Why Do Dutch Windows Have No Curtains?

Open Mindsets and Open Homes

Imagine you are walking down the street, and you look around the beautiful picturesque buildings. You are not only seeing the outside, but also the inside, and then you realize: “They have no curtains!?”. Welcome to the Netherlands. 

The Dutch people are well-known for their Western culture of being open-minded and very accepting, but this factor also applies to their homes, not only their minds. However, we can analyze the reasons why their cozy homes usually do not have curtains at their windows. 

Photo Credits: GM Editorial/Ana

There are plenty of reasons, ranging from historical culture, and weather to personality traits. As an added note to historical facts, since we are talking about windows and curtains, did you know Dutch people used to pay a window tax based on the number of windows in a house? 

Your understanding of the role of windows in a Dutch house might change now. In 1810, Napoleon annexed the Netherlands and strictly imposed a window tax. Despite the heavy opposition, the tax continued under King William I. 

Now turning back to curtains, the Second World War played as a historical answer to the curtain-free homes. During the German occupation, there were tons of light restrictions in the Netherlands to prevent the Allied forces from finding targets at night. In this way, Dutch people had to make sure no light escaped from their houses. 

Besides history, the reasons also include certain traditions or personality traits, such as Calvinism. “Why do I need curtains, I have nothing to hide.” counts as a simply put answer from Dutchies. Simple and rational. Makes me feel too secretive now as well. 

Citizens of the Netherlands clearly know Vitamin D is a must, even though most days are cloudy and some seasons severely lack light. But what if the sun comes for 3 minutes and the curtains are closed? This reason explains itself, sunny weather is a must so we do everything to enjoy it. Open curtains also mean seeing the beautiful green landscapes, flowers, and tulips, making us feel part of nature. Only if you have such a view from your windows, of course. 

Now you have plenty of reasons why curtain-free homes became a thing in the Netherlands. It kind of makes you open your curtains now if you have not, right? 

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