modern gray window treatments

Window coverings can inject color and style into any space, as well as providing functional benefits of light, temperature, and privacy control. Installing new custom window coverings is one of the most effective, affordable methods of updating your living space. With such a wide array of window treatments and so many customizable options to add, you may not know where to start. Do you choose traditional blinds found in a hardware store, or go for customized shades from a specialty store? What type of material works best for your needs, and in what color?

Choosing the Best Type of Blinds for You

When you think of blinds, do traditional aluminum-slat styles come to mind? Today, there are so many more types of window blind on the market that come in various materials, customizable slat options, louver sizes, and colors than ever before. Slats can be tilted or angled to control how much light enters the room.

Blinds offer functional benefits such as light-blocking and privacy protection, and you can choose cordless blinds for the safety of young children who can be injured by the dangling cords. For another slick upgrade, opt for motorized blinds so you can lift or close them with just the touch of a button.

Some of the most popular blinds include:

Wood blinds: If you want a natural, warm, organic charm to your living space, wood blinds may be perfect for you. Just like fine wood furniture, these blinds have a defined grain and unique texture. Lightweight wood blinds offer natural insulation and superior privacy.
Faux wood blinds: These blinds look just like real wood, only they are easier to clean and maintain, especially if you hang them in humid spaces like a bathroom or kitchen. They are also more affordable and durable than real wood.

faux wood blinds in a dining room

Learn more about the blinds we offer.

What You Should Know About Window Shades

Shades are a versatile simple, soft, and elegant window treatment that come in multiple styles, including Roman shades, roller shades, and cellular shades. They are simple and stylish, and you may choose between solids or prints, depending on the type of shade. You also have wide range of options for material types, patterns, textures, and more. All shades look even more elegant when paired with a cornice, valance, or a set of drapes.

If you're concerned about privacy, shades are a better choice than blinds, because there are no slats where people could possibly see in. They are also a good choice for adults with pets and parents of small children, because they are not as easily damaged as blinds. Cordless options are also a good option for parents or pet owners, because dangling cords pose a strangulation hazard.

Simple roller shades make for a clean, stylish look.

Some of the most popular shades we offer at Bloomin' Blinds are:

Cellular shades: These beautiful window treatments are beautiful and very energy-efficient. They can be customized to your specifications to create the look you want. You have choices regarding color, texture, pleat size, light-filtering or blackout features, and lift options.
Roller shades: These shades are named for the rolling rod they wrap around. If you want a stylish, timeless look, roller shades could be the perfect option for you. You have infinite options for fabric and styles, no matter the style you choose. They are low-maintenance and simple to clean.
Roman shades: These window treatments combine the functionality of shades with the elegance of draperies. They are a timeless style and perfect for smaller, hard-to-reach windows. Roman shades come in various fabric materials, fabric patterns, fold styles, and can either be light-filtering or blackout.
Bamboo shades: If you're a nature person, these natural, eco-friendly, and sustainable shades are perfect for you. Bamboo and woven wood shades are made from natural fibers that allow some light to penetrate a room, unless a blackout liner is sewn on the inside to keep light out.
Sheer horizontal shades: Do you love natural light? Sheer shades allow light into your home, but you can still control your privacy by tilting the fabric vanes closed. Popular upgrades include a cordless or motorized lift, or room-darkening options. There is no blackout option for sheer shades.
Panel track shades: These modern window treatments are sleek, simple, and clean. They are perfect for oversized windows or sliding glass door, and come in various styles and fabric options.

Determining Your Preferred Color for Plantation Shutters

white plantation shutters in a coastal living room

Plantation shutters come in a variety of wood grains and lend visual interest to any room. White shutters look clean and crisp and reflect light as a way to maximize the natural light of your living space.

Plantation shutters are charming and add character to any room. Selecting plantation shutters means you have a lot of choices to make when it comes to the overall look, including wood stain or paint.

Shutter paint or stain colors can transform your rooms in the following ways:

Light-reflectiveness: For a more contemporary look, choose a silk-white finish to reflect light into the room. White shutters offer a clean, crisp look and help you enjoy natural light during the daytime hours.
Traditional décor: The deeper the color of your plantation shutters, the more they warm up the space. Gently warm up your living space with light-colored neutrals that won't clash with the rest of the room's color palette.
Focal point: Colorful shutters that contrast with the walls grab attention. For example, if the walls are white and the shutters are a colorful hue like yellow, blue, or red, the eye is drawn to the shutters as a visual point of interest. You can make your shutters stand out with a high-gloss paint finish, too.

Style Tips for Choosing Draperies

pastel pink curtain in a modern white kitchen

Draperies are window treatments that go from the ceiling to the floor, in contrast with curtains, which do not reach the floor. You may choose to hang only one drape or two draperies that close in the middle. Just like with other window treatments, you'll have plenty of options when it comes to finding the perfect draperies for you. You may opt to put a valance or cornice above the curtains to frame the windows and add extra beauty and sophistication to your living space.

Some of the drapery style options you'll have include:

Texture: The overall mood of the room will guide you in terms of selecting the best texture. For example, if you have a stately and formal space, you may opt for heavy silk or velvet curtains. More practical homeowners may want something they can toss in the washing machine, such as silky rayon blends or cotton sateen. You can also choose from linen, crushed velvet, cotton/cotton blends, and wool/wool blends.
Color: To make the draperies a focal point, choose a color that pops, as bold colors work like a visual exclamation point in any room. If you'd prefer your drapes to blend in, choose fabrics that are a few shades darker than the wall, or a non-dominant yet subtle complementary color of the room.
Prints and patterns: Prints make a visual impact, but they go better in rooms that have solid-colored furniture to prevent clashing. If your furniture, bedding, or even an elaborate rug have patterns, then stick with solid-colored draperies.

Find your nearest Bloomin' Blinds location here.

Karen
About the Author: Karen McGuffin, Bloomin' Blinds

Karen is the original founder of Bloomin' Blinds. She has nearly 30 years of experience in the window treatment industry and is an expert in window covering sales, installations, and repair. In her free time, Karen enjoys traveling, volunteering at the local food bank, being an active in the chamber of commerce, and "cruising" through her neighborhood in her little blue and white polka-dotted golf cart she calls a buggy.

Ultimate Window Treatment Design Guide

Choosing the Best Type of Blinds for You

Some of the most popular blinds include:

What You Should Know About Window Shades

Some of the most popular shades we offer at Bloomin' Blinds are:

Determining Your Preferred Color for Plantation Shutters

Shutter paint or stain colors can transform your rooms in the following ways:

Style Tips for Choosing Draperies

Some of the drapery style options you'll have include:

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