13 Living Room Curtain Ideas Designers Swear By for Style and Function

Decorative Accessories

If a space calls for something dressy, then simple embellishments go a long way. Unique rods are one example; tie-backs offer a nod to historic designs while remaining affordable.

"These small items [offer] an opportunity to have fun without going overboard," says Madelaine Mayer, founder of ADROIT Architecture & Interior Design. "Styles range from simple, modern cords to more traditional tassels to elaborate gilded age creations. They require minimal commitment, and really offer something for everyone."

Sheer Linens

Sheer linen is a beautiful material and creates a more minimal look.

"It adds a subtle softness and texture that makes a space feel cozy and welcoming, without looking busy," says Ayesha Usman, founder and principal of Ayesha Usman Design. "My choice of fabric depends on the existing elements in the room: If a space already has various patterns and colors, I prefer a neutral solid fabric to maintain balance."

Floor-to-Ceiling Curtains

Drapery styles that envelop a room are perfect for introducing symmetry. "This approach makes a room feel both larger and taller, while effectively concealing awkward corners or architectural imperfections," says Usman. "It also helps to balance non-centered or smaller windows, making them appear more intentional."

For floor-to-ceiling and wall-to-wall curtains, it's important that the fabric just kisses the floor. "Heavy, puddling drapes have seen their day, and nothing looks more like a mistake than a high-water drapery panel that's too short to reach the floor," says Emily LaMarque, owner and principal of Emily LaMarque Design Studio.

Jewel-Toned Drapery

Interior designer Christine Markatos Lowe loves working with deep, jewel-toned drapery. "This kind of treatment can ground a room and introduce depth," she says.

Here, Markatos opted for a geometric print to highlight the shape of the bay window. "The richness of the fabric pairs seamlessly with the surrounding velvets, adding depth and a sense of cohesion to the space," she says. "It brings a more layered, refined quality to the room."

Drapery Across a Solid Wall

Curtains don't have to be for windows. "There's no reason why you can't run drapery in front of a solid wall," Mayer says. "Unconventionally installing drapery panels feels unexpected, and adds a coziness to the room that paint or wallpaper cannot match."

Another bonus? It's faster and easier to install than painting—and can be renter-friendly. "You can even secure hooks to the wall behind the curtains to hang artwork in front of it, or use extra deep rod brackets to create a hidden storage pocket behind them," she adds.

Embroidered Sheer Drapery

Sheer, embroidered drapery can also be used to filter natural light. "It brings a softness to the space, while still allowing the room to feel bright and open, which works beautifully in lighter, more coastal environments," says Markatos.

In this Santa Monica living room, she opted for sheers by Seema Krish to create a diffused glow. "I love how the light subtly reflects onto the Farrow & Ball wallcovering, enhancing its texture in a very understated way."

French Pleats With Trim

Many designers' preferred style for formal living rooms includes long panels.

"Our go-to is a tailored look featuring French pleats and trim down the leading edges," says Liz Williams, founder and principal designer of Liz Williams Interiors. "We find that less formal fabrics, such as cotton and linen, can be dressed up with the right trim." This includes anything from silk tassels to a simple, statement-making tape trim.

Window-Length Panels

If you don't have the room or desire for full-length panels, you can go shorter—but be intentional about how short. Window-length curtains are an acceptable option and can bring in surprising charm.

"They offer the elegance of long panels, while saving space and still providing privacy if needed," Williams says.

Tonal Linen Panels

For timeless appeal, choose a color that is just a half shade off from the wall color. "It makes the curtains feel like a textured architectural element, rather than a bold statement that might feel dated in a few years," says Stephanie Brown, owner and principal designer of Saint Louise Design.

In this Austin home, Brown chose a tonal linen for its soulfulness and heavy drape. "It filters that bright Austin sun into a soft, inviting glow," she says. "To make these budget-friendly finds look like a million bucks, you have to hang them high and long."

Dramatic Patterns

Playful patterns can act as a focal point in more neutral spaces, or introduce a maximalist touch to pattern-laden living rooms. "Look for printed or embroidered panels that incorporate other colors and textures from the rest of the room," Mayer says.

Drapes Flanking Shades

For extra light control and a more layered look, you can pair shades with curtains flanking the sides. "Make sure you use a continuous clutch on your Roman shades for ease of operation, and opt for blackout lining when you need extra darkness," says LaMarque.

Organic, woven materials like bamboo bring in warmth. "Mounted inside the window frame, [it] adds a layer of honest material that balances out more polished furniture," says Brown. "It’s a classic look rooted in nature."

Pinch Pleats

A tailored French double pleat instantly elevates spaces—like this Los Angeles abode designed by LaMarque.

"Pinch pleat draperies look best when they hang from a rod or from hooks, and a simple iron drapery rod with a French return provides a timeless and transitional look that works just about anywhere," she says.

Track-Mounted Curtains

For a more modern look, opt for a ceiling- or track-mounted ripple-fold drape. "It is simpler and more functional, rather than overly heavy or elaborate," LaMarque says.

This style can be seen in interior designer Sarah Tract's project, which frames the view of New York City's skyline. "It's also important to extend the drapery enough on either side so that when the panels are drawn open, they skim the window frame," Mayer says. "This prevents the curtains from blocking light, making the windows appear wider, and, by extension, the room larger and brighter."