The way curtains are hung has a significant impact on the look and feel of a room. From the height of the rod to the spacing of the brackets, these details influence not only the function of your curtains but also the proportions of your space. With a few thoughtful adjustments, you can make windows appear larger, ceilings seem higher, and rooms feel more polished.
Mounting the rod above the frame
One of the easiest ways to give a room a sense of height is to install the curtain rod above the top of the window frame. Placing it around 10–15 centimetres higher draws the eye upward and makes the ceiling look taller. For homes with generous ceiling height, you can mount the rod just a few centimetres below the ceiling line to create a dramatic floor-to-ceiling effect.
Extending the rod beyond the window
Curtains often look best when the rod is slightly wider than the window. By extending the rod 10–20 centimetres past each side of the frame, you allow curtains to stack neatly when open without covering the glass. This maximises natural light and makes the window appear larger than it really is.
Bracket spacing for support
Brackets are essential for keeping the curtain rod straight and secure. For smaller windows, two brackets at either end are usually enough. For longer rods, or where heavy drapery is being used, additional brackets should be placed every 1 to 1.5 metres to prevent sagging. Always measure carefully to ensure brackets are level and at the same height before drilling into place.
Curtain length and hang
Curtains generally look best when they either kiss the floor or fall just above it. This creates a tailored appearance without dragging excess fabric across the surface. In more formal spaces, you can add a few centimetres of extra length to allow the fabric to puddle gently on the floor, creating a more traditional effect. In terms of width, curtains should be about double the window size to provide enough fabric for full, elegant folds.
