Floor to ceiling windows are a special challenge.
Floor-to-ceiling windows are a desirable attribute in a room. The view of the outside world becomes part of the interior room, and the drapes for these windows must respect the importance of that view. The best drapes for floor-to-ceiling windows are the ones that meet the homeowner's needs. Because of their size, floor-to-ceiling windows will most likely require custom-made drapes.
Insulation
The right drapes can provide insulation against heat loss going out the window and heat from the sun coming into the room, which is accomplished through multiple layers of linings and the type of fabric used in the layers. Blackout lining, for example, will prevent any light from entering the room through the drapes. When used with a flannel interlining, these drapes can provide exceptional heat insulation.
Space
Drapes lined with a regular-weight lining, when in the open position, will occupy about 30 percent of the total window width. For example, if the window is 120 inches wide, the drapes will occupy about 18 inches on each side when open. Additional lining, such as blackout, will increase this stack back by 25 percent to about 22 inches on each side. The thickness of the decor fabric will also affect this stack back amount.
Hardware
Wall-mounted hardware requires a minimum of 3 inches; many floor-to-ceiling windows do not have this much space above the window and may require ceiling-mounted hardware. This type of hardware is typically available only through drapery makers or interior designers and decorators. If space permits, wall-mounted hardware is readily available in DIY stores and through online catalogues.
Style
The decor style of the room will lead to the style of the drapes. A formal room will require a more traditional drapery, such as pinch pleated; a casual room could accommodate a grommet-top drape. Knowing where the hardware must be mounted will partly determine the hardware style, which will affect the drapery style.
Color
An important consideration for floor-to-ceiling drapes is the color. When closed, these drapes are, in effect, another wall. If the desired effect is a smooth transition between window and wall, the fabric of the drapes should be a color match to the wall. If the desired effect is to create a feature wall when the drapes are drawn, fabric of a contrasting color or a patterned fabric will accomplish that effect.
Construction
The construction of floor-to-ceiling drapes can involve handling pieces of fabric, (for each side of a 120-inch window), 300 inches wide and 108 inches long. For this reason, professional drapery construction may be the best option. Consulting an interior decorator or designer can prevent costly mistakes as she can advise on hardware suitability and availability and provide fabric samples that are within the budget.
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