When it comes to renewing curtains, so much time, energy and money is often spent on the curtain itself that accessories can end up a mere afterthought.
But you know as well as we do that choosing the right accessories can take a curtain from just good to excellent, as they provide an opportunity to bring those intricate details together, for a thoughtful, cohesive space.
Below is our guide to choosing accessories based on the unique decor, design preferences and needs of the individual, for a space that is functional with lots of personality.
1. Poles or Tracks?
Poles are the traditional and more decorative option. Made from either wood or metal, they can be customised for a variety of finishes and are sturdy for heavier curtains. Some poles come with a glide feature, so the curtain can be pulled across more easily than with standard poles.
For those who prefer something minimalist or understated, tracks are a sleek choice. Tracks contain clips, through which hooks are attached to hang the curtain, so the curtain can be easily pulled across. For windows that extend close to the ceiling, tracks will be less likely to interfere. Tracks are also a great option for those who prefer to remove their curtain during the warmer months, as it is less conspicuous.
For our tracks, we love the quality that we get from Evaglide and Silent Gliss, to ensure that those curtains stay up and glide smoothly for years to come.
2. Tracks: Corded or uncorded?
A cord allows you to pull the curtain without having to pull it manually — worth considering for those with greater accessibility needs, for heavyweight curtains, or for high windows where pulling a curtain is more difficult.
However, for those who prefer a minimalist look or are frequently drawing their curtains, a corded track is probably not necessary.
3. Styles of Curtain Poles
If you’ve opted for a pole, you can either choose a wooden or a metallic pole.
Wooden poles offer a warm, rustic feel and pair wonderfully with natural fabrics, such as linen or cotton. They’re suitable for most curtains, but may be less reliable for heavyweight fabrics.
Metallic poles are more striking, allowing you to really emphasise your decorative style. Their sturdiness makes them a popular choice for a range of decor. Silver and chrome finishes are popular for a modern feel, whilst brass and gold provide a more traditionally elegant look.
4. Finials
Finials sit at each end of the curtain pole to prevent the curtain sliding off — but they don’t have to be solely functional! Available in a wide range of styles, finials are a great way to add a decorative touch to the space and showcase individual personality.
5. Holdbacks & Tiebacks
Sometimes curtains can end up blocking natural light (and in the winter, we need all the sunlight we can get!) That’s where holdbacks and tiebacks come in handy.
Holdbacks are fixed to the wall, and are typically positioned about a third of the way up from where the curtain ends. Holdbacks come in a range of different styles, and you can coordinate them with poles and finials for a complete, cohesive look.
Tiebacks are essentially anything that holds the curtain together. They’re typically either made from the curtain fabric, or of a rope material, but they can be made from almost any material you like — so long as it’s flexible.
Many opt for tassels and other decorative features for their tiebacks, adding an extra touch of style.
Conclusion: Accessories Deserve Love too!
While they are rarely ever the main character, accessories play a key role in the narrative of your interior design story. They can be the difference from a curtain that just looks ‘nice’ to a curtain that immediately draws attention.
To get some inspiration on the wide range of accessories available, we’d love for you to visit our showroom!
If you have any questions about the best accessories for your project, feel free to get in touch, and we’ll be delighted to help.