Curtain Guide: How to Choose the Right Curtains for Cold and Tropical Homes

Just Homes Designer Series #3

As an Architect and Interior Designer, one thing I've learned over the years is that I can never really "switch off" my design brain. Whether I'm visiting a friend's house, a hotel, an office, or a vacation rental, my eyes naturally start wandering around the room, quietly analyzing what works, what feels off, and what could make the space feel even better. (Don't worry, these thoughts usually stay in my head! 🙂)

One of the most common mistakes I notice homeowners make is with curtains. Beautiful furniture and paint colors can instantly lose their impact when window treatments are the wrong size, length, material, or colour.

Having designed and lived in both Canada and Sri Lanka, I've learned that climate also plays a huge role in selecting the right curtains. Here's a quick guide to help you choose the perfect curtains for your home, office, or any space you're planning to refresh.

1. Start High and Go Long

Regardless of where you live, one of my favourite tricks is to hang curtains higher and wider than the window itself.

✓ Install rods 6–12 inches above the window frame.

✓ Extend rods beyond the window to allow curtains to stack neatly.

✓ Whenever possible, choose floor-length curtains.

This simple trick makes ceilings appear taller and rooms feel larger.

2. Choosing Curtains for Canadian Homes

Long winters mean keeping warmth inside and maximizing comfort.

Best Materials

• Velvet• Linen blends• Cotton blends• Thermal blackout fabrics

Colours

• Warm whites• Beige and greige• Soft taupe• Olive green• Warm charcoal

My Tips

✓ Layer sheer curtains with blackout panels.

✓ Use heavier fabrics in bedrooms.

✓ Avoid curtains that are too short.

✓ Create a cozy atmosphere during darker months.

3. Choosing Curtains for Tropical Homes

In Sri Lanka and other warm climates, airflow and natural light become more important.

Best Materials

• Lightweight linen

• Cotton

• Sheers

• Breathable fabrics

Colours

• White

• Soft sand

• Natural linen

• Sage green

• Light earthy tones

My Tips

✓ Encourage airflow.

✓ Allow natural light to filter through.

✓ Layer sheers with blackout curtains only where necessary.

✓ Consider privacy without blocking ventilation.

4. Common Curtain Lengths

Sill Length

Best for kitchens and bathrooms.

Floor Length

My personal favourite for living rooms and bedrooms.

Puddle Length

Adds elegance to formal spaces but requires more maintenance.

5. Width Matters Too

A common mistake is buying curtains that are too narrow.

For a full, luxurious look:

Curtain width should be 1.5–2 times the width of the window.

6. Common Curtain Mistakes I See

❌ Hanging rods directly above the frame.

❌ Curtains that stop halfway down the wall.

❌ Curtains too narrow for the window.

❌ Choosing heavy fabrics in tropical climates.

❌ Choosing sheer curtains where privacy and darkness are needed.

Designer's Note

Whether I'm designing homes in Canada or Sri Lanka, I always remind myself that windows are the eyes of a room. The right curtains can completely transform a space, adding softness, warmth, privacy, and personality.

In my next post, I'll explore another question homeowners often ask:

How to Choose Curtain Colours and Textures?

Happy Reading!

With Love

Anu