French curtains: luxurious decoration in the interior with a photo. French curtains for the kitchen with a photo Blinds French curtain

They are magnificent flowing draperies formed from even semicircular folds of fabric (scallops) laid along the entire height. French curtains will perfectly decorate the window opening, which together with them will be distinguished by sophistication and luxury. Traditionally, French curtains are used to give the room more solemnity, splendor, both in public and private interiors. French curtains originated in the 18th century, when solemnity, luxury and splendor were in fashion. A lot of time has passed since then, but these curtains continue to successfully fit into almost any interior.

The French curtains together with are among lifting curtains. The basic principle by which they are used is a lifting mechanism that allows you not to push the canvas to the sides, but to lift it at the top of the window. At the same time, beautiful wavy folds are preserved along the entire length. The main difference between these two types of curtains is that French curtains always retain folds along the entire length, whether they are raised or lowered, and Austrian curtains retain soft folds only at the bottom edge of the curtain.

Usually, in the manufacture of French curtains, thin and light are used. fabrics- cambric, silk, other materials of pastel and light colors. Also, some use transparent tulle of any colors and shades, veil, organza. At the same time, the main requirement for fabrics is elasticity, which provides drapery with soft folds. Recently, when sewing French curtains, modern fabrics are used, for example, polyester, which is superior to silk in practicality, is easy to wash, does not fade, does not shrink, but at the same time it gives a look of rigidity and creates lush folds.

French curtains are often combined with classic curtains with tassels and pelmets.

Application

Since their inception, French blinds have been used to drape the windows of royal banquet and ballrooms, reception rooms and bedrooms. Very often, when sewing them, they used the same fabric that the walls of the room were upholstered with. Also, for many, French curtains are associated with theaters, offices, restaurants, assembly halls. Nowadays, French curtains have found their application not only for decorating the interiors of the Kremlin, but also for luxurious mansions and stylish apartments.

If you hang such a curtain in the hall, then at the entrance to the house an elegant atmosphere will be created.

At the same time, French curtains can decorate the window opening in the bedroom, giving a relaxed and romantic look to the interior, and at the same time a kind of privacy. In a room with wide windows, you can use the simplest option for placing French curtains in the interior. To do this, hang 2-3 narrow French curtains of various lengths on the window (for example, to the middle of the window, to the window sill, to the floor). This option looks good on its own, without additional curtains.

There is a classification of French curtains, according to which they are divided into two categories:

• decorative- when the folds on the curtains are fixed and cannot be changed. In this case, the curtains are raised only manually.
• workers- free control of the curtain, here you can already use modern systems and lifting mechanisms that easily allow you to open and close the window opening.

You can make French strength on your own, because the method of sewing them is very simple. The fabric consumption for these curtains is one and a half times more in width and 2 times more in height than the dimensions of the finished product. The maximum width and length allows for rich and luxurious builds. The panel of the future curtain is divided by cords into symmetrical vertical sections. The maximum area of ​​a finished French curtain is 8 sq.m. With a larger area, difficulties may arise during installation and operation.

So, French curtains are a classic, noble, luxurious beauty that will fill your home with an atmosphere of warmth and comfort, and, in addition, enliven and ennoble it.

Recently, French curtains can most often be seen in kitchens, although they are also chosen for halls and halls. It is worth dwelling in more detail on how the models from France differ from all the others.

Features, advantages and disadvantages

Many people wonder what it is - French curtains. It is not for nothing that the luxurious decorations of Renaissance palaces immediately come to mind. Indeed, French curtains look pompous and solemn. The French curtain is a canvas gathered in folds, due to which beautiful draperies are formed. Depending on the model, such curtains can either be pulled up or left in a static position. Difficulties are the care of such curtains. They are difficult to clean, as dust collects in the folds and eats into the fabric. And also the disadvantage is the huge consumption of fabric, due to which such a model is heavier than analogues, for example, Roman blinds.

Varieties

There are a huge number of varieties of French curtains. They are subdivided according to length, type of braid, fabric density. However, the most important division is according to the way the curtains are attached. They are divided into two varieties.

