropriate on loggias combined with a room. They are often made up to the length of the window sill. Floor-length curtains look beautiful on panoramic balconies with full-height windows.
Curtains can be made of light or dense material, and a combination of both options is possible. In the first case, the curtain will not have to be drawn often. Classic curtains are suitable for sliding windows, where roller or Roman counterparts cannot be installed.
Options for attaching to the cornice
Various types of fastenings allow you to create even more thoughtful curtain designs.
- Velcro. When the windows on the balcony are too large to reach the ceiling and there is no space left to install a curtain rod, Velcro curtains that can be hung without drilling would be an excellent option.
- On hooks. They are universal fasteners that are quite convenient and easy to use.
- Braid. Gives curtains beautiful and lush vertical folds and allows you to model their shape.
Blinds
The best way to protect your balcony block from the sun is to install blinds. They are vertical and horizontal. Made from polyester, wood, plastic, aluminum, fabric.
Important! In the interior, blinds act as a neutral element. They will not make the loggia more comfortable, but they will give the appearance of an office space.
If this effect is undesirable, then in addition you can decorate the opening with tulle for the balcony. Another option is to install colored slats or in the form of a pattern (photo blinds).
The amount of light transmitted is controlled by the angle of the lamellas. Maintenance consists of wiping each panel. The design of vertical blinds allows for the removal of individual slats for replacement or washing. The inconvenience is that when ventilated they make noise and become deformed.
Nuances to consider when choosing curtains
What curtains should I use for the balcony? Quite a difficult question and many housewives cannot find an answer to it. They run around shopping and don’t know which option is ideal for their balcony.
In order for curtains to blend into the overall interior and make the room individual, you need to consider the following factors that will help you make the right choice.
Pleated blinds
Pleated curtains are designed like an accordion. When folded, they gather into a fold, and when unfolded, they straighten out. One of the advantages is that they fit into openings of different shapes. Pleated blinds are attached to the window opening on cables; they can be freely moved along the length of the window. They do not have a rigid fixation at the top, like roller blinds. They can cover only the top of the window or only the bottom, middle.
Pleated fabric with special protective impregnation is used. Thanks to the mechanism of fastening on threads with pleated curtains, it is convenient to decorate the flaps.
There is a “day-night” option, consisting of two canvases of different throughput. One is for the day, the other is for the night. The degree of density of the curtain is regulated by folding one sheet and unfolding the other. There is a possibility of remote control.
Austrian and French
It is recommended to choose curtains for a loggia of 6 meters or less that are compact and laconic, such as roller blinds, Roman ones, or hang blinds with small horizontal slats. But for the lucky owners of a spacious loggia, the list is replenished with Austrian, French or English curtains. They are united by their European origin and solemn pompous appearance. Obviously, this is inappropriate on a small balcony.
French and Austrian curtains form many folds where a large amount of dust will accumulate. Caring for them will require a lot of time and effort. This will not scare away a true connoisseur of luxury, especially since the efforts will be rewarded with an aesthetic and unique design of the balcony window.
French curtains have arched folds and scallops along their entire length. They give it a solemn look. This design is suitable if the loggia and the adjacent room are made in a classic style. As a rule, they are made from translucent fabrics. The design is laconic with a small number of components.
Geometry
This factor is no less important when choosing. For example, in small balconies you need to hang curtains with horizontal stripes. This will allow you to make a small room taller and wider.
To raise the ceiling a little, you can choose curtains with a vertical pattern. They visually raise the ceiling and make the room taller.
Drawings and patterns. Curtains with large patterns and bold designs appear smaller. A small pattern visually increases the canvas and the size of the room.
Drapes and curtains
Draperies and curtains are classic textile decorations for windows in rooms. For balconies and loggias they are chosen less often. Due to the large size of the fabric, they are more difficult to care for than, for example, Roman blinds. They are suitable for insulated loggias with double-glazed windows that protect the room from dust and dampness.
Curtains are chosen when you need curtains for the loggia that will protect from the sun. Thanks to the dense fabric, they will not let in the sun's rays, which is especially valuable for balconies facing south. Floor-length curtains will decorate the spacious stained-glass balconies.
Curtains are light translucent curtains. Organza or tulle on the balcony is suitable for northern windows with a small amount of daylight. Curtains will add lightness and airiness to the entire room.
Important! When choosing drapes or curtains to decorate a balcony, you need to take into account that they are attached to the cornice. To arrange it, you will need 15-20 cm of distance between the ceiling and the window frame.
Photos for non-standard types of windows and balcony shapes
Several varieties of window openings and loggias of unusual shapes:
- Sliding windows. Classic horizontal slats or roller blinds with a ceiling profile would be appropriate here.
- Panoramic glazing. Roller blinds or blinds with fastening directly to the balcony frame will emphasize the delightful feeling of space and freedom on the loggia with panoramic windows.
- Angular. Curtains should focus attention on the unusual silhouette of the balcony and give it even more sophistication.
- Semi-gr. Translucent curtains will gracefully emphasize the semicircular shape and will not spoil the view from the loggia.
Color solutions
The balcony is a continuation of the room, so it should not stylistically stand out from the overall image. The color and pattern of the curtains should match the interior decoration and furniture. It is not recommended to use too dark colors on loggias: black, blue, brown, purple. They visually “eat up” the space, making it heavy and “oppressive”. In addition, on the south side such curtains will attract sunlight and accumulate heat. It will be stuffy and hot on such a balcony.
