01-08-2025
The ultimate cover-up: how to master the art of layering curtains and blinds
While we often reach for throws and rugs to cosy up our spaces, one of the most effective and elegant ways to boost comfort and style is layered window treatments.
According to Delena Pitman, interior designer and window covering specialist with Andersens, the key to successful layering lies in balancing beauty with function for year-round practicality and aesthetics.
"Window treatments shouldn't be an afterthought, they're one of the most powerful tools for transforming a room," she says. "Layering allows you to tailor your space to the seasons while introducing softness and sophistication."
In Australia's diverse climates, the right window covering can also make a noticeable difference to energy efficiency. "During winter, windows are one of the biggest culprits for heat loss," Delena says. "Adding a second layer, like a blind beneath curtains, acts as a thermal barrier. It helps trap warmth inside and reduces the need for artificial heating."
This technique is particularly useful in open-plan homes, where expansive windows and glass doors are common. Layering helps zone open plan spaces, making large areas feel more intimate and finished. Sheer curtains soften harsh light and add movement, while blockout blinds or heavier curtains offer insulation and light control when you need it most, especially in the evenings or on chilly mornings.
When selecting window dressings, think about your design style and aim to create a cohesive look across your home, as the fabric, style and combination of window treatments can all impact the finished result. Delena compares the approach to fashion: "Blinds are like your base layer, offering structure and comfort. Then you layer with linen, cotton, or even luxe textures like velvet to create interest and warmth. It's a practical styling move that also allows you to refresh your look with the seasons."
Wooden shutters are an excellent option, as they provide thermal insulation against the cold and heat, as well as controlling light, air flow and privacy. When used in conjunction with drapes in luxe fabrics, shutters are a sophisticated choice for more formal living and dining areas.
For a more traditional or Hamptons-style interior, Delena recommends pairing Roman blinds with floor-length curtains. Roman blinds bring a structured and timeless element, particularly in textured weaves or subtle stripes, while full-length curtains in complementary tones, like white Romans with navy or soft grey curtains, introduce softness and elegance.
In kitchens, bathrooms or smaller spaces where a more compact solution is needed, double roller blinds are ideal. These combine a sheer with a blockout fabric in one neat system, offering light filtering and full privacy when needed.
The beauty of layering is that it doesn't require a full renovation. With just a few considered updates, your home can feel instantly warmer, more refined and inviting.
"Layered window furnishings are a game-changer in creating spaces that feel warm, soft and sophisticated, but also incredibly practical," Delena says.
While we often reach for throws and rugs to cosy up our spaces, one of the most effective and elegant ways to boost comfort and style is layered window treatments.
According to Delena Pitman, interior designer and window covering specialist with Andersens, the key to successful layering lies in balancing beauty with function for year-round practicality and aesthetics.
"Window treatments shouldn't be an afterthought, they're one of the most powerful tools for transforming a room," she says. "Layering allows you to tailor your space to the seasons while introducing softness and sophistication."
In Australia's diverse climates, the right window covering can also make a noticeable difference to energy efficiency. "During winter, windows are one of the biggest culprits for heat loss," Delena says. "Adding a second layer, like a blind beneath curtains, acts as a thermal barrier. It helps trap warmth inside and reduces the need for artificial heating."
This technique is particularly useful in open-plan homes, where expansive windows and glass doors are common. Layering helps zone open plan spaces, making large areas feel more intimate and finished. Sheer curtains soften harsh light and add movement, while blockout blinds or heavier curtains offer insulation and light control when you need it most, especially in the evenings or on chilly mornings.
When selecting window dressings, think about your design style and aim to create a cohesive look across your home, as the fabric, style and combination of window treatments can all impact the finished result. Delena compares the approach to fashion: "Blinds are like your base layer, offering structure and comfort. Then you layer with linen, cotton, or even luxe textures like velvet to create interest and warmth. It's a practical styling move that also allows you to refresh your look with the seasons."
Wooden shutters are an excellent option, as they provide thermal insulation against the cold and heat, as well as controlling light, air flow and privacy. When used in conjunction with drapes in luxe fabrics, shutters are a sophisticated choice for more formal living and dining areas.
For a more traditional or Hamptons-style interior, Delena recommends pairing Roman blinds with floor-length curtains. Roman blinds bring a structured and timeless element, particularly in textured weaves or subtle stripes, while full-length curtains in complementary tones, like white Romans with navy or soft grey curtains, introduce softness and elegance.
In kitchens, bathrooms or smaller spaces where a more compact solution is needed, double roller blinds are ideal. These combine a sheer with a blockout fabric in one neat system, offering light filtering and full privacy when needed.
The beauty of layering is that it doesn't require a full renovation. With just a few considered updates, your home can feel instantly warmer, more refined and inviting.
"Layered window furnishings are a game-changer in creating spaces that feel warm, soft and sophisticated, but also incredibly practical," Delena says.
