Small Space, Big Impact: Small Space Curtain Ideas

Last Update, March 2025

Hi there! I'm James from Dolcewe.com. I've helped people find perfect curtains for over 10 years. Small rooms need special curtain tricks to look bigger.

Today I'll share my best small space curtain ideas. These tips work in apartments, studios, nook and tiny bedrooms. Our customers use these tricks every day.

Let's turn your small room into a space that feels twice as big!

Key Takeaways

Why Curtains Matter in Small Spaces

The right curtains can make small rooms look bigger. This isn't just pretty - it changes how you feel at home.

Good curtains can:

• Make walls look taller
• Let in more light
• Hide mess without using space
• Create separate areas without walls

Many of our customers live in small homes under 800 square feet. Curtains help them love their space more.

Install Rods Closer to Ceiling

Want to instantly make your small room feel bigger? Here's a pro tip: mount your curtain rods higher! 

The ceiling trick works in every small room. Hang your curtains near the ceiling instead of the window frame. 

Most people make a big mistake with curtain height. They put the rod right above the window.

When you hang curtains higher, your walls look much taller. Your ceiling seems higher too.

Here's how to do it:

1. Measure 4-6 inches above your window frame
2. Mark this spot for your curtain rod
3. Install the rod close to the ceiling if possible
4. Use curtains that touch the floor

This one change can make your room feel a foot taller! It's the easiest way to create more space.

By drawing the eye upward, this technique creates an illusion of height, making your room feel significantly larger. Plus, it allows more natural light to flood in, brightening up your space.

Bonus tip: For an even more dramatic effect, choose curtains with vertical stripes. This combination of high-mounted rods and vertical patterns can make your ceilings appear up to a foot taller!

Remember, at Dolcewe.com, we offer custom-sized curtains starting at just $26.99, perfect for achieving this high-mounted look without breaking the bank. Transform your small space today with this simple yet effective curtain hack!

Check out this image for an example of how hanging curtains closer to the ceiling can make a big impact:

Use Sheer or Lightweight Curtains for Small Spaces

Sheer curtains are your secret weapon for small windows. Sheer fabrics let sunshine fill your room. This makes small spaces feel open and bright.

Heavy curtains can make a room feel smaller. Light curtains do the opposite.

Best curtains for small spaces:

Stay away from dark, heavy curtains in tiny rooms. They make walls feel closer together.

Choose the Right Fabric:

• Opt for ultra-lightweight materials like voile or gauze
• Aim for a fabric weight of 60-80 grams per square meter for maximum light filtration

Maximize Natural Light:

• Hang sheer curtains on tension rods inside the window frame for a clean look
• Use curtain clips instead of rod pockets to reduce fabric bunching at the top

Layer for Functionality:

• Install a double curtain rod system
• Hang sheer curtains on the inner rod and light-blocking curtains on the outer rod
• This allows for privacy at night and light control during the day

Best Colors for Small Space Curtains

Color matters a lot in small spaces. The wrong color can make a room feel tiny.

Light colors make rooms feel bigger. They bounce light around instead of soaking it up.

Good color choices:

• White or off-white
• Light beige
• Pale blue
• Soft gray
• Light yellow

These colors blend with walls. This creates a smooth look that feels bigger.

Skip dark or bright colors in very small spaces. They can make walls feel closer.

Curtain Tips for Small Living Spaces

When decorating small rooms, your curtain choices can make or break the space. Here are some practical tips to help you maximize your compact areas:

Opt for Vertical Patterns

Up-and-down patterns make your walls look much taller. This is an easy way to create more height.

The human eye follows lines. When lines go up and down, your eyes move up.

Good pattern choices:

• Thin stripes (1-2 inches wide)
• Subtle vertical textures
• Small up-and-down designs

These patterns work with the high rod trick to make ceilings feel higher.

Keep It Simple

Stick to lightweight fabrics and solid colors. Avoid heavy materials like velvet or thick brocades.

Instead, opt for cotton, linen, or sheer polyester blends. These lighter fabrics won't overwhelm your space and will allow more natural light to filter through.

Use Muted Colors Strategically

Select curtains in colors that are one or two shades lighter than your wall color.

This creates a seamless look that expands the perceived size of your room. For instance, if your walls are light beige, choose off-white or cream curtains.

Consider Curtain Length

For small spaces, choose floor-length curtains that just touch the floor or hover 1/2 inch above it.

This creates a clean, tailored look without overwhelming the space. Avoid puddle-length curtains in compact rooms as they can make the space feel cluttered.

By implementing these specific curtain tips, you can significantly enhance the perception of space in your small living areas.

Remember, in compact spaces, every inch counts!

Use Curtains as Room Dividers

Do you live in a studio? Curtain dividers can give you separate rooms without walls.

Unlike walls or bookcases, curtains take almost no space. You can open them when you want one big room.

