The most stunning curtains can fall flat if they aren’t hung correctly. The secret to a polished, high-end look lies not just in the fabric you choose, but in how you frame the window itself. But what works for a simple, single window won't work for a grand two-story arch or a tricky corner.
As the legendary designer Charles Eames famously said:
"The details are not the details. They make the design."
This visual guide is designed to solve that problem. We've organized our best designer-approved solutions by window type, so you can confidently find the perfect hanging technique for every window in your home.
1. The Classic Single Window
This is the foundation of all curtain hanging. For a single window in any room, the rules are simple but transformative.
The Designer Solution:
Hang the Rod High: Mount the rod close to the ceiling or 4-6 inches above the window frame to create an illusion of height.
Hang the Rod Wide: Extend the rod 6-10 inches past the frame on each side. This allows the curtains to rest on the wall when open, maximizing light and making the window feel larger.
Use Two Panels: Frame the window with a curtain panel on each side for a classic, balanced look.
2. The Challenge: Multiple Windows on a Single Wall
When you have more than one window in a row, the key is to decide whether to treat them as a single unit or as individuals.
Scenario A: Windows with Small Gaps Between Them
For two to four windows positioned closely together, you have two stylish options:
The Unified Look: Use one long curtain rod across the entire set of windows. Place curtain panels only on the far left and far right ends. This creates a clean, grand, and cohesive statement.
The Rhythmic Look: Add single, evenly-sized curtain panels in the narrow gaps between each window. This creates a beautiful, custom-designed rhythm across the wall.
Scenario B: Windows with a Large Gap (Separated by a Fireplace or Art)
When a major architectural feature separates windows, they should be treated as individuals.
The Designer Solution:
Hang a separate pair of curtains on each window. This beautifully frames the central feature—be it a fireplace, a piece of art, or a console table—making it the undeniable focal point of the room.
3. Grand & Architectural Windows
These statement windows demand a dramatic approach.
Two-Story / High-Ceiling Windows
Whether it's stacked windows or a large window over a sliding door, the rule is the same: do not break up the vertical line.
The Designer Solution:
Use one continuous set of extra-long curtains that hang from above the top window all the way to the floor. This creates a breathtaking sense of luxury and emphasizes the grand scale of your home's architecture.
Arched Windows
The arch is a beautiful feature to be celebrated, not hidden.
The Designer Solution:
Mount a straight curtain rod 4-6 inches above the highest point of the arch. Let the curtains hang straight down, framing the unique shape. This technique draws the eye upward and makes the ceiling feel even higher.
4. Tricky Corners and Angles
These unique spots can become the coziest corners in your home with the right treatment.
Corner Windows
For two windows that meet in a corner, use a corner rod connector to create a single, continuous rod that wraps around the corner. This allows the curtains to connect seamlessly, creating a cozy, enveloping feel perfect for a reading nook or bedroom corner.
Bay Windows
A bay window is designed to be a room's feature.
The Designer Solution:
Use a custom bay window curtain rod that is specifically designed to follow the angles of the bay. Hang 4 panels, 2 panels for the center big window, one panel for each side window, a built-in look that turns the bay into an inviting destination. Or hang 2 panle for not to floor bay window.
5. Functional Doors with Glass
Doors require curtains that are both beautiful and practical.
Sliding Glass Doors: The most common solution is a single, extra-wide curtain panel on a long rod. This allows you to easily pull the entire curtain to one side, completely clearing the doorway for high-traffic use. But in this way, one side of the rod will bear too much weight, and the stack back width is too much. The better functional solution is to use 2 panels, while 2 sides have enough space for the stack back width.
French Doors: Hang a curtain panel on the outside of each door. This frames the doors beautifully when closed and allows them to swing open easily when the curtains are drawn back.
6. Specialty Solutions for Unique Spaces
Finally, some rooms have unique needs that dictate the curtain style.
Kitchens & Bathrooms: In spaces where privacy is needed but long drapes aren't practical, café curtains are the perfect solution. These charming half-curtains cover only the lower portion of the window, blocking the direct line of sight while letting plenty of light stream in from the top.
Outdoor Spaces (Pergolas & Patios): Use durable, weather-resistant outdoor curtains to add shade, privacy, and a soft, resort-like feel to your outdoor living areas. They look especially stunning when paired with string lights.
Bedrooms (Light Control): For any window type in a bedroom, the priority is often light control. Consider layering any of the above styles with blackout blinds or shades for the ultimate flexibility.
Please visit Curtarra's Gallery to learn more from real cases.
