Is it ‘curtains’ for nets?
By Amanda Edney
It’s always a bit of a dilemma – we want to allow as much light into our homes whilst at the same time, preserving our privacy. In the past the humble net curtain has always solved the problem but these days nets are just not ‘cool’. In fact one thing property stylists always advise when marketing a house for sale is ‘take down the nets’! Nets do give a house a bad name!
So what are the alternatives? There may be more than you think….the growing trend for simple and casual decor in the home has meant a rapid increase in popularity and far more choice in the market-place for window dressings, so much so that some people are dispensing of curtains altogether!
Read on for a quick guide to the latest trends in window dressings…
Roller Blinds
A bottom-up roller blind is great for providing privacy while still letting in light through the top half of the window. Alternatively, a mesh roller blind is a versatile alternative to traditional nets as it ensures daytime privacy whilst still allowing light into the room. Working in a similar way to car screens they gently filter the sun’s rays without completely blocking out a beautiful day, making them ideal if you work from home – no more struggling to see your computer screen if you’re sat near a window! Although people on the inside can still see out, those on the outside are substantially blocked from seeing inside.
Venetian blinds
A perennial favourite, venetian blinds can be adjusted to filter or totally cut out light, or pulled up completely to let in maximum light. If you have been put off in the past by the seemingly limited range available, look again…they now come in a huge range of colours and a choice of materials. Wood Venetians look good in any setting but for something more daring, what about multi-coloured slats for a modern take on this classic?
Window film
If you want a more modern look, consider using contemporary window films, which you can get to look like lace-etched glass but without the expense. Window film is now available in some funky designs. Basically, window film is a way of faking acid-etched glass. It's a peel-off, stick-on DIY solution that gives the same privacy and light filtering as nets, without all that fussy fabric to gather dust. There's also no need to apply it to the whole window - often putting film across the bottom panes will afford enough privacy, allowing more light to come in through the upper windows. The only proviso? It's fairly permanent, so give it some thought before diving in.
Panel Systems
An elegant, yet simple solution to creating privacy whilst allowing lots of light in, is to consider one of the growing range of Sliding Panel Systems now available. Inspired by the east, Panel Systems, also known as Kyoto Panels come in a vast range of colours, patterns, fabrics from sheers and lend themselves perfectly to large floor-to-ceiling windows. They are usually made to measure and are fitted to and slide horizontally on an aluminium track and can be moved via a cord or rod control option. Note: cheaper DIY versions can be obtained from a well-known scandinavian store!
Plantation shutters
Shutters are rapidly growing in popularity as they are versatile, long-lasting and come in a range of finishes to please everyone. Taking their name from the sprawling 19th-century mansions in America’s deep south, the most versatile are plantation-style shutters. These feature louvres that open and close to minimize heat from the sun. They provide ventilation and privacy when needed and come in an impressive array of colours and materials, including: hand-stitched faux leather, suede and fabric finishes in a huge range of shades and textures. You can now choose the width of your louvres too. Note:Larger louvres allow in more light when the shutter is open, so it’s worth bearing this in mind when you’re making your decision!
If you love the look of plantation shutters but can’t justify the cost, an economical compromise is to install café-style shutters which are hung only on the bottom half of the window. An important note: they are ideal if you live at street level and need privacy, but still want to allow light in, but no good if you ever want to black out the room completely.
Some shutter companies provide a completely bespoke service, where a consultant measures up and fits the shutters for you, while others can make something for you to fit yourself (only advisable for those confident with their tool kit).
So … is it really ‘curtains’ for nets? Seems not! Good news for those who are still fond of them: net curtains are actually enjoying something of a revival! Despite their poor name amongst design gurus, 'nets' don't necessarily mean the frumpy curtains we all grew up with - there's a whole new generation available, from modern, laser-cut versions to more traditional lace patterns…. so there really is something for everyone!
©Amanda Edney 2008