The 3 • 9 • 27 Layout Guide by Metropolis Iron®

Arched windows are architectural statements. They bring height, elegance, and natural light into a room — but they can also be one of the most challenging window shapes to dress beautifully.

At Metropolis Iron®, we specialize in solid iron, aluminum or iron inspired composite drapery medallions and curtain holdbacks that eliminate the need for traditional rods and transform arched windows into true focal points.

Today, we’re breaking down our signature 3 • 9 • 27 Medallion Layout Guide — a simple, scalable system that works from a single arch to a dramatic wall of windows.

Why Use Medallions on Arched Windows?

• Traditional rods often interrupt the curve of an arch. Medallions allow you to:
• Follow the natural shape of the arch
• Create soft, sculpted fabric swags
• Highlight architectural symmetry
• Eliminate bulky hardware
• Adjust projection (3"–5") for fullness and depth
• Our two-part iron system (wall-mounted bracket + sculpted medallion face) allows precise placement along the curve for balanced spacing and dramatic impact.

The Minimal Arch
3 Medallions | Simple • Elegant • Architectural

Best for:

Smaller arches (30”–42” wide)

Placement Strategy:

• 1 medallion at the apex (top center)
• 1 medallion on each shoulder of the arch
• Drapery panels softly swagged between
• Recommended Specs:3-3/4" diameter medallions
• Even spacing along the curve
• Keep drapery relaxed and lightly gathered
• This layout emphasizes the architecture without overwhelming the window. It’s clean, symmetrical, and timeless.

2. The Balanced Arch
9 Medallions | Proportioned • Classic • Designer Favorite

Best for:

36”–60” wide spans

Placement Strategy:

• Even division along the full curve
• Center spacing approximately 5.5”–6” apart
• Fabric gathered consistently between each medallion
• This creates rhythm and symmetry — a structured yet soft presentation. The result feels intentional and professionally designed.

3. The Grand Arch Installation
27 Medallions (9 Per Arch) | Statement • Dramatic • Luxury Scale

Best for:

Walls of three arches -  8’–14’ spans

Placement Strategy:

• 9 medallions per arch
• Maintain consistent center spacing (5.5”–6”)
• Align apex medallions across arches for visual continuity
• Mirror spacing for perfect symmetry
• When multiple arches are aligned, the medallions visually connect the windows into one cohesive architectural feature.

Design Tips from Metropolis Iron®
1. Maintain Even Arc Division
Spacing should follow the curvature — not straight horizontal measurements.

2. Align the Keystone
In multi-arch installs, keep apex medallions level across the room.

3. Consider Fabric Weight
Heavier fabrics create deeper swags. Lighter sheers produce softer, romantic draping.

4. Choose the Right Finish
Our most popular finishes for arched installations is our Blacked Iron Finish (Dark Gray Bronze Base with Black Faux Finish).  Finish selection dramatically affects how bold or subtle the installation feels.

Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a rod?
No. Medallions replace the rod entirely.

How far do they project from the wall?
Our adjustable brackets allow 3"–5" projection for customized fullness.

Can I mix sizes?
Yes. Larger arches or rooms with tall ceilings may benefit from larger medallions for stronger scale.

Final Thoughts
Arched windows deserve more than a standard rod.

Whether you’re installing 3 medallions for a subtle architectural accent or 27 medallions for a dramatic wall feature, the right layout turns drapery into sculptural art.

At Metropolis Iron®, we handcraft the largest variety of drapery medallions in the USA — designed specifically for installations like these.

*Medallions in rendering are an example generated by AI and are not an actual medallion sold by Metropolis Iron.