There’s something special about a country kitchen. With its emphasis on natural materials, vintage accents, and cozy warmth, this style brings the beauty of nature indoors. An essential element for achieving the perfect farmhouse vibe is incorporating country-style curtains. The right window treatments can completely transform the look and feel of your kitchen, adding gorgeous colors, patterns, and textures that soften the space.
From gingham to floral prints, cafe curtains to swooping valances, we’ll cover the essential design elements that define this aesthetic. We’ve also included plenty of tips and ideas for selecting fabrics, patterns, and styles that will make your kitchen feel as welcoming as a big country hug.
Why Choose Country-Style Curtains for Your Kitchen?
Country curtains offer much more than just a decorative element. Here are some of the key benefits they provide:
- Add warmth, comfort and a cozy cottage feel
- Soften hard surfaces like cabinets and counters
- Provide privacy while still allowing light to filter through
- Opportunity to incorporate charming prints and colors
- Tie the room stylistically to nature and your land
The right country kitchen curtains can transform the entire vibe of your space. They inject life through vibrant patterns and a cohesive theme that connects the indoors with the great outdoors.
Primary Design Elements That Define the Country Curtain Look
From the fabrics to the hardware, certain details come together to create an authentic country curtain style. Here are some of the most important design aspects to keep in mind.
Classic Country Fabrics and Patterns
Traditional country fabrics and prints include:
- Gingham – Classic checked or plaid cotton fabric.
- Small florals and roses – Delicate rose prints and tiny wildflower designs.
- Plaids and checks – Crisp grid patterns often in buffalo check.
- Denim and chambray – Rugged fabrics reminiscent of vintage workwear.
- Natural fibers – Cotton, linen, burlap and jute.
Stick with timeless patterns rendered in natural, textured fabrics for an authentic country aesthetic. Soft, muted tones like sage green, brick red and tan work beautifully.
Ruffles, Tiers and Embellishments
Some signature country curtain details include:
- Ruffled panels and valances – Soft, gathered ruffles add femininity.
- Tiered curtains – Staggered lengths create dimension.
- Lace accents – Pretty trim and appliques.
- Embroidery and needlepoint – Meticulous stitched patterns.
Don’t be afraid to add some frilly personality with ruffles, sweet lace edges, and delicate embellishments. These touches enhance the handmade, welcoming vibe.
Natural Wood Accents
Rustic wood elements like these infuse natural texture:
- Wood poles, finials and brackets – Choose unfinished wood or pale stains.
- Driftwood or branch rods – Look weathered and organic.
- Antique brass or aged metal hardware – Imperfect, tarnished finishes.
Wood brings warmth while complementing the cozy style. For bonus points, repurpose old window shutters or barn beams as DIY curtain rods.
Best Window Treatments and Curtain Styles for Country Kitchens
Here are some of our favorite country kitchen curtain designs:
- Cafe curtains – Covering just the lower half of the window, these are both practical and charming.
- Short valances – Dense fabric hung at the top of the window adds shape.
- Long, floor-length curtains – billowy lengths for drama and romance.
- Tiered and ruffled panels – Whimsical and feminine.
- Sheers behind main curtains – Allow light while obscuring view.
Go for cafe-length panels in high-traffic areas, and choose floor-length designs where privacy is key. Layering sheers behind the main curtains diffuses light beautifully.
Design Tips and Tricks for Achieving the Perfect Country Look
Follow these guidelines to nail the country curtain style:
- Incorporate vintage, upcycled or handmade fabrics
- Mix and match charmingly mismatched prints
- Add interest with fun header embellishments
- Use natural wood elements throughout for harmony
- Select soft, nature-inspired hues like sage, brick and cream
Curating fabrics with a story is essential. Seek out vintage linens and unique hand-me-downs to give your kitchen curtains a nostalgic, welcoming vibe. The hallmark of country style is a relaxed mix of patterns and textures. Don’t be matchy-matchy–have fun playing with different prints and fabrics.
Don’t Forget the Finishing Touches!
Complete the look with accessories like:
- Wooden knobs, pulls and handles
- Natural fiber curtain tiebacks
- Antique windows and distressed paint finishes
- Vintage crocks, baskets and ceramic accents
Even small details like woven pulls on drawers or a set of crusty crocks on a shelf reinforce the cohesive country vibe. Distressed and well-worn finishes add character.
Tie everything together by:
- Repeating key fabrics/patterns on pillows and upholstery
- Coordinating valances and swags with curtains
- Mixing metal finishes like antique brass and nickel
Harmony is key for a polished yet relaxed look. Echo prints from your curtains on throw pillows or seat cushions. Consistent little touches with wood, metal and fabrics create flow. With their power to instill coziness and nostalgia, country kitchen curtains are a must for farmhouse style. Follow the tips above to design your perfect pastoral vignette. Soon you’ll have a space that truly brings the heartwarming spirit of the countryside home.
