The Window Design Trend HGTV Star Hilary Farr Does Not Approve Of
Windows allow in natural light, scenic views, and fresh air, which makes them essential in interior design. Designing around a window should add an accent to the room while also framing the detail and the view it shows, which is why Hilary Farr doesn't love the idea of mounting a curtain rod on the window trim rather than from the wall. "That's bad for aesthetics and practical function," Farr told HGTV Magazine (via her website).
Interior designers often seek to make windows appear larger to make them more of a feature, and one way to do that is with trim. The added width around the windows gives them a bigger profile, but installing a curtain rod on the trim would counteract that. Unless windows are already tall or set high in the wall, installing a curtain rod on the trim tends to be too low of a position, which can make windows appear smaller, as well as block the view.
Curtains tend to be held by wall-mount brackets, which require screws and wall anchors to hold it securely. These can leave behind holes that can damage the look of the trim, especially if not removed correctly. Curtain rods are also most secure when installed into drywall, preferably in a stud, rather than molding. The weight of the curtains can rip out the screws from the molding, leaving unsightly damage behind. Holes may have to be patched, or the molding may have to be replaced in extreme circumstances.
Curtains shouldn't block windows
Natural light has tons of benefits in interior design, including enhancing colors and creating an ambiance. Professionals often prioritize letting in as much light as possible so you can see paint, furniture, and other details' true color (though it is possible to have too much natural light, too). As for ambiance, natural light can help a room feel open and airy, which will make it feel larger. All these would be reasons that Hilary Farr would advocate against installing a curtain rod on a window's trim; even putting aside the pragmatic factors mentioned before, you'll block natural light from coming into your home.
When you install a curtain rod on window trim, the curtain can only go as far as the brackets. So, when you push them to the side, even as far as they'll go, the fabric will still be in front of the glass, at least partially. This can block sunlight and affect how much light a room receives, resulting in a dimmer-appearing room, unflattering shadows, and an obscured view of the outside.
While you can use curtain tie-backs to move the fabric from in front of the window, the better option is to hang a curtain rod higher and wider than the window. Farr suggests hanging a curtain rod a minimum of four inches above the window, though other experts agree it can be as much as 12 inches. Similarly, you want the curtain rod to extend about eight to twelve inches beyond the sides of the window.