Radiators under windows
In period properties, radiators are often located under windows so that the cool air coming from the windows falls onto the rising warm air from the radiator and pushes it into the room, creating a comfortable and even temperature throughout. With the advent of double glazing and better insulation, this is no longer necessary and radiators can be placed anywhere. They are still however commonly found under windows for space saving reasons more than any other.
A sure way to increase your heating bills is to have full length curtains that are pulled across the radiator in the evening, blocking precious heat from entering the room. One solution is to team a pair of full length ‘dress’ curtains that don’t pull across with a blind. This is also a good choice if you have sockets, switches or other obstructions under the window that need to be easily accessible. The result will be elegant and maximise the sense of height in a room.
Alternatively, opt for sill length curtains where the bottom of the hem sits on the window sill. If you don’t have a radiator under the window but would like shorter curtains - perhaps because your window is above a desk in a study or worktop in a kitchen - a good rule of thumb is to specify the drop of the curtains so they hang at least 10cm below the sill.