Master the Art of Hanging Curtains Above Standard Heights

Installing curtains in rooms with lofty ceilings can be a decorating challenge. With ample vertical space to fill, it's important to use the right techniques to make the most of the height for a cohesive look. From calculating curtain length to selecting functional hardware, certain skills help create showstopping tall window treatments. We break down the key steps for beautifully dressing curtains above standard window heights.

Choose the Right Curtains to Complement Tall Ceilings

When dealing with soaring ceiling heights, begin by picking curtains made of suitable fabrics with lengths to properly fill the expanded vertical space:

• Consider heavier fabrics like linen, velvet, wool, or blended textures that will hold shape around taller windows for tidy draping effects.
• Sheer curtains can filter light beautifully, while blackout drapes prevent light infiltration in bedrooms and media rooms.
• Opt for long lengths that puddle excessively on the floor to create a luxe appearance befitting stately settings. Floor-length curtains also draw the eyes upwards for a loftier look.

Calculate Proper Curtain Rod Placement

Traditional guidelines suggest mounting curtain rods about six to eight inches above the window frame to allow clearance space. But rooms with taller ceilings require adjusting rod height accordingly:

Additionally, extension brackets can help situate curtain rods lower beneath vaulted areas or to remedy limited hanging space offered by ornamental crown moldings.

Select Rod Hardware for Heavy Drapes

The rod itself plays a pivotal role in properly showcasing substantial curtains in tall ceiling applications. Consider diameter, brackets, and specialty hardware when choosing equipment:

Rod Diameter for Weight Bearing

Wider-diameter rods (1 1/4-inches to 1 1/2-inches) prove sturdier for holding the heft of fuller curtain panels. Thinner rods (3/4-inches) can bend or bow over time, unable to cope with heavier fabrics installed high up.

Sturdy Bracket Options

Reinforced metals like steel and wrought iron make the strongest brackets for gripping weighty drapes hung from soaring spots. Wall anchors also boost stability for securely tacking brackets in place.

Using Ceiling-Mounted Tracks

Ceiling mounts with curtain tracks extendospitality the full expanse from ceiling to floor without taking up valuable wall space. The seamless setup accommodates any curtain style or length for fluid floor-to-ceiling drapery possibilities.

Layer Curtains for Added Dimension

Creative layering builds textural dimension that's impactful in tall rooms. Combine sleek sheers with more substantial drapes for an layered look:

Base Layer of Sheers

Hang streamlined sheer curtains directly over the window frame to gently filter incoming light. Neutral solids or tone-on-tone prints keep the base subtle.

Complement With Heavier Top Layer

Next, overlap the sheers using a separate rod to hang fuller drapes in a contrasting opacity, color, or style for pronounced definition.

The Power of Cascading Lengths

Allow both layers to abundantly puddle onto the floor, cascading at different points for a couture, fashion-inspired vibe. The tiered arrangement adds built-in visual lift.

Employ Visual Tricks Through Design Details

Strategic design elements applied to tall curtain treatments generate an enhanced sense of height for rooms with dramatically vertical proportions:

Contrasting Colors for Height Illusion

Set dark hued curtain panels against pale walls or ceilings to define the borders in an elongated space. The color variance optically pushes boundaries outward for an exaggerated floor-to-ceiling effect.

The Impact of Vertical Stripes

Hang striped material on leading edges of curtains or layer over sheers to direct eyes aloft through dynamic linear movement. Thin pinstripes cause the least visual disruption.

Incorporate Valances for Boosted Height

Valances mounted high over the window frame yourself function like mini cornices and inject tailored nuance while gaining precious inches of vertical real estate for hanging hardware.

Diffuse Light From Tall Windows

Lofty light sources from 2-story windows or skylights present decorating challenges. Filter or block intense brightness by wisely dressing glass:

Sheer Curtains to Filter Light

Breezy sheers made of featherweight fabrics like silk gracefully temper incoming rays while allowing healthy ambient fills from overhead windows.

Blackouts to Block Light

Alternatively, choose substantial blackout curtains to entirely deepen dark rooms, ideal for eliminating eye-straining light pollution in media rooms and master bedrooms.

Warm Lighting to Offset Cold Rooms

Tall spaces can emanate coolness from expansive high-altitude glazing. Infuse warmth using lamplight, sconces or indirect cove lighting to instill cozy ambience.

Consider Professional Help for Complex Windows

When to Hire Window Treatment Pros

Seeking professional assistance benefits unusually configured windows in awkward ceiling situations that complicate DIY attempts.

Custom Build Options to Fit Spaces

Expertly crafted bespoke curtains built exactly to custom specification flawlessly remedy quirky elevated openings for seamless coordination.

Guide: Questions to Ask Potential Contractors

• What specialized experience and training do you offer?
• Do you provide installation services for complicated jobs?
• What custom fabrication capabilities can you provide?
• Will you share 3D renderings or samples during the design process?

Maintain Floor-Length Hemlines

While puddling hemlines boost verticality, cleaning efforts intensify for curtains amassed on the floor. Minimize hassles with smart finishing techniques:

Prevent Bunching With Proper Length

Hemming drapes 1/2-inch above the floor prevents excess fabric from gathering unattractively at curtain hems over time.

Choose Floating vs. Puddled Hems

Weighting hems with chainette fringe allows curtains to gracefully graze floors without fully resting to simplify dusting needs.

Weigh Cleaning Considerations

Plan for dry cleaning budgets when using delicate fabrics like silk or velvet for floor-brushing drapes which necessitate professional care over frequent laundering.

With some background knowledge and careful planning, installing curtains atop a soaring ceiling can be done. Remember to equip spaces properly for hanging heavy drapes high up, build layered light diffusion into sheers paired with blackouts, incorporate optical tricks through stark color contrasts and directional stripes in fabrics, and leverage professional assistance when required. Soon, you will confidently master the art of stylishly dressing windows of any height.