How to Choose Curtain Length | Detailed Explanation

When selecting curtains for your home, one of the most important considerations is how to choose curtain length. Curtain length impacts both aesthetics and function, so take the time to evaluate your needs and options to find the ideal size. Here are some tips on how to determine the best curtain length for your space.

 

Assess the Room

The first step about how to choose curtain length is assessing the room you want to install them in. Take measurements of the height and width of the windows, as well as the height of the ceiling and any architectural details around the windows that could impact length. Also, consider the room's functions - is it a bedroom, living room, or office? How much light control is needed? These factors will inform your curtain length selection.

 

Common Lengths

There are several standard curtain lengths to choose from:

 

• Sill length: These only cover the window sill, providing some light filtering while still allowing you to see outside.

 

• Apron length: Apron-length curtains extend from just below the ceiling to just above the window sill, framing out the window area. Homerilla's Lille Linen Pinch Pleat Drape with Blackout Liningcan be customized to an apron length.

 

• Floor length: As the name suggests, floor-length curtains extend all the way from the ceiling to the floor. The VOL Velvet Drapery Pleatfrom Homerilla comes in a standard floor length size.

 

 

Consider Your Needs

When deciding about how to choose curtain length, think about both aesthetic appeal and functional needs:

 

• Do you need full light blocking? If so, floor length is likely the best option. Homerilla's Blackout Curtainsfully block light gaps at the upper and lower edges.

 

• Does the window sit close to the floor or extend near the ceiling? Adjust the length as needed to provide full coverage.

 

• Do you want to highlight architectural details? Avoid covering niches, mouldings or other accents with overly long curtains.

 

• Are you looking to elongate your window? Extending curtains past the window frames on both the bottom and top can make windows appear taller.

 

• Is easy cleaning important? Puddled curtains that extend onto the floor will likely need professional cleaning more frequently. Consider sill length for easier care.

 

Match Window Treatments

For a cohesive look, match all the window treatments in a room. The LIN Liz Linen, VOL Velvet, and Hemp Linen curtain collections from Homerilla all come in standardized lengths across the product line so you can seamlessly match your aesthetic.

 

Consider Ceiling Height

Room ceiling height should factor into your calculations for optimal curtain length as well. Here are some guidelines:

 

• Standard ceiling height (8 feet): Apron or sill length typically works well

 

• High ceilings (9+ feet): Longer floor-length curtains help anchor the windows without appearing oddly undersized.

 

• Low ceiling height (<8 feet): Keep curtain length on the shorter side to avoid overwhelming the room. Stick to the sill or below lengths.

 

Adjust for Furniture

Be sure to take into account any furniture placement around your windows when determining length. You generally want curtains to just brush the floor or furniture below. This creates cleaner sight lines that don’t cut off unnaturally above furniture tops. Measure the distance from the mounting point to the floor, taking into account any furniture below.

 

 

Incorporate Layers

Consider using layered window treatments of varying lengths to create depth and interest. For example, hang flat linen or velvet curtains at a floor length from ceiling-mounted rods. Then, add a second sheer curtain in a sill length. This provides both full light control and elegant shaping of the window area.

 

Conclusion

By taking all of these factors into account, you can determine how to choose curtain length for both form and function in your unique space. Consider consulting with an expert designer if you need assistance taking exact measurements and assessing options. With the right curtain lengths tailored to your room, you can transform the look and feel of your home.