Drapery has been a popular window treatment option for ages, offering both style and functionality. One type of drapery that creates a dramatic effect is extra-long drapes that puddle, perfect for living or dining rooms. To choose the right drapery length, consider the following:
First and foremost, your drapes or curtains should cover your window completely, avoiding a low ceiling effect when hung at the top of the window. At the same time, they shouldn’t be too high, leaving a gap between the hem of the drapes and the floor. When selecting your curtain or drape length, consider the following options:
Windowsill curtains – These curtains end at the windowsill, often used as cafe curtains in kitchens.
Apron curtains – Apron curtains fall about four inches below the windowsill and work well in breakfast nooks or areas with radiators.
Floor-length drapes – Floor-length drapes should touch the floor and are ideal for tall windows, emphasizing the ceiling height. For easy cleaning and maintenance, they should be installed 1/2 inch off the floor.
Puddled drapes – Puddled drapes are extra-long drapes that flow onto the floor, creating a dramatic effect perfect for formal spaces. However, they require extra care due to the potential for dust or pet dander accumulation and may not be suitable for high-traffic areas or homes with pets or small children.
Puddled window treatments – Puddled curtains have gone in and out of style over the years but remain a classic option for formal dining rooms, libraries, and living rooms.
Styling puddled drapery – Puddled curtains can be styled in various ways, including breaking delicately against the floor with about an inch of fabric past the floor length, which works best with cotton or linens.
Medium Puddle:
For a medium puddle effect, drapery fabric should extend 2-5 inches beyond the floor length. To style, either gather the pleats together or fan them out on the floor.
True Puddle:
To create a dramatic puddle effect, design your drapes to extend 6-16 inches beyond the floor length. Soft, sheer fabrics like silk and satin work well for puddling, while thicker fabrics may not flow as gracefully.
Should Drapes Pool or Puddle?
Whether you prefer your drapes to pool or puddle depends on the function of the space and your personal style. If you have small children or pets, puddling may not be practical, but for formal entertaining spaces, the dramatic look of puddling drapes can add glamour.
When you’re ready to find custom-length drapes that add elegance and glamour to your home decor, contact Blinds Concept for a free consultation. Our local design experts will visit your home to discuss your needs and preferences and find the perfect window treatments that fit your style and budget.