Home ImprovementWindows
Window shades are not just pretty decor: they play a fundamental role in any rooms style.
Shutters
When we say window shades, most people will immediately think of shutters.
This now-classic option was first popularized by upscale offices in the latter half of the 20thcentury.
Shutters combine thin, parallel lines of any hard material held together by a fiber.
They can be easily tilted or adjusted to increase the amount of light that comes in.
Their alignment makes a room automatically look a bit more organized and neat while remaining easy to clean.
Their only major downside is that the tilting mechanism can break or jam if not treated right.
Although most use solid-colored fabric, roller shades allow you to play with fabric designs and styles easily.
Roman Shades
Roman shades have existed since Roman times.
These are made up of a single, flat piece of fabric that can be pulled downwards.
Unlike roller shades, however, this is done through horizontal pleats, which form neat and symmetrical folds.
They provide a Mediterranean, orderly alternative to standard fabric curtains.
They provide great coverage for anyone seeking blackout shades.
However, they tend to be a bit pricier than standard shades.
Balloon Shades
Check Price on Amazon
Balloon shades combine rings and cords in their opening mechanism.
This lends itself great for a vintage or country-like look, such ascottagecore.
Tie-up shades are usually hung from a bar or a mounting board.
Simple single cell shades are made from a single layer of cell rows.
They usually let a lot of light in and tend to be pretty budget-friendly.
Sometimes known as honeycomb shades, double cell shades offer two consecutive cell layers.
When looked at from the side, the pattern is quite similar to that of a honeycomb.
Pleated Shades
At first glance, pleated shades are very similar to single cell shades.
However, pleats dont leave enough room for a small air bubble within them.
Pleated shades are usually flattering, take up less space, and are cheaper to produce.
On the other hand, they are great for anyone looking for an affordable cordless alternative.
Sheer shades come in pleated and cell-like options and are compatible with a wide variety of opening mechanisms.
Their delicate look matches well with light or earth-like colors if you are going for a rustic cabin look.
Therefore, they should not be used in bedrooms.
Solar window shades are usually made from woven polyethylene and used to cover lookout windows and roof-to-ceiling attic windows.
Lately, Roman shades made from bamboo wood are also becoming increasingly popular.
Bamboo shades come in a wide array of textures and thicknesses.
you’re able to choose the ideal one depending on the amount of light and insulation you need.
Dark bamboo window shades are often combined with balloon or sheet curtains, as they provide an appealing contrast.
Most of the time, roller or cellular shades are the easiest models to motorize.
Older motorized shades used to require a side button to open or close.
Nonetheless, they can still contribute to aesthetic appeal.
Many professional decorators recommend choosing the curtains and shades very early on, alongside the main wall colors.
Naturally, this is not always possible.
Often, we need to rent a new furnished or semi-furnished place.
Alternatively, you may be moving to your own home with the existing furniture that should not be discarded.
By Decoration Style
Decorative trends come and go every few years.
The last 20 years have strongly favored pastel colors, warm natural light, and Insta-worthy nooks and crannies.
Besides, there is a strong move toward energy efficiency and sustainable materials.
Contemporary decor styles also merge well with ethnic influences.
The basic premise of the minimalist style is that less is more.
Minimalism favors parallel, thick lines rather than asymmetrical ones.
If possible, no lines or pleats should be visible at all.
Often, this emphasis on simplicity hides very well-crafted and highly curated materials.
This is why one of the most popular types of shades used in minimalist decor is Roman shades.
Their neatness and careful construction will look well around open layouts and free spaces.
Alternatively, cellular shades with a metallic or matte finish will also merge well with the minimalist style.
Beach decor is all about bright colors to accentuate the fun and warmth of summer.
When it comes to shades, this translates into sheer materials that allow large amounts of sunlight.
Sheer pleated shades will usually go well here, especially for dining rooms or balconies with very large windows.
Industrial styles offer simple, rounded lines combined with solid colors.
A metallic finish is not necessary, but it helps to tie the whole look together.
Often, this is compounded by steel accents or smooth cement walls.
This look is a favorite for home offices, studios, and game rooms.
These are also the types of rooms where its best to hide the passage of time.
Alternatively, mechanized or automated cellular shades or even solar window shades are also a good option.
They also like to draw inspiration from vintage trends.
This can be achieved by mixing old-school curtains with balloon or tie-up shades.
By Window throw in
In general, shades work best with rectangular or square windows.
Irregular, curved, or round windows can be made to appear larger by using smooth solar shades.
The direction the windows are facing also matters.
If you have west-facing windows, this can lead to an overly stifling, hot room in the afternoons.
This should match the rooms purpose.
These rooms are likely to be used for entertaining, so they should be appealing and stimulating whenever possible.
If you hold parties regularly, this is the style to go for.
This means that you should also consider more private, light-blocking models for your living room.
Bedrooms are the most private part of a house.
On the other hand, its best to keep pleated or bamboo models away from bedrooms.
Pleats and bamboo tend to gather dust, which can create problems for any allergy sufferers.
Therefore, its best to avoid blinds altogether here or to use only washable, light materials.
Steer clear from rolled up or Roman shades that would be difficult to disassemble.
Before ordering whichever window shades are on sale, see to it to consider all the factors mentioned above.
You may want to change them with the seasons to match or complement your seasonal or holiday decorating style.
