When it comes to designing a room, the little details make all the difference—and one of those often-overlooked details is how you hang your curtains. Done correctly, it can elevate the whole look of a room by creating an illusion of higher ceilings and allowing more natural light. Let’s break down the key tips for designing your curtain and drapery rods for maximum effect.
One simple trick to give your room a grander, more spacious feel is to hang your curtains higher than the window trim. By mounting the curtain rod as close to the ceiling as possible (ideally 10 inches above the window trim), you draw the eye upward, making the room seem taller. If your home has vaulted ceilings, you might have to adjust slightly. For example, if you have 6" between the trim and the ceiling, try going as high as you can within that space.
Pro Tip: Always aim to hang the rod at least 6-10 inches above the window trim for the best visual effect.
The next step is to ensure your curtains don’t block out too much light when pulled back. To achieve this, hang your rod wider than the actual window. By extending the rod 8-15 inches on either side of the window trim, you can open the curtains fully without covering the window itself. This allows more light into your space and makes the window look bigger.
In the example above, the curtains are hung with 12 inches of extra space on each side, creating a broad, expansive look while allowing maximum light flow.
Pro Tip: Curtains stack requires approximately 30% of the closed size. Keep that in mind when planning how far past the window to go.
When selecting your curtain rod, accuracy is key. Here’s a handy tip to ensure you choose the right size: measure your window, including the trim, and add at least 20 inches to your total. This extra length ensures that the rod will be wide enough to allow the curtains to sit beyond the window frame when fully opened.
Once you’ve chosen the correct size, you’re ready to install! Mount your rod and step back to see how these simple tweaks can dramatically improve the aesthetic of your room.
By hanging your curtain rods higher and wider, you not only elevate the look of your room but also bring in more light and create the illusion of a more spacious room. Whether you’re redecorating your living room, bedroom, or any other space, following this curtain rod guide will ensure your space feels polished and thoughtfully designed.