3 Curtain Alternatives For A More Therapeutic Windowscape

Installing curtains in your home offers several benefits: They're decorative, they offer privacy, and they help control the amount of sunlight that comes in, states Home Decor Bliss. And while it may seem like curtains are the only option to meet these needs, you can create a unique home design that reflects your personal style by opting for one of many available alternatives that offer the same benefits.

Some spaces do not need window coverings at all. Anna Bode Interior Design states if you have beautiful windows with natural light, you may decide to nix coverings altogether in a modern space that does not require privacy, like a living area or a kitchen. But, if you don't live at the top of a high-rise or a cottage in the woods, you probably want some privacy at night in every room. So, if curtains do not fit into your design, consider these alternatives to create a relaxing space.

If your home has touches of farmhouse or Cape Cod style, plantation shutters can complement the space beautifully. Unlike free-flowing curtains, shutters add structure and texture to a room. For complete privacy, you can fasten them with louvers closed, or you can adjust and control the amount of light or visibility you let in by opening them a little or a lot. Blinds.com states that real or faux wood shutters are also exceptionally energy efficient, blocking out drafts, light, and noise when closed, so they add coziness and quiet to your therapeutic space.

Unlike fabric curtains, they are also very durable, with an approximate lifespan of up to two decades. Custom plantation shutters can be expensive upfront but will pay for themselves over many years of use and with the insulation they provide. Although these window coverings come in a wide variety of colors and styles, you will get the most bang for your buck by opting for a neutral tone in a classic style. Because they are custom-made and pricey, selecting a timeless style allows them to fit into your space no matter how often you redecorate.

Roman shades come in two styles: flat and soft fold, according to Behome Blindsgalore. This type of window covering is perfect for minimalist spaces, oddly shaped rooms, and small areas where the excess fabric will make the room feel even tighter. In addition, Roman shades come in a variety of types in a wide price range. For example, you can splurge on shades with motorized drawstrings to open and close or buy an inexpensive manual option.

You can also expect to choose from many features while shopping for Roman shades. They come in almost any color you could desire. Some options include blackout properties — perfect for getting a therapeutic night's sleep — and others let diffused sunlight in, so you can have privacy while enjoying some natural light. Since Roman shades are fabric, there is a pattern to match any style, from modern geometric designs to bright Jacobean prints. So regardless of your budget or design needs, there is probably a kind that's perfect for your space.

When you think of blinds, the cheap, white plastic variety that was in your first apartment might be the first thing that comes to mind, but there are so many beautiful options. Budget Blinds states that blinds are an excellent alternative to curtains because they offer more flexibility, specifically when it comes to privacy. When you install curtains, you have two options: open or closed. With blinds, you can leave them down but tilt the slats up or down to let in natural light while retaining privacy in your therapeutic space.

Blinds also come in a wide variety of materials and colors. For a natural look in your home, wood ones are an attractive option that comes in several stains. Faux wood is also available and is moisture-resistant, making it a good choice for kitchens and bathrooms. Aluminum and vinyl blinds are also great if you're on a budget or want a unique color for your window treatments.