Covering high short windows is a common challenge faced in interior design. To approach this challenge, the first step is to choose window treatments that are designed to ensure good light control and privacy, such as blackout drapes or blinds that are designed to cover shorter-than-normal window heights.
You should also measure the window accurately to ensure you get window treatments that fit perfectly. Additionally, you can add a rolled valance above the window treatment to extend the window’s appearance and create a more elegant and sophisticated look.
In addition to this, you can also add window cornices, swags, festoons, or other decorative treatments which can add height and create a custom look. For tall windows, you may also need to consider layering treatments such as shutters followed by curtains or blinds.
Remember, there are many ways to approach the issue of covering high short windows, and it doesn’t have to be complicated. By taking into consideration the specific size and layout of the window, as well as your desired style and décor, you can find the perfect window treatment for your needs.
How do you cover a window with different heights?
Covering a window with different heights can be relatively simple with the correct technique. Depending on the window size, there are two main options for covering a window with different heights.
One option is to use an inside-mounted window treatment, such as a roller blind, mini blind or cellular shade. With this option, the top of the window treatment should be mounted as close to the ceiling as possible.
This will ensure that the bottom of the window treatment can be adjusted to cover the top half of the window and the bottom half of the window.
The other option is an outside-mounted window treatment, such as a curtain or drapery. However, a curtain rod or track needs to be installed so that the height of the window treatment can be adjusted to accommodate the different heights.
The rod should be mounted to the ceiling and should extend past the top of the window. To adjust the height of the window treatment, simply push the curtains or drapery up or down on the rod.
Covering a window with different heights can be achieved with a few simple steps. With the right technique, any window can be covered successfully and with ease.
How can I cover a big window without curtains?
There are a variety of ways to cover a big window without curtains, such as using shutters, blinds, shades, window film, or even a combination of treatments.
Shutters are a great option for windows that are exposed to the outside world like a large bay window, and can be opened and closed to provide privacy and light control. They come in a variety of colors and materials, like wood, metal, and vinyl, and they can be installed with a manual or motorized system.
Roller and Roman blinds are also a great option as they offer a great deal of flexibility and can be installed inside or outside of the window recess. Again, they come in a variety of materials and colors and can be used to provide maximum light or privacy control.
Shades are a great way to cover a large window without using curtains. They come in a range of materials and colors, and can be motorized or operated by a manual mechanism. They can be used to provide maximum light control and privacy, depending on their height and configuration.
Window film is an increasingly popular and affordable method of covering big windows. Peel-and-stick films, also known as decorative window films, come in a variety of patterns and colors and can be an easy way to provide privacy and reduce glare from the sun.
Finally, a combination of treatments can be used to create a layered look and provide multiple functions. Shutters, blinds, and shades can be used together to give the appearance of drapes while still providing light control and privacy.
Or, you could use a combination of window film and blinds or shutters to give you extra customization options.
What do you put on large windows for privacy?
For added privacy on large windows, one of the most effective options is installing window treatments, such as curtains or blinds. Curtains and blinds both offer aesthetically pleasing options while blocking the view from the outside.
Privacy curtains or drapes provide varying levels of light control and privacy. They are available in a range of materials and styles, from light and airy to dense and heavy. If you prefer to let a lot of sunlight in, room darkening or blackout curtains are good options.
You can also install vertical or horizontal blinds for adjustable light control and privacy. If you prefer something simpler, you can also install privacy window film, which have various levels of opacity and come in a variety of decorative designs.
It is also possible to cover your window with UV-reflective window film to block UV rays and prevent the sun from fading your furniture and fabrics.
Do living room curtains need to go to the floor?
That depends on your personal preference and the size of your living room. If you have a small living room, your curtains should reach the floor to cover the entire window. This will give the illusion of a larger room and also provide more privacy.
If you want a more modern look, you can choose curtains that just cover the top of the window and do not extend to the floor. This will provide less privacy but create a more open atmosphere. For a more traditional look in a larger living room, curtains that go to the floor will look more elegant.
Ultimately the choice is up to you, as it will depend on your living space and the overall design style you’re trying to achieve.
How much of curtains should touch the floor?
The amount of curtain that should touch the floor depends on the desired look and style of the room. For a more relaxed and casual vibe, the curtains should touch the floor or puddle slightly along the ground.
This creates a cozy, comfortable atmosphere and a relaxed, rustic look to the room. For a more formal, tailored look, the hem of the curtain should be at least one inch above the floor. This elevates the look of the curtains and adds a more polished feel to the space.
Additionally, the length of curtains can make a room look taller or shorter. If the ceiling is high, the curtains should be floor length to create an even more dramatic look. Conversely, if the ceiling is lower, the curtains should only hang just above the floor to create the illusion of more space.
How far off the floor should curtains be?
When it comes to curtain installation, the ideal distance for curtains hanging from the ceiling to the floor is about one-half to two-thirds the window frame’s total height. For example, if a window frame is 8 feet tall, the curtains should be hanged in the range of 4 to 6 feet from the floor.
That said, the proper height is mostly dependent on personal preference and varies based on the circumstances. If the purpose of the curtains is to make the room appear taller, then they should be hung closer to the ceiling.
If you’re aiming for a cozy, comfortable atmosphere, then they should be hung closer to the floor. Additionally, if you want the curtains to cover the windows completely, then they should be hung right at the top of the window frame.
It’s also important to take any furniture near the window into account, so take the height of nearby pieces into consideration when measuring the curtains. Finally, the closure type can also influence how high the curtains should be hung.
