Another suggestion - sheerview blinds. http://www.bosetti.com.au/index.php/interior-products/sheerview-elegance-blind/ Available from all major blind suppliers. These blinds allow you to control the light totally from sheer to block out; block out 99% UV; available in large range of colours; gives the look of shutters with the softness of sheers all in one neat product.

I love rollerblinds for their neat, sophisticated look. Venetians are a nightmare to clean... x) Plantation shutters are worth the investment. Low maintenance and good in wet areas where fabrics/wood may not be so good. I have a mix of plantation shutters and rollerblinds, with a few curtains. :)

Hi Karly, This is a lovely look, you will need to consider a couple of things when you hire a builder or plasterer to do the work. What configuration of curtains are you thinking of having? One layer or two layers? There needs to be enough space between the wall and the mock wall for the curtains to move easily. Are you planning on fitting the tracks to the ceiling? If so you will need at least 200mm in front of the existing cornice for two curtain tracks, more if you want 2 layers of S-fold curtains. This could intrude into the room quite a long way. I would recommend calling a specialty curtain retailer as well as a tradie, and I would definately recommend thinking about what your budget is going to be. Have fun! Jenny

My advice would be to get rid of the blind as you won't use it once you have the curtains - perhaps you could use it elsewhere or have it as a spare. You would probably find that without the blind you will use the access more often. I would do full height and full width drapes - an inverted pleat is attractive with heavier fabrics but if you have the light fabric on the top keep it simple. How about putting your sheer lighter drape on the side closest to the bedroom and have the blackout lining behind. This gives softer look in your room. You would probably find that without the blind you will use the access more often. If there is a lot of sun take care with the pure linen cotton and natural fibres as they will rot with light and sun. There are many synthetic linen look alternatives that are less expensive, last longer and have the same look. I feel your room could do with some texture - you could possibly have a subtle self coloured stripe in the drape - or go plain and have the interest in your bedding. If you want to go soft grey drapes I would go for a darker charcocal or midnight blue/ teal colour on your walls which would look awesome with a soft grey linen look curtain and natural bedding. You could introduce soft mustard, peachy pinks and soft apple green linens in your bed cushions.