How to Hang Curtains Like a Designer: Common Mistakes and Easy Fixes

By Joyce Kurisko | Pine & Prairie — A Lifestyle Studio

There’s something transformative about a well-dressed window. Curtains aren’t just functional; they soften a room, frame the light, and add the finishing touch that makes a space feel intentional. Yet, even beautiful fabrics can look off if they’re hung incorrectly. As a designer and home stager, I see a few common mistakes that can make windows feel smaller, ceilings lower, or rooms less cohesive than they should.

The good news? Each one is easy to fix.

1. Hanging Curtains Too Low

If your curtain rod is sitting just above the window trim, it’s time for a lift.The golden rule: hang your rod closer to the ceiling — ideally 4–6 inches below the ceiling line or crown molding. This draws the eye upward, visually elongating the walls and making the room feel taller and more elegant.

Think of it as an instant architecture upgrade — no remodel required.

2. Curtains That Are Too Narrow

Curtains should frame the window, not block it. One of the most common mistakes I see is panels that barely cover the glass. When closed, they look tight and skimpy; when open, they hide too much of the window.

The fix: choose panels wide enough that, when fully open, they sit just outside the window frame. A good rule of thumb is to extend your curtain rod 8–12 inches beyond the window on each side. This allows more natural light to pour in and makes your window appear larger.

3. The Puddle Debate: Puddled vs. Floating

Designers love a good curtain puddle — that soft drape of fabric resting on the floor. But it doesn’t work everywhere.

• Puddled curtains (1–3 inches longer than floor length) are elegant in formal spaces but can collect dust or feel heavy in high-traffic rooms.

• Grazing curtains just kiss the floor for a crisp, tailored look.

• Floating curtains (½ inch above the floor) are ideal for modern or minimalist spaces and practical for everyday living.

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For home staging, I typically prefer grazing or floating — they look clean and photograph beautifully.

4. Ignoring Fabric and Texture

Texture tells a story. Linen feels airy and casual, velvet adds depth and formality, and cotton offers classic versatility. When choosing fabrics, think about how they align with your home’s personality.

If your home leans modern farmhouse or nature-inspired (like much of my Pine & Prairie aesthetic), opt for natural fibers in neutral or muted tones that echo the environment — soft greens, warm whites, and earthy taupes.

5. Forgetting the Hardware

Your curtain rod is the jewelry of the room.Choose a finish that complements your space — matte black for contrast, warm brass for elegance, or wood tones to tie in with your flooring and furniture. And don’t skip the finials; they’re small but mighty in completing the look.

6. The Designer Trick: Layering

For depth and dimension, layer sheer panels behind your main drapes. This allows you to filter light beautifully during the day while maintaining privacy. It also adds that custom, designer feel that makes your space look truly finished.

Final Thoughts

Beautiful curtains can transform a room — but only when hung with intention.Measure twice, hang high, and let your design breathe. Whether you’re preparing a home for market or simply refreshing your own space, these small adjustments create a sense of polish and serenity that feels effortless.

At Pine & Prairie, I believe great design starts with attention to the little things — the quiet details that make a home feel balanced, welcoming, and deeply lived in.

Inspired to refresh your space?Contact Joyce Kurisko at joyce@pineandprairie.co for design consultations and staging services across Northwest Iowa.