While we often reach for throws and rugs to cosy up our spaces, one of the most effective and elegant ways to boost comfort and style is layered window treatments.
According to Delena Pitman, interior designer and window covering specialist with Andersens, the key to successful layering lies in balancing beauty with function for year-round practicality and aesthetics.
"Window treatments shouldn't be an afterthought, they're one of the most powerful tools for transforming a room," she says. "Layering allows you to tailor your space to the seasons while introducing softness and sophistication."
In Australia's diverse climates, the right window covering can also make a noticeable difference to energy efficiency. "During winter, windows are one of the biggest culprits for heat loss," Delena says. "Adding a second layer, like a blind beneath curtains, acts as a thermal barrier. It helps trap warmth inside and reduces the need for artificial heating."
This technique is particularly useful in open-plan homes, where expansive windows and glass doors are common. Layering helps zone open plan spaces, making large areas feel more intimate and finished. Sheer curtains soften harsh light and add movement, while blockout blinds or heavier curtains offer insulation and light control when you need it most, especially in the evenings or on chilly mornings.
When selecting window dressings, think about your design style and aim to create a cohesive look across your home, as the fabric, style and combination of window treatments can all impact the finished result. Delena compares the approach to fashion: "Blinds are like your base layer, offering structure and comfort. Then you layer with linen, cotton, or even luxe textures like velvet to create interest and warmth. It's a practical styling move that also allows you to refresh your look with the seasons."
Wooden shutters are an excellent option, as they provide thermal insulation against the cold and heat, as well as controlling light, air flow and privacy. When used in conjunction with drapes in luxe fabrics, shutters are a sophisticated choice for more formal living and dining areas.
For a more traditional or Hamptons-style interior, Delena recommends pairing Roman blinds with floor-length curtains. Roman blinds bring a structured and timeless element, particularly in textured weaves or subtle stripes, while full-length curtains in complementary tones, like white Romans with navy or soft grey curtains, introduce softness and elegance.
In kitchens, bathrooms or smaller spaces where a more compact solution is needed, double roller blinds are ideal. These combine a sheer with a blockout fabric in one neat system, offering light filtering and full privacy when needed.
The beauty of layering is that it doesn't require a full renovation. With just a few considered updates, your home can feel instantly warmer, more refined and inviting.
"Layered window furnishings are a game-changer in creating spaces that feel warm, soft and sophisticated, but also incredibly practical," Delena says.
While we often reach for throws and rugs to cosy up our spaces, one of the most effective and elegant ways to boost comfort and style is layered window treatments.
According to Delena Pitman, interior designer and window covering specialist with Andersens, the key to successful layering lies in balancing beauty with function for year-round practicality and aesthetics.
"Window treatments shouldn't be an afterthought, they're one of the most powerful tools for transforming a room," she says. "Layering allows you to tailor your space to the seasons while introducing softness and sophistication."
In Australia's diverse climates, the right window covering can also make a noticeable difference to energy efficiency. "During winter, windows are one of the biggest culprits for heat loss," Delena says. "Adding a second layer, like a blind beneath curtains, acts as a thermal barrier. It helps trap warmth inside and reduces the need for artificial heating."
This technique is particularly useful in open-plan homes, where expansive windows and glass doors are common. Layering helps zone open plan spaces, making large areas feel more intimate and finished. Sheer curtains soften harsh light and add movement, while blockout blinds or heavier curtains offer insulation and light control when you need it most, especially in the evenings or on chilly mornings.
When selecting window dressings, think about your design style and aim to create a cohesive look across your home, as the fabric, style and combination of window treatments can all impact the finished result. Delena compares the approach to fashion: "Blinds are like your base layer, offering structure and comfort. Then you layer with linen, cotton, or even luxe textures like velvet to create interest and warmth. It's a practical styling move that also allows you to refresh your look with the seasons."
Wooden shutters are an excellent option, as they provide thermal insulation against the cold and heat, as well as controlling light, air flow and privacy. When used in conjunction with drapes in luxe fabrics, shutters are a sophisticated choice for more formal living and dining areas.
For a more traditional or Hamptons-style interior, Delena recommends pairing Roman blinds with floor-length curtains. Roman blinds bring a structured and timeless element, particularly in textured weaves or subtle stripes, while full-length curtains in complementary tones, like white Romans with navy or soft grey curtains, introduce softness and elegance.
In kitchens, bathrooms or smaller spaces where a more compact solution is needed, double roller blinds are ideal. These combine a sheer with a blockout fabric in one neat system, offering light filtering and full privacy when needed.
The beauty of layering is that it doesn't require a full renovation. With just a few considered updates, your home can feel instantly warmer, more refined and inviting.
"Layered window furnishings are a game-changer in creating spaces that feel warm, soft and sophisticated, but also incredibly practical," Delena says.