• Stationary. This refers to a model that cannot be folded or raised by pulling the braid. Such curtains are more suitable for rooms in which natural light is not welcome. And also this option is good for kitchens on the first floors, as it reliably protects the room from prying eyes. Blind curtains can be of various lengths, but most often either models are chosen to the floor or to the middle of the window. In the second case, an optimal ratio is achieved between the amount of light transmitted and the privacy of the situation. For the kitchen, the second option is usually used, sewn from tulle or other light fabric.

• Folding. The awning curtain is often equipped with a mechanism that allows you to pull it up at your discretion. It's all about the frame system, so it's almost impossible to make folding French curtains on your own. It is better to immediately purchase a ready-made version. If the French curtain is made of thick curtain fabric, then it is advisable to equip it with an automatic lifting mechanism. This will greatly simplify operation.

When choosing which curtain to hang - deaf or folding, you should focus on the practicality of the chosen option. If you need to open the window from time to time, it is advisable to hang a folding curtain. If it is not necessary to open the window at all, then the stationary option is more rational.

Fabrics and colors

If earlier French curtains were sewn only from expensive elite fabrics, today the choice is huge. Curtains are made from both natural and artificial materials, they can be both light and dense. They also differ in price. Technologies are such that even not the most expensive fabric can perfectly repel dust and at the same time look attractive. Depending on the room, both translucent flying materials and dense fabrics for curtains can be used. The main condition is sufficient elasticity of the fabric, otherwise it will not work to create characteristic scallops. By the way, you should not take models for French curtains that have folds only at the bottom. The name of such curtains is Austrian curtains.

To date, the following materials are most often used:

• tulle;
• organza;
• silk;
• batiste;
• wool;
• taffeta;
• velvet.

As for color, traditionally French curtains are made in pastel colors: white, ivory, beige. This statement is true for thick curtains, and for tulle models. An interesting solution is bright French curtains. Burgundy and emerald colors are perfect for heavy curtains. Sunny yellow is the color of choice for kitchens. Blue or pink can be used both in the kitchen and in the nursery, provided that the curtains are made of flying materials.

Color combination may vary. Often, French curtains are complemented by lambrequins, which can be made from the same fabric as the main canvas, but in a different color scheme. For example, the following combinations are common:

• white + beige;
• yellow + gold;
• white + blue.

We select the style of the rooms

French curtains can be successfully fitted into almost any interior, including such devoid of sophistication options as country or rustic. Much depends on the length of the curtains, their type, as well as on the design features. For example, it is much more appropriate to choose medium-length deaf curtains made of catchy chintz fabric for a country-style kitchen, rather than heavy velvet floor-length curtains. First you need to decide for which room French curtains are selected. Options for the kitchen and for the bedroom will vary. If for the kitchen, first of all, you need to pay attention to the functionality of the material, then in the bedroom you can pick up curtains of their more branded, but pleasant to the touch fabric. It is also important to pay attention to whether the material is hypoallergenic, especially when buying French curtains for a nursery.

Currently, French curtains are most often chosen specifically for the kitchen, so it makes sense to consider in detail the three most popular directions in which these rooms are furnished. So, you can often see modern dining areas furnished in a classic or rustic style. All three options are universal, that is, they are suitable for decorating both large kitchens and small ones. Curtains are selected depending on financial capabilities.

Modern

It would seem that buying French curtains for a modern interior is not entirely appropriate, but in reality everything turns out to be wrong. Depending on the fabric and the length of the curtains themselves, they may look less elaborate and sophisticated than usual. A good option is natural fabrics, such as linen. Linen curtains do not get dirty, but the fabric drapes well. A wide range of colors and patterns will allow you to choose the right model for each specific interior. The only downside is the price. Linen is an expensive fabric, especially with all sorts of additives that make it easier to care for.

And also in modern interiors you can often see tulle curtains just below the window sill or up to the middle of the window. There are some advantages to choosing this option. For example, you can not worry that the room will be too dark. Tulle transmits light well, while protecting the room from prying eyes. True, complete privacy cannot be achieved with the help of such curtains.

In any case, for a modern interior, it is worth choosing the most simple options without a lot of decor. For example, you do not need to look for curtains with lambrequins. One braid along the edge will be enough, although most often you can do without it. And also the fabric should be with a simple elegant decor, without cheap shine and overflow.

