Curtain Placement: How to Measure, Hang, and Style Curtains for the Best Look

When it comes to curtain placement, the position and sizing of curtains relative to a window frame. Also known as curtain sizing, it's not just about covering glass—it's about creating balance, depth, and a sense of luxury in any room. Too many people hang curtains too narrow and too short, making windows look smaller and rooms feel cramped. The truth? Proper curtain placement can make a 10-foot ceiling feel taller and a tiny window feel grand.

It’s not just about length. curtain width, how much fabric spans the window’s sides matters just as much. Most people use curtains that are only as wide as the window. But experts recommend extending them 8 to 12 inches past each side. Why? It lets light flow in when open and creates a fuller, more intentional look when closed. This isn’t decoration—it’s optical illusion engineering. And then there’s curtain length, how far the fabric hangs from the rod to the floor. Pooling too much fabric looks messy. Too short looks cheap. The sweet spot? Just above the floor, or with a slight break for a softer look. And don’t forget the curtain rod, the hardware that holds the curtains and determines their visual height. Mounting it closer to the ceiling than the window frame makes the room feel bigger. It’s a trick pros use everywhere—from apartments to mansions.

These aren’t random rules. They’re based on how human eyes perceive space. Wrong curtain placement can undo good furniture choices. Right placement turns a basic room into one that feels designed. You’ll find posts here that break down exactly how much extra width to add, how to measure without a tape measure, and why some curtain lengths work better in bedrooms versus living rooms. You’ll also see what happens when you ignore these basics—and how to fix it fast. Whether you’re hanging your first pair or redoing your whole house, the right curtain placement makes everything else look better. Let’s get into the details.