10 Inspiring Living Room Curtain Ideas with Hooks: Creative Ways to Style 136x86 Curtains for Your Living Room

Over the past decade working in interior design, I’ve learned that small changes can entirely transform a space. Lately, I’ve noticed that living room curtains with hooks — especially in sizes like 136 x 86 — are making a comeback in modern interiors. Small touches like this can spark big creativity. Today, I’ll share 10 design inspirations to help you style your own hook curtains, blending my personal experiences and expert tips.

1. Minimalist Linen Drapes

My Take: I once helped a client with a narrow living room who wanted a breezy, light-filled vibe. We used off-white linen curtains with simple metal hooks, and the room instantly felt more spacious.

Pros: Minimalist linen hook curtains allow natural light to seep through while still providing privacy. This fits perfectly into modern living room trends where light and openness are key aspects of the design.

Cons: They can wrinkle easily, so occasional steaming is needed.

Tip: Opt for pre-washed linen so the texture feels softer and looks more relaxed.

save pin

2. Sheer Layers for Depth

My Take: In my own apartment, I layered sheer white curtains with grey blackout ones using double hooks. The depth it added was incredible, and the room gained a sophisticated edge.

Pros: Layering 136 x 86 curtains offers more control over light and mood. According to Elle Decor, layered window treatments are a top 2024 trend for flexible living spaces.

Cons: Double the curtains mean double the cleaning effort.

minimalist kitchen storage design can complement this style in open-plan homes.

save pin

3. Bold Geometric Patterns

My Take: A recent client loved mid-century modern. We chose mustard and navy geometric hook curtains in 136 x 86, instantly making the living room the house’s focal point.

Pros: Patterns can inject personality and pull together accent colors from the rest of the room. They work especially well in otherwise neutral spaces.

Cons: They may overwhelm small rooms if the rest of the décor is also busy.

Case Tip: Use solid toned rug and cushions to balance bold curtain patterns.

save pin

4. Velvet Luxury

My Take: Once, for a winter makeover, I installed deep emerald velvet curtains with hooks for a cozy, luxe feel. It made the sofa corner my client’s favorite winter reading spot.

Pros: Velvet in a 136 x 86 size offers heavy drapery, great insulation, and a high-end aesthetic. House Beautiful notes velvet’s rising popularity in cold climate designs.

Cons: It’s heavier, so make sure your curtain rod and hook hardware can handle the weight.

Tip: Pair with brass hooks for an old-world charm.

save pin

5. Rustic Burlap Charm

My Take: For a farmhouse-inspired living room, burlap hook curtains were my go-to. They softened the space without looking too polished.

Pros: Burlap offers a rugged texture and diffuses light beautifully. It works great with neutrals and wood.

Cons: Not ideal for formal interiors; can fray over time.

glass backsplash makes kitchens feel more open complements burlap’s earthy aesthetic in connected spaces.

save pin

6. Two-Tone Elegance

My Take: Combining two colors in one panel can give personality without overwhelming the décor. I once used a navy top with a cream bottom to visually raise ceiling height.

Pros: Works especially well with 136 x 86 hook curtains as the proportions allow bold divisions. It introduces visual interest without heavy patterns.

Cons: Custom designs can be pricier than off-the-shelf options.

save pin

7. Floor to Ceiling Drama

My Take: Using hooks allowed me to hang curtains from just under the ceiling line down to the floor, creating an illusion of taller walls in a compact space.

Pros: Maximizes the sense of height and grandeur in small living rooms.

Cons: Requires precise measuring; a slight miscalculation can look sloppy.

save pin

8. Light-Blocking Blackout Panels

My Take: For clients who work night shifts, I recommended blackout hook curtains in a 136 x 86 size to ensure restful daytime sleep.

Pros: Total light control and energy efficiency. Sleep Foundation highlights how blackout curtains improve sleep quality.

Cons: They can make rooms feel darker even when opened partially.

L-shaped layout frees more countertop space complements dark curtain tones in open living-dining plans.

save pin

9. Breezy Cotton Prints

My Take: I love seasonal freshness, and cotton prints on hooks let me change curtains with the seasons affordably.

Pros: Light, washable, and endless patterns available.

Cons: Colors may fade faster in sunlit rooms.

save pin

10. Metallic Accents

My Take: I used metallic-threaded curtains for a festive makeover, pairing silver threads with grey fabric to reflect light during the holidays.

Pros: Adds a touch of glamour without heavy embellishment.

Cons: Can feel out of place if not paired thoughtfully with décor.

save pin

Conclusion

In small living rooms, clever choices like 136 x 86 hook curtains can elevate style without breaking the bank. It’s not about limits, it’s about designing smarter. As Architectural Digest points out, well-chosen textiles define a room’s mood. Which of these ideas would you love to try in your own space?

FAQ

1. What size are 136 x 86 curtains in inches? They typically refer to width x drop in centimeters, which converts roughly to 53.5 x 33.9 inches.
2. Are hook curtains easy to install? Yes, they use simple hooks that attach to curtain rings or tracks, making them user-friendly.
3. Can blackout hook curtains improve sleep? Absolutely. According to the Sleep Foundation, blackout curtains help regulate sleep by blocking light and reducing noise.
4. What’s the best fabric for a minimalist style? Linen is ideal for a breezy, simple aesthetic and pairs well with neutrals.
5. Do patterned curtains suit small rooms? Yes, but stick to smaller prints or balance with neutral décor to avoid overwhelming the space.
6. How do I clean velvet hook curtains? Velvet often needs to be dry cleaned to maintain its texture and sheen.
7. Is layering curtains worth it? Yes, for flexibility in light control and style; it’s a current interior trend.
8. Where can I see more curtain styling ideas? Plenty of design case studies, such as those on room layout planners, offer practical inspiration for integrating curtains into your living room design.