Windows of opportunity

Modern, minminalist interiors avoid heavy fabric treatments and instead favour the simple, straight lines of Roman or Venetian blinds. But if you want the luxurious look or are more of a traditionalist, then fabrics are ideal.

Linda Hindle, of made-to-measure curtain specialists Plumbs, said: "Fabrics add character to a room but they also add cosiness and warmth. The colour and pattern of your curtains is a crucial decision.

"If you choose plain fabrics with a pattern in the weave then you can afford to put pattern on your walls, but if you prefer plain walls then bold, dramatic curtains using an eye-catching patterned fabric is very effective "A palette of pinks and purples will provide some inviting warmth to a room, but if you are looking for something more elegant, baroque-style in deep reds and gold will add a touch of grandeur to your home.

"Floral patterns work well too, as they transcend passing fads and fashions, never date and suit any period of home," she said.

To add individuality and grace to curtains you can also invest in stylish accessories, such as pelmets and tie backs, which can create a range of different looks, from simple and elegant to striking and traditional.

You can also create extra interest in your room by adding cushion covers in a mix of fabrics that coordinate with your curtains.

Blinds can add style, provide privacy and offer some degree of temperature control in the room. There are four main types: slatted, roller, Austrian and Roman.

Roller blinds, which are ideal for dining and living areas, are simple to install and use and can be rolled out of the way when not in use.

Slatted blinds, which offer privacy, can be made of wood, plastic or metal and can be fitted vertically or horizontally.

Finally, Roman or Austrian Blinds are used to add style to a room when used with curtains.

Michelle Todd. of Wilman Interiors, said; " To create an impact use the layering concept. Start with a Roman Blind in either a large or small-scale patterned fabric. Next layer over the top with a pair of curtains in a harmonising design but make sure that the scale of the pattern is opposite to that of the blind.

"The curtains should always be lined and to add an extra touch of luxury could use a lining in a contrasting coloured, plain fabric that peeps around the edge of the curtain. Banded curtains with added trims can also add to the glamour."

Plumbs, call 01772 838 382.. www.plumbscurtains.co.uk Window dressing . . . the Continental look - Spanish Red Venetian Blind from Faber's International Collection from £67.

Floral delight - Watermelon from Faber's Special Collection, price from £89 Finishing touch . . . Polka fabric tie-backs from Plumbs, from £34 per pair 'P35 Garden scene - The Hydrangea Aqua roller blind from Faber's Special Collection, priced from £89.

Perfect drapes . . . The Mandalay fabric from Plumbs. priced from £110 per pair for a 36in drop Single drop . . . the Seville range from Plumbs, priced from £110 per pair for 36in drop Stunning look - Vivacious Fudge, a cotton Roman blind from Shaftesburys, priced from £80' Plumbs, call 01772 838382 www.plumbscurtains.co.uk Faber, 01604 766251 www.faber.com Shaftesburys Blinds and Shutters, 0845 1658333 www.shaftesburys.co.uk Blinds can add style, provide privacy and offer some degree of temperature control in the room. There are four main types - slatted, roller, Austrian and Roman.

Roller blinds, which are ideal for dining and living areas, are simple to install and use and can be rolled out of the way when not in use.

Slatted blinds, which offer privacy, can be made of wood, plastic or metal and can be fitted vertically or horizontally.

Finally, Roman or Austrian blinds are used to add style to a room when used with curtains.

Michelle Todd, of Wilman Interiors, said: " To create impact use the layering concept. Start with a Roman blind in either a large or small-scale patterned fabric.

"Next, layer over the top with a pair of curtains in a harmonising design - but make sure that the scale of the pattern is opposite to that of the blind.

"The curtains should always be lined and to add an extra touch of luxury could use a lining in a contrasting coloured, plain fabric that peeps around the edge of the curtain. Banded curtains with added trims can also add to the glamour," Michelle added.

ACCORDING to the Energy Saving Trust, 20 per cent of all heat loss in the home is caused by poor ventilation and draughts, particularly around the windows. And when you consider that, in the average house, windows make up 15 per cent of the total surface area, that is a lot of heat escaping!

So cut out the heat loss by following these handy tips: 8Fit good-quality, lined curtains. Research has shown that even uninsulated curtains reduce heat loss by 30 per cent and when thermal linings are also fitted, this figure rises to 50 per cent.

8Install draughtproofing around all windows and doors. These products are available from most DIY stores in a variety of different materials.

8Maximise solar warmth by trimming any trees or bushes that prevent light from entering your windows. Deciduous trees will drop their leaves but evergreens may block the low winter sun.

8Open your curtains during the daytime to allow sunlight to warm the inside of your house but make sure you close them again at dusk to prevent the heat from escaping. Bear in mind that the energy from south facing windows will be stronger than from other directions.