Have you got small windows in your home? Do you wish they would allow in more light, or appear more grand within the space? If so, strategic curtain placement and selection can help you to dramatically transform the appearance of your windows, enhancing both the aesthetics and functionality of your living areas.
There are some easy visual tricks you can use to not only brighten your room but also add a touch of elegance and sophistication. Choosing certain styles of fabrics, quality curtain lining materials and hanging them properly can make small windows appear up to twice their actual size.
In fact, selecting the right materials can enhance the drape and fullness of your curtains, creating a luxurious look that visually enhances the appearance of smaller windows. If you combine this with strategic choices in hardware, fabric and design elements, these techniques can create the illusion of larger, more impactful windows.
1. Choosing the Right Curtain Rod
Did you know that, by extending curtain rods beyond the window frame and hanging them closer to the ceiling, you create vertical lines that draw the eye upward, making the room feel taller and more spacious?
Select a curtain rod that extends 3-6 inches beyond each side of the window frame. This allows curtains to be drawn fully open beyond the edges of the window, maximizing light and creating the impression of a wider window. Installing the rod 4-6 inches above the window frame also helps to add perceived height.
For a polished look, choose a rod finish that complements other room elements. Sleek, thin rods in metallic tones often work well for modern spaces. Thicker, decorative rods can add character to traditional decor, and you’ll want to ensure that the rod diameter can support the weight of your chosen curtains.
Also – consider double rods for layering sheer and opaque curtains. Or add blinds within the recess underneath curtains. This provides flexibility in light control and privacy while adding visual depth. But we’ll talk about that next…
2. Selecting Curtains for Small Windows
Light-coloured or sheer fabrics can really help to enhance your interior by allowing more natural light to filter through, further brightening the space and making it feel more open. So be sure to opt for lightweight fabrics when you shop for curtains.
Sheer voiles or semi-sheer curtains create an airy feel and help small spaces appear larger. For rooms requiring more privacy or light control, you can layer sheer curtains with blackout panels using those double curtain rods I mentioned above.
Always choose curtains that reach from the rod to the floor, even if the window is shorter. Long curtains create vertical lines that elongate the wall and make ceilings appear higher. Avoid short curtains that can make windows look stunted.
Also, consider how your curtain hooks and curtain rings will impact how the fabric hangs and move. S-shaped hooks create soft folds, while pinch pleats offer a more tailored look. This style adds texture and visual interest while maintaining a clean line that draw the eye up and down the curtains for a trompe-l’oeil effect of taller windows.
3. Incorporating Vertical Patterns and Colours
Likewise, if you want to further enhance the trompe-l’oeil effect, you can use curtain fabrics in vertical stripes or vertical blinds to draw the eye upward and create the illusion of taller windows. Subtle, tone-on-tone stripes offer a sophisticated option that won’t overwhelm the space.
Select colours for curtains and blinds that blend with the wall colour for a seamless look that expands the perceived size of the window. Alternatively, make curtains a focal point with a bold, contrasting colour to draw attention away from the window’s actual dimensions.
For a cohesive aesthetic, choose curtain colours that complement other textiles in the room, such as throw pillows or rugs. This creates a harmonious flow and prevents the window treatment from feeling disconnected from the overall design.
That said, window treatments serve multiple purposes beyond just aesthetics. They provide privacy, control light and impact the overall functionality of a space. The right choices can enhance both form and function in small rooms so…
4. Ensuring Privacy and Light Control
Curtains and blinds offer varying degrees of privacy and light filtration. Sheer curtains allow natural light while providing minimal privacy. Blackout liners block light completely, ideal for bedrooms. Woven blinds or semi-sheer curtains offer a middle ground, filtering light while maintaining privacy.
For versatility, consider layering your curtains. Pair sheer curtains with blackout panels or combine roman blinds within the window with sheer drapery. This allows adjustment throughout the day as light and privacy needs change.
Bamboo blinds or wooden slats also add texture and filter light effectively as you can adjust the angle to allow more or less light into the room. They can be fitted inside the recess of the window to visually take up less space within the room and can be then paired with curtains beside the windows for additional coverage when needed – and to make the windows appear wider.
5. Choosing Recess or Outside Mounts
So you can see how the mount location affects both the appearance and function of blinds. Inside recessed mounts fit within the window frame, creating a clean look. They work well for roman blinds and shutters within windows with deep sills.
Outside mounts attach above and beyond the window frame so they can also make windows appear larger. Plus, they’re ideal for rooms with shallow window frames. Outside mounts also allow the blinds to to stack completely clear of the window, maximizing light when fully open.
When you think about it, clever curtain placement not only makes windows seem bigger but also improves the overall aesthetics of the room. With these simple yet effective tips, anyone can elevate their home’s interior and make rooms feel more spacious and inviting. Let me know in the comments below if you’ve got any other hacks to make your windows feel bigger and brighter, I’d love to get your tips! 🙂
Pin it for later
This blog post is an advertisement feature that has been written in collaboration with a sponsor. The pink links in this post indicate a sponsored link 🙂
