A Guide to Luxury Curtains:

Posted on 19th May 2026 at 10:23

Curtains are far more than a practical addition to a room. In a beautifully designed interior, they soften architecture, frame views, control light and bring a sense of warmth and refinement that few other elements can achieve. For Ball & Co clients, curtains are not simply selected off the shelf. They are carefully designed, expertly handmade and tailored to complement the character of the space.

From flowing sheers to dramatic drapes, the style of curtain chosen has a significant impact on the atmosphere of a room. Understanding the different types available is the first step towards creating an interior that feels both luxurious and deeply considered.

Eyelet Curtains: Modern and RelaxedSheer Curtains: Lightness and Elegance

Sheer curtains are designed to filter natural light while maintaining a sense of openness. Typically crafted from lightweight linens, voiles or fine woven fabrics, they create a soft and airy effect that works beautifully in living rooms, kitchens and contemporary open plan spaces.

Rather than blocking light completely, sheers diffuse it gently, reducing glare and adding an almost ethereal quality to a room. They are often layered beneath heavier curtains to provide flexibility throughout the day.

In luxury interiors, sheer curtains are particularly effective when made with generous fullness and carefully weighted hems, allowing the fabric to fall effortlessly and move gracefully.

Heavy Drapes: Timeless Sophistication

At the opposite end of the spectrum are heavy drapes, designed to create drama, warmth and a sense of intimacy. Made from fabrics such as velvet, wool blends or richly textured linens, these curtains bring depth and presence to a room.

Heavy drapes are ideal for formal living spaces, dining rooms and bedrooms where insulation, privacy and light control are important. Beyond their practical benefits, they also contribute to acoustics, softening sound and creating a more comfortable environment.

For Ball & Co interiors, handmade drapery is all about proportion and finish. Deep pleats, interlined fabrics and perfectly tailored hems ensure the curtains hang beautifully and retain their structure over time.

Wave Curtains: Contemporary Simplicity

Wave curtains have become increasingly popular in modern interiors due to their clean and architectural appearance. Created using a discreet track system, the fabric falls in smooth, uniform folds that glide effortlessly across the window.

This style is particularly suited to large expanses of glazing, sliding doors and minimalist interiors where simplicity is key. The consistent wave effect creates a streamlined finish that feels elegant without being overly formal.

Although visually understated, wave curtains require expert craftsmanship and precise calculation to achieve the correct spacing and fullness. In luxury settings, the choice of fabric is crucial, with textured linens and soft wool blends often favoured for their natural movement.

Pinch Pleat Curtains: Classic Refinement

Pinch pleat curtains are among the most traditional and enduring curtain styles. Characterised by tightly gathered pleats stitched at regular intervals, they create a tailored and structured appearance.

Available in double or triple pleat designs, this style suits both classic and contemporary interiors depending on the fabric selected. Pinch pleats work particularly well with heavier materials, as the structured heading helps support the weight of the fabric.

For those seeking a timeless and elegant finish, handmade pinch pleat curtains remain a favourite choice.

Pencil Pleat Curtains: Versatile and Soft

Pencil pleat curtains feature tightly gathered folds resembling a row of pencils along the top edge. Softer and more relaxed than pinch pleats, they offer a versatile look suitable for a variety of interiors.

While commonly associated with more casual spaces, luxury pencil pleat curtains can feel incredibly refined when crafted from high quality designer fabrics and finished with careful attention to detail.

This style works particularly well in bedrooms and family spaces where comfort and softness are prioritised.

Eyelet Curtains: Modern and Relaxed

Eyelet curtains use metal rings inserted directly into the heading, allowing the fabric to fold into large, even waves along the curtain pole. This creates a contemporary and informal appearance that suits modern homes.

While eyelet curtains are often associated with ready made designs, bespoke handmade versions can achieve a far more elevated look. Premium fabrics and custom finishes help transform this practical style into something sophisticated and considered.

Blackout and Interlined Curtains: Luxury with Purpose

Luxury curtain design is not only about appearance but also performance. Blackout linings are ideal for bedrooms and media rooms where light control is essential, while interlining adds body, insulation and fullness to the curtain.

Interlined curtains have a particularly sumptuous appearance, with a softness and weight that immediately signals quality. They also improve energy efficiency, helping rooms feel warmer and more comfortable throughout the year.

The Importance of Bespoke Craftsmanship

No matter the style, the true luxury lies in the craftsmanship. Handmade curtains are tailored precisely to the proportions of the room and the requirements of the client. Every detail, from fabric selection to stitching and installation, contributes to the final result.

At Ball & Co, curtains are approached as an integral part of the interior architecture rather than a finishing touch. The right curtain style enhances not only the window itself, but the entire atmosphere of a space.

Whether choosing flowing sheers, structured wave curtains or dramatic drapes, investing in bespoke designer curtains ensures a finish that feels timeless, elegant and entirely unique.