By Living Room Realty, December 3, 2024
So, you’ve closed on your new home. Exciting! Now the work of making it your own begins. While major renovations often steal the spotlight, sometimes it’s the smaller tasks that truly transform a space. Take curtains, for example.
Curtains are the jewelry of any room—they can elevate your decor, but they can also miss the mark if overdone, underdone, or just slightly off. The variety of options can feel overwhelming:
- Sheer curtains
- Blackout curtains
- Thermal curtains
- Café curtains
- Pleated curtains
- Tab-top curtains
- Grommet curtains
- Rod pocket curtains
- Valances and swags
And that’s not even touching on shades: Roman shades, roller shades, bamboo or woven wood shades, and more. Then there’s the question of fabric, color, and pattern. With so many possibilities, it’s easy to feel lost. And maybe, even, give up completely, hoping for an HGTV home makeover team to come knocking at your door.
Let’s say you’ve chosen a classic option: neutral cream-colored linen drapes, lined to offer privacy while still allowing light to filter through. How do you ensure they’re hung properly to create a polished, elegant look?
Rules of Thumb for Hanging Neutral Sheer or Linen Drapes
- Hang High
- Place the curtain rod 4-6 inches above the window frame, or closer to the ceiling if you want to create the illusion of taller windows and higher ceilings.
- Avoid hanging the rod directly on the window frame—it will make the windows look shorter.
- Extend Wide
- Extend the rod 8-12 inches beyond the sides of the window frame to make the window appear larger and allow the curtains to stack off the glass when open fully. This maximizes natural light.
- Choose the Right Length
- For a polished look, the curtains should either:
- Kiss the floor: Just barely touch the floor for a modern, tailored appearance.
- Float above the floor: Hover 1/2 inch above the floor to avoid dirt or dragging.
- Puddle: Add 2-4 extra inches for a luxurious, romantic effect (best for low-traffic areas).
- For a polished look, the curtains should either:
- Width Matters
- Ensure the curtains are 2-2.5 times the width of the window for a full, gathered look when closed.
- Secure the Rod
- Use sturdy hardware and anchors, especially for heavier drapes or rods. For added style, choose a rod with a subtle, elegant finial to complement the neutral cream tones.
- Layer for Versatility
- Pair your linen drapes with sheer curtains on a double rod for added flexibility in light control and privacy. Sheers can soften the look while allowing sunlight during the day.
By following these simple guidelines, your cream-colored linen drapes can frame your windows beautifully, add warmth to your living room, and make your new house feel like home.
