Rod Finials

Finials are decorative ornaments used in architecture and interior design. They are commonly found on top of fence posts or bed canopies in New Zealand, as a part of light fixtures, or at the ends of curtain rods. However, the function of ends for curtain rods is more than plain decoration. They also seal the system, preventing curtains from slipping off.

As for the decorative part, rod finials complete the look of a window treatment set and can be either discrete or elaborate in style. While the curtain type determines the rod, and the rod determines the supporting hardware, such as brackets - decoration is entirely a matter of personal preference. 

Each basic type of rod finials comes in a plethora of variations in New Zealand to suit almost all decor styles, from traditional to modern.

• Stud shaped rod finials: Ideal for minimalistic window style and modern interiors. 
• Disc-shaped rod finials: Similar in appearance, but larger than studs; also ideal for modern or industrial home decors styles in New Zealand.
• Squat disc-shaped rod finials: Rustic and chic, these models are great for farmhouse, eclectic or boho style interiors. 
• Ball snapped rod finials: This is probably the most versatile shape of all. Depending on the material, balls can fit many rod types and home decors, from modern to transitional. Ornate and crystal balls make great accents in glam-styled rooms; wooden balls can complement traditional interiors, while shiny steel makes a perfect fit with modern minimalist spaces. 
• Faceted rod finials: More elaborated version of ball-shaped finials is ready to make a slightly stronger accent, in line with the same rules. 

Finials come in a range of variations in New Zealand, with plenty of styles, colours and materials to choose from. 

Typically, curtain rods and rod finials are made from wood or metals in New Zealand, such as brass and nickel. The finial material should match or complement the rod. Some mix-and-match combinations include nickel or brass rods with glass finials and wood or steel rods with finials made of bronze. The choice also depends on room style, and some less common solutions like crystal finials might look and feel right at home as an accent in a glam interior. 

The finial's colour and finish should be carefully matched with curtain rods. For instance, a clear or transparent white piece will look great as a finishing accent on a silver/gunmetal pole such as nickel or steel. Black can fit with cool metals, too, while warm metal shades can nicely complement wooden rods. 

In New Zealand, the style of curtain finials should match the style of the whole window treatment setting, as well as the style of the room. Ornate, deeply carved wood finials might not look their best in modern, minimalist home decor. Similarly, a cold and shiny steel ball will surely be noticed in a traditional curtain set with eyelets and tiebacks - just not in a good way. 

Modern finials include less common materials and shapes. Some styles that have gained popularity in New Zealand are twisted wire, abstract blown or crackled glass, even knotted rope and materials like stone or leather. Most of them serve to create a statement and fit glamorous or artsy home decor.

Attaching finials to the curtain rods is a simple, straightforward job. There are two basic types of finials in New Zealand - pop-on caps and those that screw into the rod's ends. The first choice is common for modern metal hollow curtain rods, while the latter is often found on wooden models.

Pop-up caps, as the name says, are effortless to install and remove within seconds and require no tools at all. Other models need a little bit more effort and a screwdriver. 

The right size is essential. The finials must fit the rod in order to be properly installed, stable, and reliable. 

Another detail to take into consideration is the type of curtain heading. Styles hung by hooks, pinch pleat or goblet pleat can be used with, more or less, any style or size of finial.

It's also crucial that the rod finial's size is sufficient to keep the curtain rings in place so that the curtain will not slip in case of more aggressive pulling. That particularly applies to large rings, heavy fabrics like blackout or thermal curtains, eyelet headings, and fabric tab-tops.

If you need assistance to select the right curtain rod finials for your needs, ArchiPro provides a connection to the various professionals in New Zealand, ready to assist with all requirements and questions. Simply click "Contact supplier" on the product's page, or visit the supplier's website directly from the product's page.