For example, if you plan to loop the fabrics on a rod, they should hang a bit higher than if you’re using traditional hooks.
Is it OK to put long curtains on short windows?
Yes, it is possible to hang long curtains on short windows, although it could have a slight impact on the aesthetic of the overall look. Usually, long curtains tend to emphasize the height of the window and draw the eye up, whereas short curtains tend to focus the attention on the width and make the window seem wider.
If you decide to hang long curtains on a short window, try to keep the curtains’ fabric lightweight so that it does not visually overpower the window. Additionally, you can opt to hang the curtains on either side of the window to make the space appear larger.
Finally, consider adding a curtain rod that is slightly longer than the window, which can help to create the illusion of height if done correctly.
Are short curtains ever OK?
Short curtains can be okay in some rooms and situations. For example, a small bathroom window might look better with short curtains as they will not overwhelm the window. Additionally, sheer curtains can look much better when they’re short, and they diffuse light nicely when they’re not too long.
In some minimalist interior designs, it can be desirable to have short curtains because they don’t draw too much attention to the window. Outside of specific instances where they look best, short curtains will often not provide much in terms of heat and light insulation, but they can look beautiful anyway.
Ultimately, short curtains can be a great option in the right room and with the right decor.
Can you hang curtains too high?
Yes, you can hang curtains too high! While the ideal height for curtains is determined by the size of your window, and the amount of light and privacy you desire, nothing is stopping you from hanging them higher than recommended.
Make sure that when you hang them, you leave a few inches of clearance between the top of the window frame and the curtain rod. Also, when measuring for curtains and determining the ideal height, you should take into account the length and style of the curtains.
If they are too long or too short, it might look off. You should also keep in mind that shorter curtains can give off a more contemporary vibe, while longer curtains can provide a softer, more traditional effect.
Finally, if you do hang the curtains higher than usual, consider the perspective of someone standing in your room – make sure the curtains don’t block any artwork or furniture pieces on the wall!.
Should curtains fall below the windowsill?
Yes, curtains should usually fall below the windowsill. This helps create a more finished, polished look for the curtains and can be important for blocking out light or maintaining privacy. In most cases, curtains should be hung at least 4 to 6 inches below the windowsill, typically near the floor.
It’s important to hang them at this length so that the curtains cover the entire window frame, as well as the frame of the casement or glass. This will also ensure that the entire window is blocked off when pulled shut.
However, if the room has low ceilings, you may not want to hang the curtains as long, since this can make the room appear shorter. Ultimately, the length of curtains will depend on the look you’re going for and the aesthetic of the room.
How far should a curtain rod extend past window?
The general rule is to have the curtain rod extend at least 4-6 inches past the window on each side. However, in some cases, it is better to extend the rod up to 10 inches on each side of the window, depending on the design of the window and the room.
This will ensure that you have enough fabric with your curtains to block all light from entering the room. If you want to make a statement with your curtains, you can also extend the curtain rod even further by adding decorative finials.
Just make sure that the curtains are not too overpowering and detract from the aesthetics of the room.
Where should curtain rods be placed on windows?
The placement of curtain rods on windows can depend on the style of the window and the desired effect. If you’re looking to make a window appear larger, it’s best to mount the curtain rod typically 4 to 6 inches above the window frame, with the rod extending past the frame on either side.
This will give the illusion of an expanded window. For a conventional look, hang the rod about 6 to 8 inches above the window frame. If you’re looking for a dramatic effect, hang the rod much farther up on the wall, around 12 to 15 inches above the window frame.
For the best coverage and light blockage, place the rod close to the ceiling. The size of the curtain rod should match the size of the window. It’s important to also consider the return, which is the amount of room the curtains take up when they are pushed back or drawn open.
This should also depend on the type of window you have, as you want the curtains to open and close easily when drawn. Be sure to consider your desired style, size, and placement of the curtain rod when making your choice.
Is it OK if your curtains don’t touch the floor?
It is definitely okay if your curtains don’t reach the floor. In fact, many people choose to leave a small gap between the curtain hem and the floor, to give the illusion of a taller window. Not having your curtains go all the way to the floor also allows for natural light to come in through the bottom of the window, which is a great option for brightening up a space.
Ultimately, the length of your curtains is a matter of personal preference. Whatever length you choose, as long as it suits your style and needs, it is perfectly acceptable.
Are curtains supposed to touch floor?
It is generally recommended that curtains should touch the floor for the best look. When curtains are the correct length, they can enhance the beauty and style of a room. If curtains are too long, it makes the room appear cluttered.
If they are too short, the bottom of the window can look bare. To determine the correct length for your curtains, you should consider the type of window you have. For floor-to-ceiling windows, curtains should reach the floor but not puddle.
For shorter windows, curtains should reach the windowsill and just cover it. When hanging curtains, you can use curtain rods that reach beyond the window frame. This will allow for the curtains to hang and touch the floor, creating a unified look for the room.
How long should curtains be from the floor?
The proper length for curtains from the floor generally depends on the overall look you want for the window and the window size. Floor-length curtains are usually recommended for standard windows since this look is the most classic, but if you have taller ceilings and larger windows, they can be hung higher.
For a more casual look, café curtains are typically hung at half the length of the window. In all cases, the bottom of the drapes should rest just above the window trim, sill, or floor, allowing some light to stream into the room while still providing a finished look.
For a more formal look with full-length curtains, they should usually just brush the floor or hover slightly above, making sure that the bottom hems don’t come close to dragging on the floor. If your windows are extra tall, the curtains might need to be hung higher on the wall for a more balanced look.