A beautifully designed room can be completely undermined by poorly hung curtains, much like a stylish outfit ruined by ill-fitting trousers. This common mistake can cheapen the entire space, creating a jarring effect that leaves everyone feeling uncomfortable. To address this, here are some updated tips on how to avoid the most frequent errors when buying and hanging curtains.
Common Curtain Mistakes
1. Hanging the Rod Too Low
A frequent error is placing the curtain rod just slightly above the window frame, often due to selecting the wrong curtain length. The rod should ideally be positioned halfway to two-thirds of the way towards the ceiling to make the ceilings appear higher. This positioning aligns with the expected "cultural height" for curtain rods, helping the room feel more spacious. Avoid placing the rod too close to the windowsill, especially when there is ample wall space available, as it can make the room look off-balance.
2. The 'Too Short' Curtain
The most common curtain mistake is the ‘too short’ curtain, reminiscent of trousers that don’t reach the ankles. This look can cut off the room in a jarring way, making it feel awkward and smaller. There are three preferable options to avoid this:
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The Slight Float: Less than an inch above the floor, this style keeps the curtains straight and clean without touching the ground.
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The Kiss: This style involves the curtain barely touching the floor, requiring precise measurements from the rod, including rings or clips. Although challenging to achieve, it offers a custom and intentional appearance with a slight, acceptable bend in the fabric when open.
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The Puddle: The curtains puddle on the floor, creating a romantic, old-world European aesthetic. This look works best with high-quality fabrics like washed linen or velvet, enhancing the room's texture and grandeur. It’s crucial to avoid using thin fabrics, which can look accidental and overly long.
3. Not Extending the Rod Wide Enough
Another mistake involves not extending the rod far enough on both sides of the window, causing the curtains to partially block the window when open. This not only reduces the amount of natural light but also makes the window and room feel smaller. Extending the rod at least 6-10 inches on either side of the window frame allows the curtains to be fully opened, showcasing the window and maximizing light.
By adhering to these guidelines, curtains can enhance a room’s overall design rather than detracting from it. Avoiding common mistakes such as hanging the rod too low, using curtains that are too short, or failing to extend the rod wide enough will create a more polished and aesthetically pleasing space.