How to Choose the Right Curtain Length, According to Interior Designers

Choosing the right curtain lengths is a necessity when you're decorating any room. You need to find curtains that are the appropriate length and size for the window and the space, whether it's a bedroom that needs blackout shades, a living room that calls for dramatic drapery, or a breakfast nook where you want a little privacy.

“There are many factors that should be taken into consideration when determining what's best for a window or series of windows being treated,” says Chris Jovanelly, senior interior designer at Est Est Interior Design. “Ceiling height, window height, architectural details, and specific design intent for the space are all very important considerations when establishing the finished drapery length.”

In this guide, we gathered guidance and tips from Jovanelly and Haley Weidenbaum, the Los Angeles–based interior designer who founded the custom window treatment company Everhem, on how to choose curtain lengths that elevate your space.

How Do You Calculate the Best Curtain Length?

Finding the right curtain length is easy when you take into consideration the height of both your window and ceiling, says Weidenbaum. Start by measuring from the floor to the top of the window and then from the top of the window to the ceiling. (The top of the window to the ceiling is referred to as the available mounting space.)

“Ideally you want to mount [curtains] 10 inches above your window or 3 inches below your ceiling. By placing your hardware high above your window, it will make the room look much taller,” says Weidenbaum. "To determine the length of your curtains, add together the floor to top of window measurement plus mount height desired. Deduct for hardware by measuring the outer diameter of your curtain ring.”

If you don't have 10 inches above your window (or three inches below your ceiling), or just want to consider another option, consider mounting your curtain rod at the middle point between the top of the window and the ceiling, suggests Jovanelly. “If the window is 10 feet high and the ceiling is 12 feet, then that point would be 11 feet,” he says.

Of course, all rooms have their quirks, and there are cases when neither formula works. “If there is a large crown molding or architectural detail like a beam, then this might make me want to reconsider the 11 feet—or it might not, as each situation is unique.”

How Many Inches Should Be on Either Side of the Window for Curtains?

You'll want to measure the width of your window from outside edge or trim to outside edge or trim, says Weidenbaum. To do this, measure the available space on the right and left of your window so you can extend the hardware beyond the width of the window.

“I recommend your hardware extend about eight inches on either side of your window so your drapery has somewhere to 'stack' up when the panels are completely open,” says Weidenbaum.

Yes, curtains are supposed to skim the floor. However, there should not be any excess fabric that pools on the floor. It’s important to take your time when it comes to choosing curtain lengths. If you're still unsure, consult an interior designer or window treatment expert to get personalized advice tailored to your needs. If you know how to sew, and your too-long curtains are not made of a specialty fabric, you may be able to hem them yourself.

 

Should Curtains Be the Same Length as the Window?

No, curtains should fall all the way to the floor. If you opt for half-height café curtains, the curtain should fall to the bottom of the window frame. Full-height curtains should fall 10 inches above your window down to the floor. Curtain length isn't all strictly math, though.

A curtain for a bathroom window is generally smaller than one for a living room or dining area.

“A shorter curtain is considered a café curtain—perfect in the kitchen or bathroom or smaller windows,” says Weidenbaum. "Typically, these types of curtains are mounted in the middle of the window, allowing natural light to pour into your kitchen or bathroom while still offering privacy on the bottom portion.”