When selecting curtains for your home, landing on a fabric type and style is only one part of the battle. You will also need to choose curtain hardware, which by no means should be an afterthought! “Investing in quality hardware and thoughtful design can completely transform your windows and elevate your home’s aesthetic,” says Ayten Nadeau, the founder of i-Ten Designs. “Think of window hardware as the dazzling jewelry that can elevate—or completely transform—your design.”
Below, read on to learn what exactly you will want to keep top of mind as you select the right hardware for your home.
Play to Your Desired Room Style
Not all types of curtain hardware are going to be suited for every design aesthetic. “Choose pieces that resonate with your style,” Nadeau states. “Are you aiming for chic modernity or warm tradition?”
Evaluate your space first and think about how you would characterize your style. From there, you can shop accordingly. “For traditional spaces, consider antique brass or brushed nickel,” suggests Danielle Davis, the founder of 56th Street Design Studio. “Modern interiors often pair well with brass or dark bronze rods.”
Other options to consider for your home include acrylic rods, which Nadeau says “bring elegance without being overly decorative, perfect for minimalist spaces,” as well as wooden rods, which “provide warmth and tradition,” the designer says.
Stay Consistent
Once you find one curtain hardware style you love, why not use it all throughout your home? “Consistency is key; using similar hardware throughout creates a polished, sophisticated look,” Nadeau says.
Keep Durability Top of Mind
Not all curtain hardware is built the same, and you will want to base your choices on the type of material of curtains you’re using. “For heavier fabrics, choose sturdy metal rods that will stand the test of time,” Nadeau instructs. Davis recommends also ensuring that your metal rod features drapery rings. “The rings make moving the drapery back and forth across the rod easier,” she says.
Think About Proper Positioning
Window rods should be positioned six to 12 inches beyond the window frame, Nadeau notes, explaining that this will make a room appear more spacious. Additionally, she recommends placing hardware two inches below the ceiling of a room. This tactic, she says, “gives the curtains room to breathe, making your windows feel grander.”
