You are correct the place does and always will look a bit sparse when you only have blinds. The question with curtains is sometimes dependant on what climate you live in and I am not sure where you are so I am going to say. If you need curtains for heat go for a quality curtain to the floor with a fabric that is not stiff (as I discovered I now own after buying curtains off line for my spare rooms). The expensive curtains I brought for my living room have a softer texture and hang so much nicer. As I need Curtains / Roman blinds for heat I have backing fabric etc on the expensive made to measure ones, where as the cheaper ones are just thermals. If you only want to add a curtain for looks and do not require it for heat I would recommend going with a lovely sheer / half see through fabric that drapes really well, this will add a point of interest and you can colour match or add a loved colour to a bare - white on white - cream on cream - colour scheme.

Hi and thanks Bernadette. I like the idea of the softer textile so thanks for that good idea to check the fabric.

I actually like the plain blind look; it looks modern and uncluttered, and makes a feature of any art or soft furnishings you have. It also makes a relatively small space look bigger. However, if you are set on curtains I agree with the comment above - go with something semi sheer that has a texture or a black print on white. Be generous with the amount of fabric so that it looks soft and luxurious. I think this would look stunning with the room as you currently have it. Go floor to ceiling - again to look generous and luxurious, plus will make the ceiling look higher. This also means you don't have to worry about bunching fabric under the pelmets. Good luck!

Great. Thanks heaps Paula.

Yes Jill, curtains will enhance the ambiance of your room. Pelmets are there for a purpose, they aid the insulating of your apartment. Venetians are great for light reflection, but they are not insulating. Lined drapes are insulating, and will add ambience, and importantly will keep your living area cooler in summer and warmer in winter. I see you have drapes in your dining area, keep to a similar colour fabric, add a bit of texture, and this will make the space seem larger and aids in continuity. Your drapes will need to draw back to the left and right of the chair and sofa and they hang from the pelmet to the floor. Properly lined drapes are an investment in your apartment and will add exceptional value. Get to love your pelmets, they add to the horizontal lines of your Venetians and horizontal lines are restful and relaxing.

Thanks very much for your great feedback. The helmets are faux, an extension of the wall above the window which hides wiring. When the builder was replacing the gib i asked him to square the edges off but for some reason he left a small overhang. It isn't deep enough to hide curtain headers so I'm inclined to take the curtains to the ceiling. I do appreciate your advice on the way the curtains draw so many thanks for that and your other advice. I'm inspired. J