Classical

French-style curtains look most harmonious in classic interiors. This also includes a more elaborate baroque style, which differs from the classics by the presence of a huge amount of gilding, intricate details in the decoration and similar excesses. Accordingly, French curtains must fully meet the requirements of the style.

• You need to pay attention to the fabric. The most commonly used combined curtains. On the one hand, French curtains can be made from tulle, and thick ordinary curtains can be hung on top. On the other hand, French curtains made of dense fabric, such as brocade or velvet, will also look appropriate, especially if there is additional decor: fringe, trim, and the like.
• Colors can be any, but monochromatic deep colors are most often chosen: green, burgundy, blue. For a more modest setting, gray curtains with a silver jacquard pattern will look good.
• Be sure to have lambrequins and other additional elements. Only with sufficient pomposity will French curtains look truly elegant and solemn.

Important! This option is not suitable for the kitchen. If the kitchen area is decorated in a classic style, it is better to choose a different type of curtains.

Country

It would seem that there is nothing more strange than French curtains in a rustic room. In reality, things are a little different. Such curtains, made of light bright fabric with a pattern, look quite appropriate and even emphasize the deliberate simplicity of the interior. The main thing is to choose the right length, colors and material. First of all, it is worth mentioning that the French curtain in the country room should not fall below the middle of the window, because it is the ajar window that will make the curtains less formal. If the window faces the sunny side and you want to lower the curtains from time to time, then you should choose a folding option. So, if necessary, you can cover the curtains, and after the sun disappears, return the room to its original appearance.

Almost any materials will do, but it is important that they are not luxurious. Chintz fits well. But you should not make French curtains from tulle, except to choose a mesh version with embroidery. Any fabric should look like it was handmade, so the patchwork style is welcome. As for the colors, bright colors and combinations will look good. Checkered curtains are a classic of the genre, especially when it comes to the kitchen window. And also curtains with print a la appliqué and painted for patchwork will look good.

At the mention of France, associations arise with impeccable taste, sophistication, celebration and Versailles luxury. That is why the most elegant curtains began to be called French or awnings.

Design nuances

"Marquis" is a lifting structure controlled by a chain mechanism with many folds. Smooth drapery, covering the entire surface of the product, descends to the bottom with semicircular scallops. If the curtain needs to be opened, this is done like a blind: by pulling the fabric up.

Fabric choice

The most important issue, as expected, is the choice of fabric for French-style curtains. If it is supposed to decorate the window with a light translucent fabric, take organza, taffeta or a veil.

For decorating a window opening with dense materials, the following are suitable:

1. Velvet.
2. Atlas.
3. Silk.

Moreover, they must be of such density as to retain the shape of the folds. For this purpose, it is best to use materials that consist of a mixture of natural fibers with synthetics. But for kitchens, fabrics containing synthetics are preferred: they are easier to wash and last longer.

If French curtains are designed to focus on luxury, then rich shades of fabric are preferred: pearls, purple, gold, chocolate; when the curtain serves as a background element, curtains of light shades are chosen: white, beige, coffee with milk, gray or silver.

The French style involves the use of canvases with a pronounced texture and uniform colors. The main task of the product is to pay attention to drapery. If it is decided to use a fabric with a pattern, choose a small floral ornament. . Designers do not recommend using striped prints and large images for French-style curtains.

decors

For this type of curtains, the following decors are used:

• scallop;
• shuttlecocks;
• fringe
• wide lace;
• elegant braid;
• tapes;
• gold tassels and cords.

Add some Parisian charm to your kitchen with black and white floor tiles. The interior is complemented by white curtains controlled by cords. The walls are complemented with monochrome posters or images of vineyards, lavender fields.

French curtains in the interior of the kitchen are a stylish touch that creates a cozy non-standard environment. If there are a lot of windows, then a curtain made of a fabric of the corresponding tone is separately decorated. The connecting element in this case are soft lambrequins or gangs.