How to create room dividers:

1. Install a Ceiling Track: Use a ceiling-mounted curtain track instead of a traditional rod. This allows for smooth, effortless movement and creates a cleaner look. Install the track 1-2 inches from the ceiling for maximum height illusion.
2. Choose the Right Fabric: Opt for lightweight, flowing fabrics like linen or sheer polyester for an airy feel. These materials allow light to pass through, preventing the space from feeling cramped.
3.  Hang curtains that reach the floor and Pull them shut for privacy or open for more space

Create a Studio Apartment Layout

• Sleeping area: Use floor-to-ceiling curtains to separate your bed from the living space.
• Home office: Partition off a corner with curtains to create a focused work environment.
• Dressing area: Install a U-shaped track around a corner to make a private changing space.

Add Privacy to Shared Bedrooms

In a shared kids' room, use curtains to give each child their own "room within a room." Choose fun, patterned curtains that reflect each child's personality.

Enhance Small Bedrooms

Create a cozy sleeping nook by surrounding your bed with curtains on three sides. This adds a touch of luxury while defining the sleep space.

Maximize Functionality

Choose curtains with thermal or blackout properties to not only divide space but also regulate temperature and light.

Consider Double-Sided Curtains

 For a polished look on both sides, invest in double-sided curtains or sew two complementary fabrics back-to-back.

Add Visual Interest

Use ombré or color-blocked curtains to create a focal point in your room. This adds depth and dimension to your small space.

This works great for making a bedroom area in a studio. It also hides work spaces when friends visit.

Hide Unsightly Walls

Got an eyesore in your small apartment? Don't worry, I've got you covered - literally! Here's how to use curtains to conceal imperfections and create a stunning space:

1. Measure and Plan: First, measure the area you want to cover. Add 6-12 inches on each side for a fuller look.

2. Choose the Right Hardware: Opt for a sturdy, wall-mounted curtain rod that can support heavier fabrics. Install it 4-6 inches above the area you're concealing.

3. Select Appropriate Fabric: For maximum coverage, choose opaque fabrics like velvet or blackout curtains. Light colors can make the space feel larger.

4. Create Visual Interest: Use textured fabrics or subtle patterns to add depth without overwhelming the space.

5. Consider Layering: Combine sheer and opaque curtains for versatility. This allows you to adjust light and privacy as needed.

6. Proper Hanging: Ensure curtains touch the floor for a polished look. For a luxurious feel, allow 1-2 inches of fabric to pool on the floor.

7. Maintenance: Steam or iron curtains regularly to maintain a crisp, clean appearance.

Pro Tip: In a studio apartment, use floor-to-ceiling curtains to create a faux wall, effectively dividing your space into distinct areas.

Remember, at Dolcewe.com, we offer custom-sized curtains starting from just $26.99, perfect for your unique space requirements.

Replace Closet with Curtain

Struggling with a tiny bedroom and no built-in closet? Here's a game-changing solution: ditch those space-hogging closet doors and embrace curtains instead.

This simple switch can free up to 10 square feet of precious floor space!

How to Implement:

1. Measure your closet opening and add 4-6 inches on each side for fullness.
2. Install a tension rod, adhesive track or ceiling-mounted track 1-2 inches from the ceiling.
3. Choose curtains that are 1-2 inches longer than the floor for a polished look.

Fabric Selection Tips:

• Opt for lightweight, flowing fabrics like polyester blends or cotton voile.
• Choose colors that match your walls to create a seamless look.
• Consider blackout curtains for extra privacy and light control.

Pro Tip: Use curtain tiebacks or holdbacks to easily access your belongings during the day while maintaining a tidy appearance.

Styling Ideas:

• Minimalist: Choose solid white or beige curtains for a clean, airy feel.
• Boho Chic: Try macramé or linen curtains with subtle patterns.
• Glamorous: Go for velvet curtains in rich jewel tones.

Maintenance: Vacuum curtains weekly and wash them every 3-6 months to keep them fresh.

Hide Untidy Open Storage

Open storage in small spaces can quickly become an eyesore. Here's how to use curtains effectively to conceal clutter and enhance your room's appeal:

1. Install a curtain rod: Mount a rod 4-6 inches above your open shelving unit. For a seamless look, choose a rod color that matches your walls.

2. Choose the right curtains:

   • Opt for curtains that are 1.5 times the width of your shelving for a full, luxurious appearance.
   • Select fabrics that complement your room's color scheme. Light colors like beige or pale gray can make the space feel larger.
   • Consider blackout curtains for complete concealment, or sheer fabrics if you want to maintain some visibility.

3. Maximize functionality: Use tension rods to create easily accessible sections within your shelving unit. This allows you to open only part of the curtain when needed.

4. Create visual interest: Use patterned curtains strategically. Vertical stripes can make your ceiling appear higher, while small, subtle patterns add texture without overwhelming the space.

