Curtains for a balcony or loggia: types, color, attachment to the cornice, design of balcony curtains

Andrey
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Andrey September 16, 2016Specialization: facade finishing, interior finishing, construction of dachas, garages. Experience of an amateur gardener and gardener. We also have experience in repairing cars and motorcycles. Hobbies: playing the guitar and many other things that I don’t have time for :)

Choosing a cornice for a balcony requires a special approach, since in this room, as a rule, there is a lack of free space, and also special operating conditions. To choose the right interior detail, you need to familiarize yourself with the existing types of models and the main differences between them. You can learn about all this from this article, in which I will try to talk in detail about the most common types of cornices and their differences.

An example of using a curtain rod on a balcony

Features of choosing curtains for a loggia

Nuances of selecting curtains for open and closed loggias:

• For balconies located on the south side, it is better to choose products made from denser materials that provide good protection from the sun, such as blackout.
• Windows with a northern orientation can be decorated with curtains made of light fabric.
• More dust accumulates in this room, so you should not choose double-layer and too fluffy curtains.
• It is advisable to decorate a small balcony in an apartment with simple and laconic models and abandon thick curtains and lambrequins.
• For an open loggia, curtains or classic curtains made of simple fabrics, without unnecessary draperies and folds, are suitable.

Plastic or aluminum

Ceiling curtain rods made of plastic and aluminum are available for sale. If we compare these two materials, it is clear that metal is more reliable and stronger and can withstand greater loads. But if you use light curtains and curtains, it is quite possible to use plastic. You just need to look for ones with thick walls and it’s better to see and hold them in your hands so that you can evaluate the thickness of the walls and the quality of the casting.

Aluminum ceiling cornices are much more expensive, and with lightweight curtains the safety margin is simply not needed. Although, they, of course, can be used for many years. The same cannot be said about plastic, but the costs are several times lower. In general, it's up to you.

For heavy blackout curtains, ceiling curtain rods made of aluminum with a reinforced structure are needed

If the curtains are made of heavy material, then you will need aluminum ceiling curtain rods. Moreover, in the description, look for an indication that they are intended specifically for heavy curtains. They also have more powerful hook-runners, the profiles are made of thicker metal, the fastenings have a larger support area and they need to be fixed with a larger number of dowels. In general, ceiling curtain rods for heavy curtains have a reinforced design.

What types of curtains are best to choose for a balcony?

Curtains should not only be in harmony with the various elements of the loggia’s interior, but also correspond to the characteristics of this room.

Curtains (tulle, veil, organza)

They perfectly allow air and sunlight to pass through, they do not weigh down the balcony space and develop beautifully when the wind blows, thereby creating a feeling of spaciousness and lightness.

The photo shows the interior of the balcony and weightless white curtains on the windows.

Roman curtains

When raised, Roman fabrics create graceful draperies. In the lowered position, they fit snugly against the window and occupy a minimum of balcony space.

The photo shows a balcony with windows decorated with Roman blinds.

Roller blinds

Roller blinds with varying degrees of light transmission not only perfectly protect the loggia from the scorching rays of the sun, but also radically change the design of the room and give it a very stylish look.

The photo shows light roller blinds on the windows in the balcony room.

Blinds

Design features

Nowadays, curtain rods for balconies made of non-natural materials are often used, as they are highly durable. You should know that not only the material affects the service life, but also the design of the product.

1. Rod Rod curtain rods are used most often, as they have simple installation and an affordable pricing policy. Such products do not create a serious load on the surface on which they will be attached. They have an important criterion - versatility, ideal for any type of interior. Of course, there are also disadvantages, for example, excessive bulkiness;

2. Telescopic. The main feature is the ability to increase the size of the main rod by unwinding the structure. Such designs also have versatility, but not in relation to the interior, but to the size of the room. Telescopic products can be selected “by eye”, without fear of making a mistake with the dimensions, because if there is a miscalculation, the cornice can always be untwisted. The choice of this interior element allows you to use it even on a balcony door;

3. Strings. They are used when the space requires compactness of additional interior elements. String products consist of 2 brackets, between which a string is stretched. This design creates an interesting look: it feels like the curtains are suspended in the air. They are low cost, installed within 10-15 minutes;
4. Profile. This type refers to ceiling cornices. A metal profile is used as a basis, along which rollers or carriages move. Most often, profile products are used for work spaces: offices, household rooms, offices, but they are also an excellent option for balconies. They have a simple appearance, installation is carried out in a short period of time;

5. Baguettes. The most expensive products, as their design has decorative elements. A profile is also used as a basis, which is covered with a decorative strip on top. Ideal for classic curtains. Such a cornice is rare for a balcony, because it is usually decorated with light curtains for better penetration of light into the room.

