Yes, you should typically hang curtain rods above the window trim rather than through it. Hanging the rod 4 to 6 inches above the trim (or even higher, right below the crown molding) draws the eye upward, making your ceilings feel taller and your windows look grander.
In most applications, hanging the rod approx. 1/3 – 1/2 way between the top of your window trim and your ceiling line (or the bottom of your crown moulding) is a great look. Drapes can also be hung closer to the ceiling line, depending on the height of the ceiling.
For the most designer-approved look, hang your curtain rods 4 to 6 inches above the window frame (or halfway between the top of the window and the ceiling) to create the illusion of height. Extend the rod 4 to 12 inches wider than the frame on both sides so curtains stack clearly off the glass when opened.
If you have crown molding at the ceiling, typically, the best place to hang your curtains is an inch or two below the crown molding. Hanging your curtains high above the window also creates the illusion that you have larger, more dramatic windows and a taller ceiling.
The classiest way to hang curtains is the "high and wide" method: mount your rod close to the ceiling to elongate the room, and extend it 8–12 inches past the window frame on each side. For an upscale, custom finish, use pinch pleat drapes, brass rings, and let the fabric just "kiss" the floor.
Current curtain trends focus on floor-to-ceiling hanging, multi-layered treatments, and ceiling tracks. These methods stretch rooms visually and provide adaptable light control.
Hanging curtains incorrectly can shrink the perceived size of your windows and ceilings. The most common mistakes include mounting curtain rods too low or too narrow, buying curtains that fall short of the floor, using flimsy hardware, and scrimping on fabric volume.
Curtain trends in 2026 are shifting from purely functional covers to architectural statement pieces. The top looks emphasize rich, natural textures, layered depth, warm neutral and earth-toned palettes, and smart home integration to bring quiet luxury and character to interior spaces.
Common curtain rod mistakes usually revolve around incorrect sizing, poor placement, and inadequate hardware, which can make ceilings look shorter and rooms feel cramped.
If you really wanted them I'd put the rod through the flat part of the moulding to keep the design at the top exposed. I'd go with the bar above the trim & drapes just covering the outer edges.
Not necessarily, but placing your curtain rod near or directly on the ceiling is a popular design trick to make windows appear larger and ceilings feel taller. However, depending on your room's proportions, standard wall mounting just inches below the ceiling or window frame may work better.
Hang the Rod High: Mount the rod close to the ceiling or 4-6 inches above the window frame to create an illusion of height. Hang the Rod Wide: Extend the rod 6-10 inches past the frame on each side. This allows the curtains to rest on the wall when open, maximizing light and making the window feel larger.
Curtain rods should extend 6 to 12 inches past the window frame on each side. This specific extension allows you to pull the curtains completely off the glass, maximizing natural light and making your windows appear much larger.
Martha Stewart avoids curtains in her homes because she is an early riser who relies on the morning sun to wake up naturally. She also prefers unobstructed, panoramic views of her outdoor landscapes and uses minimalist shades to protect her furniture and rugs from fading rather than heavy drapery.
Yes, you can hang curtain rods on your window trim. However, drilling into trim can cause irreversible damage and often hides beautiful millwork. If you want to proceed or avoid drilling altogether, follow these established methods.
To instantly modernize your space, skip stiff, overly formal window treatments and cheap "quick-fix" drapes. Designers recommend avoiding grommet headings, bulky valances, and sterile stark white fabrics in favor of warmer palettes, natural textures, and tailored pleats.
Current curtain rod trends prioritize sleek minimalism, matte metallic finishes, and multi-functional designs. Homeowners are ditching bulky, ornate hardware in favor of slim profiles, smart motorized systems, and layered double-rod setups that maximize natural light.
Martha Stewart famously doesn't use traditional curtains in her homes, joking she could write a book titled "A House With No Curtains." Instead of heavy drapery, she prefers clean sightlines and opts for options that maximize natural light.
Exactly how high should you hang your curtains? In most scenarios, it looks best to hang your curtain rod ½ to ⅔ of the distance between the top of your window trim and your ceiling (or crown molding, if you have it).
In 2026, fashion and beauty trends are pivoting away from heavy-handed aesthetics and exaggerated tailoring, favoring sleek, intentional silhouettes. Outdated items are being replaced with streamlined, more polished alternatives.
LUCKY COLOR OF THE YEAR 2026 TRANSFORMATIVE TEAL.
The two most popular curtain hanging styles are Grommet (or Eyelet) and Rod Pocket. Grommet styles provide a modern, uniform wave, while Rod Pocket styles offer a classic, gathered look. Another highly favored option is the Pleated (or Pinch Pleat) style, which offers a tailored, elegant drape.
To make your curtains look high-end, hang them as close to the ceiling as possible and extend the rod at least 6 to 12 inches past the window frame. This creates an illusion of taller ceilings and larger windows. Always buy curtains that are double the width of your window and long enough to "kiss" the floor.
Scandinavians often leave their windows uncovered to maximize natural light during dark winters and foster a cultural sense of equality and community transparency. While blackout shades are used for sleep, decorative and heavy privacy curtains are typically avoided.