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Homes & Gardens
Homes & Gardens
Charlotte Olby

Is this the easiest way to make your bathroom look more elegant? An interior designer makes the case for floor-to-ceiling drapes

Long drapes in traditional style bathrooms header image.

The bathroom isn't the first room that springs to mind when you're thinking of curtains and drapery. Long, flowy fabric and moisture don't always mix; but there is a case to be made for such an elaborate window dressing.

Sharing her favorite bathroom window treatment idea, interior designer Marie Flanigan has shared an ode to the bathroom curtain in her latest video – and we have to admit, she makes a pretty good argument.

From her favorite fabric to why she loves them so, here's why Marie Flanigan is encouraging you to add floor-to-ceiling drapes to your bathroom window. Spoiler: they're a game-changer for traditional bathroom ideas.

'One element I am constantly trying to add to every bathroom is floor-to-ceiling drapery,' says Marie in her video shared to Instagram.

Why? Because the bathroom is such a utilitarian space, everything is wipe-clean, functional, and well, pretty boring. 'It gives the opportunity to bring in some softness, where we don't always get that,' she explains.

A far cry from boring bathroom blind ideas, a long drape can also add drama and a sense of elegance. As well as making the space feel cozier, and adding a pop of color or print should you so wish.

(Image credit: Marie Flanigan Interiors / Julie Soefer)

Marie, however, likes to steer clear of color or print and prefers something light and airy. 'My go-to fabric is always a white, gauzy linen. That's what is going to make your bathroom feel extra special,' she advises.

She also told H&G, 'The flowing fabric gently diffuses light, creating a serene atmosphere that invites tranquility. This design choice not only enhances privacy but also transforms the bathroom into a personal retreat. It’s the perfect way to blend functionality with beauty, making youreveryday routine feel like a luxurious escape.'

Just like in the space, seen above, designed by Marie Flanigan Interiors, the debate of drapes vs blinds in this space was pretty clear cut.

With a nod to tradition thanks to the warm neutral color palette, marble checkerboard floor, a roll-top bathtub, and of course, decorating with antiques – something as modern as a Venetian blind just wouldn't have provided the drama that the soft drape provides here.

(Image credit: Julie Soefer )

Long linen curtains don't just provide drama and plenty of light, but they also can help to length the proportions of your room.

'It can really elongate the space the height of the space because you're taking it floor-to-ceiling,' suggests Marie. If you're looking to create the illusion of more height in your master bathroom or ensuite, curtains that span the full height of the room can make the space feel more voluminous and luxurious.


While it might seem like a bad idea, as long as you steer well clear of your splash zones, there's no real reason why you shouldn't hang long, floor-to-ceiling curtains in your bathroom. In fact, as advised by Marie Flanigan, there are plenty of reasons why you should embrace flowing drapes to soften up this space.

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