Cafe curtains, with their charming and timeless appeal, have been a long standing traditional window treatment. But they aren’t just for grandma’s kitchen. Recently you may have noticed an uptick in use of cafe curtains and this short curtain style is really having a moment.
Originating from quaint European cafes, these curtains are both understated and classic. Windows needing a little refresh? Perhaps consider hopping on this classic curtain comeback.
“If you want privacy, light and style all wrapped up into one little package, cafe curtains may be a great choice.“
In this blog post, we’ll explore what cafe curtains are, where you can use them, a round up of my favorites, and why I chose them for my kitchen window.
First off, what are café curtains?
Cafe curtains, also known as tier curtains, half curtains or short curtains, are a type of window treatment that cover only a portion of a window. Instead of covering the entire window like traditional curtains, they typically hang from a rod positioned halfway up the window. The bottom half of your window is covered by the curtain, allowing the top of the window to remain uncovered.
Cafe Curtains provide privacy, but don’t block light
Cafe curtains are window treatments designed to cover only the lower half of the window, allowing plenty of light to flood into your space. This is the main reason I chose them for my kitchen curtains, I wanted lots of natural light .. well as much as our single window can provide at least. Our kitchen window looks directly at our neighbor’s house, so while I wanted a little privacy, I didn’t want to sacrifice on light. Cafe curtains are a great option for spaces like the kitchen or bathroom where full-length curtains just don’t make sense. If you’re also looking for a perfect balance of light and privacy, maybe cafe curtains are the answer!
Unlike heavy drapes or blinds that may completely block the view, half curtains provide a balanced level of privacy. They shield the bottom of the window, ensuring that passersby or neighbors cannot directly peer into your home. Simultaneously, they keep an open feel to the outside, preventing your space from feeling isolated.
Cafe Curtains aren’t just meant for kitchens… or even just windows
I always thought cafe curtains gave cozy cottage vibes, but after doing some deep Pinterest digging I’m convinced otherwise. My cafe curtain rabbit whole led me to a much wider variety of uses than I originally considered! I’m realizing that they can suit a variety of styles and tastes and be used in many different rooms, not just over the kitchen sink.
Kitchens and breakfast nooks are popular areas for hanging cafe curtains, but in my hunt I came across them being used in laundry rooms, pantries, hallways and even bathroom windows!
Lots of fabric options
Whether you’re aiming for a look to compliment your Craftman bungalow or want to mix some classic touches into a more modern space, there’s a cafe curtain design out there for you. Or you can always make your own! No matter the style of your home, cafe curtains complement a variety of styles. You can’t go wrong!
There are tons of fabrics and styles to choose from from heavy moody prints to lightweight fabrics for a breezy look. Opt for sheer fabrics if you want a light and airy feel. or go for bolder toile look if you want to make a statement.
Pinch pleats style will lean more traditional and polished, while bunchy rod pocket styles or those hung with with curtain clips will pull a more cozy casual feel. By choosing the right fabric and pattern, you can make cafe curtains work for just about any space.
Great window cover option for smaller spaces
You know I love hanging my curtains high & wide (I talk about this in my 5 Budget Friendly Tips for a More Expensive Looking Home blog post).
Unlike full-length curtains or blinds that may require extra space around windows, cafe curtains take up minimal room and are great for smaller windows or in areas where there isn’t much wall space surrounding the window frame. This makes them an excellent choice for smaller living spaces or rooms with limited wall space. Their streamlined design allows for a clutter-free and open feel.
Less fabric usually means more affordability.
Compared to other window coverings like custom drapes or high-end blinds, cafe curtains are often a more budget-friendly option. I mean think about it, you are paying for a fraction of the fabric. Less fabric = less $. Plus, they are fairly easy to make your own.
I’ve seen some very creative DIY cafe curtains like Dusty’s No Sew Tea Towel Curtains over at Linen & Wildflowers or The Grit & Polish’s DIY Cafe Curtain tutorial.
They really are an affordable option if you’re willing to get a little creative. I picked up some fabric from a local end of fabric store & am planning on making a rod pocket style curtain with my new sewing machine I got for my birthday (You know, the ones with the scrunchy top?). Wish me luck!
How to hang cafe curtains?
There are two main ways to hang cafe curtains: by tension rod or traditional mounted rod.
I personally went with a tension rod, but there are some really beautiful mountable cafe curtain rods, both in inside mount or outside mount options.
You can hang them by curtain rings with clips or you could go with a rod pocket style.
SHOP HANGING OPTIONS
In conclusion, cafe curtains are a versatile and charming addition to any home. Their ability to balance natural light, offer privacy are only the start of their perks. I love their potential to hide unsightly appliances or storage around the house while adding to a classic look. By embracing the perks of cafe curtains, you can create a space that is not only functional but also exudes a timeless elegance that will be appreciated for years to come.
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Girl Behind the Blog
I’m Jess, the creator of Oak & Grain. A mid-west girl at heart who now resides in Raleigh, NC. I love finding old things and giving them new purpose by way of refinishing or incorporating unexpected, overlooked thrift store finds in the modern home. I work full-time in medicine and I love dipping into my creative side and in the process, keeping my sanity. Follow me on Instagram and YouTube to see more behind the scenes action.
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