The Ultimate Guide to Curtains for Vaulted Ceilings

Hi there! I'm James, owner of Dolcewe.com. We've been making custom curtains for over 10 years.

Today, I want to talk about curtains for vaulted ceilings.These high, sloped ceilings can be tricky to decorate.

But don't worry - I'm here to help!

Key Takeaways

What are Vaulted Ceilings?

Vaulted ceilings are high ceilings that slope upward. They make rooms feel bigger and brighter.

But they can be hard to decorate.

Benefits of vaulted ceilings

• Make rooms feel more open

• Let in more natural light

• Add style to a room

Challenges with vaulted ceilings

• Hard to reach for cleaning

• Can make a room feel cold

• Tricky to hang curtains

But don't worry! There are lots of great curtain options for vaulted ceilings. Let's look at some of them.

Types of Curtains for Vaulted Ceilings

Extra-Long Drapes

Extra-long drapes are a classic and elegant option for vaulted ceilings. They create a dramatic, luxurious look that emphasizes the height of your space.

Common sizes for extra-long drapes:

• 96 inches: Suitable for 8-foot ceilings
• 108 inches: Ideal for 9-foot ceilings
• 120 inches: Perfect for 10-foot ceilings or higher

At Dolcewe.com, we offer custom sizes to fit any ceiling height, starting from just $26.99 per panel.

Key considerations:

• Choose lightweight fabrics like linen or silk for easier hanging and movement

• Heavier fabrics like velvet can add warmth and coziness to large spaces

• Consider motorized options for easy opening and closing of tall curtains

Pro tip: Measure from your curtain rod to the floor, then add 2-3 inches for a perfect kiss with the floor. For a more dramatic look, add 6-8 inches for elegant puddling.

Sheer Curtains

Sheer curtains are an excellent choice for vaulted ceilings, offering a soft, airy feel while still providing some privacy.

Benefits:

• Filter harsh sunlight without blocking views

• Create a light, breezy atmosphere

• Can be layered with blackout curtains for versatility

Choose double-width sheers for extra fullness and a more luxurious look. This also allows for better light diffusion and privacy.

Cafe Curtains

While not typically associated with vaulted ceilings, cafe curtains can be a unique and practical solution for the lower portions of tall windows.

Advantages:

• Provide privacy at eye level while letting in light from above

• Create a cozy, intimate atmosphere in large spaces

• Can be paired with valances or cornices for a complete look

Use cafe curtains on the lower third of your windows and complement them with a valance or cornice at the top to draw the eye upward and emphasize ceiling height.

Custom-Made Curtains

For the perfect fit and style, custom-made curtains are often the best choice for vaulted ceilings.

Why choose custom:

• Exact measurements ensure a perfect fit for unusual window shapes

• Wide range of fabric and style options to match your decor

• Professional installation often included

Customer benefit: At Dolcewe.com, we offer custom curtains starting at just $26.99, with free shipping on orders over $199.

Plus, get an extra 10% off with Code: Welcome10

Related article: High Ceiling Window Treatment Ideas

Fabric Considerations for High Ceilings

Light Filtering Needs

When choosing fabrics for high ceiling windows, light control is crucial. The amount of natural light entering your space can significantly impact the room's ambiance and functionality.

Key considerations:

• Sheer fabrics allow maximum light while providing minimal privacy

• Light-filtering fabrics soften sunlight and offer some privacy

• Room-darkening fabrics block most light and provide excellent privacy

Actionable tips:

1. Layer different fabric opacities for versatility. Use sheer curtains with heavier drapes for adjustable light control.

2. Consider motorized options for easy adjustment of high, hard-to-reach curtains.

3. Use light-filtering fabrics in living areas to reduce glare without sacrificing natural light.

4. Opt for room-darkening fabrics in bedrooms or media rooms for better sleep and viewing experiences.

At Dolcewe.com, we offer custom-made curtains in various opacities, starting at just $26.99.

You can easily mix and match to create the perfect light-filtering solution for your high-ceiling windows.

Aesthetics and Room Style

The right fabric can enhance your room's style and create a cohesive look that complements your high ceilings.

Style considerations:

• Texture: Adds depth and interest to large window spaces

• Color: Can make ceilings appear higher or lower

• Pattern: Draws the eye upward and accentuates height

Actionable suggestions:

1. For modern spaces, choose sleek fabrics like linen or cotton in solid colors or subtle patterns.

2. In traditional rooms, opt for heavier fabrics like velvet or brocade with classic patterns.

3. Use vertical stripes to emphasize ceiling height and make the room feel taller.

4. Choose fabrics that complement your existing decor, such as matching curtain colors to accent pieces in the room.

Design tip: Large-scale patterns work well in rooms with high ceilings, as they don't get lost in the expansive space. 

Curtain Hanging Techniques for Vaulted Ceilings

Standard Curtain Rods with Extensions

Standard curtain rods can be adapted for vaulted ceilings using extensions. This technique allows you to maintain a consistent look while accommodating the unique angles of your ceiling.

Key considerations:

• Choose rods with adjustable lengths to fit your specific window dimensions

• Look for sturdy materials like wrought iron or steel to prevent sagging

• Use multiple brackets for added support, especially for longer windows

Measure the longest part of your window and add 8-12 inches on each side to ensure full coverage when curtains are open. 

Double Curtain Rods for Layering

Double curtain rods are an excellent choice for vaulted ceilings, allowing you to layer different curtain types for both style and functionality.

Benefits:

• Combine sheer and blackout curtains for versatile light control

• Create depth and visual interest in your space

• Enhance insulation properties with multiple layers

Actionable suggestion: Install a double rod with the back rod slightly higher than the front. This creates a cascading effect that draws the eye upward, emphasizing your vaulted ceiling's height.

