There’s an ever-increasing number of luxury new-build apartments in London, and if you’re lucky enough to live in one, you were undoubtedly drawn to the clean lines, floor-to-ceiling windows, and spectacular views. You’re probably also aware that those enviable architectural features not only offer unique opportunities but can also present some significant challenges when designing window dressings for contemporary London flats.
Getting the window treatments right in a new build flat can turn a great apartment into a spectacular design statement.
You’ll want to make the most of any amazing views and enhance any architectural features while ensuring you have the privacy you need and can sleep at night, thanks to proper blackout. And, of course, you want to make it uniquely personalised to your style.
However, new builds are notorious for having inward-opening windows, awkward radiator positioning, and built-in furniture positioned right up to the window – all of which create challenges for window dressing design.
Like any window dressing project, you must first consider what you need them to do. For example, privacy, blackout for bedrooms, accentuating an architectural detail or personalising the space.
The second consideration is what is feasible, and for this, you need to look at the windows – what is above, below and to the sides and how they open – this will determine what you can and cannot do.
Space around windows and doors for window dressings can be extremely limited in contemporary London flats.
These beautiful windows and doors typically do not have wall space above them to offer a place to mount curtain poles, tracks or blinds.
Therefore, curtains on ceiling fixed (or recessed) tracks offer the cleanest, most architectural solution for bespoke curtain designs for contemporary London flats. These systems disappear into the ceiling, creating the illusion that curtains float effortlessly in the space. This approach is particularly effective with floor-to-ceiling windows, maintaining clean lines while providing full coverage.
You may be able to have roller blinds, but this will depend on the space inside the window recess and the depth of the internal frames.
It is typical for radiators and/or built-in furniture to be positioned alongside windows in contemporary London apartments. If this is the case, don’t worry, you can have a single curtain dressed to the opposite side, which can look and perform flawlessly.
Katherine’s Key Takeout: If you have an incredible view, a single curtain – strategically placed – can ensure that a beautiful view is not obstructed.
Curtains can be lined or unlined depending on what you need them to do – if the living room needs to occasionally accommodate overnight guests, then you may want blackout lined curtains. For daytime privacy, unlined curtains are a great option, and if your budget is tight and space permits, you may be able to have a privacy roller blind instead.
The options remain the same, but Roman blinds may be a viable choice if there is space above the window and/or if the window opens outward. This can be an excellent option for living room windows because there are so many ways to customise these blinds and they can be a more affordable option than curtains.
Curtains on ceiling-fixed tracks will offer the best solution – they can be super-stylish and also offer superior blackout and the flexibility to have the windows open at night. If you also need privacy a second ceiling fixed track can be added for sheer unlined curtains to provide excellent privacy and a lovely floaty and luxurious look, whilst still letting daylight flood in.
Whether you prefer a sleek, minimal look, or something bolder and more dramatic, you will definitely want to stamp your individuality on your new apartment.
Katherine’s Key Takeout: A big mistake is playing it too safe here: New builds can take a good splash of colour, especially if the walls are kept neutral.
Don’t be afraid to bring a splash of colourful style to your new build flat.
The right curtains can transform a standard London apartment into a distinctive home that reflects your personality and brings joy to your daily life. Whether you’re an interior designer seeking reliable execution of your vision or a discerning homeowner looking for expert guidance, at Katherine Brown Curtains and Blinds, we’ll give you the confidence to make bold choices, knowing you are in expert hands.
