Laura Ashley Curtain Pole

Transform Your Windows with Timeless British Style

As I stand in my newly renovated living room, sunlight streaming through my windows adorned with flowing linen curtains suspended from a gleaming brass Laura Ashley curtain pole, I can’t help but feel a sense of accomplishment. Three months ago, this space was drab and uninspiring. Today, it exudes the timeless elegance that only thoughtfully selected home furnishings can provide.

I remember the overwhelming feeling of standing in the home décor section, staring at countless curtain pole options, completely unsure where to begin. If you’re facing a similar dilemma, you’re in the right place. After extensive research, installation trials (and yes, a few errors), and conversations with interior design professionals, I’ve compiled everything you need to know about selecting the perfect Laura Ashley curtain pole for your home.

Why Laura Ashley Curtain Poles Stand Apart

Before diving into the specifics, let me share why I ultimately chose Laura Ashley for my own home. The brand’s rich heritage dates back to 1953 when Laura and Bernard Ashley began printing fabric on their kitchen table in London. What started as a modest endeavor evolved into one of Britain’s most beloved home furnishing brands, known for its distinctive prints and commitment to quality.

The curtain poles reflect this legacy through exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail. While there are certainly less expensive options on the market, the unmatched quality and timeless design of Laura Ashley curtain poles make them a worthwhile investment for any home. They’re not just functional items; they’re design statements that elevate your entire room.

Understanding Laura Ashley Curtain Pole Sizes

One of the first considerations when selecting a curtain pole is determining the correct size. Laura Ashley offers an impressive range to accommodate various window dimensions:

Length Options

Laura Ashley curtain poles typically come in standard lengths:

• 120cm (47.2 inches)
• 150cm (59 inches)
• 180cm (70.9 inches)
• 240cm (94.5 inches)
• 300cm (118.1 inches)

For my living room’s picture window, I selected the 240cm option, which provided ample space for my curtains to stack back fully when opened, maximizing natural light.

Diameter Considerations

The diameter of your curtain pole affects both aesthetics and functionality. Laura Ashley offers:

• 28mm (1.1 inches) – Suitable for lightweight to medium-weight curtains
• 35mm (1.4 inches) – Ideal for medium to heavyweight curtains
• 50mm (2 inches) – Best for heavyweight curtains or when making a bold design statement

I opted for the 35mm diameter for my linen curtains, which provides sufficient support while maintaining an elegant profile that doesn’t overwhelm the window frame.

Materials: Tradition Meets Modern Durability

When I first began researching curtain poles, I assumed my options would be limited to wood or metal. Laura Ashley surprised me with their diverse material selection, each offering distinct aesthetic and practical benefits.

Wooden Curtain Poles

Laura Ashley’s wooden curtain poles embody traditional craftsmanship with modern durability. Available in oak, pine, and various painted finishes, these poles add warmth and natural texture to any room. I particularly love the Oak Collection with its rich grain patterns that complement both contemporary and classic interiors.

The wooden poles undergo multiple finishing processes to ensure longevity and resistance to warping—important considerations for bathroom or kitchen installations where moisture levels fluctuate.

Metal Curtain Poles

For my living room, I chose a brass metal pole from Laura Ashley’s Heritage Collection. The metal poles come in several finishes:

• Polished Brass
• Antique Brass
• Chrome
• Brushed Nickel
• Matte Black

The weight and solidity of metal poles make them excellent choices for heavier curtains. My brass pole has maintained its lustrous finish for months without tarnishing, thanks to the protective coating applied during manufacturing.

Composite Options

For those seeking durability with modern styling, Laura Ashley also offers composite poles that combine the best attributes of multiple materials. These poles are particularly well-suited for children’s rooms or high-traffic areas where durability is paramount.

Weight Capacity: Supporting Your Drapery Dreams

An often overlooked but crucial consideration is weight capacity. Nothing is more disappointing than installing a beautiful curtain pole only to have it sag under the weight of your drapery.