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When we choose French curtains for the kitchen, we want to get a sophisticated decor that pleases the eye. differ in a small floral pattern, give the atmosphere a playful touch. In such a kitchen, it is pleasant to gather with the whole family to talk over a cup of tea.

Complement the decor with fresh flowers in a vase, the shade of which can match the color of the curtain. Wallpaper with a delicate floral ornament looks advantageous, harmoniously shading the textiles.

French curtains for the kitchen are complemented by provincial-style lamps (hanging, table). Rattan or dark wood furniture gives a special charm to the atmosphere. Chairs or armchairs made of such materials seem to be transferred to a cozy Parisian cafe.

The French curtain in the kitchen is considered a fundamental element of decor. Cascading fabrics, lots of ruffles and airy draperies - all this artistically decorates the window and sets important accents.

Luxurious, rich, stylish, solemn - any of these epithets can characterize French curtains. Smooth lines, lush arched draperies, falling vertical rows of soft scalloped folds, combined with a light texture of delicate fabric and magnificent curtain accessories, leave no one indifferent. Looking at them, even the most staunch adherents of laconic interiors begin to think about decorating at least one window in the house with beautiful “French women”. What is the secret of the centuries-old attractiveness of such a phenomenon as French curtains and how they differ from other lifting curtains, we will understand in this article.

History of appearance

It is believed that the description of the first curtains with scalloped folds laid along the entire length appeared in the 17th century in France during the reign of Louis XIV - King - the Sun in the heyday of baroque and classicism. Who exactly came up with decorating the windows not with straight lines, but with canvases gathered along the entire length in cascading rows of festoons, history is silent. But with the light hand of an unknown designer, such window curtains quickly gained popularity among the nobility and became the personification of wealth and luxury. They were sewn from natural Chinese silk and decorated with fringe and tassels.

For "French" fabrics, several times more is required than for straight curtains, in addition, numerous scalloped folds do not look on cheap textiles and small windows. Therefore, it is quite clear that they were inaccessible to ordinary people, and the people called them "marquises" - by analogy with one of the highest European noble titles.

Officially, "marquise" is called a fabric canopy for protection from the sun and rain.

The second unofficial name has been preserved behind the curtains by aristocrats to this day and leads to confusion of concepts. The fact is that officially awnings are called fabric awnings over windows, used to create a comfortable shaded area on the street in front of houses, cafes and restaurants.

In its original form, the marquise curtains are stationary (they do not move apart, do not rise, but simply hang motionlessly to the floor), they look very solemn and pompous and look best in spacious rooms with high ceilings. Therefore, today they are used mainly on stage, in concert and banquet halls, restaurants, spacious halls of country houses.

For owners of average apartments, options for French curtains have appeared, sometimes they are called French blinds, adapted to modern realities:

• Firstly, the length of the canvases was significantly shortened and, for example, in the kitchen, you can hang a French curtain up to the windowsill.
• Secondly, in addition to natural silk, many high-quality, but not so expensive fabrics have appeared today, on which scalloped folds also look attractive: organza, chiffon, cambric, moire.
• Thirdly, cornices for French curtains began to be equipped with lifting mechanisms, both with manual and electric control, which can be mounted on hinged windows, which significantly increased their functionality and expanded their scope.

What are modern french curtains

French curtains (marquises) - a cascading variety of lifting curtains. But unlike other lifting models, it is not practicality and functionality that come to the fore, but beauty and the difference in their appearance is obvious. At the same time, it is impossible to confuse French blinds with strict Roman blinds with their characteristic even linear folds and laconic rolls, on which there are no folds at all. But they have much in common with the Austrian models: the canvases are divided into vertical sections and assembled into arched folds. The French and Austrian curtains of the photo, which are below, clearly demonstrate the difference between these two types.

The difference lies in the fact that the draperies of the Austrians are not so plentiful: they are formed only in the lower part and are much wider. When unfolded, they are completely straightened, and their length never falls below the window sill. Awnings are curtains, even in the lowered position, consisting of a large number, divided along the entire length into vertical segments of cascading scallops (sagging towards the center of the assemblies). When the curtain rises, they become even deeper and more expressive.

