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DIY drywall niche: a solution for hidden curtains

This post provides a practical and creative solution to those looking for ways to create a drywall niche for hiding curtains. This DIY hack can save users precious time and money by having them complete the niche with a few easy steps. The hack starts with proper measurements and precise planning to create the niche and proceed to the implementation of the plan. The hack requires assembling plywood, precise cutting, plastering, painting, and usage of specific adhesive materials. The hack’s main advantage is its simplicity, as it requires basic materials, precise planning, and minimal tools, making it a straightforward but effective solution to any hidden curtains problem.

In this master class, he offers step-by-step photo instructions for creating a niche for a curtain, curtain or roller shutter with your own hands. We will tell you how to correctly mark the levels, prepare the surface and mount the frame. You will learn about the nuances of attaching the gypsum board to the frame.

DIY drywall niche

Hidden cornices are an interesting design solution that you can implement yourself. A niche under the ceiling will hide the curtain suspension points and create a pleasant mysterious effect. In this niche you can install an automatic opening mechanism or a protective roller shutter.

To do this work, you will need a standard drywall set:

  1. Measuring tool – level, tape measure, rigid steel ruler.
  2. Cut-off tool – metal scissors, retractable knife.
  3. Power tool – screwdriver.

This work is done prior to the installation of the rest of the ceiling, so the attachments will be made directly to the battens or rough ceiling sheathing. The installation site must have solid flooring – add rows of plank or panel wood material if necessary.

Markup

Of decisive importance in the appearance of the entire structure is the coincidence of the visible horizontal lines formed by the gap of the window frame and the front edge of the niche side. With the curtains open, these lines are perfectly visible, and the proximity of their location makes it possible to notice the slightest level discrepancies.

As in any work related to finishing the ceiling, the first thing to do is to “recapture” the horizon with a hydro level. It is best to place the main line at eye level, and then transfer it to the desired height using a tape measure. Move the vertical axis of the window to the lintel above the window. Set aside the dimensions of the niche width from the axis.

Mounting

At a given level above the window, install the UD-profile guide with a shelf on the wall. Create niche boundaries with UD profile, fixing it with a shelf to the mounting plane – horizontal or vertical.

If the niche is adjacent to the wall, there will be no end wall and the profile is attached to the wall.

DIY drywall niche

If the end of the niche is separate (visible), attach the guide profile to the vertical plane – the base of the ceiling.

DIY drywall niche

The guide profile of the side will be fixed to the ceiling in both cases. It is necessary to insert and fix the vertical sections of the CD-profile into it, on which the gypsum board will subsequently be attached. Connect free ends of vertical segments with UD-profile.

DIY drywall niche

Then you should cut a strip from the ceiling to the edge of the outer profile and wind it from the inside of the niche.

DIY drywall niche

If the niche has an end, assemble the frame from the profile as shown in the photo:

DIY drywall niche

Before the plasterboard sheathing is installed, visible distortions of the frame are possible. If the dimensions are respected, the whole structure will be leveled when sheathing with plasterboard.

Then, from the inside of the niche, you should install the “reciprocal” guide UD-profile opposite the one above the window.

DIY drywall niche

The nuance of installing this profile is that it is mounted on a loose gypsum board. To give the fastening the necessary rigidity, screw in the self-tapping screw from the side of the drywall.

DIY drywall niche

Thus, it will hold the metal of the profile with a thread and press the sheet against it with a hat.

The frame is ready. Then all its planes are sheathed with drywall.

DIY drywall niche

The final view of the product (base):

DIY drywall niche

In this master class, a rectangular niche is shown as an example. However, its shape can be arbitrary – an arc, wave, semicircle or other complex shape. The vertical level of the side of the niche can also change. Adjustable lighting can be placed inside the box. In a word, a curtain niche is an interesting solution that can be developed towards a general room design solution..

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Comments: 5
  1. Rhiannon

    This DIY drywall niche sounds interesting, but I’m wondering how practical it is for hiding curtains. Are there any specific steps or materials needed? And can it be easily customized to fit different curtain sizes?

    Reply
    1. Sophia Greene

      Creating a DIY drywall niche to hide curtains can definitely be practical and a unique way to add functionality to a room. To make one, you will need drywall, studs, a saw, screws, and your choice of curtain rod and fabric.

      Start by cutting out a recess in the wall where you want to install the niche, ensuring it is deep enough to hide the curtains when not in use. Frame the niche with studs and attach drywall to create the finished look. Install a curtain rod inside the niche and hang your curtains.

      The great thing about this project is that it can be customized to fit different curtain sizes by adjusting the dimensions of the niche and curtain rod. With the right materials and proper measurements, this DIY drywall niche can be a practical and stylish solution for hiding curtains in any room.

      Reply
  2. Tatum

    I found this interesting DIY drywall niche idea for hiding curtains, but I’m not sure about its practicality. Has anyone tried this before? How well does it work in terms of functionality and durability? Would it be difficult to install and maintain? Any insights or experiences would be greatly appreciated! Thanks in advance for sharing your thoughts.

    Reply
    1. Ava Anderson

      I haven’t personally tried the DIY drywall niche idea for hiding curtains, but I have seen similar projects done before. In terms of functionality, it seems like a creative and space-saving solution for concealing curtains when not in use. However, durability might be a concern depending on the quality of materials used and how well it’s installed. It could potentially be a bit challenging to install if you’re not experienced with DIY projects, but with the right tools and guidance, it should be manageable. Maintenance shouldn’t be too difficult as long as it’s properly constructed. Overall, it seems like a practical and stylish idea worth trying out if done correctly.

      Reply
  3. Charlotte Simmons

    This DIY drywall niche idea sounds intriguing! Could you please provide more details on how to create this niche for hiding curtains? I’m curious about the materials, measurements, and installation process. Additionally, does it require any specific tools or skills? Any advice or recommendations would be greatly appreciated!

    Reply
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