I know that the hanging curtains in the world of window treatments can be confusing and mysterious. I will share with you 3 rules you need to know when hanging curtains in your home.
Incorporating curtains and drapery into your home can add a lot to how you feel and enjoy it. It influences each room as well as the room’s decor. Curtains provide privacy and diffuse light but also add color, texture, and interest in a room. They can make a room feel taller, wider, and more elegant when chosen wisely and hung at the correct height.
Selecting draperies can be challenging unless you know a few simple rules you need to know before hanging your curtains. Below I will share with you my top 3 tips you need to know when hanging curtains.
1. How High Should You Place Your Curtain Rod?
You may have been told to install your curtain rod right above the top of the window. This isn’t wrong but today designers and installers are suggesting placing it a little bit higher. Place the rod several inches above the window casing, centered between the casing and ceiling is good placement. A general rule is to install the curtain rod 4 to 6 inches above the top of the window.
When you place your curtain rod higher it creates an illusion of larger windows and higher ceilings. These two illusions combined make the room feel more spacious and grand.
2. Where Should You Mount Brackets for Drapes?
Another tip is to mount the brackets several inches to the side of the window. This distance can range from 4 to 10 inches. When you do this the fabric will not block light from coming in, as they will be pulled all the way to each side of the window. Some clients choose to stack the draperies completely off of the window (which is very wise). This allows you to see the entire view through your window without obstruction.
When the curtains have the ability to be pulled all the way to the side it visually widens the appearance of the window. Without the curtains blocking the light your room will also feel brighter and more spacious.
3. How Long Should Your Curtains Be?
Choosing the right length for your drapery might be one of the most difficult decisions. Ordering them too long created puddling on the floor (a look reserved for very formal rooms). If they are too short, they may look awkward, like pants that are too short. The best length designers suggest going for today is curtains that barely skim the ground or touch the ground. We typically suggest no more than 1.5″ off of the floor as a general rule when hanging your curtains.
When the curtains are the right length it elevates the look of your home. Your room will look and feel more elegant and professionally composed. If you have any additional questions about rules you need to know when hanging curtains please reach out, I would love to help.
If you have any other questions about installing window treatments or picking the perfect drapery for your home, leave us a comment below.
If you would like to schedule a drapery consultation, we would love to meet you! Or if you would like to schedule a discovery call click here.
Xoxo, Jill