When it comes to choosing curtains for your space there are different options for how long curtains need to be. You can make a choice based on the window size, curtain maker, and your budget.
Normally, standard curtains come in four different lengths: 63 inches, 84 inches, 96 inches, or 108 inches.
But you can order curtains can be made to fit your unique size also. This can be done by a seamstress, the company you purchase your curtains from, or done by yourself if you are handy with a sewing machine.
Curtains need to be tailored to the individual needs of the homeowner. For example, if you have a large window, you may want curtains that are longer than average.
When choosing your curtains you will want to take the time to think about the various options for the length of the curtains and how they will fit with the window and your decor.
The most common curtain lengths used in interior design are:
- Sill Length (Apron Length)
- Just Over Sill Length (Cafe Length)
- Floor Length
- Floor to Ceiling
Sill Length Curtains – Cafe Length
These are curtains that are long enough to just come down and touch the window sill. This length of curtain is also called Cafe Length.
Sill length curtains are most commonly used on windows that are from 1.5 to 2.5 meters high, but they can also be used on windows that are taller. They can be hung with a curtain rod attached to the window sill or curtain tracks placed next to the window frame.
There are many reasons why you may want to use sill-length curtains in your interior design. Their main purpose is to provide privacy and block out or filter light from windows, but they can also be used as a way of framing your window.
Just about any room in a house can use sill length curtains when decor goes well with them.
Sill length curtains are often used in some windows that have window seats or windows that have a larger sill.
This length of curtain is also used in informal areas often, such as a kitchen window over a sink or bathroom window.
Just Over Sill Length Curtains – Apron Length
Curtains that go just past the sill are another option for informal areas such as the kitchen or bathroom. This curtain length is also called Apron Length.
Apron length curtains are also especially common when there is a radiator under the window they are being used on.
This length is also common on taller windows that are a bit recessed with a larger sill that might have plants or other objects sitting on them.
Another common option is for tall windows when you don’t want the curtains touching the floor. When using them in this instance you might have to have taller curtains tailored to fit the height that you are looking for.
Using them in this way is a great way to have beautiful billowing curtains in a farmhouse styled living room or even a boho styled one.
Floor Length Curtains
With floor length curtains, they will most likely go from the top of the window and be long enough to reach the floor.
Usually floor length curtains are used in living rooms or dining rooms. They are also popular for those picking out bedroom curtains.
Floor length curtains’ main purpose is to provide privacy when you have large windows, but they can also be used as an elegant way of framing your taller windows and as a bold decorative element in any type of room.
In some cases, depending on the window height you may have to have your curtains tailored to fit your specific height so that they don’t cascade onto the floor if you are not wanting that look.
Often floor length curtains are used in living rooms, dining rooms to help create a more dramatic look.
When used in a bedroom they can create a cozy feel for the room.
They are also commonly used for sliding glass doors or french doors that lead to a patio. These can be a great way to frame a window that looks out on a beautiful flower garden or bbq area.
Floor to Ceiling Curtains
When choosing curtains that go from the floor to the ceiling you can create quite a dramatic effect. They are similar to floor length curtains, only that they go a bit higher right to the ceiling. Usually, a hidden tracking system is installed in order to use this length of curtain.
Floor to ceiling curtains are common in contemporary styled interiors due to their ability to not cause a cluttered look.
This length of curtain works especially well in city apartments that have windows at one end of a room. Or in rooms that are long and narrow.
Floor to ceiling curtains are the perfect way to make your windows look taller and bigger. And they can help make the room feel tall and open.
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