Sometimes drapery rods are just functional -- they don't show, they just open and close the draperies or "hold up" the fabric.
But sometimes, the rods can be the "shining star" of a beautiful window treatment. At other times, they just add that touch that completes the entire picture just perfectly. In recent years we have seen more and more draperies or valances hung from posts or medallions, such as the Kirsch picture below.
Over the years the selection of drapery hardware has expanded greatly. For an idea of what is available, you may want to visit these suppliers:
