Types of Curtain Poles

Metal Curtain Poles: The Popular Modern Choice

Metal curtain poles are strong, stylish and always in demand. They offer exceptional strength, making them perfect for both lightweight sheers and heavy winter curtains.

Why choose a metal curtain pole?

Metal poles are stronger than they look—a 28mm diameter handles most curtain types with ease, even lined or interlined. With finishes like brushed steel, antique brass and matt black, they suit a wide range of styles and interiors. Their clean, versatile design works just as well in modern interiors as it does in traditional homes. Easy to care for and built to last, they’re a reliable choice for everyday living.

What diameter to choose?

For general curtain hanging, a 28mm (1⅛ inch) diameter metal pole handles most situations beautifully. If you're hanging heavy, lined curtains or thick fabrics, consider upgrading to a 35mm (1⅜ inch) diameter for peace of mind.

Wooden Curtain Poles: Timeless Elegance

Wooden curtain poles bring natural warmth and character to any room, especially bedrooms, lounges and dining areas where you want a cosy, welcoming feel. Lighter tones like oak and ash offer a soft, Scandinavian look, while mid shades like beech bring classic versatility. Richer finishes such as mahogany, rosewood or walnut add a more dramatic touch, and painted options like white, cream or silver blend beautifully with any colour scheme.

What diameter to choose?

Wooden poles need a bit more thickness than metal to handle the same weight, so for medium to heavy curtains, go for at least 35mm. If your curtains are extra heavy, a 50mm pole will give you smooth movement and lasting strength.

Wood and Metal Combination Poles: Best of Both Worlds

The warmth of natural wood

This innovative style combines natural wood poles with metal brackets and rings, creating a contemporary look that's gaining popularity with interior designers. The result is a unique, modern appearance that works beautifully in both traditional and contemporary settings.

Our wood and metal mix curtain poles are available in multiple lengths in two diameters, including 28mm (1 1/8") and 35mm (1 3/8").

Bay Window Poles: Perfect for 3- or 5-Sided Bay Windows

Bay windows require special consideration, and you have three excellent options:

1.Standard Bay Window Kits. Ready-made solutions for typical three-sided bay windows. These kits include everything you need and can be adjusted to fit your specific measurements. They're cost-effective and relatively quick to install.

2. Made-to-Measure Bay Poles. Custom-manufactured to match your bay window's exact measurements and angles. While this option requires more time and investment, the perfect fit and professional appearance make it worthwhile for prominent windows.

3. Hybrid Pole-Track Systems. For the best of both worlds (decorative and practical) hybrid systems feature a pole design with integrated track gliders

Double Curtain Poles: Layered Window Treatments

Double poles allow you to hang two sets of window treatments - typically heavier curtains on the front pole and lighter voiles or sheers on the back pole. This arrangement provides excellent privacy control while maximizing natural light options.

Eyelet and Tab Top Curtain Poles: Modern Simplicity

What makes eyelet poles different?

Eyelet poles don't require curtain rings since the curtains slide directly on the pole through metal-rimmed holes (eyelets) in the fabric. This creates a clean, contemporary look with gentle wave formations.

Important sizing note: Standard eyelet holes are 40mm (1⅝ inch) in diameter, so a 28mm (1⅛ inch) pole diameter provides the perfect fit with smooth operation.

One limitation to consider: Eyelet curtains don't work well in bay windows because the eyelets cannot slide past the support brackets.

Extra Long Poles: For Large Windows and Patio Doors

Large windows and patio doors require specialized poles that can span greater distances without sagging. We offer extra long poles , of up to 6 meters and may be mounted on walls or ceilings.

Recess Window Poles: Perfect for Tight Spaces

These recess poles fit between two walls or surfaces, making them ideal for window recesses or dormer windows. They don't require finials (decorative end pieces), creating a clean, streamlined appearance in compact spaces.

Extendable Curtain Poles: Fit First Time

Extendable curtain poles make dressing your windows simple. With no cutting involved, just adjust to the size you need. They’re perfect for standard windows in rental homes, or quick DIYs. Strong enough for light to medium curtains and available in a range of stylish finishes, these poles offer flexibility without fuss. Ideal if you’re moving, redecorating, or just want an easier way to get the job done.

French Curtain Poles: Eliminate Light Gaps

French-style poles feature ends that curve back toward the wall, allowing curtains to wrap around and eliminate light leakage at the window edges. This makes them perfect for bedrooms where you want maximum darkness for better sleep. Because of their curved returns, the poles bring the curtains to rest against the wall, blocking cold air and light, eliminating drafts during cold months.

Dormer Rods (Drapery Arms): Perfect for Small Windows

Dormer rods, also called drapery arms, offer an ingenious solution for small windows where traditional curtains would block precious natural light. Instead of curtains sliding along a pole, these clever arms swing the entire curtain panel away from the window.

How dormer rods work. The curtain remains attached to an arm that pivots outward, completely clearing the window opening. This allows maximum light to enter while still providing privacy when needed.

Dormer rods are perfect for smaller windows where space and light are both at a premium. They're ideal for attic conversions, kitchen sinks, and compact bathroom windows—anywhere you want to keep things bright while still enjoying a bit of privacy. If your window is small and sunlight matters, dormer rods are a smart, simple solution.

Café Curtain Rods: Charming Privacy Solutions

Café curtain rods create that delightful, bistro-style look that covers only the lower portion of your window. These shorter rods typically mount halfway up the window, allowing natural light to flood the upper half while maintaining privacy below. The informal, welcoming look they create makes them particularly popular in country-style kitchens and cosy breakfast nooks.

Why choose café curtain rods?

They pair beautifully with light fabrics like linen or lace, and bring a warm, bistro-style feel to cosy nooks and country-style kitchens. It’s a simple touch that adds both function and character to your space.