There are a few reasons to prioritize the right blinds for every room in your home. One is for light and temperature control, especially if the room gets significant direct sunlight. The other big reason is for privacy, particularly at night. Doubling up on blinds and curtains often allows for flexibility in both areas. “My blinds can be see-through at night,” shares contributor Támika, “so we did both bamboo blinds and curtains.” The light, neutral shades of this pairing make for an airy, natural look that will never go out of style.
How to Pair Blinds and Curtains Together for an Elegant Look
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Published: June 7, 2025
Updated: January 22, 2025
We don’t often think about combining blinds and curtains, especially when one or the other will suffice. But believe it or not, the benefits of pairing both window coverings together may be enough to convince you otherwise! For example, did you know that closing both blinds and curtains can help you conserve energy by retaining heat in the winter and cool air in the summer? Or that curtains or blinds alone may not be enough for complete privacy?
If you’re surprised by these facts, you may want to investigate for yourself. Hang some Roman bamboo shades for a bohemian look with a natural vibe. Or select sleek, neutral shades for a timeless design. Mount curtains for added texture and movement and soften the look of the light in your home. Layer both for ultimate privacy and light control, and see how your home is transformed. If you don’t believe us, check out our gallery below, and you’ll see it yourself!
02 of Let the Accent Wall Be the Focal Point
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Not every room needs both curtains and blinds and often, one or the other will suffice. Especially if you have windows that are spaced further apart, you may find that adding curtains takes away from the rest of your decor. Reader Jasmen agrees with this and writes, “With the windows being so far apart, adding curtains could take away the dynamic of the accent wall.” This charming nursery has a stunning green board and batten accent wall as well as a nature-inspired wall accent. Adding curtains could diminish these thoughtfully chosen accents.
03 of Roman Shades to Soften the Natural Light
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Depending on the room you’re decorating, you may want to focus on window treatments that soften the light rather than block it completely. A perfect example of this is in a living room where natural light will warm and brighten the space. Homeowner Misty is a fan of Roman shades thanks to the fact that they “will let light in and you can see out, but others can’t see in.” The textures and folds of Roman shades also add depth and texture to your room design.
04 of Layered Look for Elegant Spaces
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Pairing blinds and curtains is an elegant look that is easy to emulate in your home with little effort. In fact, this technique is a favorite of interior designer Tam Taggart, who shares her wisdom with our readers: “Pairing blinds and curtains adds depth and versatility to window treatments, ideal for a layered, refined look. Typically, they have been used in this combo in formal or spacious areas, and for simplicity, opt for blinds in smaller spaces or contemporary settings. It caters to both style and practicality, enhancing the overall ambiance while ensuring optimal light control and privacy.” Dining rooms and formal living rooms, in particular, would look stunning with layered window treatments.
05 of Add Curtains Later
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Fabric shades are ideal for a softer look, which works especially well in a bedroom. Thicker, blackout fabric can be used to help the room stay darker, particularly when the sun starts rising earlier in the spring and summer months. If you’re unsure whether to add curtains on top of fabric shades, take design aficionado Renee’s advice: “I would do the blinds that match the floor and then feel it out and see if you should add
curtains.” Remember that you don’t have to get your room design completed at once; you can evolve your style and decor to fit your needs as you see fit.
06 of Avoid Trendy Patterns and Stick With the Classics
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It’s common to see curtains in a large space, such as a living room or primary suite, while blinds are primarily used in smaller spaces, such as a home office. “However,” writes Interior designer Jennifer Clavano, “there are instances where you can combine them, especially if you use Roman shades or roller shades instead of outdated blinds. Stick to fabric on fabric, not fabric on wood/metal. Avoid patterns because they can clash with existing lines.” I appreciate Jennifer’s wise advice! Trendy colors, patterns, and styles can quickly fall out of fashion and leave your home looking dated. Classic colors and fabrics are much more likely to last for years!
07 of Use Curtains as a Framing Accent
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Curtains don’t always have to function as a way to shut out the light. Sometimes, they can simply be accents that add movement and drama to your interior design. This sleek living room showcases this approach, with gray Roman shades to block the light and a row of accent curtains that frame the windows. Using mirrors in your decoration to reflect the light also helps the space feel larger, as doo the neutral shades on the walls and furniture.
08 of Save on Your Energy Bill
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Pairing blinds and curtains may not be a strategy you’re familiar with, but it definitely has its benefits. Interior designer Mimi Unger digs into her tips and tricks to reveal her best advice: “Combining blinds and curtains adds depth and elegance to windows. However, in rooms with limited natural light, using blinds alone is preferable for privacy, as curtains can filter light.” While blinds may be better for privacy, many readers prefer the look of curtains, which is why it makes sense to pair them together. Additionally, closing your blinds and windows can help lower your energy bill as they help trap heat in the winter and cool air in the summer.”
09 of Create the Illusion of a Larger Window
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I’ll never forget one of the best pieces of interior design advice I received when my husband and I bought our first home: Hang curtains six inches above the top of the window frame and extend the rod at least 8 inches on either side. This helps your windows appear larger and your ceilings taller than if you hung them closer. It absolutely creates a more polished look and is a trick you’ll see in all the staged interior design photos you see. Combining blinds and curtains together is a great way to maximize your privacy as well as have ultimate control over your lighting. We hope all our expert advice helps you to find the perfect pairing for your home!
