Windows are a major source of heat loss in the home so when the cold spell hits, try to reduce this by blocking out windows with well-fitted thermal curtains.

In older homes, windows are areas of significant heat loss. Poor seals, gaps, loose panes and even the thickness of the glass can all be factors.

Double glazing will greatly improve things but is not an affordable option for everyone. Decent curtains can help. Fitting is a key issue – even lined, thermal drapes made from heavy fabric will be less efficient than lighter drapes that fit properly.

Heavier fabrics ensure a better fit but cheaper fabrics lined with a good backing material can be made to achieve a similar thermal effect.

For optimum performance drapes should be larger than the window, extend down to the floor and be enclosed at the top by pelmets – this will minimize air movement between the glass and the curtain.

Once the practicalities of covering the windows are under control, you can consider the aesthetics.

Drapes work best when they are chosen to match the style of the room. The choices of colours, textures and styles are endless.

Opulent rooms suit extravagant window dressings while contemporary, minimalist styles require understated drapes.

European trends are leaning towards luxurious textures, rich velvets and linens with metallic overlays.

Alternatively, there are many ready-made versions on the market which come in a comprehensive range of prices, and in sizes to suit most standard windows.

Let me take a moment here to convince you why cream colored curtains are a great idea in any home.

I’ll start with the reason which is the most obvious. Cream curtains match just about ANYTHING. Cream is such a versatile color you would be hard pressed to mismatch any of your other furnishings with it. Cream is one of those neutral colors like beige or taupe. It just seems to go with everything. Have you ever wondered why those shades of colors are most popular for wall paint? Well the same reasoning is used for choosing a cream colored curtain. Put them in just about any room and you’ll have a winning combination.

Another terrific reason to choose cream drapes is the fact that they are so light and airy. You can brighten up almost any room with these light colored window coverings. So if you have a pretty dark room that needs light, but you still want the privacy curtains afford, then choose cream. Opened or closed these curtains will let the light in and really open up a dark dingy room.

Not convinced?

Maybe you are thinking cream is such a boring color, you want some vibrancy and a real ‘centerpiece’ and focal point in your room, not just some regular bland curtains. Well, let me tell you cream curtains don’t have to be boring! Like white, there are many different shades of cream, you can mix and match colors to create an interesting contrast. Or better yet choose textured fabrics.

There are hundreds of various cream fabrics to choose from. By just doing a simple thing like buying a textured fabric you will have transformed what could potentially be a fairly plain curtain into a magnificent piece of art (use your imagination here people!)

Hopefully you’ll give cream curtains a chance and maybe I’ve even convinced you to buy some. Take a look at our online curtain store for ideas and prices.