A curtain rod for a window or a whole wall?

Are you at the stage of arranging the windows in your flat? Remember that it's not just the covers that affect the effect you get. It is also important to choose the right curtain rod. Do not underestimate its role, as a well-chosen curtain rod will not only affect the functionality of the window, but also add cosiness to the interior. Wondering whether to install a curtain rod for the window or for the whole wall? How to adjust it to the dimensions of the room? We have the answer!

Window or whole-wall curtain rod - which to choose?

Full-wall curtain rod or perhaps a window-width model? As is often the case in interior design, both solutions have their advantages. Choose the full-wall curtain rod if you want to optically enlarge the interior.

Curtains that cover the entire width of a room will make it appear more spacious than it really is. Curtains hung in this way will also look good in a living room with large windows - they will add an elegant touch and ensure privacy for the household.

On the other hand, in the case of several windows far apart, shorter curtain rails will work better. Also opt for this solution in the case of small rooms where there is not enough space for the entire width of the wall to be taken up by curtains.

How do I choose a curtain rod to match the width of the window?

Choose a curtain rod for the width of the window, taking into account:

• Window frame - measure the width of the window from one edge of the frame to the other. How much should the curtain rod extend beyond the window? Add 20-30 centimetres to the measurement, or 10-15 centimetres on each side. This is because the length of the curtain rod needs to match the curtains or drapes hanging on it. This will ensure that the curtains do not restrict the light coming in, and it will allow you to move them freely from side to side.
• Curtain sizes - check the dimensions of your chosen curtains. Decorated or draped models and curtain rods that are too short are unlikely to make a good combination.
• Curtain rod installation - ceiling track or classic curtain rod? Decide which installation method suits you best and adjust the curtain rod accordingly.
• Additional parts - some types of curtain rod have decorative ends, connectors, brackets and other elements that affect the length of the rod. Take these into account when choosing the right model.

A suitable curtain rod for the whole wall

Choose a curtain rod for the whole wall, taking into account:

• Width of the entire wall - for curtain rods of this type, measure the width of the entire wall, not just the window frame.
• Interior design - a properly selected curtain rod will add elegance to the overall interior design. Don't forget this and match the rod to the style of the curtains, the other furnishings and the colour of the walls. Examples? You can choose a wooden curtain rod for a boho room, and complement a modern living room with minimalist ceiling rails.
• Mounting curtains across the wall or ceiling - consider which way of mounting the curtain rod suits you best. You can either attach the rod to the wall or choose to fix it to the ceiling. The latter solution will make the room appear taller than it really is.
• Additional elements - are you looking for modern curtain rods with original endings? Or maybe you want to install a model decorated with metal rings? Remember that these types of elements affect the width of the curtain rod.

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What else to bear in mind when choosing a curtain rod?

Choosing a curtain rod should not just come down to fitting a model with the right length. When planning its purchase, consider also:

• Curtain rod types - match the material and style of the curtain rod to the curtains you have decided on. Shorter curtains look good paired with a single, space-saving rod. Long, geometrically decorated curtains, on the other hand, will go well with modern curtain rods.
• Mounting system - model to fit ceiling rails, wall-mounted, telescopic: these are just a few of the options you have to choose from when you plan to buy a curtain rod. You can also opt for a variant that allows you to fit caps. Make sure you choose the right fixing system.
• Durability - check that the rod, rings, hooks and other components of the curtain rod are made of durable materials.
• Functionality - remember that while delicate voile curtains mounted on draperies can hang on a lighter rod, not every curtain rod will be able to support heavier curtains. Match your curtain rod type with this in mind too.

For more information, see the article: How to choose a curtain rod for curtains?

Now you know whether to choose a curtain rod for the window or for the whole wall

You already know whether it is better to mount the curtain rod on a window or on the whole wall. Adjust its length to your preferences, as well as the size of the room. The window curtain rod is the most common solution for small interiors, where it is not possible to have the whole wall covered with a curtain. The second option, on the other hand, will work if you have a larger space at your disposal, want to hang long airy curtains or add an elegant touch to the interior.

Using our tips, you will find it easier to arrange the windows in your home. Remember that you don't have to install a curtain rod! Instead, you can use special ropes or choose striking pleats. Other ideas for such arrangements can be found in the article: How to cover a window without a curtain rod. And if you are wondering which window coverings to choose, read our other guide: Are voile curtains still fashionable?