Dimensions

There are two main lengths of curtain structures.

Short

Shortened options are the most convenient and practical. They are especially relevant in small balcony spaces where you need to save space.

Long

Such floor-length canvases create a more complete design and unique comfort, and are suitable for a loggia combined with a room.

The photo shows long pink curtains in the interior of the balcony.

Interesting decor

Many people do not hide the balcony door in the hall under curtains, but rather decorate it. If there are curtains, it is recommended to secure them at the edges of the window with garters or tiebacks, opening the exit to the loggia. The door can be decorated in the following ways:

• stick stained glass film or paint it yourself;
• make a design on glass using sandblasting, the design and decor are selected at the discretion of the owner;
• decorate the window and balcony door with overlays or decorative thin profiles, creating diamonds, squares and other patterns.

Another option is to make a false overlay, dividing the light opening into several parts. It is glued to the inside or outside of the glass unit, giving the opening originality.

Color palette

It is the main basis in creating a certain mood in a room.

• White. White curtains look aristocratic. This versatile option goes well with any palette and all shades.
• Beige. This pastel color creates a soft and calm environment.
• Green. Products in pistachio shades bring liveliness and vigor to the loggia room, but at the same time create a warm and soothing atmosphere.

Differences between cornices

Currently, you can find a variety of cornices for a loggia or balcony on sale. They all differ in several important parameters:

Basic parameters of cornices

Below we will take a closer look at all types of these products.

Difference 1: Construction

Depending on the type of structure, the most common models of cornices can be divided into the following types:

• rod - is a classic design in the form of a rod on eaves. The advantage of such models is their simplicity and the ability to hang both light curtains and heavy curtains on them . Moreover, they look good in any interior.

Rod cornices

As for the disadvantages, they include some bulkiness, however, compact models can also be found;

• telescopic - this design looks similar to barbell analogues, however, as you might guess from the name, the barbell can be extended . This is very convenient, since you do not need to select the rod exactly according to the size of the windows or cut it;

String model of cornice

• string - this design consists of two brackets, between which a string is stretched. The advantage of such a cornice is its compactness; in addition, it is almost invisible in the interior, thanks to which curtains and curtains look like an independent decorative element . Moreover, the effect is created as if the curtains are simply floating in the air;

Construction of a single-level profile cornice

• profile - they are a U-shaped profile, inside of which there are guides along which the curtain or curtain can move. As a rule, carriages or rollers with hooks are located inside the profile, however, there are other designs. They often have a mechanism that allows you to move the curtains without touching them. Such models usually look quite compact, but at the same time they are noticeable in the interior. It should also be noted that they can be both single-level and multi-level, i.e. allowing you to hang not only curtains but also, for example, curtains;
• baguette - the design of these products resembles their profile counterparts, since the mechanism for fastening the curtains is hidden. The difference is that planks are used as a decorative element, and most often they are richly decorated in the form of a baguette. As a rule, the price for these products is the highest - up to 4000-5000 rubles per linear meter;

Such cornices are more suitable for bay windows adjacent to halls decorated in classical styles.

The choice depends on the interior of the balcony and its size. If you want to give it the look of a residential and cozy space, it is better to use rod or telescopic models. If the area of ​​the room is small and the windows will be decorated with airy curtains, then string or profile cornices would be an excellent option.

Some models have a rather complex design. Therefore, when purchasing, make sure that the kit includes instructions for assembling and installing the product.

Rod product made of plastic

Difference 2: Material

For a glazed balcony there are no restrictions in terms of the choice of materials from which the cornice is made. However, it is still worth paying attention to this issue.

So, the following products can be found on sale:

• plastic ones are the best option for a balcony, since plastic is a fairly practical material that is not afraid of temperature changes and high humidity . In addition, it is easy to clean from dust and other contaminants. Another advantage of plastic curtain rods is their low cost, although their durability often leaves much to be desired;
• aluminum ones are also practical, like plastic products, as they can be used in any conditions. True, their cost is higher than their plastic counterparts - from 400-500 rubles per linear meter, while the cost of plastic products starts from 100 rubles per linear meter. The disadvantage of aluminum products is their low strength, so they require careful handling;

In the photo - a stainless steel product

• made of stainless steel - have a stylish look and fit perfectly into any interior. Thanks to the features of stainless steel and a special coating, these products are not subject to corrosion, so they can last on the balcony for many years. The disadvantage of such models is their high cost - from 700-800 rubles per linear meter, but they are very strong and durable;
• forged - as a rule, these products are made to order. They are a rod metal structure, the main decorative element of which is the tip. As a rule, these products are made to order and they are quite expensive - from 1000 -1500 rubles per linear meter. The more complex the decoration, the more expensive the product is. Forged cornices will be an excellent addition to other forged elements, for example, lanterns. In addition, they go well with wooden ceilings and walls;

An example of a combination of wrought iron cornice with wood trim

• wooden - have an attractive appearance that gives the interior a special coziness. However, wood is a less practical material, as it is deformed as a result of changes in temperature and humidity levels, and is also susceptible to biological influences. True, manufacturers solve this problem by treating the workpieces with protective compounds.

