We often receive inquiries when the renovation is already complete, the furniture is in place – and the windows were left as an afterthought. The result? Curtains don’t fit, there’s no place to connect a motor, and the curtain track purchased from a store doesn’t work with the chosen fabric.
Here are four common mistakes we frequently see – and how to avoid them.
❌ Mistake #1: Incorrect or too narrow curtain niche
If the niche is too shallow or narrow, the curtains won’t fit properly, the fabric might touch the radiator, or the track sticks out awkwardly. Sometimes the niche isn’t even centered with the window.
Motiva’s tip:
Plan ahead by checking:
- the width and depth of the niche (we recommend at least 20 cm for double or triple-layer curtains),
- its position relative to the window,
- and the number of tracks required.
❌ Mistake #2: No wiring prepared for motorization
No outlets, no wiring – and nowhere to connect a motor. You might need to reopen the walls or give up on automation altogether.
Motiva’s solution:
If it’s too late to run wires, we use a rechargeable battery-powered motor that doesn’t require cabling. Still, we recommend discussing electrical points early on – especially if you want to control your curtains with a smartphone.
❌ Mistake #3: Window goes up to the ceiling and a stretch ceiling is installed
In this case, there’s no surface to mount the track – particularly if you want Roman or Austrian shades, which require stable support. A stretch ceiling makes the situation even more challenging.
Motiva’s solution:
Our textile decorators will help find suitable alternatives and recommend models that look great even in tricky spaces. Surface-mounted tracks or cleverly concealed systems are often the answer.
❌ Mistake #4: Curtain track bought before choosing fabric
At first glance, it looks fine – a clean, simple track. But in reality:
- it can’t support heavy drapes,
- doesn’t have enough channels for multiple layers,
- the fabric doesn’t slide smoothly (especially if lined),
- and it often clashes with your planned design.
Motiva’s solution:
We select professional-grade tracks and mechanisms tailored to your fabric – with the right load capacity, number of tracks, smooth operation, and optional motorization.
Tracks may look similar, but in terms of quality and compatibility – the difference is huge.
💬 In Summary
Curtains and blinds aren’t just the “finishing touch” after renovation. They’re a key part of the interior – and should be considered early on.
📍 Get in touch with Motiva Aknakatted during the planning phase. Our experts will:
- visit your site,
- take precise measurements,
- help avoid mistakes,
- select the right fabrics and systems,
- and make sure the final result is beautiful and functional.
We have our own production facility in Tallinn and a team of experts with 5–20 years of experience. We speak English, Estonian, Russian, and Finnish.