You can determine rod placement based on the length of the drapes. If they are 84 inches, for example, place the rod so that the drapes fall just short of the floor. If you need longer drapes, raise the rod higher. Some folks say that the rod should be placed close to the ceiling....I do not believe that is necessary.

It depends on what you want to achieve. If privacy is not an issue, you don't necessarily need to have curtains for the sliding. I see blinds on other windows, so you can do just decorative panels or valances to bring in color and softness. Regarding the rod placement, higher will give the illusion of taller windows and a better feel of the ceiling height. Hope this helps!

I agree with Sheeja. Window treatments frame the. iew and always make a room look finished. Hang your panels close to the ceiling to accentuate height, and yes, they DO need to go to the floor. No short panels... ever, ever, ever. Also, rods need to be wider than the window by 6-8" on either side. The panel should cover a bit of wall, the trim, and a bit if window. I highly recommend designer hardware, too. The telescoping joint is a huge faux pas, and Rowley makes affordable pieces. If you do telescoping, get the largest base span you can find so the joint is covered by the panel, and not in the middle of the window.