Posts tagged window shades

Window shades are known in the design industry as soft window treatments, meaning typically they are made of fabric which can be lowered or raised for privacy and to control light coming into the room. Unlike blinds, window shades are categorized as hard coverings.  They are generally made from sturdier materials and are not as pliable.  Some even offer insulation from heat and light, depending on the fabric.

There are many types of shades on the market to dress any type of window. Shades at your window provide much needed privacy and also block extreme light from entering. The type of covering you decide on should fit your home decorating style and the cost should fit your design budget. Tune into any home decorating show and they will feature window shades as design elements to enhance the look of every room. You can virtually match any color or decor found in your home. Custom design is the perfect solution if you have highly stylized ideas concerning your window shades.

As you glance around your room decide what you like most about it. What sort of artwork and furniture is showcased? Pick one item and build a theme around it to include your shade choice. Like most homeowners your style is probably somewhat eclectic. That does not present a problem when you decide to use window shades because they don’t require modification and you can easily change them out relatively easy if the design doesn’t work out as planned.

Most importantly what you need to consider is the architecture of the particular room you’re introducing your shades to. A common mistake is to select the shades first without considering how they fit the decor. Room size is another important feature to consider.  The height of the ceilings needs to be considered as well. These are all very important before picking the right shades. By choosing the correct type of covering you can change the visual look of your space, even create an optical illusion using your window treatment.

Window shades come in a variety of colors. Color can add to the mood of your room. If the paint on your walls is neutral you can add impact to the room with colorful window shades. If your walls are dramatic you tone the area with the right color of shade. Instead of constantly changing the paint colors on your walls you can instead change the color of your shades.

Keep in mind that even though privacy and light control are your main concerns for considering window shades, you can achieve other design goals as well.

Light is needed to add balance to the room while privacy is needed as a retreat from the outside world. Using sheer shades allows just the right amount of sunlight into the room. Sunshades can reduce or block out too much light. Your window coverings give you greater control over the amount of light entering the space to achieve your end condition.  Whatever your shade needs are you are sure to find the right one that fits the room you want to change.