Lucinda's Interiors

Draperies are getting longer. One of the best ways to add height to a room is to place window treatments just below the ceiling line. Use this designer trick in any room that could use a lift.

Window draperies that stop short of the floor can look like they are floating. Instead, make sure the fabric "breaks" just slightly. Be sure to add just a bit of extra length if the drapes will be drawn back as shown here, since this tends to lift the fabric off the floor.

Wide stripes are a big trend that's easy to duplicate. Simply divide the panel's length in thirds and sew on bands of coordinating fabric. Some windows will look best if the bands start and stop so they line up with existing window features like sills or muntins. This style can also be used to lengthen drapery panels or to tie existing treatments into a new room scheme.

Most window treatments now sport a sleeker look with clean lines. Roman shades are a popular way to include the color and softness of fabric, yet still maintain a tailored look.

Jazz up a monochromatic room with two-tone drapes. These use a heavier weight (but lighter colored) fabric for the top 15 inches and a sheer, lightweight panel below it that falls to the floor. A flounced-style header will give the same pretty two-tone effect.

Contrasting fabric borders add definition to the plainest of drapery panels. While adding color, borders can also be used to call attention to the room's best features. Here, a fireplace is framed with curtain panels bordered in blue.

Multiple windows in a room don't necessarily require matching treatments. In this room, draperies draw closed over French doors, while smaller side windows have been dressed in tailored Roman shades.

Highlight fabulous architectural windows by using custom curtain rods. This arched window is not hidden, but enhanced, by the drapery treatment that emphasizes the height and curve of the glass.

Sheer fabrics have a brand-new look. Get an airy look by avoiding gathers and shirring. Instead, try flat panels, draped artfully around the window frame. Filmy sheer shades can be lowered over the glass to offer privacy but still let in plenty of natural light.

Dash drapery panels with a touch of casual flair by adding a cuffed border. This version shows a separate fabric panel sewn to the top. Or use flat panels hung from widely spaced tabs so the top edge between each pair of tabs can be folded back, revealing a contrasting fabric sewn on the reverse side.