5. Maintain organization: Even with curtains, keep your shelves tidy. Use baskets or boxes to group similar items, making it easier to find what you need.

6. Double-duty design: Choose curtains with a thermal lining to improve your room's insulation, especially if the shelving is near a window.

By implementing these specific strategies, you can transform cluttered open storage into a stylish, organized feature that enhances your small space's overall design and functionality.

Floor-Length Curtains Create Height

The right curtain length makes a big difference. Long curtains make your room look taller.

Always choose curtains that reach the floor in small spaces. Short curtains cut your wall in half.

How to get the right length:

• Measure from rod to floor
• Take away 1⁄2 inch so curtains don't drag
• For a fancy look, add 1-2 inches to pool on floor
• For a clean look, make curtains just touch the floor

At Dolcewe.com, we make custom lengths for any window. Your curtains will fit perfectly.

Our Custom Curtain Service

At Dolcewe.com, we make curtains to fit your exact space. This matters in small rooms.

Custom sizes ensure perfect fit. No more too-long or too-short curtains.

Our process is simple:

1. Measure your space
2. Choose your fabric and style
3. Order online 
4. We make curtains to your size
5. Hang them up and enjoy!

Our prices start at $26.99. We've helped thousands of customers with small spaces.

Ready to Transform Your Small Space?

Small rooms can feel big with the right curtains. The tricks in this guide really work.

Start with one change today. Hang your curtains higher or switch to lighter fabrics.

Visit Dolcewe.com to see all your custom curtains options. We're here to help make your small space look amazing!

What curtain trick will you try first? Let me know in the comments below!

FAQ

Q: How do I make a small space appear larger with curtains?

A: One effective way to make a small space appear larger is by installing curtain rods closer to the ceiling. This vertical extension draws the eyes upward and creates the illusion of height, making the room feel more spacious. Additionally, this trick allows the curtains to hang without obstructing natural light, giving the room an open and airy feel.

Q: What type of curtains should I use for small windows?

A: Sheer curtains are a great choice for small windows as they allow light to pass through while still providing privacy. The lightweight fabric creates a soft and subtle look, making the room feel brighter and more open. Sheer curtains also add a touch of elegance to small spaces without overwhelming the limited square footage.

Q: How can I create the illusion of height in a small room with curtains?

A: When selecting curtain patterns, opt for vertical designs to create the illusion of height in small spaces. Stripes, vertical lines, or patterns that elongate the curtains will visually expand the room, making it feel more spacious. Vertical patterns also add visual interest and personality to the space while enhancing the overall aesthetic.

Q: What kind of curtain design is best for small spaces?

A: In small spaces, it's best to keep the curtain design simple and minimalistic. Avoid heavy drapes or overly embellished curtains that can overpower the room. Opt for clean lines, solid colors, or subtle textures to maintain a visually balanced and uncluttered look. Simple curtain designs also make the space feel more cohesive and streamlined.

Q: How can I use curtains as room dividers in a small apartment?

A: In small apartments or studio spaces, using curtains as room dividers is a practical and versatile solution. By hanging curtains to separate different areas, you can create the illusion of separate rooms while maintaining an open and airy feel. Choose curtains in coordinating colors or patterns to tie the space together and add a touch of style.

Q: Can curtains help hide unsightly walls or architectural features in a small space?

A: If your small space has unsightly walls or architectural features you want to conceal, curtains can come to the rescue. Hang curtains strategically to cover up flaws or visually expand the wall space. This not only enhances the overall aesthetics but also creates a distraction-free environment, making the room feel more inviting and cohesive.

Q: How can I save space in a small bedroom with curtains?

A: In small bedrooms without built-in closets, replacing traditional closet doors with curtains can save valuable space. By using curtains instead of doors, you eliminate the need for swing clearance, allowing for more efficient use of the available space. Choose curtains that complement the room's decor and provide easy access to your belongings.

Q: Can curtains help hide untidy open storage in a small living room or kitchen?

A: If you have open storage or shelving in a small living room or kitchen, use curtains to conceal any untidy or cluttered items. By adding curtain panels that match your decor, you create a clean and organized look while maintaining easy access to your belongings. This practical solution keeps your small space looking neat and visually appealing.

Q: How can floor-length curtains make a small space feel larger?

A: To create an illusion of height and make your small space feel larger, opt for floor-length curtains. The long curtains draw the eyes upward, making the room appear taller and more spacious. Choose lightweight fabrics that gently skim the floor to maintain a sleek and unobtrusive look. Floor-length curtains also add an elegant touch to any small space.

Q: What kind of curtain patterns or colors work best in small spaces?

A: When selecting curtain patterns or colors, opt for muted tones or subtle patterns in small spaces. This helps create a cohesive and harmonious look without overwhelming the limited area. Soft colors and subtle patterns blend seamlessly into the overall design, making the space feel serene and inviting.