Both practical and decorative, well-chosen curtains and blinds can have a transformative effect on any room. Follow our ideas for inspiring window treatments.
How to choose blinds
1. Roman, roller and Swedish fabric blinds are a popular, versatile choice for every room
2. Roman blinds are stylish but, if in constant use, their cords will need replacing over time as they have a tendency to fray or snap.
3. Roller blinds are highly practical for kitchens and bathrooms, as their protective coating makes them suitable for moist environments.
4. Swedish blinds look relaxed and are easy enough to make but can become fiddly to re-roll neatly if opened and closed often.
5. Alternatively, more utilitarian styles such as Venetian blinds and shutters are less decorative but allow you better control of the amount of light that is filtered into a room.
6. In rooms that serve a variety of functions, it’s best to pair blinds and curtains, giving a flexible window dressing to suit day and night.
7. Blinds with a blackout lining (available made to measure) are perfect for bedrooms, especially when they cover the frame completely and/or are paired with curtains. Uniform blinds, in the same style and fabric, will give a room with multiple windows a clean and cohesive look.
8. In young children’s rooms, always fit blinds that are cordless or have a spring mechanism, using the exact instructions supplied. There is now legislation regarding safe fitting. Choose the right blinds for your home at selectblindscanada.ca
How to choose the right style for you
DOUBLE EXPOSURE
Matching striped Roman blinds on twin windows introduce color and pattern to an otherwise plain scheme. Hung above the frame, when raised they leave the windows uncovered, allowing the maximum amount of light into the room.
BRIGHT & BEAUTIFUL
The floral print on this roller blind enlivens a pale room, making a focal point of the window – lightweight fabric means the room is light even when it is lowered.
FINE LINES
Venetian or slatted blinds have a more functional feel and work well in living areas, well-ventilated bathrooms, kitchens and conservatories. Choose from a wide range of wooden, painted wood and metal options.
ROLL UP
Swedish blinds have a relaxed appeal and are relatively easy to make using a double-sided panel of fabric and pull-cord system. Feature the same design on both sides or a contrasting print on the reverse for interest.
OPEN & CLOSE
Swedish blinds can be attached to the inside frame of a window or door so they stay in place when it is opened – useful for a bathroom or back door.
PERFECT PAIRING
Combining curtains with a blind gives you more flexibility when it comes to filtering out the light and helps to insulate draughty windows. Choose coordinating designs, either plain or patterned, that are linked by colour or style.