Drapery: Think Beyond the Window
Drapes are so much more than just fabric for framing windows. They’re like the secret sauce of a well-designed space—bringing texture, depth, and color that can completely transform a room. Sure, they can steal the show as a traditional focal point, but we love finding creative (and slightly unexpected) ways to use drapery to add charm, personality, and function.
Skirting the Issue
Let’s talk about one of our favorite tricks—skirting furniture or plumbing fixtures with drapery. It’s a design choice that oozes English-inspired charm while softening a space. A skirted sink or table instantly elevates a piece with vintage character while solving a very modern problem: hiding what you don’t want to see (hello, exposed plumbing and messy storage!). It results in a look that’s equal parts polished and practical, with just the right amount of delightful charm.
Make it a Backdrop
Who says walls are just for paint and art? Drapery can turn any wall into a bold, textural statement that feels like an art installation. In my own apartment, I had one of those tricky design dilemmas: a window directly behind my bed. Instead of seeing it as a setback, I turned it into an opportunity. By draping the entire wall, I created a soft, layered focal point that adds warmth and coziness while blocking sunlight when needed. The space feels instantly more inviting—and suddenly, that “problem window” became a design triumph.
Create a Canopy
Another great way to make a focal point around the bed is by creating a canopy out of drapery. Whether you’re using delicate sheers for a breezy, romantic look or heavier fabrics for a cozy, dramatic vibe. A drapery canopy transforms the bed into a private oasis. It draws the eye upward, softens the space, and creates a feeling of luxury.
Concealing in style
Drapery isn’t just pretty; it’s functional, too. In one of our recent projects—a wine bar—we faced the challenge of unsightly HVAC units and electrical panels disrupting the room’s ambiance. Cue: floor-to-ceiling drapes. By wrapping the entire space in fabric, we not only hid the eyesores but also created a cohesive, polished look. Customers now see a layered atmosphere without even realizing there’s a whole world of “not-so-pretty” behind those panels. It’s a win-win.
The beauty of drapery is that it’s endlessly versatile. Drapery has the power to completely transform a space in ways that go far beyond dressing windows; it’s all about reimagining the role of fabric in a room. The possibilities are endless, and we’re constantly inspired by the creative potential that drapery holds. So the next time you look at fabric, think beyond the window—you just might discover your next unexpected design moment.
Some of our favs…
Click the image below to see some of our favorite drapery panels, perfect for reimagining your rooms in big and small ways.
Estro Studio Vintage Find of the Week: Mid-century sofa by Sapporo for Mobil Girgi, 1970s
