Create a modern contemporary look with metal curtain rods !

First..... which finish to choose, ie: the color. Then the finials ( fancy ends on rods ). Then finally the support brackets. Some suppliers offer you a choice.

Then we have special finishes such as gunmetal a gray/black color. Then burnished brass, both are made to look kind of old.

Finally we have painted rods. You can have trouble opening your curtains because the rings don't glide easily over the paint finish. I recommend these for curtains that you don't open and close very often.

An obvious but often overlooked detail is that you can only have a maximum of three brackets on each rod. One in the center and one at either end. So choose a rod thick enough to support the weight of your curtains. Otherwise the rod will start to bow under the weight before long.

As I said earlier the "finials" are the fancy ends on your metal curtain rods. The choice is mind boggling. First thing to do is again look around your room. Does your furniture have simple lines or is quite ornate. Is your decor contemporary or traditional. Pick finials that complement the look of your decor and furniture. Don't just go to the store and pick the first one you like.

The brackets main job is to connect your rod to the wall in order to hang your curtains. Your rods usually come with standard brackets. Most metal rods have brackets that can expand, moving the rod further away from the wall your fixing to. Handy if fitting over a radiator. No point having great curtains and hardware, then having them drape awkwardly over a radiator.

Then you need to choose a metal curtain rod that comes in component form ( all the bits bought separately ) either in store or online. Many of these will offer long reach brackets.

Beware there is a limit to how far you can project the rod away from the wall.

No.1 the brackets will start to sag when you hang your curtains if to far out.

No.2 Your curtains will look very odd if hanging too far away from the wall. Especially if you enter the room, side on to the window.