Should You Skip The Curtains And Let Your French Windows Go Naked?

If you've ever toured an old city like Paris or New York, you've probably noticed all the chic, door-like windows. Despite their name, the design for French windows came from Rome and Greece, and it remained there until the idea was brought back home during the Habsburg–Valois Wars (via Westbury Windows & Joinery). Since then, they've become an icon of vintage buildings worldwide, where residents love their bright complexion and breezy ventilation. People have admired this beautiful architectural detail for centuries, and they aren't going out of style anytime soon. In fact, they've sparked a new controversial idea in interior design: French windows sans curtains. 

That's right, naked French windows! Can you imagine the scandal? Utilizing curtains or drapes is a much more traditional idea, but leaving your French windows bare may be the perfect trick to breathe new life into the timeless style. Are you wondering if this trend can work in your space? There are some crucial factors to consider before you dare to go bare. 

There are several reasons why French windows and tasteful drapery have gone hand-in-hand for so long. For one, the symmetry of curtains compliments that of French windows. Curtains are also easy to sweep to the side during the day, revealing the bright and classy detail, then pull closed at night for more privacy. However, if you're worried about drapery overcrowding this unique feature in your home, consider installing a sheer option. These are excellent for when you want to invite some filtered light into the room. They're also a popular trend, especially when employed in neutral solid colors or layered under more sturdy textiles.

Curtains also serve a practical purpose when covering large French Windows. While it may look beautiful to go bare or hang a sheer treatment, it's important to remember that curtains protect your furniture and carpets from fading. For this reason, going bare isn't ideal for rooms with a lot of sun exposure. However, French windows don't usually make good candidates for blinds or other bedroom window treatments, so a curtain is your best bet for rooms where you need privacy, sleep, and sun protection.

French windows are an attractive feature to have in a home, so what's the point in covering them up? Skipping the curtains will allow even more natural light into your space. All that light doesn't just look pretty; it's also great for your health. According to Healthline, natural light provides vitamin D, lowers your risk for seasonal depression, and even reduces the stress associated with fluorescent lighting.  

A home with French windows is practically begging for you to appreciate your garden, the balcony, or neighboring rooftops, so it can feel like a shame to cover them up. Thus, if you've got a great view, the experts fully support your decision to stay bare. "When you have something beautiful to look at outside and your windows are beautiful, there's no reason to make them look fussy," says interior designer Michelle Gerson (via House Beautiful).