But, in any case, a wooden cornice is far from the most practical solution for a balcony.

To ensure that the curtain rod serves you as long as possible, move the curtains with the help of a special driver, even if the ceiling in the room is low.

The choice of material depends on the interior design of the balcony, your own preferences and, of course, your financial capabilities.

Neat and laconic cornices are suitable for any interior

Difference 3: Design

When choosing a product design, you must focus, first of all, on the interior style of the balcony or loggia. If you cannot decide on a design, you can give preference to universal options, such as:

• plastic cornices or stainless steel;
• strings, which are almost invisible in the interior.

These same products are also suitable for modern styles. If the interior of the balcony is classic, you can use wooden analogues with curly tips or even forged models.

When choosing a design, you should also focus on the parameters of the balcony. As mentioned above, if the room is small, it is better to give preference to compact models that take up virtually no space.

Example of mounting a bracket to a wall

Difference 4: mounting method

Another important point that you need to pay attention to when choosing is the method of attaching the cornice. According to this parameter, products are divided into two types:

• for mounting to the ceiling - should be used if it is not possible to fix the cornice to the wall, for example, in cases where the glazing is adjacent to the canopy ;
• for mounting to the wall - can be installed only if there is a gap between the windows and the ceiling.

If a long cornice is installed on a loggia or balcony, when installing it yourself, it is better to use not two brackets, but several. This will increase its service life. Therefore, before purchasing a product, be sure to pay attention to the number of fasteners.

Here, perhaps, are all the most common types of curtain rods that can be used on the balcony.

Design and drawings

Various designs allow you to create a unified composition in the room and save it from lifelessness.

• Flowers and vegetation. They enliven the balcony space and create a special mood in it.
• Monograms. Curtains decorated with monograms create an elegant and pompous interior.
• Geometry. Original geometric designs in the form of stripes, circles, diamonds or squares give the loggia an unusual and memorable look.

How to sew it yourself

You can sew curtains and drapes for a living room with access to a loggia yourself, but you need to be prepared for difficulties. It is necessary to take measurements of the window opening in advance, select materials and calculate how much fabric is needed. The last point depends on the curtain model. Short instructions:

• take measurements - from the cornice to the expected length of the curtains, the width of the window block with the balcony door (put about two meters on the folds);
• choose fabrics, taking into account the lighting of the room and experience in sewing (it is difficult for beginners to work with silk and satin);
• cut and sew the product, leaving 1.5 cm on the top and sides for allowances and processing the edges;
• fold the bottom and sew in a weighting agent;
• Attach curtain tape to the top;
• fasten the hooks and hang the curtains on the cornice, straightening the folds.

The easiest way is to sew a light curtain from organza or veil by finishing the edges, bottom and top. It can be supplemented with grips or other decor.

Ideas in different styles

Even balcony spaces have their own stylistic directions.

• Provence. It is better to decorate a balcony decorated in Provence style with light linen curtains; such a composition will look very elegant and will turn the loggia into a real paradise.
• Modern. In this style, simpler and straighter models are appropriate. Solar roller blinds or wooden blinds will perfectly highlight a fashionable and stylish interior.
• Classical. Here they choose models that combine functionality and aesthetics and at the same time maintain warmth and comfort in the space.

Basic Rules

When decorating a window with a balcony door, curtains play the main role. How to decorate a balcony door and window so that the design, on the one hand, is pleasing to the eye, and on the other, does not create inconvenience when moving to the balcony and back to the room?

There are a few simple rules to consider when purchasing curtains.

First of all, you need to pay attention to the size of the hall. If the room area is small, you should prefer curtains in light colors, since they visually increase the space, while dark colors, on the contrary, reduce it. Also, for such rooms it is better to choose simpler models, without folds and bows.

Such curtains are perfect for decorating a small living room. Curtains of this color will look better in a large living room.

The second rule is that they must fit into the overall design of the room, forming a single harmonious interior with the furniture, floor, walls, and ceiling.

Care should be taken to ensure that the room gets enough natural light from the street. If it is limited for one reason or another (neighboring buildings, tall trees), you should not choose dense fabrics.

We should not forget about the practical side of design. Curtains move frequently, so the material must be durable and easy to wash.