Laura Ashley’s curtain poles are engineered to support varying weights:

• 28mm poles typically support up to 15kg (33 pounds)
• 35mm poles can hold up to 25kg (55 pounds)
• 50mm poles support up to 40kg (88 pounds)

For my substantial linen curtains with blackout lining, the 35mm pole provides ample support without any concerning bend or strain on the brackets. If you’re considering heavyweight velvet or multiple layers of drapery, investing in a 50mm pole would be advisable.

Installation: Simpler Than You Might Think

I’ll admit I was intimidated by the prospect of installing my curtain pole. With limited DIY experience, I worried about damaging both the pole and my walls. Thankfully, Laura Ashley provides comprehensive installation instructions, and the process proved straightforward.

What’s Included in the Box

Standard Laura Ashley curtain pole sets include:

• The main pole (may be in sections for longer lengths)
• Two finials (decorative end pieces)
• Support brackets (number varies based on pole length)
• Mounting hardware (screws and wall plugs)
• Curtain rings (quantity varies by pole length)
• Detailed installation instructions

Step-by-Step Installation

1. Measure and mark your bracket positions. For optimal support, position brackets approximately 15cm (6 inches) from each end of your window, with additional center support for poles exceeding 180cm.
2. Check for level alignment. Use a spirit level to ensure your markings are perfectly horizontal—even minor misalignments become glaringly obvious once curtains are hung.
3. Install the brackets. For plasterboard walls, use appropriate wall anchors (sometimes you’ll need to purchase these separately). For solid masonry, the included wall plugs work perfectly.
4. Assemble the pole sections if applicable. Longer poles come in sections that join together with connector pieces.
5. Attach finials to both ends of the pole.
6. Thread curtain rings onto the pole before mounting (I learned this the hard way after initially forgetting this crucial step!).
7. Mount the pole onto the installed brackets and secure using the set screws provided.

For my installation, I found the provided hardware sufficient, though I did upgrade to slightly longer screws for mounting into my older plaster walls. The entire process took approximately 45 minutes, including time spent ensuring everything was perfectly level.

Adjustability: Flexibility for Perfect Positioning

When I initially measured for my curtain pole, I was concerned about precision. What if my measurements were slightly off? Fortunately, Laura Ashley has considered this common concern.

Most Laura Ashley curtain poles offer some degree of adjustability:

Extendable Poles

Select Laura Ashley poles feature telescopic designs that can extend beyond their stated length, typically offering an additional 30-45cm of adjustability. These are particularly valuable for awkwardly sized windows or when precise measurements are challenging.

Bracket Positioning Flexibility

The bracket design allows for some horizontal adjustment during installation. Each bracket includes an extended mounting plate with multiple screw holes, permitting slight position modifications without redrilling.

Cut-to-Size Options

For custom lengths, many wooden and some metal poles can be cut to size. I wouldn’t recommend attempting this yourself unless you have proper tools and experience. Instead, many retailers offering Laura Ashley products also provide cutting services, ensuring a clean, professional finish.

Price Points: Understanding the Investment

Laura Ashley curtain poles represent a premium product category, with prices reflecting their quality and design pedigree. Current pricing typically falls within these ranges:

• Basic 120cm wooden poles start around £45-£65
• Mid-range 180cm metal poles range from £75-£120
• Premium 240cm poles with decorative finials can reach £130-£180
• Luxury extended-length or custom options may exceed £200

While initially hesitant about the price point, I’ve come to appreciate the value proposition. My previous, less expensive curtain pole began to sag within months and required replacement after just two years. The superior construction and materials of Laura Ashley poles make them a wise long-term investment, potentially saving money over time despite the higher initial outlay.

Color Palette: Complementing Your Décor

Laura Ashley’s thoughtfully curated color selection ensures their curtain poles can enhance virtually any interior design scheme.

