If you are using pinch pleated drapes that you will be closing you NEED to extend the rod to the width of the drapes. Otherwise they WILL look funny when they are closed. Tie backs are generally only used for drapes that are left open all the time. I think that what you should probably do, after reading your other threads about the drapes is to use blinds on the window for privacy and light control and add stationary side panels for softness on the sides. You can leave the panels hanging straight down, or use tiebacks.

so use a shorter rod and forget the pinch pleats if i'm going to use the blind underneath?

You can still use the pinch pleats, just get the smallest (in width pair) if they are going to be stationary. I would probably allow the drapes to extend about 12" or so past the window, so that you let the most possible light into the room. It doesn't matter if you use panels gathered onto a rod, or pleated panels with clips and rings.
Here's a rough picture of where I think you should hang the drapes:
{{!gwi}}

terriks - thanks for the visual!
but then i couldn't use tiebacks at all...?

I know you are wrestling with all the info and decision making. I went through this in the fall with my LR windows. The PB site has a section on basically what you need to know to hang drapes. I've linked to it. It really helped me alot. I followed their directions for my windows. This is a pic of my panels hung from rings. I don't pull them closed, I just like the look of panels hung from rings. I didn't need privacy either. My rod is hung quite high because I needed the 96" length. 84" was too short because my windows from top of trim to floor was exactly 84". I wanted to hang the drapes a little higher than the trim. Once I decided on the length needed I followed the directions. It took a lot of decision making out of my hands. Gladly! Sometimes I need someone to tell me what to do! HTH!

Here is a link that might be useful: PB info

KMCG - your room is lovely! i think i need longer drapes. blahhh really don't want to pay the price for longer ones. does it look highwaddery if they don't reach the floor. i think the window trim to floor is 83" curtains are 84"

that site had a lot of great info! thanks!