Curtains are an invariable attribute of a modern interior. They are able to radically change the perception of design in the room, make it softer, homelike. They become interesting accents, enliven or harmoniously complement the chosen interior style.
However, traditional fabric curtains that fall to the floor in longitudinal folds are not always appropriate. So, for example, in the kitchen they can create inconvenience and take up part of the space. A simpler, functional approach is required in the office. In the nursery, long curtains are dangerous for the baby. Moreover, not every housewife agrees to the additional hassle associated with the care of luxurious curtains in a classic style. That is why modern manufacturers offer a practical and stylish option that can satisfy the most demanding taste: Roman curtains.
Let’s look at their advantages and ways of using them in the interior.
What are Roman curtains and when did they appear
This kind of interior textile in its expanded form is a straight, flat canvas, which opens up a lot of opportunities for interior decoration. To open access to daylight or look out the window, Roman curtains are raised up. In the process, they are assembled with wide, elegant horizontal draperies. Undulating folds are formed thanks to hard cross-bars sewn in, so their size is always the same. Roman curtains can be fixed at any height. Special rods equipped with lifting and lowering mechanisms are used for installation.
The history of Roman curtains dates back thousands of years. As the name implies, for the first time such a variant of window draperies began to be used in Ancient Rome, more than two thousand years ago.
The control method is extremely simple: it is enough to pull the cord so that the canvas rises, gathering elegant folds.
Today you can also purchase automatic options for connecting to the power grid. The remote control eliminates the need to get up from the sofa or from the table every time to raise or lower the curtain.
This type of interior textiles is universal. The products are perfectly suitable for rooms of different purposes:
- work and study rooms, offices, classrooms;
- bedrooms, living rooms, children’s rooms, kitchens;
- halls and hallways.
If you have imagination, the scope of application can be expanded by installing canvases as partition screens, zoning the space, or in the bathroom.
Modern manufacturers make Roman curtains from various types of raw materials:
- linen, cotton;
- bamboo, synthetic and mixed fibers;
- fabric-based blackout with acrylic foam impregnation.
The density of the fabric varies greatly. For translucent, airy curtains take organza, cotton materials, for example, chintz. If necessary, they are supplemented with second, dense curtains of the traditional type.
If you want to provide a pleasant twilight, choose blackout curtains, velvet fabric and blackout.
Thanks to the widest range of fabrics, it is not difficult to choose an option suitable for all parameters.
The dimensions are calculated individually, according to the dimensions of the window opening. There are two ways of fastening, based on which different measurements are taken:
- directly in the window opening;
- above the window, like ordinary curtains.
In the first case, the canvas should correspond to the height and width of the window up to a millimeter, completely cover the glass, but do not lie on the window sill.
In the second case, a wider and longer piece of fabric is taken, which protrudes beyond the window opening along the top, bottom and width.
Why Roman curtains are at the peak of popularity
For two thousand years they have been in constant demand. And this is not surprising, because they have undoubted advantages:
- Comfortable length. They cover only the window opening, reaching the window sill or going down a little lower. Due to this, the heat coming from the radiators circulates freely. In a house where there are small children and pets, this size is the most comfortable, eliminates a lot of problems. In addition, short curtains allow you to use a wide windowsill as a writing or dining table, sofa, kitchen countertop.
- Universal design. Compact, stylish curtains easily and naturally fit into any direction of interior design, they can be matched to the color of the sofa upholstery, wallpaper or bedspreads.
- Small size. They do not interfere with free movement in a small room.
- Simple care. A straight canvas of small size is easy to put in order, vacuum or wipe with a damp cloth. Blackout curtains do not collect dust, do not require regular washing or dry cleaning, they are hypoallergenic.
- A wide range. With a huge selection of materials, designs and colors, it is very easy to find curtains that are harmoniously combined with a specific interior. So, products with 3D images and photo printing seem to open a window to another world, transform a room, create a certain mood.
Types of Roman curtains
Designers-developers offer all new, original ideas and solutions. Roman curtains are divided into three main types:
- Frameless. A simple straight web does not have rigid transverse guides.
- Classic. When unfolded, they represent a smooth, stretched canvas. When lifting, it folds into a compact roll or forms horizontal waves-folds. It looks simple, elegant.
- Cascading. They are longer than the traditional options. Even when unfolded, they fall in spectacular, voluminous folds.
Interior design style
What interior trends do Roman curtains combine with?
As already mentioned, this type of home textiles is universal. You can choose the right design for minimalist, concise and the most extravagant styles.
- Ethnic style of interior design. More and more homeowners prefer to decorate rooms in an exotic, national or restrained oriental theme. And the appropriate textile decor will help to place accents.
- Eco style. One of the most popular trends in interior design today. Calm tones are used – khaki, green, beige, brown, as well as natural linen and cotton.
- Classic style. When decorating the interior in a restrained classical, Mediterranean style, it is quite possible to use a more modest, laconic version instead of luxurious curtains with lambrequins and brushes. A cascade type with soft folds is ideal.
- Country style. Rustic styles are no less popular. Light linen or cotton curtains with a thematic print or plain are selected for them.
- The Art Deco style is characterized by: strict geometry, expensive natural materials, glossy surfaces and contrasting colors. And the appropriate window decoration with textiles will help to place the right accents and enhance the impression of exquisite furniture.
- Hi-tech style. Minimalism combined with high technology leads to simple and practical solutions for the interior. That’s why automatic Roman curtains made of plain synthetic fabric fit perfectly.