If the door will be opened frequently, for example, when arranging a balcony for a smoking room, you need a design that does not create problems when opening and closing it.

Photos for non-standard types of windows and balcony shapes

Several varieties of window openings and loggias of unusual shapes:

• Sliding windows. Classic horizontal slats or roller blinds with a ceiling profile would be appropriate here.
• Panoramic glazing. Roller blinds or blinds with fastening directly to the balcony frame will emphasize the delightful feeling of space and freedom on the loggia with panoramic windows.
• Angular. Curtains should focus attention on the unusual silhouette of the balcony and give it even more sophistication.
• Semi-gr. Translucent curtains will gracefully emphasize the semicircular shape and will not spoil the view from the loggia.

Window decoration with a balcony in the kitchen

Let's start with photographs of errors so that it is clear what to pay attention to next.

Errors

We remember what we really want.

Too transparent and small

Too thin tulle, short curtains up to the middle of the window, a narrow strip of curtains covering only part of the balcony - all this does not fulfill its function.

This also includes thread curtains (muslin) - they are very practical and it’s convenient to walk through them to the balcony, but that’s where the advantages end. They do not correspond to the modern design of kitchen curtains - they are morally outdated.

High and other strange lifts

An overly high garter looks ridiculous.

The idea is clear - it is supposedly more convenient to walk from the kitchen to the balcony. But firstly, this is solved differently, and secondly, this does not fit even into normal classic kitchens, and in modern ones such a garter will completely destroy the entire design.

Horizontal a la theatrical or French selections are also a miss.

Options for attaching to the cornice

Various types of fastenings allow you to create even more thoughtful curtain designs.

• Velcro. When the windows on the balcony are too large to reach the ceiling and there is no space left to install a curtain rod, Velcro curtains that can be hung without drilling would be an excellent option.
• On hooks. They are universal fasteners that are quite convenient and easy to use.
• Braid. Gives curtains beautiful and lush vertical folds and allows you to model their shape.

Advantages and disadvantages of ceiling cornices

Ceiling cornices are called cornices that are attached to the ceiling and they are becoming more and more popular and here's why. First, the cornice on the ceiling visually makes the ceilings higher, because there is no horizontal division, which gives this effect.

The premises have a more modern look

The second point is that you can drape the entire plane from one wall to another and from floor to ceiling. If the window is on a short wall of a long room, it looks more attractive.

Third plus. Since the curtains on the ceiling cornice cover the entire skylight in height, the absence of gaps makes the darkening almost ideal. And an “accompanying” positive point is that you can hide the heating risers, which are usually located near the window.

There are other advantages:

• Variability of design. There is an invisible option, neutral and with a decorative strip. This strip is attached to a special panel on the front side of the cornice. It can be of any type and style. Thanks to this, you can design the window in the desired style. For example, use flexible plastic tape painted to look like metal. This is an option for high-tech style and the like. You can use an overlay with an ornament. This option is good both in ethnic styles and for classic and even “palace” interiors.

  
  Ceiling cornices can be invisible, or can be used to decorate the interior

• Curtains move well (if you use high-quality products).
• You can make curtains with control. It is mechanical - a chain that must be pulled to close or open the curtains. There is automatic - using the control panel.
• Any length. Typically, ceiling curtain rods come in pieces up to 4 meters, but there are connectors that allow you to increase the length to the required length.
• Curved lines are easily realized. For this, there are either special flexible ceiling cornices, which can be given any shape, or prefabricated ones, in which the curves have a certain radius. They are inserted into the right place using a built-in lock, which does not interfere with moving the sliders (at least not too much).

  
  Ceiling cornices can be curved. Example of installation in a plasterboard ceiling niche

  Read also:  Mirror tinting of balcony windows: what color and type to choose

The only disadvantages that can be highlighted are the inconvenience during installation. It’s inconvenient to hold your hands up, and drilling into the ceilings of apartments is still a pleasure. Another disadvantage is the difficulty of installation in the presence of suspended ceilings. If they are just planned, everything is possible. If you already have it, nothing can be done.

Curtains: additional elements

Read about: fabric roller blinds for windows: care and important nuances of a good choice.

Cornices, various cords and tiebacks for curtains should be stylistically combined with the fabric and color of curtains, wallpaper, and furniture. In modern stores and curtain salons you can choose various curtain rods, including wooden, plastic, and metal. They can be modest or richly decorated.

Cords and tiebacks are usually matched to the color of the curtains. There are two main approaches to design: combining either similar or contrasting colors. An example of contrast would be heavy, richly colored curtains with numerous folds and gold or bronze tiebacks. In this case, the interior of the room will probably contain gold or bronze details: furniture handles, wall clocks, picture frames, and other decorations.