Sheer curtains should not be assumed to provide privacy at night. Visibility depends on the selected weave and the difference in lighting between indoors and outdoors. When indoor lights are on and it is darker outside, sheers may not provide the privacy you need.
Why daytime appearance can be misleading
A room may feel private behind sheers in daylight, but that is only one lighting condition. When the balance changes after dark, the same fabric can behave differently. An online image taken during the day cannot establish evening privacy for your own room.
What to check with the actual fabric
Compare the weave, colour and fullness of the selected sheer. Ask how it looks with lights on behind it and from the side where privacy matters. Use the actual sample where possible. Do not rely on a product name, a description such as “soft” or “premium”, or a small fabric photograph to establish performance.
Consider layers where evening privacy matters
Sheers can be paired with suitable curtains or blinds so you can use different layers at different times. For example, you may want softer daylight during the day and a more private treatment in the evening. The selected fabric, lining, coverage and installation should be discussed for the actual window.
Keep light control in the conversation
Privacy and darkness are separate questions. A layer chosen for privacy may not meet your expectations for reducing light in a bedroom. Similarly, blockout fabric does not remove every gap around a finished installation. Explain both requirements before choosing products.
Plan the whole window
Check space for tracks or blinds, how each layer will open, access to handles and doors, and where fabric will stack. A layered treatment should work with the room as well as look right in a photograph. Ask for the selected products and installation scope to be set out in your quote.
Orion Curtains & Blinds offers free measurement and quotes in Auckland. Tell us your suburb and the rooms involved. Installation is chargeable and included in the overall quote.
