How to Choose Curtain Colours and Textures: A Designer's Guide to Creating a Cohesive Room

Just Homes Designer Series #4 : Curtains #2

If there's one thing I find myself quietly analyzing every time I walk into a home, it's the curtains.

Not the length. Not the hardware.

But whether they actually belong in the room.

As an Architect and Interior Designer, my eyes naturally start connecting colours, textures, materials, and proportions. These thoughts usually stay in my head 🙂, but I've noticed that many homeowners struggle with the same question:

"What colour curtains should I choose?"

The good news is, curtains don't have to be complicated. Here are some simple designer guidelines that can help you create a room that feels balanced and beautiful.

Rule #1: Curtains Don't Have to Match the Walls

In fact, I prefer them not to.

Think of curtains as another layer in the room.

Instead of matching the wall colour exactly, choose shades that complement the overall palette.

Warm Neutrals

Walls: Warm White

Sofa: Beige

Rug: Natural Jute

Curtains: Soft Linen, Oatmeal or Taupe

Result: Calm and layered.

Rule #2: Repeat Colours Already in the Room

My favourite trick is to repeat colours already present.

Look at:

✔ Throw pillows

✔ Area rugs

✔ Artwork

✔ Accent chairs

✔ Bedding

Your curtains should feel like part of the conversation rather than an isolated piece.

Rule #3: Texture Matters More Than Colour

People often focus on colour and forget texture.

Texture adds warmth and depth.

Linen

Relaxed and timeless.

Perfect for coastal, Japandi, and modern homes.

Velvet

Luxurious and cozy.

Ideal for traditional and Canadian winter interiors.

Cotton

Versatile and easy to maintain.

Sheers

Light and airy, especially in tropical climates.

Rule #4: Avoid Too Many Patterns

If your room already has:

✔ Patterned rugs

✔ Artwork

✔ Colourful cushions

Then keep curtains simple.

Solid textured curtains often provide balance.

If the room is very neutral, patterned curtains can add personality.

Rule #5: Match the Mood, Not the Colour

Think about the feeling you want.

Cozy and Warm

Greige

Taupe

Olive Green

Soft Charcoal

Velvet or heavier linen

Bright and Airy

White

Sand

Natural Linen

Sage Green

Lightweight linen or sheers

Dramatic and Elegant

Deep Blue

Charcoal

Forest Green

Velvet fabrics

My Favourite Colour Combinations

White Walls + Beige Sofa

Curtains:

✓ Oatmeal linen

✓ Warm greige

✓ Soft sage

Grey Sofa + White Walls

Curtains:

✓ Warm taupe

✓ Soft charcoal

✓ Natural linen

Wood Tones + Cream Walls

Curtains:

✓ Flax linen

✓ Olive green

✓ Warm white

Common Curtain Mistakes I See

❌ Curtains that exactly match the wall paint.

❌ Bright patterns competing with the rug.

❌ Shiny fabrics in relaxed interiors.

❌ Mixing cool greys with warm beiges.

❌ Choosing colour before considering texture.

Designer's Note ❤️

When I enter a room, my eyes naturally start connecting all the layers,the flooring, rug, sofa, cushions, artwork, and yes, the curtains.

The best rooms aren't perfectly matched.

They're thoughtfully layered.

And often, it's the texture,not the colour,that makes a room feel finished.

In my next post, I'll share one of the questions I get asked most:

Should curtains match the sofa, walls, rug, or bedding?

Happy Reading!

With Love,

Anu