So you finally splurged on those gorgeous French doors you’ve been dreaming about for years. Now comes the fun part—finding the perfect curtains to frame your new view. French door curtains can make or break the look, so you want to get this right. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to choose a style, select fabrics, measure correctly, and hang your curtains like a pro. By the time you’re done reading, you’ll be well on your way to completing the look of your new French doors and making the whole space come together. Ready to get started? Let’s dive in!
What Are French Door Curtains?
What Are French Door Curtains?
French door curtains, also known as café curtains, are half-length curtains that cover only the bottom portion of a window. They’re perfect for French doors or large windows where you want to let in light while maintaining some privacy.
These casual yet chic curtains typically fall around 30 to 36 inches in length, leaving the top half of your window bare. This allows natural light to filter in during the day while obscuring the view into your home. At night, close the curtains completely for full coverage.
With so many styles, colors and patterns to choose from, French door curtains can complement any décor. Lightweight fabrics like cotton or linen work well for an airy look, while heavier materials provide insulation. Rod pocket or tab top styles attach easily to curtain rods.
Whether your home is traditional or modern, French country or coastal chic, there’s a set of French door curtains that will enhance your space. Dress them up with holdbacks or tiebacks for an even more custom look.
For the perfect finishing touch, choose curtains that pool slightly on the floor or hang just above the sill. Now open your French doors and let the light shine in! Your guests will love the inviting ambiance created by these charming curtains.
Choosing the Right French Door Curtains for Your Space
Choosing the right French door curtains can be tricky, but with some tips you’ll find options perfect for your space.
For starters, consider the look you want. Do you prefer casual and breezy sheers, sophisticated linen or velvet, or bold patterned drapes? The style of your home’s architecture and interior design should influence your choice. Linen or cotton curtains in simple solids or muted patterns typically complement a rustic, casual décor. For a more formal space, velvet or silk in rich, dramatic colors are ideal.
Think about functionality too. Do you want curtains that block light and provide privacy or sheers that gently filter light? Blackout curtains keep rooms dark, while sheers allow lots of natural light to pass through. layered sheers and curtains give you the best of both worlds.
Measure your doors carefully since French doors often have an unusual shape. Choose curtains that are slightly wider and longer than your doors. For doors that open in the middle, a double curtain rod with panels on each side works well. For doors that open out to the sides, extra long curtains that can be pulled to the side are perfect.
With the right curtains that suit your style, provide the level of light control you need, and properly fit your doors, your French doors will be dressed to impress. Keep these tips in mind and you’ll find gorgeous curtains to beautifully frame your doors.
French Door Curtains: A Guide to Getting It Right
Styling Tips for French Door Curtains
When it comes to styling French door curtains, there are a few tips to keep in mind.
Choose a lightweight, airy fabric
Since French doors often lead to patios or balconies, you want a fabric that won’t block too much light. Sheer linen, cotton voile or silk organza are great options. These lightweight, billowy fabrics will softly filter light while still being mostly transparent.
Consider layering
For extra privacy at night or to block harsh sunlight during the day, layer a heavier drape behind the sheer panel. Pull the heavier drape closed when you want more coverage, and tie it back when you don’t. Linen, cotton or canvas are ideal for the heavier layer.
Hang the curtains high and wide
Install the curtain rod several inches above the top of the door frame and extend it wider than the actual doors. This helps the curtains look more dramatic and frames the doors nicely when open. It also allows for better light filtering and privacy coverage.
Choose a simple, unobtrusive hardware
Since French doors are a focal point, you don’t want the curtain hardware to distract from their beauty. Select a simple, sleek rod in a finish that complements your doors like bronze, nickel or black. For extra drama, consider a curved rod. Understated ring slides or eyelet tabs also work well for sheers.
Tie curtains back for an open feel
Tie back sheer curtains during the day with decorative tassels, sashes or sashes to keep the doors open and maintain an airy feel. Release the tie-backs at night for more coverage and to frame the open doors. This is an easy way to adjust for light and privacy needs.
FAQs about French Door Curtains
What are French door curtains?
French door curtains, often referred to as café curtains, are half-length curtains that cover only the bottom portion of a window, allowing for light while providing privacy.
How long are typical French door curtains?
These curtains usually range between 30 to 36 inches in length.
Do French door curtains come in various styles and fabrics?
Yes, they come in a wide range of styles, colors, and patterns, and can be made from lightweight fabrics like cotton or linen, or from heavier materials for insulation.
How do I choose the right curtains for my French doors?
Consider your home’s style, desired functionality, and measure your doors accurately. The curtains should ideally be slightly wider and longer than your doors.
How can I style French door curtains for best results?
opt for lightweight, airy fabrics, consider layering for versatility, hang the curtains high and wide, select unobtrusive hardware, and use tie-backs for an open, airy feel.
Why is it recommended to hang curtains high and wide on French doors?
Installing the curtain rod above the door frame and extending it wider makes the curtains look more dramatic, frames the doors well when they’re open, and provides better light filtering and privacy coverage.
What types of hardware work best for French door curtains?
It’s best to select simple, sleek rods in finishes that complement your doors and use understated ring slides or eyelet tabs for sheers.
What fabrics are recommended for a light, airy look on French doors?
Sheer linen, cotton voile, or silk organza are ideal choices.
Can I layer curtains on my French doors?
Yes, you can layer a heavier drape behind a sheer panel to get both privacy and light filtering options.
What should I keep in mind for the final look of my French door curtains?
- Aim for simplicity, think about the amount of light you want, and ensure the fabric weight aligns with your needs. Mixing and matching panels can also create a dramatic appearance.
Conclusion
So there you have it, a few tips to help you choose the perfect set of French door curtains for your home. Remember, when in doubt, keep it simple – solid colors or minimal patterns are always a safe bet. Think about the amount of light you want to filter in and choose a fabric weight that suits your needs. And don’t be afraid to mix and match – French doors provide a large canvas, so combining multiple panels of different styles and fabrics can create a really dramatic look. Once you’ve selected your curtains, take your time hanging them to get the positioning just right. French door curtains can be the crowning glory of a room, so make sure you love the final result! With the right choices, your new curtains are sure to add style, warmth and privacy to your space for years to come.
