A triangular window is a design feature that will provide you fits when it’s time to include drapes. The odd and impressive shape frames the perspective in an interesting manner — and frames you in see if you can’t work out how to do the drapes. There’s a way, as stunning as the window itself, to keep the focus of attention on the window however let you bring the curtains down when the show is over. Long drapes, a high rod and strategically positioned tiebacks mirror — and mask — the shape of this window.
Measure the height from a place above the apex of this triangle to the ground. Then gauge the width of the window in the side to side, adding 6 ins for fullness. Find the place that’s halfway down the sloping sides of this triangle, and mark it on all sides of the window. Determine if you want your drapes to pool on the ground when closed.
Work with your dimensions to calculate the yardage for sewing drapes or the measurements of ready-made drapes. Multiply the width from 3 or 2 to allow for shallow or deeper gathers, if you’re making yourself the drapes.
Use a carpenter’s level to position a fixed drapery rod in your chosen height over the window. Don’t be scared to mount the rod 6 inches to a foot above the window — the drapes will be swept back from the middle of the rod, and extra height allows you to create a stunning curve.
Sew — or buy — curtains using a sleeve to slip over the drapery rod. The drapes will be pinned where they meet in the center and will not pull open and shut, so they do not require pleats, grommets or hooks. Choose a soft cloth, such as velvet, or a spectacular cloth, like raw silk, for the high theater of the window. Make sure the drapes are lined to prevent light and offer some insulation when closed, and to protect the material and provide the drapes shape.
Thread the drapery rod through the drapes, and hang them. Pin the drapes together in the middle, on the rear in which the pin won’t be seen. Wrap some thin wire around the pin along with the drapery rod, hiding it from the folds of the cloth and securing the pin to the rod. Then play with the drape on each side to see where in the vicinity of your halfway mark a swooping pullback shows the triangle shape from the top of the window prior to the drapes fall in folds along the sides.
Mount 2 drapery finials for tiebacks in the best positions for drawing the drapes. The stains will be some combination of the original halfway step and where the draped curtain appears straight on the window. Measure carefully so that the finials are just even on each side.
Attach heavy silk cords, embroidered brocade or matching fabric ties to the finials and use them to pull the drapes back throughout the afternoon.