I used this rod in a room where I did not have a lot of wall beyond the windows. Typically a traditional rod in the same spot would have eliminated clearance due to a bracket at the ends of the rod, plus finials. This works perfectly because the rod self attaches to the wall at the curved ends. The curtains when opened simply follow the rod and gather neatly against the wall in a very streamlined way. These rods were first designed for blackout curtains to wrap around the sides of windows for daytime sleepers. These are a more elevated version, with nice bronzing, thicker rods and sturdy construction worthy of use in living rooms, dining rooms, etc. I've also seen them used as dramatic room dividers with longer curtain panels since they can be attached to ceilings. Recommend.