The Drapery Trick That Makes Your Windows Look Bigger (and Your Rooms Taller)

When it comes to making a space feel open, airy, and elevated, few things work harder than well-placed drapery. But here’s the secret—it’s not just about the drapes. It’s how you hang them that makes all the difference.

Let’s talk about how to use drapes not as window coverings, but as framing tools to enhance your windows and elevate your room.

✨ It’s About Framing, Not Covering

Drapes don’t have to block out light or hide your view. In fact, I rarely use them as the main window covering at all. For privacy or light control, I recommend simple roller shades or blinds. Drapes are where we get to play with softness, height, and visual texture and warmth in the room.

Use them to highlight your windows—not hide them.

📏 Hanging Tips That Make a Big Impact

Here’s how I like to hang drapes for that tailored, airy feel:

• Hang them high – Mount your rod as close to the ceiling as possible, not just above the window frame. This draws the eye upward and creates the illusion of more height.

• Go wide – Your drapes should hang mostly outside the window frame, not covering it. This lets all the natural light in and makes your window feel grander.

• Let them kiss the floor – Not too short, not overly puddled. Just grazing the floor gives a clean, elegant look.

This combo—high and wide—is a simple visual trick that transforms how big your windows (and your room) feel.

🎨 What Color Should I Choose?

You can absolutely go bold with drapery color if the room calls for it. But if you're looking for a foolproof, classic approach?

Go with white or cream in a soft, natural fabric—like a linen or cotton blend—that blends with your wall color. This keeps the focus on the light, keeps the room feeling open, and works with nearly every style.

Darker or bold-colored drapes can work beautifully when thoughtfully chosen—but they tend to draw attention and visually divide a space. If you're unsure, light and neutral is always a safe and sophisticated option.

🖤 Don’t Forget the Hardware

The rod matters just as much as the drapes themselves. Look for a solid, substantial rod—at least 1.5 inches in diameter—to create a polished, grounded look. Thin, flimsy rods can cheapen the effect and visually sag over time, especially with longer panels.

Good news? You don’t have to spend a fortune. There are some fantastic linen-blend drapery panels and solid rods available on Amazon that look high-end but are totally budget-friendly. With the right choices, you can transform your windows without blowing your budget.

Window treatments can be intimidating—but they don’t have to be. Stick with clean roller shades for functionality, and use drapes to add softness and style. With a few placement tricks, you’ll make your windows feel larger, your ceilings higher, and your space more serene.

How to Make Your Home Irresistible to Buyers: Simple Staging Tips That Work

According to industry experts like RESA and NAR, professionally staged homes can sell up to 73% faster and for as much as 10% more than un-staged ones. And the good news is, you can apply many of the same strategies on your own with just a little effort and a fresh set of eyes.

Whether you’re preparing to sell or just want your home to feel more spacious and inviting, these home staging tips will help highlight your home’s best features—and make buyers fall in love.

1. You're Selling Space, Not Stuff

One of the biggest goals of staging is to make your home feel open and spacious. You're not just selling rooms—you're selling square footage. That means editing your furniture and removing anything that makes a room feel small or cramped.

• In your living room, consider removing a bulky armchair or oversized coffee table.

• In the bedrooms, clear out extra dressers or storage bins that eat up floor space.

Less furniture = more perceived space.

2. Clear Those Countertops

Your kitchen and bathroom counters should feel clean, open, and generous. Buyers need to see the available workspace, not your coffee grinder, toaster, or hand soap collection.

• Remove everything but one or two decorative items (a bowl of apples or a pretty plant works great).

• Tuck away daily-use items in a basket under the sink or in a cabinet.

• Leave just one or two high-end appliances on the counter—like your gourmet espresso maker.

This applies throughout the house: less is more on any flat surface.

3. Let the Light In

Natural light sells. Period.

• Open all window shades fully before every showing.

• If you have curtains, ask yourself: do they block light or distract from the view? If so, consider taking them down altogether—especially if your home overlooks an amazing Homer view.

The goal is to make your home feel bright, airy, and connected to the outdoors.

4. Depersonalize (But Don't Sterilize)

Buyers need to see themselves living in your home—not be reminded that it's yours.

• Pack away family photos, collections, and anything very taste-specific.

• Instead, stick to neutral, minimal decor that lets the home shine.

We’re aiming for warm and welcoming—but neutral enough that anyone can imagine their own story unfolding here.

5. Tidy Up Your Hobbies

We love that you quilt, bead, puzzle or build models—but during the listing period, it’s best to pack up hobby projects that take over a whole table or room. This helps buyers see the full potential of every space.

Bonus Tip: Showcase Each Room’s Purpose

Make sure every room and area in your home has a clear, defined purpose. A spare bedroom that’s part office, part storage can confuse buyers. Instead, stage it simply—as a guest room, home office or exercise room. Even an upstairs landing or loft can become a cozy reading nook or a spot for a game table. Pick one purpose and style it with intention.

At Storied Interiors, we believe that great staging tells a story—one where buyers can see themselves stepping in and feeling at home.

Want help making your home market-ready? We offer one-on-one consultations and full-service staging tailored to your space and story.

~ Tiffanie