Simple decorating trick to make any room look expensive

That doesn't cost a fortune - by Livia Gamble

Sprucing up a dull room doesn’t have to be hard work.

Despite the endless advice out there, a simple way to change the feel of a room is to change the curtains.

For a classic look stick to a simple white curtain with a black rod: the lighter colour will also make your space look bigger.

How to hang curtains

Aim high

Ignore where your window starts and go higher, hanging the rod closer to the ceiling. This will make the room appear taller. The black rod will also draw the eye towards the roof.

Go long

Cutting off your drapes at the window can make a room feel smaller, so keep your curtains floor length.

Extend

As a general rule, your curtains should be a combined width that is 2 to 2½ times the width of the window.

Think about your finish

Details are important. Think about the style of the rod as well as the hooks, rings and final.

Iron

Don’t assume the creases will fall out. Don't be lazy and iron your drapes before hanging them.

This article originally appeared on Better Homes and Gardens.