Curved Rods to Follow Ceiling Arch

For a truly custom look, curved curtain rods can be designed to follow the exact arch of your vaulted ceiling.

Advantages:

• Creates a seamless, built-in appearance

• Maximizes window coverage for better light control and privacy

• Adds a unique architectural element to your room

Design tip: Consider using flexible curtain tracks that can be bent to match your ceiling's curve. These can be easily installed and allow for smooth curtain operation along the entire length.

Track Systems for Smooth Operation

Track systems offer a modern, streamlined solution for hanging curtains on vaulted ceilings.

Key features:

• Allows for effortless opening and closing, even on tall windows

• Can be motorized for convenient operation

• Provides a clean, minimalist look

Proper Curtain Length and Fullness

Achieving the right curtain length and fullness is crucial for a polished look with vaulted ceilings.

Guidelines:

• For a classic look, curtains should just touch the floor

• For added drama, allow 1-2 inches of fabric to puddle on the floor

• Aim for 2-2.5 times the width of your window for proper fullness

Measure from your curtain rod to the floor at multiple points along your vaulted ceiling to ensure even length across all panels.

Mounting Height Considerations

The mounting height of your curtain rods can significantly impact the perceived height of your vaulted ceiling.

Options:

1. Higher placement: Mount rods 4-6 inches below the ceiling or crown molding to emphasize height

2. Standard placement: Install rods 4-6 inches above the window frame for a traditional look

Expert advice: For extremely high ceilings, consider hanging curtains halfway between the top of the window and the ceiling to create a balanced look.

Stacking Considerations for Open Curtains

Proper stacking space ensures your curtains look great whether open or closed.

Best practices:

• Allow 1/3 of the rod's length on each side for stacking when curtains are open

• Use tie-backs or holdbacks to create a neat, gathered look when curtains are open

• Consider traversing rods for smooth, even stacking

Choose curtain fabrics that hold their shape well when stacked, such as linen or heavyweight cotton blends, available at Dolcewe.com in a variety of colors and patterns.

Design Tips for Vaulted Ceiling Curtains

Creating Visual Balance

When designing curtains for vaulted ceilings, achieving visual balance is crucial. The goal is to complement the room's architecture while avoiding an overwhelming or cluttered look.

Actionable tips:

• Use symmetry in your curtain placement to create a sense of order

• Balance heavy curtains with lighter furnishings or vice versa

• Consider installing curtains on both the lower and upper windows for a cohesive look

Pro tip: For extremely high ceilings, consider a two-tiered curtain approach. Use heavier curtains on the lower level and sheers on the upper level to maintain balance while allowing natural light.

Color and Pattern Selection

The right color and pattern choices can dramatically impact the perception of your vaulted ceiling space.

Dark vs. Light Colors:

• Dark colors can make high ceilings feel lower and more intimate

• Light colors like white emphasize height and create an airy atmosphere

Using Vertical Stripes:

• Vertical stripes draw the eye upward, accentuating ceiling height

• Opt for thin stripes for a subtle effect or bold stripes for drama

Choosing Pattern Scale:

• Large-scale patterns work well in rooms with high ceilings

• Avoid small, busy patterns that can get lost in the expanse

Adding Drama with Accessories

Enhance your vaulted ceiling curtains with carefully chosen accessories to add visual interest and functionality.

Tiebacks:

• Use decorative tiebacks to create elegant swoops in your curtains

• Position tiebacks at varying heights to add dimension

Swags:

• Incorporate swags to soften the lines of your vaulted ceiling

• Use contrasting fabrics for swags to create a layered look

Finials:

• Choose oversized finials to complement the scale of high ceilings

• Opt for metallic finishes to add a touch of glamour

Design tip: Mix and match accessories to create a unique look. For example, pair ornate tiebacks with simple rod finials for an eclectic style.

Enhancing Room Aesthetics

Your curtain choice should complement and enhance the overall aesthetics of your room with vaulted ceilings.

Actionable suggestions:

• Coordinate curtain colors with existing decor elements

• Use curtains to introduce texture into the space (e.g., velvet for luxury, linen for casual elegance)

• Consider layering curtains for added depth and interest

Expert advice: For a cohesive look, choose curtain hardware that matches other metal finishes in the room, such as light fixtures or door handles.

Addressing Practical Concerns

While aesthetics are important, don't forget to consider practical aspects when choosing curtains for vaulted ceilings.

Light Control:

• Use blackout lining for bedrooms or media rooms

• Consider motorized options for hard-to-reach high windows

Insulation:

• Choose heavy fabrics like velvet or thermal lining for better temperature control

• Use double-rod systems to layer sheer and heavy curtains for versatility

Maintenance:

• Opt for easy-care fabrics for high, hard-to-reach curtains

• Consider professional cleaning services for very tall curtains

At Dolcewe.com, we offer a range of functional curtain options, including blackout and thermal-lined curtains, starting at just $26.99.

Our expert team can help you choose the best option for your specific needs.

Shop for Vaulted Ceiling Curtains at Dolcewe

At Dolcewe.com, we have lots of curtains for vaulted ceilings. Here's what we offer:

• Many styles, fabrics, colors, and patterns
• Custom sizes to fit any window
• Prices start at just $26.99
• Free shipping on orders over $199
• 10% off when you sign up

Our most popular curtains for vaulted ceilings:

1. Extra-long linen curtains
2. Custom-sized blackout curtains
3. Sheer voile panels
4. Motorized curtains for high windows

We're here to help you find the perfect custom curtains for your vaulted ceilings. Just let us know what you need!