There are many creative ways to use drapery to add a touch of elegance, color or functionality to the inside as well as to the outside of your home.
1.) Gazebos & Pergolas
Hanging drapery in spaces like gazebos and pergolas can add both color and texture as well as airiness and softness to these outdoor structures. Choose a fabric that is durable and weather-resistant.
2.) Covered Patios/Balconies
If you live in an apartment and could use some style as well as some privacy, consider adding drapes. Again, choose a fabric that is durable and can withstand the elements. Also, choose a thicker opaque fabric or something lined to both block the sun and add some additional privacy to your space. Adding drapes can really make an outdoor sitting area feel like a real living space.
3.) Headboard
Update your bedroom easily by adding a drapery headboard behind your bed. It will ground the space and add some softness to the room. For a cozy feel, use soft textures. For a more romantic feel, use silk or lace. For some color, add a bold print. Pair with crown molding to add elegance or natural materials to bring in a rustic flair. For a DIY canopy, hang from the ceiling over the bed.
4.) Room Divider
Drapes are a great way to divide a room and define a space. If you need more privacy in your reading nook, hang some lovely drapery with nice pull backs for when the room is not in use. If you live in a studio without any rooms, use drapery to separate your bedroom from your main living space. If you have no art on the walls, drapery is also a great way to add some much needed color and texture to an otherwise plain and uninspired space.
5.) Closet Door
Do you have a closet without a door? Or did you have to remove the door because it extended awkwardly into the space? A quick fix would be to hang some drapes. Look into thicker opaque fabrics so that you cannot see through them. It looks kind of tacky if you can still see into your closet through the curtains. Make sure to hang a metal rod and use metal curtain rings to ensure that the curtain is easy to open and close. Using tab-top curtains are not recommended because they will be difficult to open and close. Even if you do not realize, you open and close your closet several times a day, so make sure that the curtains glide with ease across the curtain rod.
6.) Hide Cords and Electronics
Do you have a table that is open at the bottom exposing cords and surge protectors? Or an entertainment center whose door has broken off and no longer hides your electronics? Conceal them by attaching drapes to the inside of the opening. They will not only cover up those unsightly things, but they will add some color and texture too. If you use the same fabric in your window treatments as well, it will really unify the space.