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The Finishing Touch: How To Make Curtains Stand Out, Our Top Tips

Curtain Length Matters

Curtain length is crucial. I always allow at least 2cm extra for the length so that the fabric gently pools on the floor. This creates a generous feel and ensures the curtains hang beautifully. Curtains that sit above the floor tend to look too straight and mean, in my opinion.

The exception is often in a kitchen, where practicality must balance aesthetics. Here, I would usually have the curtains just touching the floor. This allows them to be lifted easily when the floor is mopped, preventing damage to the fabric while still maintaining a tailored look.

Interlining for the luxurious look

We always use a thick bump interlining. This gives curtains body so that they hang properly and look luxurious. For door curtains, interlining also helps reduce draughts, adding both comfort and practicality.
Credit Nile & York

Linings add interest

For French windows or blinds overlooking a terrace, I often specify a striped or contrasting lining. From outside the house, this ensures the curtains look as considered and decorative as they do inside. A stripe, strié or small motif works beautifully in this situation. I often source these from Nile and York or Ian Sanderson.

Pelmets

In a formal setting, we would typically specify a pelmet.

In a more contemporary interior, I prefer a straight box pelmet covered in fabric for a cleaner look.

In a classic scheme, I would shape the pelmet to soften its appearance.  For added interest, we often incorporate contrast piping along the base or a decorative trim such as tassel or gimp, which ties in with the curtains and the room scheme.

In certain situations, particularly bedrooms, a gathered pelmet can look wonderfully soft and romantic.

We have also recently installed a pleated pelmet in the morning room of a Georgian country house, which worked beautifully.

Leading Edges & Trims

We frequently add a braid or contrasting fabric to the leading edge of curtains. This introduces an additional layer of detail. It might be a tassel, flat braid or contrasting coloured fabric. For a more luxurious look, a velvet leading edge works especially well.

A thicker leading edge is also practical, helping protect the main fabric from sun damage. In high-traffic areas – such as entrance halls, boot rooms or garden doors – we sometimes extend the contrast fabric to the base of the curtain  in order to guard against scuffs and everyday wear and tear.

For braids and trimmings, Wemyss, Colefax and Fowler and Lee Jofa are excellent starting points.

Curtain Poles

Curtain poles should always suit the architectural context.

In a country house, I often choose a dark stained walnut pole – substantial in scale (typically at least 50mm in diameter) and finished with a decorative finial such as an acorn or pineapple. The depth of stain and the thickness of the pole add gravitas and sit comfortably within a period setting.

In lighter, more feminine schemes, I would opt for a painted pole to maintain softness.

Headings

We generally prefer pinch pleats. A triple pinch pleat creates a full, generous curtain with a timeless elegance. For a more contemporary interior, a gathered heading can feel softer and more relaxed.

Ultimately, it is this careful layering of detail – length, lining, trims, pelmets, poles and headings that allow curtains to stand out. When thoughtfully designed, they do far more than frame a window; they add depth, softness and quiet luxury to a room.

Photography by Sarah Griggs and David Parmiter