I need some inspiration for my curtains - 8’ ceilings.

We have original pelmets which definitely add character but they’re only 4” deep. I would only be able to run 1 ceiling mounted track, I couldn’t have a hidden double layer.

Floor to ceiling sheer would be be beautiful but we have cove ceilings so it would have to be mounted outside the pelmet and it doesn’t “technically” go to the ceiling. (The black rod came with the house)

If I put up another outer pelmet rod thru the dining room will that make the room feel smaller? I also lose the pelmets.

Would it be weird to run a wall of sheer curtains within the pelmets and have an outer rod of a few light-blocking panels? Do I need panels? I’m questioning everything.

(The pelmets in our primary are 5” deep so we can run a ceiling mounted double track. Currently there’s a wall mounted rod turned sideways lol but that won’t work for the 4” in the living area)