Decorating small spaces comes with unique challenges. However, with clever solutions, you can create a comfortable and stylish space, regardless of square footage. Regarding window treatments, drapery offers beauty and functionality for compact areas. The right custom drapery can make a tiny room feel open and airy while providing privacy and light filtering. Follow these tips for selecting and hanging drapery to maximize your limited space.
Choosing the Best Fabrics
One of the most important decisions for small space drapery is fabric selection. Lightweight, sheer fabrics give the illusion of openness in a cramped room. Consider breezy voiles, silks, linens, and cotton that allow light through. Choose drapery lined with blackout lining rather than heavy opaque fabrics for rooms needing blackout options. The lighter lining blocks light effectively when closed while still enabling an airy look when open. Neutral solids and small prints help walls visually recede. Avoid bulky jacquards and heavy brocades that overwhelm you.
Exploring Space-Saving Hardware
Specialized compact hardware enables drapery to lie flat against windows and walls, keeping it out of room space. Look for low-profile brackets, super-slim rods, and compact traverse systems for small window installations. Side-mount and ceiling-mount hardware options also save space by eliminating drapery stacking on the floor or furnishings. Consolidate multiple windows onto one narrow track or rod to minimize hardware. Choose hardware that matches the wall or drapery rod color for a streamlined look.
Tailoring Fullness and Length
Full, billowy drapery can easily overpower a small space. Keep the look tailored and slim by limiting fullness to 50% to 100% of the window’s width. Consider smooth, unlined panels hung from discreet rings or grommets for a modern style. Adding crisp pleats also slims the silhouette. Cut the drapery length to just below the window sill for maximum space savings rather than puddling onto the floor. This prevents drapery from encroaching into the room.
Hanging Options For Low Ceilings
Don’t forget to use the often overlooked space above windows and doors. Swag valances, camisole valances, and cascade panels create interest while keeping windows open and visible. Meanwhile, ceiling-mounted tracks and rods allow height adjustments for low ceilings. Hang drapery just under the ceiling line and utilize the area above. Extend panels past the window trim for short windows, and hang high for the look of taller drapery.
Layering and Incorporating Shades
Thoughtfully layer drapery and shades to control light and privacy while maximizing style. Hang sleek Roman or roller shades inside the window frame to block light. Add drapery panels on a separate outer rod purely for aesthetics and softness. The layered look lends dimension and interest while still catering to functional needs. Panel overlays also enable adjustable privacy and light control. With creative layering, you can get the best of both worlds.
Frequently Asked Questions on Drapes for Small Spaces
Limit the fullness of the panels to no more than 100% for a streamlined look. Consider unlined panels without pleats. Also, hang the drapery very close to window frames using compact hardware.
Hang drapery hardware right underneath the ceiling to give the illusion of height. Extend short panels past window frames for a taller look. Also, use ceiling-mounted hardware like swags and tracks to increase interest.
Low-profile rod brackets, super slim rods, compact traverse systems, side mount hardware, ceiling mounts, and consolidated tracks or rods for multiple windows help maximize space.
Decorating with Drapery for Maximum Style
With smart custom drapery design choices, small spaces can feel expansive, airy, and style-filled. Strategic use of sheer fabrics, tailored shaping, space-saving hardware, and layered window treatments allow you to make the most of every inch. For additional ideas and drapery solutions tailored to your unique space, contact the experts at Bloomin’ Blinds. Our experienced design consultants will help you select and customize drapery to enhance your compact areas. Your tiny home can feel spacious and gorgeous with the right window treatments.
