Would really appreciate any suggestions! Thank you! :)

I hope some experts on window coverings will weigh in to help you, but what I would probably do would be to hang the rods on the windows by fireplace and the corner at about the height of the doorway shown in one of the pics. I do know that you have to ignore, for the most part, the high ceilings and decorate down to a reasonable height where you actually live.

Short draperies seem to have fallen out of favor. Would you consider using something like roman shades for the shorter windows with a fabric that coordinates with the draperies (if all are seen from the same rooms)

Thanks for the feedback. I'm really not a fan of roman shades - frankly, we like having things fully open which is why I'm leaning towards the use of panels. It will dress things up without restricting light. One fear I'm realizing has to do with our cats/dog. I'm really nervous that they will really trash the long panels (playing in them, etc.) which is why I was looking at something shorter (originally). Thoughts about that?

Make an imaginary line at 9 feet to determine an imaginary ceiling, and hang your rods at that point with a one inch diameter rod, or a very narrow diameter rod with strong center supports and the rods extending 10-12 inches on either side of the windows. Hang the curtains so they just kiss the floor/carpet, etc. Panels should be 2-2.5 times the width of the windows, you will probably need 96 inch long panels.

This is a nice visual of vaulted ceiling with curtains at ceiling height.

A pop of orange · More Info

Do the pets already damage your furnishings and fabrics? This might be the time to train them not to do so. Long curtains will be an issue, and short ones will be a decorating faux pas, IMO. The style of your windows is a bit limiting too.

I wouldn't say destructive, but that said, the one year old kitten will be interested (it is something new) and we perpetually have new puppies (we raise guide dog puppies for a local non-profit organization, one at a time, keeping them until they reach 18 months). I'm just curious what others in our situation do.

Also, ceiling height in the dining room is 95 inches (fyi) - and I would really like to go with a standard height. Also, do people with shorter windows still use panels if they don't like the look of shades? Appreciate your feedback.

Susan, do you mean short curtain, or shirt curtain ?