Thinking about drapes? Here’s what to know before you buy.
What are Drapes?
Drapes are full-length fabric panels that hang from a rod and usually go all the way down to the floor. They’re often lined and used to block light, add privacy, and complete a room’s look. People sometimes confuse them with curtains, but drapes are typically heavier, more structured, and give a more finished feel. In Los Angeles homes, we see them in living rooms, bedrooms, and even dining spaces where clients want that soft, elegant touch with function built in.
If you’re not sure what that looks like, take a peek at our gallery, you’ll see how drapes can completely change the mood of a room.
Where to use Drapes?
Bedrooms are the most common space since drapes help block out early morning light. Living rooms benefit too, especially when you want to soften natural light and add a calm, layered look. We’ve also used them in home offices, nurseries, and media rooms. Basically, any space where light, privacy, or just a finished look matters is a good candidate.
Why choose drapes over shades or blinds?
Blinds and shades do the job, but they often feel cold or too basic. Drapes bring a softness that instantly makes the room feel more finished. They’re also great at creating a cozy, quiet atmosphere, which can be hard to get with hard materials. In LA homes, especially with high ceilings or big windows, drapes add that extra layer that makes the space feel put-together. You can also mix linings, textures, and layers in ways that just aren’t possible with blinds.
Main benefits of Drapes.
Drapes don’t just hang pretty, they actually do a lot. They help block out sunlight, create privacy, and make a room feel warmer, both visually and literally. If your space echoes or feels a bit empty, adding drapes can help absorb sound and soften everything up. We also love how they pull a room together without taking over. Even just one set of panels can make your bedroom feel calmer or your living room feel more welcoming.
What are blackout Drapes?
Blackout drapes are made with a special lining that keeps light out almost completely. They’re perfect if you live on a bright street, have trouble sleeping, or just want a darker space to relax. We’ve added blackout panels to bedrooms in Venice and Echo Park where the morning sun used to hit too early. Clients say it feels like night even at noon. And they’re not just for sleep, they also help with heat and outside noise.
Best fabrics for Drapes.
We always ask about the space before suggesting fabric. Linen works well if you want something breezy and relaxed, especially near the coast. Velvet adds weight and richness, and it’s great for rooms where you want more drama or insulation. Cotton blends are easy to care for and still look refined. If you’re going for a softer vibe, try a brushed or textured fabric, it adds character without feeling too formal. We always bring swatches so you can touch and compare.
Length and placement make a difference.
We’ve seen beautiful fabric hung at the wrong height and it totally throws off the room. Drapes should sit close to the ceiling and just meet the floor. That one adjustment makes the ceiling feel higher and the whole room more balanced. If you like a relaxed look, let them pool slightly. But never let them float mid-air, it feels unfinished. Every LA home is different, so we measure on site to make sure it feels right, not just looks right.
Layering Drapes with Shades
Combining drapes with shades gives you more options throughout the day. Shades help control light and privacy. Drapes bring softness and help frame the window. This pairing works really well in bedrooms or living areas where you want blackout at night but soft, filtered light during the day. We’ve done this a lot in Westside homes where people want both function and something that looks beautiful with the rest of the room.
Do Drapes work for small windows?
Yes, they do, and they can actually make the window look bigger. We just adjust the rod placement to create more height and width visually. That way, when the drapes are open, you see more wall than window, and it gives the whole space a boost. In smaller homes or apartments across LA, this trick works like magic. It’s all about proportion, and using the right amount of fabric for the window size.
Motorized Drapes: worth It?
If your windows are tall or you just like the idea of pushing a button instead of pulling a cord, motorized drapes are definitely worth it. We’ve added them to homes in Brentwood, Pacific Palisades, and even downtown lofts. Some clients connect them to smart systems, others just want a remote. Either way, it makes life easier. You don’t have to wrestle with cords or climb over furniture to adjust the light. It’s smooth, quiet, and just makes sense for certain spaces.
Do Drapes require a lot of maintenance?
Not really. Most drapes just need a light vacuum now and then to keep dust off. If they’re lined, they hold their shape better and last longer. For deep cleaning, dry cleaning is best — maybe once a year, depending on the fabric. LA is dry, so we don’t see mildew often, but sunlight can fade some materials over time. We always recommend lining for that reason too. It protects your investment and keeps everything looking fresh longer.
Custom vs. Ready-Made Drapes?
Ready-made panels are quick and can work if you’re in a rental or just need something simple. But they rarely fit the window exactly, especially in older LA homes where nothing is standard. Custom drapes are made to your space — the right length, width, and fabric weight. They hang better, look cleaner, and feel like they belong there. We’ve had clients who switched from store-bought to custom and told us they didn’t realize how big the difference would be until they saw it.
Thinking About Drapes?
If you’re still not sure what works best for your space, take a look at our gallery. You’ll see real projects we’ve done across Los Angeles, every one a little different. And if you’re ready to start your own, just send us a message. We’d love to hear what you’re dreaming up.