Blog - Drapery

Window treatments are more than a finishing touch—they shape how a room feels. The right curtains can soften light, improve proportions, and bring a sense of calm and intention to any space.

Below are designer-approved window treatment ideas that balance style and function, written for real homes and everyday living.

1. Hang Curtains Higher Than the Window Frame

One of the most trusted tricks designers use is hanging curtains higher—and wider—than the actual window. Instead of placing the rod directly above the frame, mount it closer to the ceiling and extend it several inches beyond each side of the window. 

Why designers love it:
It’s simple, affordable, and dramatically improves proportions. 

2. Choose Full-Length Drapes for a Finished Look

Floor-length drapes create vertical lines that visually stretch a space, giving rooms a polished, designer-quality finish.

In living rooms and bedrooms, this approach feels elegant without being formal. Even in casual interiors, full-length curtains add softness and structure at the same time.

Design tip:
Avoid curtains that hover several inches above the floor—they tend to make rooms feel unfinished.

3. Let Fabric Set the Mood

Fabric choice plays a huge role in how a room feels. Light linens and cotton blends create an airy, relaxed atmosphere, while thicker materials like velvet or textured weaves add warmth and drama.

For American interiors, natural-looking fabrics are especially popular—they feel approachable, timeless, and easy to live with.

Quick guide:

• Linen or linen-look fabrics → casual, breathable, modern

• Heavier textures → cozy, elevated, and grounding

4. Use Curtains to Soften the Entire Room

Great window treatments don’t just frame the window—they soften the whole space. Curtains absorb sound, reduce visual harshness, and make rooms feel calmer and more balanced.

This is especially effective in rooms with hard surfaces like wood floors, large windows, or minimal furniture. Even neutral curtains can dramatically improve comfort and atmosphere.

Designer insight:
If a room feels “cold” or echoey, window treatments are often the missing piece.

5. Keep Colors Calm, Add Interest Through Texture

Neutral curtains remain a favorite among designers, but that doesn’t mean boring. Subtle texture—like slubbed linen, woven details, or soft vertical patterns—adds visual interest without overwhelming the space.

Warm whites, soft beiges, greige tones, and muted earth colors blend effortlessly with most American home styles, from modern farmhouse to contemporary.

When to use color:
If your walls and furniture are neutral, curtains are a safe place to introduce gentle color or pattern.

6. Balance Style With Everyday Function

Beautiful window treatments should also be easy to live with. Consider how often curtains are opened, how much light the room needs, and what level of privacy works best.

Designer-approved window treatments aren’t about following trends—they’re about proportion, softness, and intention.