Curtain Vs. Window Size

The Golden Rectangle

A good proportion to consider is the "Golden Rectangle." This design guideline states that the sides of a rectangle are aesthetically-pleasing if they are in a ratio of 3-to-5. A window that is 3 feet high will look best if the width is 5 or 2-1/2 feet. A height of 6-1/2 feet is most aesthetically-appealing with a width of 4 or 11 feet. If your window does not fit this guideline, curtains can help by visually creating the correct proportions.

A window that is off-center on the wall can be visually corrected by centering the curtains. If, for example, the window is 2 feet off-center, add 2 feet to the window measurement when calculating the width of the curtain rod. For the installation, center the curtains on the wall, not on the window. The illusion will be that the window is larger by 2 feet and is in the proper position on the wall.

Windows that are too narrow benefit from curtains made wider than the actual window. These curtains should never be opened past the edge of the window frame. How much wider the curtains should be depends on the size of the existing window, the size it should be and how much wall space is available. The Golden Rectangle proportions should guide you in determining how much extra to add without forcing the rectangular shape of the perceived window out of proportion.

Short windows can be visually elongated by using a long valance. A valance, mounted so the bottom hem just covers the top window frame, will create the illusion that the window is much taller. A good proportion for a valance is a minimum of 1/4 of the perceived window height. If, for example, the window is 40 inches high and a more pleasing height would be 50 inches, hang a valance that is a minimum 12 to 14 inches long and mount it 8 to 10 inches above the window frame.

Smaller windows that are short and narrow benefit from both a long valance and drapes. By mounting the valance as high as possible on the wall and increasing the width of the curtains, the window will appear taller and wider.

Curtains mounted inside the window frame draw attention to the size and shape of the window. Unless used in conjunction with an over-curtain, inside mounts are rarely a good choice if the window is out of proportion or off-balance on the wall.

Windows with transoms deserve drapes as striking as the window itself. Curtains for transom windows need to be full and, if stationary, contain enough fabric to create the illusion that they can close.