Blog - Drapery

When it comes to home decor, curtains often serve as the finishing touch, tying together the elements of a room. However, even the most beautifully designed spaces can fall short due to simple curtain mistakes.

Drawing on insights from renowned interior designers, we’ll explore the most common pitfalls and offer actionable solutions to help you achieve a polished, professional look.

Hanging Curtains Too Low

One of the most frequent errors people make is installing curtain rods too close to the window frame. While this may seem like the logical choice, it can make a room feel shorter and more cramped.

Why It’s a Problem:
Hanging curtains too low visually cuts off the height of the room, creating an unbalanced and squat appearance. This mistake is especially common in smaller spaces, where maximizing the sense of vertical space is critical.

A Designer’s Tip:
According to Nate Berkus, an acclaimed designer and TV personality, "Placing curtain rods higher draws the eye upward, creating the illusion of taller ceilings." Position your rod 4–6 inches above the window frame or closer to the ceiling for a grander feel.

Choosing the Wrong Curtain Size

Curtains that are too short or too narrow often look awkward, as if they were an afterthought. This is one of the quickest ways to disrupt the cohesion of your interior design.

Common Issues with Size:

- Curtains that don't reach the floor can appear unfinished.

- Panels that aren’t wide enough may not fully cover the window, compromising privacy and light control.

How to Get It Right:

- Length: Curtains should ideally "kiss" the floor or puddle slightly for a more luxurious look. Avoid leaving them floating a few inches above the ground unless you're aiming for a specific modern, cropped style.

- Width: Opt for curtain panels that are 1.5 to 3 times the width of the window for a full, rich appearance.

Candice Olson, a well-known interior designer, emphasizes the importance of scale:
"Properly sized curtains can make even a modest space feel like a designer masterpiece."

Ignoring the Importance of Fabric and Functionality

Not all fabrics are created equal, and selecting the wrong one can throw off the look and functionality of your curtains. For example, heavy velvet curtains in a bright, airy room can feel oppressive, while thin sheers in a bedroom may fail to block out light effectively.

What to Consider:

- Room Aesthetics: Match the curtain fabric to your decor style. Linen and cotton work well in casual, contemporary settings, while silk or velvet add elegance to formal spaces.

- Functionality: Think about the room’s needs. Use blackout curtains for bedrooms or nurseries, while lightweight sheers are ideal for living rooms or sunrooms.

Designer Insight:
Emily Henderson, a stylist and designer, recommends layering fabrics to achieve both function and beauty:
“Use sheers for soft light and blackout curtains for practicality. It’s the best of both worlds.”

Neglecting Layering for Visual Interest

Flat, single-layered curtains can lack depth and fail to elevate a room’s design. Layering adds texture, dimension, and a sense of luxury.

How to Layer Curtains Like a Pro:

- Pair sheer curtains with heavier panels to achieve a mix of light filtration and privacy.

- Incorporate blinds or shades underneath curtains for added functionality.

- Experiment with colors and textures to make the layers visually engaging. For example, combine patterned sheers with solid blackout curtains.

As Barbara Barry, another iconic designer, says, "Layering curtains is like accessorizing a room—it’s the details that make it unforgettable."

Skimping on Curtain Hardware

Curtain rods, rings, and finials are often treated as an afterthought, but they play a significant role in achieving a polished look. Cheap or mismatched hardware can detract from even the most beautiful curtains.

Tips for Choosing the Right Hardware:

- Material: Match the hardware finish (e.g., brass, matte black, chrome) with other elements in your room, such as light fixtures or furniture accents.

- Durability: Opt for sturdy rods that can support the weight of your curtains, especially if you’re using heavy fabrics.

- Style: Choose hardware that complements your decor. For instance, ornate finials suit traditional spaces, while minimalist rods work better in modern homes.

Additional Tips for a Designer Look

Here are some bonus strategies to ensure your curtains truly enhance your space:

1. Steam or Iron Your Curtains: Wrinkled curtains can make even the most expensive fabric look cheap. Always steam or iron them before hanging.

2. Tiebacks and Holdbacks: These can add sophistication and functionality by elegantly framing your windows.

3. Consistency Across Rooms: If your home has an open layout, consider using complementary curtains in adjacent spaces to maintain visual flow.

Expert Tip:
Jonathan Adler suggests using curtains as a chance to showcase your personality:
"Bold patterns or colors on curtains can act like artwork for your windows. Don’t be afraid to have fun with it!"

By avoiding common curtain mistakes and following expert designer tips, you can turn your windows into stunning focal points that enhance your home's ambiance. Thoughtful curtain selection and proper installation are key to achieving a polished, functional, and stylish look.