Wooden Pole Finishes

• Natural Oak
• Whitewashed Oak
• Rich Walnut
• Antique Pine
• Painted finishes (White, Cream, Dove Grey, Charcoal)

Metal Pole Finishes

• Polished Brass (my personal choice)
• Antique Brass
• Chrome
• Brushed Nickel
• Matte Black
• Pewter

For my living room with its neutral palette and occasional brass accents, the Polished Brass pole creates a cohesive look that ties together various elements in the space. When selecting your finish, consider not just your current décor but your overall design direction, as a quality curtain pole will likely outlast other furnishings.

The Finishing Touch: Finials and Accessories

Perhaps the most enjoyable aspect of selecting a Laura Ashley curtain pole is choosing the decorative finials that cap each end. These seemingly small details dramatically impact the overall aesthetic.

Popular Finial Designs

• Crystal Ball (adding sparkle and formality)
• Acorn (perfect for country-inspired interiors)
• Urn (offering classical elegance)
• Fluted Ball (providing subtle sophistication)
• Leaf (bringing organic elements indoors)
• Modern Globe (complementing contemporary spaces)

My brass pole features elegant Urn finials that echo the neoclassical elements elsewhere in my living room. When selecting finials, consider their scale in relation to your window and curtains—oversized finials can overwhelm smaller windows, while diminutive ones may appear insignificant on grander installations.

Matching Accessories

Laura Ashley offers coordinating accessories to complete your window treatment:

• Curtain rings with or without clips
• Tieback hooks
• Center brackets for extended poles
• Holdbacks for formal drapery arrangements

I purchased matching brass tieback hooks that create a pleasing symmetry with my curtain pole. These small details contribute significantly to a polished, cohesive appearance.

Retail Sources: Where to Purchase

Laura Ashley curtain poles are widely available through multiple retail channels:

Official Laura Ashley Stores and Website

The most comprehensive selection is naturally found through Laura Ashley’s own retail outlets and website. Shopping directly from the source ensures authenticity and often provides access to exclusive designs not available elsewhere.

Department Stores

Major department stores including John Lewis, Debenhams, and House of Fraser carry extensive Laura Ashley home furnishing collections, including curtain poles. These retailers frequently offer installation services for an additional fee.

Specialized Home Décor Retailers

Independent home décor shops often stock Laura Ashley products and may provide personalized advice based on your specific needs. I purchased my curtain pole from a local home furnishing boutique where the owner spent considerable time helping me select the perfect finish to complement my existing décor.

Online Marketplaces

Various online marketplaces offer Laura Ashley curtain poles, sometimes at discounted prices. When purchasing through these channels, verify you’re buying genuine Laura Ashley products, as counterfeits do occasionally appear in the marketplace.

Maintenance: Preserving Beauty and Functionality

With proper care, a Laura Ashley curtain pole will maintain its beauty for many years. I’ve established a simple maintenance routine that keeps my brass pole looking pristine with minimal effort.

Wooden Pole Care

• Dust regularly with a soft, dry cloth
• Apply furniture polish sparingly once every 6-12 months
• Avoid direct sunlight where possible to prevent fading
• Keep away from excessive moisture to prevent warping

Metal Pole Maintenance

• Wipe with a slightly damp cloth to remove dust
• For brass and other non-lacquered metals, use a specialized metal polish twice yearly
• For lacquered finishes (like my brass pole), avoid chemical cleaners that might damage the protective coating

General Upkeep

• Check bracket screws periodically and tighten if necessary
• Ensure curtain rings move freely along the pole
• Inspect for any early signs of bending or stress, particularly with heavier curtains

Following these simple maintenance steps requires minimal time commitment while significantly extending the lifespan of your investment.

Selecting Complementary Curtains

While this guide focuses primarily on curtain poles, the harmony between pole and drapery deserves mention. Laura Ashley’s own fabric collections naturally complement their curtain poles, but any quality drapery can work beautifully.

Consider these pairing principles:

Material Weight Balance

Match curtain weight to pole diameter for optimal function. My medium-weight linen curtains pair perfectly with the 35mm brass pole, neither straining the pole nor appearing disproportionate.

