Curtains that Work with 9Ft Tall Walls
Rooms with 9-foot ceilings present unique decorating challenges. The height of the walls and windows calls for specific approaches when choosing and hanging curtains to maximize visual appeal.
Extra tall ceilings can make a space feel cold and cavernous if not properly balanced with well-designed window treatments. Carefully selected curtains not only provide privacy and light control, but also enhance proportions.
Choosing the Right Curtains for 9 Foot Ceilings
When working with 9-foot walls, the most important factor in picking curtains is getting the length right. You'll typically need longer panels than standard sizes to suit the height.
Considerations for hanging curtain rods at 9 ft
Rods should be mounted high to draw the eye upwards and showcase tall windows. Place just below the ceiling, about 8.5 to 9 feet high. Secure with sturdy brackets anchored into studs.
Finding curtains that are long enough
Look for curtain panels around 108 inches long. Custom floor length curtains work well. Standard 96-inch panels may be too short unless using a decorative valance. Sheers can help extend shorter curtains.
Optimal curtain lengths for 9 ft walls
108-120 inch curtains balance large windows in tall spaces. Anything under 96 inches tends to look skimpy. For formal spaces, puddled curtains add elegance. In casual rooms, sill or floor length panels keep things simple.
Matching curtain height to window size
Scale curtain height to window dimensions. Narrow windows suit curtains 2 times the width, hung close to frames. For wide picture windows, go floor to ceiling. Mount rods wider than windows to spotlight architectural details.
Decorating Tips for Rooms with Extra High Ceilings
Tall ceilings call for careful spacing and arrangement of window elements. Follow basic design guidelines to keep rooms visually balanced and inviting.
Visually balancing tall walls with curtains
Hang floor length curtains to draw the eyes down and soften expansive walls. Long horizontal lines also help balance vertical height. Break up big blank wall spaces with art or architectural elements.
Making a room feel cozier with 9 ft drapes
Warm a lofty space with layered window panels in plush fabrics and rich colors. Add textural interest with pleated hems or contrast bands and trim. Incorporate natural materials like linen and cotton.
Curtain ideas for large windows on tall walls
- - Frame with wide rod mounted close to ceiling
- - Floor length panels in sleek solids
- - Sheers behind opaque curtains for diffused light
- - Layer panels of different lengths
Color and pattern suggestions for tall spaces
Stick to medium or dark hues that recede, like navy and gray. Patterns and textures divert attention from lofty ceilings. Large-scale graphic prints also work well. Keep colors/patterns cohesive for visual unity.
Special Challenges with Hanging Curtains at 9 Feet
Installing curtains in rooms with 9 foot ceilings comes with unique issues to address compared to standard height windows.
Rod placement for floor-to-ceiling curtains
Rods should be positioned just below the ceiling to allow panels to fully showcase window height. This may require taller brackets or special mounting kits.
Installing curtain rods on extra tall walls
- - Use heavy duty extender brackets if needed
- - Anchor into ceiling joists or blocking for security
- - Check rod is perfectly level to prevent sagging
Finding sturdy brackets for heavy 9 ft curtains
Consider reinforced metal brackets extending down the wall, especially for wide windows. Heavy duty brackets prevent sagging and ensure rod stability with thicker fabrics.
Easy ways to hang curtains near the ceiling
- - Command strip hooks for lightweight sheers
- - Tension rods for renters can't drill holes
- - Extra long poles for quick no-bracket install
Style Ideas for Windows in 9 Foot Rooms
Rooms with 9 foot high ceilings suit a variety of window dressing styles. From formal spaces to casual family rooms, properly scaled curtains can enhance any decor.
Elegant formal drapes for tall ceilings
Create a glamorous look with pleated or grommet panels in luxe fabrics like velvet, silk and brocades. Finish with decorative tassels and trim. Embellished valances add chic style.
Casual layered curtain styles on high walls
A relaxed look layers cotton panels in mixed lengths and patterns. Add texture with natural fabric curtains in linen, burlap or lace. Incorporate rustic wood rods and antique hardware.
Contemporary curtain designs for 9 ft spaces
Sleek modern rooms suit linen-cotton blend curtains and simple curtain rods. Blackout lined panels in solid neutrals keep the look understated. Add interest with metallic grommets and minimalist hardware.
Unique window treatments for lofty rooms
- - Frameless panels suspended from clips
- - Half height on narrow windows
- - Skip traditional curtains for shutters or shades
- - Incorporate architectural trim and molding
Shopping Tips for 9 Foot High Curtains
Finding ready-made curtains long enough for 9 foot ceilings can be tricky. Check these sources for the best selection of extra long panels and custom options.
Finding ready-made long curtains
Many retailers offer 108-inch long curtains suitable for high ceilings. JCPenney, Target and Walmart have good options in patterns and solids. Pottery Barn also carries extra length drapes.
Ordering custom floor length drapes
For a precise fit floor to ceiling, get panels made to measure. Many online sites like SelectDrapes, CustomCurtains.com and Shades of Light do custom lengths. Provide exact measurements for accuracy.
Budget-friendly options for tall curtains
- - Sheers from bargain stores with ribbon trim
- - Buy standard panels, hem to needed length
- - Mix odd panels for floor to sill coverage
- - Hang short curtains high, extended with a valance
Mixing panels for extra height
Combine a shorter tier with longer sheers or layered panels. Hang underneath, let the longer panels puddle while the lower tier frames the window. Allows using standard sizes.
Design Tricks to Balance Out the Height
When dealing with 9 foot high walls, a few simple decor illusions can minimize excessive vertical space. Visually anchor lofty rooms with vertical repeats and horizontal lines.
Using curtain rods to draw the eye down
Extra wide rods, extending past window borders help ground tall openings. Contrasting colors also emphasize the strong horizontal. Avoid vanishing into the walls with same hue.
Repeating vertical lines from floor to ceiling
Hang full length curtains bordered by matching vertical trim on walls. Flanking windows with floor lamps createsRepeating vertical lines from floor to ceiling consistent vertical columns for visual continuity from ceiling to floor.