11 Sliding Glass Door Covering Ideas
When it comes to choosing curtains for the sliding doors in your home, what are the most important factors to consider in terms of style and functionality? We spoke to the designers to tell you everything you need to know when shopping for sliding blinds, as well as some design tips for choosing colors. Keep reading and get inspired.
01 Pick Window Treatments That Operate Like the Door
Gorgeous window treatments make it easy to enjoy the sunlight streaming into this formal dining room designed by Lagnappe Custom Interiors. And when it comes to the functionality of window treatments, Lagnappe’s Tiffany Cassidy has a few key suggestions.
“We always recommend window treatments that act the same way as your door,” says the designer. With sliders, you want something that moves side to side, not up and down.”
She offers some tips when it comes to specific sizes. “Adjust the blinds so they overlap one side of the fixed glass,” suggests Cassidy. “If wall space allows, the window covering will move back and may become detached from the glass.”
02 It’s OK to Go Shorter in Length
03 But, Go Tall With Brackets
However, when it comes to choosing where to hang your curtains, you need to think carefully. When in doubt, raise the stand.
“Windows should be hung higher because it makes your windows a little larger and gives the room a little height,” notes Cassidy.
04 Don’t Mount Hardware Directly to a Sliding Door
When installing blinds, the fittings can be hung on the wall or ceiling. “It’s important to know the door’s exposed hardware,” says designer Katie Purple Cherry. “This will determine how far you need to hang the curtain from the wall without it getting caught on the doorknob.”
“You don’t want to attach anything to a sliding glass door because it can limit the ability to slide,” adds designer Tara Miller.
05 Make Sure to Maximize Functionality
Pure white curtains are ideal for classic, elegant spaces, providing functionality without overpowering the decorative style.
“The beauty of a sliding glass door lies in its function, so you want any window treatment you give to a sliding glass door to maximize its functionality,” says designer Georgia Mikas, rather than diminish that function. “Depending on the placement of the door in your home, you may want to eliminate the panels and perhaps add some canopies for a finished look.”
However, there is nothing wrong with curtains if necessary. “If privacy is a must, you can’t go wrong with beautiful curtains that can be easily pulled back to allow access to the door,” adds Zikikas.
06 Consider Curtains on One Side of the Door
In no case is it necessary for the curtains to be located on both sides of the sliding door. An unused door cover is a great way to add functionality and privacy.
“We’re leaning towards a very long curtain that can be placed at the end of a door,” designer Nina Grauer of Dekay & Tate says of her work. “This way, it can be out of the way when you use the door every day, but then it can easily be pulled out when you want a little more privacy.”
07 Prioritize privacy issues
The thickness of the curtains you choose depends on the purpose they are intended to serve in your home. For example, in a bedroom privacy is of utmost importance, but in a living space it is not a major concern.
“If doors lead to a private patio or deck, a set of curtains will let in a lot of light,” notes Spacejoy designer Angela Amore. “If privacy is a concern, a set of layered curtains or blackout curtains is a better choice.”
08 Be Mindful of Shade Height
Designer Veronica Ferro once again emphasizes that functionality must always be taken into account. “If you’re looking to install Roman shades or roller shades with built-in brackets, be sure to consider the height of the door so no one hits their head on the hanging blinds,” she explains.
09 Look to the Ceiling
What should you pay attention to when choosing the color of curtains for sliding doors? We’re here to introduce you to some options, including painted ceilings, which are all the rage in the design world right now.
If you decide to paint your ceiling a different color than the paint or wallpaper used on the other four walls of the room, this can present a unique opportunity when it comes to curtains. Why not choose a curtain design that matches your ceiling perfectly? This room proves that this design move was a big win.
10 Play Off Your Furniture
You can also look directly at the furniture in the room and get inspiration when choosing curtain colors. Soft gray looks beautiful and elegant in this modern kitchen space, complementing the yellow accents perfectly.
11 Contrast a Bit
However, a little contrast can’t hurt if you want more color variety in your space. This bedroom has luxurious gray curtains, but also lots of yellow, blue and black.