It takes a thoughtful planning before going for window treatments at home. While fabric curtains are the first choice for home owners, window blinds continue to inspire home owners with their versatility, allowing better control of light and shade.
Further, window blinds prove to be a practical solution when we consider rooms that need more privacy than other areas. Moreover, the availability of window blinds in multiple designs, patterns, and materials enables you to personalize your home to suit your decor style.
Types of window blinds
Venetian blinds
Invented in 1769 by Edward Bevan, an Englishman, these are among the popular types of window blinds designed with horizontal slats stacked together by cords or fabric strips. When the blinds are raised, the bottom slats are pressed into the slats above them. These blinds are available in different materials such as plastic, wood and aluminium.
Vertical blinds
Vertical blinds are comprise of individual slats, which twist or open from side-to-side. These blinds are widely preferred for large, floor-to-ceiling windows. You have the choice to customise these blinds, depending on the colour theme, material and window size.
Roller blinds
Roller shades are window coverings designed using synthetic or natural fabrics, which can be rolled up and down around a rail at the top of the window. These blinds are economical and easy to install. They are also available as double roller blinds and come with attractive designs, featuring cornices and valances.
Wooden blinds
Wooden blinds provide a natural look to your home interiors. They are designed from horizontal slats connected with a cord pulley. They are available in numerous finishes and shades. Moreover, wood window blinds design also comes in faux wood like PVC and natural wood options.
Roman blinds
Unlike the roller blinds, roman shades are blinds that get folded into pleats when opened. When the blinds are raised completely, they appear as a large stack of fabric. The designs are also available with blackout and thermal linings.
Solar shades
Solar shades are a form of roller shades that are designed to block excess sunlight, heat and UV rays while allowing views through windows.
Window blinds vs curtains
| Window blinds | Curtains |
| Window blinds are window coverings designed with different mechanisms, wherein the slats can be twisted or turned, lowered, and raised for optimum light control. | Curtains are materials, usually fabrics, suspended from a rail to cover a window. They are mostly available in a variety of fabrics, styles, thicknesses, and colours. |
| Blinds need to be dismantled and reassembled if they are washed. They may also need repair or installation if the cords or strings get entangled. | Curtains are easy to maintain. They can be easily washed. |
| Blinds are perfect for compact homes and areas prone to moisture, like bathrooms and kitchens. | Full-length curtains are ideal for large windows and spacious rooms. |
| Blinds may not provide sound control and block the light as effectively as curtains. | Heavy curtains offer an excellent option to soundproof a room and completely block light. |
| Window blinds can be used anywhere in the house. | Curtains are usually not suited for bathrooms and kitchens. |
When it comes to window treatments, blinds and curtains both allow you to customise your space in countless ways. We would discuss the pros and cons of these two options of window coverings. However, if you are selecting one for your home, the choice depends on your personal style and needs.
Window blinds designs for your home
Here are some window blinds ideas to personalize your home.
Window zebra blinds curtains for living room
Zebra blinds or vision blinds comprise of two layers of translucent or opaque horizontal slats, giving a contrasting look. They are like Venetian blinds, as they can be opened by twisting the slats. This classic style blind design makes the room look upscale and elegant.
Blinds with floral patterns
You can spruce up your room décor by installing blinds with decorative patterns. Floral patterns for home interiors are in trend these days. Besides flower designs, you can go for quirky patterns or geometric shapes for a contemporary and dramatic effect.
Window blinds for bedrooms with curtains
Layer your bedroom curtains with blinds for a blackout effect. The elegance of Roman blinds for bedroom interiors is unmatched. When working on a design theme for the room, go for matching colours of the drapes and blinds. You can also complement the look with wallpapers.
Window blinds for kitchen
As blinds allow the best light control, they are ideal for kitchen areas. Faux wood or vinyl blinds are easy to maintain than other types of window blinds, as you can clean them using soap and water. Solar shades are also good options for kitchens.
Classic shutters for dining room
Install white shutters or blinds in subtle hues that go with the monochromatic colour scheme of the dining space. The wooden panel at the top of the window gives a rustic appeal to the room.
Window blinds for patio doors
You can go for vertical blinds that are excellent for patio doors or large windows. Natural materials such as bamboo, reed, jute or rattan are well-suited for outdoor space. This woven reed shade brings a serene look to the balcony.
Stylish window blinds for bathrooms
Instead of curtains that completely block the light, go for blinds or shutters with subtle shades matching the bathroom décor. Look at the window blinds of this modern bathroom with a minimalistic look, which also comes with a decorative valance.
