Pleated cafe curtains on brass rods and rings. - Gerenme/Getty Images Like most designers and homeowners out there, you've probably succumbed to the quaint charms of the French-style cafe curtains.

Think beyond curtains and use tension rods in any room of your home.

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The key is to take the time to figure out where you want the drill holes…before you drill… and make a template as a guide. You can use a piece of raw chipboard, carboard or even stiff card stock.

Just as important as the view from the window is the dressing that frames it—aka the curtains. These simple strips of fabric don’t just block light and prying eyes, they can also pretty up your home ...