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Design Dilemma Windows Home Decorating

Curtain rods for ceiling high windows

4 years ago

My ‘problem’ is that I have these lovely big windows that start right at the ceiling - just below the molding: picture attached. Where should I install the curtain rods? It’s a dilemma because even if they are just below the molding, they will still cover the window frame, which would quite a pity. Are curtains just not meant for this situation and should I consider horizontal blinds instead?

Featured Answer

Sonia

4 years ago

My bay window is right up to the ceiling, but I was able to squeeze in a strong white metal curtain rail. It is very discreet and because the window frames are white it is barely visible. You could always try a roller blind. I think a Roman blind may block out some of the light, although I do really like them.

The rail was from a local curtain shop and they have a much better range of rails than Dunelm and John Lewis etc. I just popped in for advice and they were really helpful. A 12ft metal rail for a square bay window, with open/close pulley system and fitting was £220. Here it is, please excuse the poor quality picture!

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Comments (15)

E D
4 years ago
Yes, possibly consider venetian (horizontal) blinds.

Although curtains can provide nice ‘warm’ texture, you can probably create that with other elements in the room.

Is your house in the Netherlands by any chance?
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rinked
4 years ago
I'd suggest top down blinds (cellular or roller), as it looks like you don't really need to cover the top half. And if it's not a bedroom, there's no need for blackout either.
neetim
Original Author
4 years ago
@ED yes it is. How could you tell?
Victoria
4 years ago
The rooflines and tiles give it away.
E D
4 years ago
last modified: 4 years ago
A combination of things.

Yes, mainly from the buildings across the street, but also the window and windowsill (de vensterbank), the radiator and the contemporary chairs.

:-)
PRO
Emma Kewley at Interior Folk
4 years ago
Looking at the downlights position, they are in the perfect position to light a lovely pair of curtains! You can fix a curtain pole to the ceiling, I can picture a black pole with some beautiful wool curtains stacking to the sides of the windows.
rinked
4 years ago
Does indeed look like a dutch home, ED ;) (er is zo'n wijk hier vlak achter)
PRO
The Design Webb
4 years ago
Hi, curtains are meant in some degree to cover the window frame so that all the glass is covered otherwise there would be light exposure above the curtains when closed. It’s not very clear from the picture if the windows open inwards as this would affect the choices you have regards blinds etc.

if a discreet top fix track is used, you can still expose the window frame when the curtains are open.
rinked
4 years ago
We've installed roller blinds (because our windows are too wide for affordable top down blinds) inside the frame:

And only close the one at the front in the evening, the back one is always open like this.
Angie
4 years ago
Our curtains hang from a rail on the ceiling. Works perfectly.
Angie
4 years ago
And with curtains closed. They go to the floor btw.
Angie
4 years ago
And on the other window we went with a Roman blind.
PRO
Make My Blinds
4 years ago
Blinds would be the better option and would help the room feel more spacious. Wooden venetian blinds are good for controlling the light effectively, and would suit that window perfectly. You could also go for roman blinds, or if you're looking to block out as much light as possible, a blackout roller blind. You can always order blind samples to see for yourself and decide which blinds you like best.

https://www.makemyblinds.co.uk/wooden-blinds/

https://www.makemyblinds.co.uk/roman-blinds/

https://www.makemyblinds.co.uk/blackout-blinds/blackout-roller-blinds/
arc3d
4 years ago
Hi Neetim,

I would suggest have both curtains and roller blind. The curtains would just be attached to the wall and not be used for covering the window i.e. "faux" curtains either side. That way you will have the warmth of the curtain texture and the practicality of the roller blind. Your window frame would be completely exposed.

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