Kitchen Curtain Inspiration Above The Sink
The kitchen is often considered the heart of the home. It's a space for gathering, cooking, and creating memories. And the sink area, in particular, is one of the most frequently used spots in the kitchen. Having beautiful, functional curtains above the kitchen sink can really enhance this space.
Kitchen curtain ideas above the sink add softness, charm, and personality. They allow you to filter light, add privacy, and complement your decor. But with so many options for styles, fabrics, colors and patterns, choosing the perfect curtains can be overwhelming.
Considerations for Selecting Kitchen Curtains Above the Sink
Here are some key factors to keep in mind when selecting kitchen curtains to hang above your sink:
- Measure the exact width and length of your window carefully so you can purchase well-fitting curtains. Consider if you want them sill length, apron length, or floor length.
- Assess the amount and direction of natural sunlight that shines on the window so you can choose light-filtering or blackout curtains accordingly.
- Match the style and color scheme of your curtains to your overall kitchen decor. They should complement your cabinets, backsplash, countertops, and flooring.
- Think about the level of privacy you want. Sheer curtains allow light in but maintain visibility. Soft, billowy panels obscure more.
- Set a curtain budget and look for quality materials and construction within your price point. Curtains can range from $20 to $200 or more.
- Select fabrics like cotton, linen, polyester, velvet, or silk based on your aesthetic preference, need for durability, and desired draping effect.
Styles of Kitchen Curtains for Above the Sink
From breezy sheers to cozy layered panels, there are endless kitchen curtain options for above the sink. Here are some top styles to consider:
Cafe Curtains
These short tiered curtains offer privacy while still allowing light in. They're casual, relaxed, and work well in cottage, farmhouse, or coastal spaces.
Tiered Curtains
Tiered curtains feature graduated lengths in layers, often with decorative trims or patterns on each tier. The tiers filter light beautifully and add dimension.
Sheer Curtains
Light and airy sheers softly diffuse sunlight. They come in gorgeous embroidered, scalloped, or lace-trimmed designs. Layer them behind other curtains for extra elegance.
Valances
Crisp valances are mounted above the window to provide a pretty focal point without fully covering the window. They come in tailored pleated or billowy swagged looks.
Swags
Swags feature extra fabric that gracefully drapes in swoops on both sides of the rod. They frame the window beautifully when combined with tailored panels or sheers behind them.
Tabs
Tabs are short strips of decorative fabric, trim, or beads that hang from the rod. They accentuate curtains without fully covering the window.
Window Panels
These are the most common type of full-length curtains. Panel styles range from romantic ruffles to crisp pleats and everything in between. Double panels really enliven a window.
Kitchen Curtain Ideas for Above the Sink
From your curtain's color palette to embellishments, there are unlimited ways to showcase your personal style above the kitchen sink. Here are some inspiring kitchen curtain ideas to consider:
Bold Patterns and Prints
Make a statement with lively patterns like graphic ikat, floral chintz, polka dots, plaids, or buffalo check. Patterns infuse energy and whimsy.
Contrasting Trims and Accents
Choose curtains with colorful embroidered bands, decorative tassels or fringe, eyelet lace, ruffled edges, or fabric covered buttons as charming accents.
Complementary Colors
Pull a color from your kitchen walls, tile, or decor for curtains that seamlessly tie the whole room together. Soft sage, pale aqua, sunny yellow, and robin's egg blue are lovely choices.
Farmhouse and Cottage Styles
Natural fibers like linen or cotton in gingham, buffalo check, or floral prints evoke cozy farmhouse and cottage vibes above the sink.
Ruffles and Pleats
These feminine details lend romantic whimsy. Gathered ruffles or pretty pleats soften the window and add gorgeous texture.
Metallic Sheens
Shimmery gold, copper, or silver curtain panels or trims catch the light beautifully, adding a glam touch to the kitchen.
Vintage Inspired
Nostalgic details like lace, roses, scallops, ruched fabric and pastel hues give a timeless, vintage allure.
Modern and Minimalist
Clean-lined styles in solid neutrals or bold colors have an edgy, contemporary vibe. Linen, faux leather, or velvet suit this aesthetic.
Rustic and Industrial
Durables like burlap, denim, ticking stripes, plain canvas, or heavy-duty cotton nod to rugged chic charm in farmhouse kitchens.
Coastal and Nautical Themes
Crisp navy and white stripes, sailboats, anchors, shell or starfish patterns, and rope tiebacks invoke casual seaside living above the sink.
Functional Features of Kitchen Curtains Above the Sink
With so much cooking activity, spills and splatters come with the territory in the kitchen. When selecting curtains above the sink, opt for durable fabrics with practical features:
- Stain Resistance: Nanotechnology treatments allow spills to bead up and roll off of the fabric.
- Moisture Wicking: Fabrics like polyester and nylon dry quickly if splashed.
- Easy to Clean: Look for machine washable fabrics or cleanable coatings to simplify maintenance.
- Insulated Options: Some blackout curtains feature foam or fiberfill insulation to help retain heat in colder climates.
- Noise Dampening: Thicker curtain panels muffle clatter from blenders, dishwashers or cooking activities.
- Light Filtering: Sheers and light-diffusing fabrics soften harsh sunlight.
- Blackout Capabilities: Thick, tightly woven, and lined fabrics block outside light for daytime sleeping.
- Antimicrobial: Curtains treated with a finish that resists mold and bacterial growth stay fresher.
Hanging Kitchen Curtains Above the Sink
To properly install kitchen curtains above your sink, follow these steps:
Proper Measuring
Carefully measure the exact width of the window or area you want to cover. Having precise measurements will ensure a proper fit.
Selecting Rods and Hardware
Choose curtain rods in the desired diameter, length, material, and decorative style. Select adjustable tension rod sets for easier installation in windows with moldings. For above the sink, consider a wood dowel rod mounted on decorative wrought iron brackets for a charming cottage look.
Use a level to mark bracket locations evenly spaced at the top of the window. Drill pilot holes if needed and securely screw brackets into wall studs or use heavy-duty anchors. Mount the curtain rod through the bracket supports, tighten screws, and test stability.