Curtain Hanging Made Simple: Tips for Perfect Scale and Style

By Jacqueline Bowen

In design, the concept of ‘less is more’ is often subjective to your style preferences. Whether you define yourself as a minimalist who focuses on serene, simplified spaces or a maximalist who gravitates towards layered, vibrant spaces, one thing remains true. When it comes to drapery, more IS always more. While fabric, color, and texture are important factors, properly scaling your curtains to your space is the key to an intentional and polished design.

The Right Height: Elevate Your Space

Curtains hung too low skew the scale of a room by drawing the eye down and creating a visually smaller space. Meanwhile, curtains that are hung close to the ceiling create an elegant look that properly fills the space. Even giving the illusion that a room is bigger than it is.  It is also important to make sure your curtains extend all the way down your wall touching the floor or pooling at the bottom. Designer Tip: curtain rods should be hung just below crown moulding or roughly 3” from the ceiling.

The Proper Width: Fullness Is Key

Proper curtain width is just as essential as the height. When the curtains are closed, the goal is to still have volume and a sense of fullness– rather than flat panels that feel stretched to the limit. Each curtain panel should span the entire length of the rod to create a full and high-end appearance. Designer Tip: curtain rods should extend past the windows. By extending outward 6 to 12 inches on either side, the curtains will create an appearance of bigger windows, allow more natural light when open, and enhance the room’s visual balance.

Finishing Touches: Header Styles That Elevate

TWOPAGES curtain hanging header style options add another layer of visual interest. The pleat options create a tailored and sophisticated appearance that works for all styles — from traditional to modern. Whether you're curating a traditional space full of timeless details or a modern interior with clean lines and minimal decor, these header options adapt beautifully and elevate the overall presentation. Featured header style in photos: pinch pleat.

More Is More: The Power of Proportion

Ultimately, when it comes to drapery, more IS more. A well portioned curtain installation contributes to the balance, symmetry, and overall scale of a room.  Thoughtfully selected curtains can define a space.  By properly considering length, width, and placement curtains can do more than function– they can elevate a design from generic to highend. TWOPAGES gives interior designers and interior design fanatics the ability to achieve this look in an accessible and customizable way.

*All photographs credit: Jacqueline Bowen

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