About 20 years ago, someone realized that draperies could be enhanced and beautified with interesting rods, rings, and tiebacks. The window covering industry will never be the same- fortunately! Drapery hardware became a focal point of window dressing.
You can now find drapery rods, curtain rods, rod finials, rings, and tiebacks in a mind-boggling assortment of designs in iron, wood, stainless steel, decorative ceramic, wrought iron, painted or not.
If you've been in the market for draperies or other window treatments, you've already seen that deciding on drapery fabric and styles has just gotten more complicated. You also have to select a decorative drapery rod. And what a difference an interesting rod can make. Check out our tips before you make your selection.
- Coordinate your draperies, drapery hardware, and fabrics so that they look comfortable together. Select thin, light rods for sheer drapery panels. For heavier draperies, find a rod with a larger diameter and choose a bold finial.
- Depending on the style of the room, decide if you want the drapery rod to be a prominent decorative element or if you want it to be hidden behind the draperies.
- The size of drapery rod and accessories you choose will depend on the size of the room, too. For a large room with high ceilings, select wide diameter poles, rods, and rings. For a smaller room, design the window treatments to scale and select smaller, lighter rods.
- Will your draperies remain open most of the time or will they be opened and closed daily? Panels that hang from the sides can be arranged on a basic or decorative pole, either gathered through a rod pocket or hung from decorative rings or with tab tops. If you'll move the panels open and closed, you'll need a draw cord system or clip-on or sew-on decorative rings.
- For an adaptable window covering system, layer the window treatments. If you need privacy or light control, install a blind or shutters next to the glass. If desired, add stationary panels for texture, color, and style.
- Add height to a room by installing drapery hardware well above the window frame, or even up along the ceiling line. The longer fabric panels will add a tall line to the rooms.
- If you've decided on two layers of drapes or curtains, you'll need to install a double rod or use two separate rods. The inner rod closest to the wall will hold the drapery panels while the outer one will hold decorative panels or a valance.
Once you've made all the decisions about the type of window coverage you want and what type of hardware will be best, spend some time considering the style of your decor and what window hardware will enhance that style.
- Traditional, formal, or period rooms will be enhanced with classic wood, gilded, carved, or brass poles. Select a finial with a historical shape such as a basic round shape, a pineapple, or fleur de lis.
- Choose a simple pine or iron pole for a home decorated in a simple country style. A basic pole cap or round finial is all you need for a cozy country home.
- French Country, Tuscan, Spanish, and rustic styles will be highlighted with drapery hardware of rusted ornamental iron, black wrought iron, and rustic metals. Avoid any shiny finishes. Keep things raw and dull.
- Shiny iron, brushed nickel or copper, and chrome rods with metal, iron, or clear or colored glass finials (or no finials at all) really look sleek and neat in a Contemporary style home.
- Cable systems with remote controls have a minimal look, perfect for large, open contemporary space.
You can look at choosing drapery hardware as just another fun part of creating your own look in your home. Every element will enhance the space and reflect your taste. Choose carefully!