Style Consistency

Maintain cohesive styling between pole and curtains. My traditional brass pole with urn finials harmonizes with the classic pleated heading of my curtains. Modern, minimalist poles might better suit ripple-fold or eyelet curtains.

Color Coordination

Your curtain pole need not match your curtains exactly, but should coordinate with your overall color scheme. My brass pole picks up warm tones in my otherwise neutral curtains, creating a subtle connection.

Special Considerations for Bay Windows

Bay windows present unique challenges for curtain pole installation. Laura Ashley offers several solutions specifically designed for these architectural features.

Flexible Bay Window Kits

These specialized kits include bendable poles or connecting pieces that accommodate the angles of bay windows. Available in most standard finishes, they ensure a continuous, elegant appearance around the entire bay.

Custom Cutting Services

For particularly unusual bay configurations, custom-cut poles might be necessary. Many Laura Ashley retailers offer this service, precisely measuring and cutting poles to your exact specifications.

Multiple Pole Approach

For very large bays, consider using multiple standard poles with complementary finials, creating the impression of a continuous treatment while simplifying installation.

I recently helped a friend install Laura Ashley poles in her Victorian home’s bay window, opting for the flexible bay window kit. The result beautifully frames the architectural feature while providing practical functionality.

Warranty Protection: Peace of Mind

Laura Ashley stands behind their products with comprehensive warranty coverage:

• Standard 1-year manufacturer’s warranty against defects
• Extended 5-year warranty available on premium collections
• Warranty covers structural failures but not damage from improper installation or use

Keep your receipt and warranty information in a safe place. When I purchased my curtain pole, I immediately photographed these documents and stored them digitally for easy reference if needed.

Vintage and Heritage Collections

For period properties or vintage-inspired interiors, Laura Ashley’s Heritage Collection offers authentic reproductions of historical designs.

Victorian-Inspired Designs

Ornate finials and detailed brackets echo Victorian aesthetics while incorporating modern materials and construction techniques.

Art Deco Influences

Sleek lines and geometric finials reflect the Art Deco period, perfect for 1920s-30s properties or contemporary spaces with retro influences.

Country House Styles

Rustic wooden poles with simple, elegant finials complement country cottages and farmhouse-inspired interiors.

While my own home features contemporary architecture, I was drawn to the timeless quality of Laura Ashley’s heritage designs, selecting a pole that bridges traditional and modern sensibilities.

The Environmental Consideration

Increasingly, home décor choices involve environmental considerations. Laura Ashley has responded to consumer concerns by:

• Sourcing wooden poles from managed forests
• Implementing water-based finishes on many wooden poles
• Ensuring packaging uses recyclable materials
• Focusing on durability for reduced replacement frequency

Their commitment to creating products that last for decades inherently reduces environmental impact compared to disposable alternatives requiring frequent replacement.

Final Thoughts: An Investment in Everyday Beauty

As I sit in my living room today, the afternoon light filtering through my curtains, I’m reminded that some home purchases transcend mere functionality. My Laura Ashley curtain pole has transformed not just my window treatment but my entire relationship with this space.

The weight of quality materials, the precision of thoughtful design, and the beauty of careful craftsmanship all contribute to an elevated daily experience. While certainly not the least expensive option available, Laura Ashley curtain poles represent that rare intersection of practicality and luxury—objects that perform their function flawlessly while simultaneously enhancing your environment.

Whether you’re renovating a period property, updating a family home, or decorating your first apartment, investing in quality foundational elements like curtain poles creates a framework upon which to build your personal style. Years from now, when passing trends have come and gone, the timeless elegance of your Laura Ashley curtain pole will continue to frame your view of the world outside—and perhaps more importantly, your experience of the home within.

In my journey through home decoration triumphs and occasional disasters, I’ve learned that sometimes the most impactful elements are those we notice least consciously but experience most consistently. Your curtain pole is such an element—quietly elevating your space, day after day, year after year.

Choose wisely, install carefully, and enjoy thoroughly. The perfect Laura Ashley curtain pole awaits to transform your windows and, quite possibly, your entire room.