Sheer Curtains to Showcase Sliding Glass Doors
With their clean lines and expansive views, sliding glass doors can create a stunning focal point. However, the harsh glare and lack of privacy may leave the space feeling cold and exposed. This is where sheer curtains come in. Properly selected sheers can soften the modern architecture while allowing natural light to filter through. The right fabrics, colors and patterns can both showcase the doors and tie everything together into a cohesive decor scheme.
From fabric selection to proper sizing to creative styling solutions, we'll cover everything you need to know to beautifully frame these contemporary architectural elements.
Selecting the Best Fabrics for Sheer Curtains
Avoid the boring "grandma-sheers" look by selecting a fabric with visual interest. Subtle textural variations, organic patterns and differing densities within a sheer fabric create depth without sacrificing the ethereal qualities we love. Linen, bamboo and embroidered silks or cottons impart texture while allowing light to filter into a space.
Consider the desired opacity as well. Do you want to filter harsh glare while maintaining views during the day or achieve full blackout capabilities for nighttime privacy? Sheers with higher opacity ratings offer greater versatility when layered with complementary window treatments. Analyze fabric quality too - a bargain sheer prone to snags simply won't do!
Getting the Right Fit - Measurements and Sizing
To achieve full coverage with floor-length sheers that elegantly puddle, accurately measure sliding door height and width, adding 2-3 extra inches to each dimension. This prevents any gapping and allows for perfect draping. For soaring ceilings, panels may need to be custom-made beyond the 110-inch width maximum available off the shelf.
For supersized sliders, try sewing two standard-width panels together. Or mix oversized and regular panels for an asymmetric look. Getting creative with sizing and clusters of curtains can add drama while solving coverage challenges.
Strategies for Glass Walls
In open concept spaces defined by entire walls of glass rather than doors, sheer curtains make the expanse less imposing. Break up the glass into digestible segments with individual panels hung to frame specific views. Or, try floor-to-ceiling sheers that diffuse harsh edges while allowing light to penetrate into the home's interior.
Enhance Energy Efficiency
During summer months, sliding glass doors can contribute to uncomfortable heat gain as the sun beats in. Opt for sheer fabrics with built-in insulation to help moderate temperature. Further buffer solar intensity and boost energy conservation efforts by layering custom blackout curtains behind the sheers.
The blackouts can be drawn fully across the glass at peak times when darkness or insulation take priority. Adjust layers depending on the task at hand - whether it's watching a movie, conversing around the kitchen table or keeping utility costs in check.
Tying Everything Together with Color and Pattern
Build upon the existing interior design by selecting sheer curtain colors and patterns that integrate with current furniture and textile palettes. Look to amplify a certain style intention, be it coastal casual with oceanic hues and prints or urban modern with muted greys and geometric motifs.
Alternatively, make the sheers themselves the jumping-off point for a mini makeover. Vibrant crimson curtains could inject drama and sophistication into a formerly blah space. We especially love tone-on-tone looks where texture provides the focal interest against a solid backdrop.
The sheer curtains beautifully bridge indoor and outdoor spaces. They temper modern materials while allowing light to permeate into airy, open concept rooms. By considering factors ranging from privacy and insulation to style cohesion, homeowners can select sheers that elegantly showcase these contemporary architectural elements.