Tall windows and open-concept layouts create an airy, luxurious atmosphere—but they also come with unique design challenges. Finding the right drapery for expansive glass panels and soaring ceilings means balancing form and function. At Early’s Shades & Shutters in Amissville, VA, we help homeowners elevate their spaces with custom drapery solutions that complement the architectural drama while enhancing comfort, privacy, and light control.
Whether you're working with a modern open floor plan or a grand traditional space, here are the best drapery styles to consider.
Floor-to-ceiling drapes for dramatic impact
Nothing emphasizes height quite like floor-to-ceiling drapery. This style draws the eye upward and accentuates the vertical space of tall windows, giving rooms an elegant, elongated look. In open-concept homes, full-length drapes can visually anchor specific zones—like a living or dining area—without interrupting the flow.
When selecting fabric, consider lightweight linens or sheers for a breezy, relaxed look, or opt for velvets and layered materials for a more formal aesthetic. Custom hardware is key—secure rods near the ceiling to fully take advantage of your window height and avoid cutting the space visually.
Layered drapery for style and function
Layering sheer and opaque drapes is a versatile option for both tall windows and large, open rooms. Sheers provide daytime privacy while allowing filtered light to enter, and heavier panels can be closed for insulation, darkness, or privacy when needed. This approach also lets you mix textures and colors for added dimension.
In open-concept layouts, layered drapery can help create a sense of separation between spaces without installing physical barriers. For example, use sheers to soften a wall of windows and frame a sitting area, then add blackout panels that blend with adjacent room elements.
Ripple fold drapery for clean, modern lines
If your style leans contemporary, ripple fold drapery is a sleek and streamlined choice that suits open-concept designs. The consistent, flowing folds create visual rhythm and symmetry—ideal for rooms with minimalistic architecture or large windows that span entire walls.
Ripple fold drapes glide smoothly along a track system, making them especially practical for wide glass doors or floor-to-ceiling windows. The look is clean and functional, yet effortlessly sophisticated—perfect for tall spaces that need subtle polish.
Grommet-top drapes for a casual, elegant vibe
Grommet-top drapery, with metal rings set into the top hem, offers a relaxed but refined option for tall windows. The fabric falls into uniform waves and is easy to open and close—great for everyday use. The wide rings add a decorative touch and can coordinate with other metal finishes in your room, such as light fixtures or cabinet hardware.
This style works particularly well in transitional or open-concept homes where formal and informal design elements mix. Choose a bold color or textured fabric to create a focal point or go neutral to blend with the rest of your décor.
Motorized drapery for convenience and luxury
When you're dealing with tall or hard-to-reach windows, motorized drapery makes managing light and privacy effortless. With the touch of a button—or even voice command—you can open or close your drapes without pulling a cord or climbing on a stool. Motorization is especially helpful for open-concept homes with smart home integration or multi-story windows.
At Early’s Shades & Shutters, we offer motorized drapery options that combine cutting-edge technology with high-end style. Customization ensures that even your most dramatic windows get the functionality they need without compromising on aesthetics.
Trust Early’s for custom drapery solutions
Designing drapery for tall windows and open-concept spaces requires careful planning, quality materials, and expert installation. At Early’s Shades & Shutters in Amissville, VA, we specialize in creating custom drapery that fits your home’s architecture, enhances your design vision, and provides practical benefits like light control and energy efficiency.
Visit our showroom or schedule a consultation to explore fabrics, hardware, and styles that work beautifully in expansive spaces. Let us help you transform your tall windows with custom drapery that makes a lasting statement.
