What Kind Of Curtains Make A Small Living Space Look & Feel More Luxurious

In a smaller space, every inch counts when it comes to adding luxurious details and finishes, and big drapes (think: tall, wide, full, and dramatic) are a no-brainer way to make an impression without sacrificing square footage. A set of well-placed drapes draw the eye upward and outward, transforming the scale of the room and creating the illusion of taller ceilings, wider windows, and a loftier, more open space. So toss those basic, yellowed corded blinds out the window (figuratively) if you're looking to elevate your small living space, and let's pull back the curtain on ... curtains.

"In a small apartment, every piece has to pull its weight, so don't be afraid to go a little extra luxe with each choice. Floor-to-ceiling drapes are a must, especially in a rich color, texture, or pattern, to be sure they make a statement," interior designer Cathryn Lindsey of Cathryn Lindsey Design told Better Homes & Gardens. "Plus, carrying your window treatments to the ceiling makes the entire space feel larger."

When it comes time to hang your drapes, placement is everything. Don't fall into the curtain mistake that makes your room feel smaller. Hang the curtain rod as high as your room allows and aim for the panels to skim the floor. Then, extend the rod at least 4 inches past the window frame on each side or more to make the window feel larger. To enhance the big drape effect with volume and stature, opt for curtains that are two to three times the width of your rod.

There's a delicate balance between choosing drapes that look and feel luxurious while also fitting well into the space. Some specific factors to keep in mind when choosing your statement drapes are color, design, and fabric. For a smaller space, you typically want to avoid anything too dark that can overpower the room and make it feel tighter. However, rich colors like saturated jewel tones and unique patterns that can range from subtle prints to bold florals make your curtains look custom-ordered. As for material, you don't need to shy away from substantial, high-end fabrics like velvet — just make sure they have a soft, fluid drape rather than a stiff, bulky structure. Lightweight linens, cottons, and sheers also work beautifully. But lightweight doesn't have to mean minimal; to create more fullness, consider these tips to successfully layer curtains. 

While big, flowing drapes might scream "too expensive" for many people, this issue of price is actually a misunderstanding. You don't have to spend an arm and a leg to get the custom look you're after. There are plenty of drapes available online with a luxe feel that are just as affordable as more basic window treatment options or go with a budget-friendly curtain alternative that only looks expensive. When you realize how far just $50 can take you in the world of curtains, you will wonder why you ever blocked out light with anything as plebeian as frayed vinyl roller shades.