Patterned curtains are often seen as a bold design decision, but according to UK window furnishings specialist Hillarys, they may be far less intimidating than many consumers assume. Through its recent collaboration with Jonathan Adler, the company is encouraging homeowners to reconsider pattern as a practical and stylish interior tool.
© Hillarys | Jonathan AdlerEden snake blue velvet as part of Hillarys and Jonathan Adler collection.
'People often worry patterned curtains will dominate a room,' says Victoria Robinson, style and trend expert at Hillarys. 'But it's rarely the pattern itself that's the issue. It's scale, colour and placement. When those elements are thoughtfully designed, pattern actually makes a room feel more intentional, not overwhelming.'
Because curtains sit at eye level and cover a large visual area, they naturally draw attention. Yet that visibility can work in their favour, helping to anchor a room rather than clutter it.
'Window dressings are where the eye rests,' says Jonathan Adler. 'So, I want the eye to rest somewhere fabulous. These designs don't just dress a window; they define a room.'
© Hillarys | Jonathan Adler
According to the company, one of the most common mistakes consumers make is choosing patterns that are too small or overly subtle out of caution. Larger-scale prints, by contrast, often appear calmer and more architectural when repeated across a full curtain drop.
'Our team obsessed over scale, texture and colour palette for the Hillarys and Jonathan Adler collection,' Robinson explains. 'The goal was always refinement, ensuring each fabric feels bold but completely liveable.'
© Hillarys | Jonathan Adler
The collaboration launched in March and reflects broader market demand for interiors that balance individuality with comfort. Rather than committing to patterned wallpaper or permanent finishes, curtains offer a softer and more flexible way to introduce character.
'When we explored this collection, it wasn't about trends, it was about mood,' Robinson adds. 'Patterned fabrics can change the energy of a room instantly, injecting confidence and joy.'
Longevity is another concern often associated with decorative pattern. However, the company argues that well-designed prints can outlast so-called safe neutrals, which may feel dated or forgettable over time.
© Hillarys | Jonathan Adler
Adler describes the range as "chic with a wink of eccentrique", a combination of glamour and personality intended to feel timeless rather than trend-led.
With neutral walls, simple flooring and understated furniture still dominating many homes, Hillarys believes patterned curtains can provide the expressive focal point consumers are seeking without overwhelming the wider space.
As Adler concludes: 'They're not just functional. They're fabulous.'
More information:
Hillarys
Darwin Building
2 Colwick Quays Business park
Private Road No. 2
Colwick, Nottingham NG4 2JR
www.hillarys.co.uk
United Kingdom
