Short Café Curtains Are Long on Style

Short Café Curtains Are Long on Style
2019-08-30

You don't often see café curtains in interiors these days, but they used to be everywhere — or at least that's how it seemed when I was a kid. Fortunately, they appear to be inching back on the radar. Lately I've spotted café curtains in the most unlikely settings, from an industrial loft to a contemporary living space.

There's a lot to love about these classic cropped window treatments. Originally hung in European cafés to screen diners from passersby, they provide a note of softness without the volume of full draperies, and because they cover only part of the panes, they allow light in without sacrificing privacy. Are they for you? Take a look at the ways they're used in these stylish spaces and decide.

Contemporary Dining Room by PLATEMARK DESIGN

This space is so simple and sleek that exposing a bit of the outside view adds to its interest. Simple white café curtains create an enveloping feel around the banquette without completely obscuring the windows.

Traditional Kitchen by Studio William Hefner

Paired with bistro-style bar stools, a brief linen curtain rounds out this kitchen and hints at the look of a Parisian café.

This bedroom turns the traditional look on its ear — its elements are classic at heart, but it's lightened with just a little quirkiness. Café curtains, which are less formal than full draperies, look right at home.

Traditional Hall by Frank Shirley Architects

I love this idea for adding privacy to a narrow hallway while softening the light. Full, gathered café curtains on the windows add a pleasing note of softness.

Here's proof that café curtains can work in an industrial-style setting. The trick? Keep the color neutral, the material casual and the lines clean.

Ikat café curtains offset the hard surfaces and sharp angles of metal kitchen cabinets.

Traditional Dining Room by Jeannie Balsam Interiors

A gingham café curtain gives this breakfast nook the feel of a coastal cottage.

This curtain style often is paired with a valance to soften the upper window. Bright poppy pink lends this space a cheery punch of color.

Here, the valance helps to draw the eye upward, making the low ceiling feel less oppressive. The low profile of the headboard also sits below the curtain line, so it doesn't appear to take up excess space.

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Short Café Curtains Are Long on Style2019-08-30

Short Café Curtains Are Long on Style
2019-08-30