If the interior of the loggia and the adjacent room requires dark-colored curtains, then a good option would be to use double-sided products. The light side will face outward, the dark side will face inward.
For this reason, you should not use bright flashy colors and patterns. It is better to give preference to solid neutral colors and muted prints. Light fabrics visually increase the space. Vertical stripes “stretch” the height, and horizontal stripes “stretch” the width.
Functional purpose of drapery for balcony windows
Often, a balcony functions as additional space for storing kitchen utensils, or a bicycle or scooter. In this small room, clothes are often dried after washing, and boxes with vegetables and fruits are placed. Therefore, it is advisable to protect the balcony from direct sunlight.
Another important rule: at night, the balcony windows should be closed from prying eyes. Most apartment owners necessarily glaze their balconies and provide lighting inside these rooms.
With your own hands
Hand-sewn curtains for a balcony will help you save money and also bring original ideas to life. The easiest way is to make Roman blinds for your loggia yourself. They can be translucent or made of thick fabric. They consist of one leaf or several (for each sash).
First you need to decide on the number of canvases and prepare everything you need:
- fabric of the required size;
- Velcro tape;
- nails and screws;
- wooden or plastic rods half a centimeter in diameter and 2-3 cm less than the width of the future curtain (6-8 pieces depending on the length of the product).
- a block for fastening the structure, equal to the width of the curtain (2.5x5 cm);
- plastic rings 1 cm in diameter (2-3 rings for each twig);
- weighting material (aluminum or wooden strip);
- cord;
- hook.
To determine the size and number of folds, use the table:
The procedure for making Roman blinds for a balcony with Velcro with your own hands: for every 10 cm of window, add 1.3-1.4 cm to the distance between the folds.
- We take measurements and add 5-7 cm to the resulting numbers for seams and 14 cm for allowances. We cut and cut.
- On the wrong side we mark the places of folds, folds and rings.
- We make folds along the edges and stitch.
- We attach Velcro to the block using nails.
- We sew Velcro across the width of the curtain onto the top of the curtain. The Velcro product is easy to remove for washing and put back on.
- We make a pocket in the lower part and place a weight bar there.
- In places of folds on the wrong side there should be pockets for the rods. This could be aluminum wire or corset inserts. Sew the pockets on one side, then on the other side it will be convenient to take them out before washing the curtain.
- On each pocket with rods (7 pcs.), we sew rings at an equal distance (3 pcs.) from each other. We also fix the rings on the block that holds the structure.
- We assemble the product. We fix the fabric to the bar using Velcro.
- We thread the cords into the rings, moving from bottom to top, and tie the cord tightly with several knots on the bottom ring. If the product has three vertical rows of rings, then there will be three separate cords. Each is fixed on the lower ring, passes vertically through all the rings along one line and is brought out horizontally from above through the rings on the block to the side. As a result, the ends of three cords will hang from the side above.
- We collect the ends of the cords and tie them together. We cut off the excess. It is convenient to make another knot when the Roman blind is assembled.
- We install a hook on the side of the window frame, which will hold the knots on the cord, fixing the curtain in assembled form. Do-it-yourself Roman blind on the balcony is ready!
How to hang curtains on the balcony
Curtains can be mounted on the window sash and profile, on the wall or ceiling. If there is free space in the form of a concrete or brick wall between the window profile and the ceiling, then a regular cornice is mounted on it. The following types of cornices are suitable for balconies:
- In the form of a round crossbar with rings on which the curtain is fixed.
- A telescopic crossbar, which is attached to opposite walls using a spring mechanism.
- Stretch line or wire.
- Ceiling rail cornice.
Japanese curtains
A very impressive design, which is mounted on a special cornice. The canvas closes and opens, moving along horizontal guides.
It is important to consider that Japanese curtains take up a little more space than standard blinds. Therefore, it is advisable to hang them in a more spacious balcony area. Otherwise, you should abandon unnecessary decor, giving preference to brevity.
Tips for choosing
Basic criteria for choosing the type of curtains:
- Size and shape of the balcony. It is appropriate to decorate small narrow balconies with options that do not take up space. Suitable models: blinds, Roman and roller blinds, pleated blinds.
- Which side does the balcony face? For southern windows, dense materials in light, cool colors are suitable. Northern ones are decorated with translucent fabrics in warm shades.
- Purpose of the room. For the office it is necessary to create comfortable working conditions where good darkening is required. Use thick Roman shades or blinds. A greenhouse needs a constant stream of sunlight. It is better to limit yourself to light tulle.
- United or isolated. Any options are suitable for a combined loggia: from laconic roller blinds to luxurious Austrian curtains. When designing an autonomous balcony, its purpose is taken into account.
- Method of opening windows. Sliding window structures are decorated with drapes, curtains, Roman blinds, which are fixed not on the window profile, but on the wall or ceiling. It is important to consider that curtains should not interfere with the opening of windows. Curtains on windows with swing doors should be compact: roller blinds, blinds, pleated.
Balcony Features
The extra meters are on the front line. Even a well-insulated room will be subject to the invasion of street dust, exposure to bright sunlight, and elevated temperatures.
Small balconies of typical buildings do not have large footage, so the use of curtains that are too lush is not recommended. Such rooms will look much better with minimalist curtains.
Photo ideas
Interesting ideas and photos for decorating balconies with curtains are presented to your attention in our article.
