Is it curtains for the old-fashioned net curtain?
"Like roast dinners, wet summers and sandals with socks, the dear old net curtain is a great British institution," says Sarah Quilliam, head of product design at Hillarys Blinds.
"For years they've done a sterling job of keeping prying eyes out whilst giving a bit of cover for 'twitchers' to watch the comings and goings in the street! But nowadays their appeal is mainly nostalgic and although many style icons of the fifties and sixties are on trend and in demand, the humble net curtain no longer registers on the
interiors fashion barometer.
"But unless you're a complete exhibitionist or desperately proud of your interior design, you'll want something at the window to prevent that uncomfortable goldfish bowl effect. There are lots of more modern alternatives - from barely there, translucent Roller blinds
to permanent fixtures such as interior Shutters - that will give privacy, a contemporary look and in many cases, much better light control.
Here are some different options:
- Half-up Roller blinds - Great for bathrooms
Given half a chance it's almost impossible to resist sneaking a peek into someone else's world, especially when there are no window dressings and the lights are on! A clever half up Roller blind allows
plenty of light in but gives you plenty of privacy where you need it most!
- Venetian blinds - Great light control with exceptional privacy
Perhaps the most ideal blind for keeping out unwanted glances but allowing in maximum light and a clear view, is a Venetian. The slats will tilt to allow in as much light as you wish and turn to give light but shield the room from bright sunshine, letting in just as much of
the outside world as you want at the same time as giving you the privacy you need.
- Two's company - Layer the look
A plain Roller blind gives that all-important seclusion, while a patterned, fully lined roman blind in front adds a decorative finish
and extra warmth to what can be a chilly - and bland - part of the home.
Pleated blinds are usually used in conservatories as they have a reflective backing, which keeps the heat in during winter and deflects the sun's rays when it's warm. But by incorporating them around the house, you'll have a more modern and contemporary feel. They softly filter light into the room for a calming atmosphere and can be used as a 'half-up' blind for the bottom panel to give privacy in bathrooms, bedrooms and ground
floor windows.
These blinds are the only type of blinds that fold up neatly to almost nothing when not in use and can fit into any shaped windows.
Shutters are the smart alternative to curtains and blinds and are widely regarded as the ultimate in window dressings. They offer fantastic light control and when shut are a great way to keep out prying eyes and therefore a good security option. Depending on the
type of Shutter you go for you can even operate the top half independently of the bottom half to give even better light
control - as well as the look you want.
All blinds and Shutters are available from Hillarys. For more information please call
0800 916 6516 or click hillarys.co.uk
For more information or hi-res images please call Sarah Able at Dark Horse PR on 0115 981 4421.