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What’s the Difference Between Curtains and Drapes?

We’ve all used the terms drapes and curtains interchangeably. Yes, even the professionals at Design 5! The two window treatments are so similar, but they aren’t the same. So what is different enough to consider them separate window coverings? We’ll tell you.

Hunter Douglas Design Studio™ Side Panels and Drapery, curtains, drapes, top treatments near Honolulu, Hawaii (HI)

Fabric Matters

Drapery is generally recognizable by its lenghthier, heavier, more luxe fabric, such as silk or velvet. Design Studio™ Side Panels & Drapery are available in a vast array of fabric options that run the spectrum from ultra-posh to laidback. Another telltale indicator of drapery is the puddle it forms on the floor. The puddle gives an elegant, romantic appearance to formal spaces such as dining rooms, but drapes can also break just above the floor for a less fussy aesthetic.

Curtains are a much more casual window covering and tend to be unlined and provide less privacy than drapes. Curtains certainly can skim the floor, but they look just as spectacular when they break just below the window. Though more casual, you can still get creative with curtains. Try neutral shades of linen for an open, airy space, or a thicker cotton blend for a transitional room.

So, Which Do I Choose?

The easiest way to decide what type of window treatment to use is to consider how you’ll most often use the space. Will you be in the room entertaining primarily in the evening or will the room be used as a daytime gathering spot? The amount of privacy desired, as well as the level of formality will help you determine whether to go with curtains or drapery. Curtains are an excellent solution in rooms where you want abundant natural light and have less concern for privacy.

If you just can’t decide it’s perfectly acceptable to use both curtains and drapes on the same window. Pairing sheer panels with thicker fabrics adds texture and visual interest to the entire area, not just the window. Opting for a window covering duo also gives you more flexibility when it comes to privacy and light control.

Getting the Hang of Things

Once you’ve made your decision, you’re going to want to ensure your new Hunter Douglas drapes or curtains are properly hung. We often see window treatments that are the wrong size and hung far too close to the window frame. Placing the hardware too close to the window frame cuts off the height of your room. You want to place the rod at least six inches above the frame to eight inches to either side. Drapery is meant to be fuller than curtains, but even still, you want curtains to look attractive when pulled back so proper measuring is a must. The ideal fullness is 1.5 times the width of the window for each side panel. This will allow you to pull back all of the fabric for an unhindered view during the day.

Contact Us

At Design 5, we’ve been proudly serving our community for over 20 years, and we love it more each day. Schedule a consultation to chat with us about custom Hunter Douglas window treatments, motorized treatments, and window top treatments. We also offer measuring and installation services as well as free estimates. Our spacious showroom is in Honolulu, HI, and we are happy to serve the entire Island of Oahu, Kahala area, Waialae iki area, and Hawaii kai area.

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