The length of French curtains can be set to any length, both to the window sill or just below it, and to the floor. In addition, they are divided into stationary (fixed) and lifting:

Cornice for French curtains

The cornice for French curtains can be the same as. Depending on the model, it is equipped with a lifting mechanism or a simplified version is dispensed with. At the same time, the fastening of the canvas can be on Velcro tape or on hooks. The photo below shows standard curtain rods for French curtains with an open and closed curtain lift mechanism.

It is worth noting that no matter what fabric (thick or transparent) was used for tailoring, thanks to the abundant and complex drapery, the marquise is able to completely protect the interior of the room from views from the street.

What fabrics are suitable for French curtains

French curtains in the interior are far from the most economical way to decorate windows. They will require several times more fabric than ordinary curtains. In addition, scalloped folds on cheap fabrics look ugly and primitive, and, despite the fact that modern awnings do not have to be sewn as they used to be from expensive natural silk, it will not work to save much on textiles either.

Before choosing the French version of the curtains, it is advisable to properly weigh the costs of their manufacture and make sure that they fit well into the interior and the money spent on them will be compensated by the beauty and harmony of the situation.

To make the folds look spectacular, even and smooth, you need to choose a well-draped, light and soft fabric. These conditions are best met by natural or mixed, with a small addition of polyester fibers, textiles:

• tulle;
• thin silk;
• chiffon;
• batiste;
• moire;
• muslin;
• veil;
• organza.

Such curtains look light and delicate and are used as curtains, both independently and together with curtains made of taffeta, satin, velvet, brocade. At the same time, curtains should also look luxurious and not be lost in the splendor of French curtains.

French satin curtains

Sometimes awnings are also sewn from dense, but thin, soft and well-draped fabrics. It could be:

• velvet;
• velours;
• curtain wool.

Such curtains do not need partners and look elegant and respectable. Any curtains hung with them would be redundant. But you need to keep in mind that windows with dense opaque awnings look “deaf” and they are suitable only for spacious rooms and classic interiors corresponding to them in status with massive natural wood furniture and gilded or bronze accessories.

French velvet curtains

The appearance of the folds depends entirely on the texture of the fabric: the softer and heavier it is, the more concise and smoother the scallops are. And, conversely, the harder and lighter the material, the more magnificent and embossed they are.

As for the colors, only plain fabrics are suitable for this type of curtains. Any drawing will be lost in numerous scallops, it will look broken, and the curtain will be untidy.

Which rooms and interiors are awnings suitable for?

French curtains in the bathroom

Pompous and aristocratic French curtains will not fit into every room. Cascading vertical rows of scallops, expensive fabrics, accessories in the form of fringe, tassels, flowers and beads will look ridiculous and cumbersome on small windows in small rooms and modest interiors. Best of all, "Frenchwomen" look in an exquisite romantic atmosphere of rococo and baroque in the spirit of the 17th-18th centuries with artsy, smoothly curved furniture, crystal chandeliers and bronze figurines.

French curtains in the interior of the living room

Of course, few people today will think of creating an interior in their home that completely copies the atmosphere of past centuries, but its main signs and general style must be respected. If you want to decorate a small room with awnings, use options adapted to modernity and performing the function of tulle - made of transparent white or pastel shades of fabric, up to the window sill, without additional decorations.

French curtains in the office

So that the light tulle French curtain does not “play” from the draft and hangs statically, special weights can be sewn to its lower edge.

A short French curtain complemented by an original pelmet on the kitchen window

As for the functional purpose of the rooms in which it is planned to hang curtains of this type, it can be anything - the main thing, as already mentioned, is the surroundings corresponding to the awning. Of course, French curtains look best in the living room or study, but they are used no less often in such non-residential rooms as the bathroom and kitchen (as in the photo above). The only room where their use is undesirable is the nursery. No matter how attractive the “Frenchwomen” are, dust inevitably accumulates in numerous scallops and they have to be washed frequently, so curtains that are more functional and simple in shape are appropriate for the room where the kids live.

Despite their aristocracy and sophistication, French curtains can make the interior not only elegant, but also cozy and peaceful. The main thing is that they must match the interior and look, and a modern mechanism with a lifting block will help to increase their functionality.

Video: French curtains in the interior

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