Home » Misc » Window treatments shutters ideas

Window treatments shutters ideas


10 smart solutions for windows |

(Image credit: Shutterly Fabulous/Future/Shutter Store)

Rising in popularity, shutter ideas are fast becoming the sophisticated way to dress your windows. A suitable option for every room of the house they will look smart, stand the test of time, and are easy to maintain. 

One of our favorite window treatment ideas, shutter ideas are loved due to their versatility and enduring aesthetic credentials, however, it's important that you pick the right style for your home as they do mark a significant investment. 

In terms of materials, wood is the authentic choice – whether painted or natural – while vinyl options are a durable choice for bathrooms or kitchens as they can withstand the moisture and humidity of these areas. 

Shutter ideas

Endlessly versatile, shutter ideas can be combined with curtain ideas or used alone for a streamlined dressing, creating privacy and controlling light in interiors, and they can even be fitted to create shade on your front porch ideas.

‘Shutters can be fitted to all types of shapes meaning you can cater to any awkwardly shaped window or doorway,’ says Sam Tamlyn, general manager, Shutterly Fabulous . They can also help insulate rooms in colder regions, and keep the heat out when it’s warm – making shutter ideas a great option wherever you live. 

1. Opt for tier-on-tier shutters for ultimate control

(Image credit: The Shutter Store)

Combining the best of both worlds, tier-on-tier shutters boast the privacy, light control, and aesthetics of full-height shutters, while also incorporating the flexibility of café-style shutters – as each section can be opened independently. 

‘If your windows have a natural break, opt for tier-on-tier shutter ideas with a mid-rail positioned over the break,’ advises Sam Tamlyn, general manager at Shutterly Fabulous . 

2. Choose cafe-style shutters for street facing rooms

(Image credit: California Shutters)

For street-facing or overlooked rooms, café-style shutters are a great option. Only installed on the lower part of the window, they allow the influx of natural light without compromising privacy. They can also be thrown wide when needed to open windows or let in light.

Cafe-style shutters are also a great way to achieve the coastal kitchen look – especially when paired with a blue and white color scheme or shiplap wall ideas.

3. Vinyl shutters for a peaceful bathroom

(Image credit: Lifestyle Floors)

It is good practice to leave your window open when showering or bathing, regardless of whether you have an extractor fan, to get rid of condensation inside windows. However, with blinds, this practice can impede privacy or create a noisy environment as the blinds bang against the frame. A vinyl shutter, on the other hand, is a great bathroom window treatment as it can be opened to access the window, then securely closed, leaving the window open without compromising your privacy. 

4. Select solid shutters to add architectural interest

(Image credit: Future)

Solid shutter ideas are a stunning addition to any style of the room – especially one that’s lacking original features or architectural character. Providing texture and interest, whether open or shut, solid shutters can be paired with windows or enhance French door ideas. Since they are single panels with no gaps for draughts to pass through, solid shutters are also great for keeping your home warm and helping you to cut your energy bills this winter. 

5. Use your shutters to add color and interest

(Image credit: Thomas Sanderson)

Opting for shutters, instead of window blind ideas, doesn’t mean that you have to reject creativity. There are myriad different colors and designs available, allowing you to make a statement with your window treatment. Paired with complementary pale lime walls and an array of accent cushions, these green Waterbury shutters from Thomas Sanderson , make an instantly eye-catching statement that could rival even the best accent wall ideas. Shutter ideas also help to add structure and shape to the room, while the louvers offer flexible light levels and essential privacy when needed.  

6. Team shutters with drapes

(Image credit: Future / Davide Lovatti)

For a stylish treatment for bay window ideas, consider combining shutter ideas with curtains. The shutters can fulfill the role of providing privacy in an overlooked room – and here it’s only café-style shutters that cover the lower part of the window that is required – while the curtains add softness to the interior.

‘Shutters plus curtains is one of our favorite living room ideas,’ says Lucy Searle, global editor in chief of Homes & Gardens. ‘The curtains frame the elegant window and provide color and pattern, and shutters prevent the room from being overlooked.’

(Image credit: Future / Damian Russell )

While shutter ideas often feature white or wood finishes, think black to make a striking statement with your window treatment. In this room, they’re part of a palette that combines black with gold accents in a modern living room design. When open these solid shutters leave the large window exposed, keeping the room filled with daylight.

8. Match shutters to wallpaper

(Image credit: Shutterly Fabulous)

To create an interior that feels cocooning and cozy, complement wallpaper ideas in rich colors, such as when decorating with green, with shutters that repeat a hue from the design – it’s one of the options available in any room in which you use shutter ideas as a window treatment.

‘Look at whether you would like your shutters to match and blend into the wall color and room décor or whether you would like to create a design statement and focal point through a contrasting or vibrant color,’ says Sam Tamlyn.

9. Control light and privacy with shutters

(Image credit: Future / Jan Baldwin)

Featuring adjustable louvers, plantation shutter ideas offer control over light and privacy while also adding a layer of insulation to windows. Easy to wipe clean, they can also ‘allow in considerably more light due to light from the louvers being reflected onto the ceiling making a room feel lighter, says Livia Gusman of Just Shutters .  

10. Keep it natural

(Image credit: Shutterly Fabulous)

Wood shutter ideas are a great alternative to painted finishes when considering living room color ideas. They’re ideal for interiors featuring neutral tones and will up the quotient of natural finishes in any room. 

Want a natural element but a more dramatic effect? Go for wood stains in richer and darker tones.

11. Make a feature of solid wood shutters

(Image credit: Paper & Paint Library )

If you’re lucky enough to have a property complete with beautiful original solid wood shutters, be sure to celebrate them. If they have an original wood finish then take care to preserve this, alternatively, if they have already been painted try highlighting them in a bold color. 

'Painting traditional wooden window shutters allows for almost floor-to-ceiling color without taking a bold color onto the walls,’ says Andy Greenall, head of design at Paint & Paper Library . ‘To maximize architectural detailing on the shutters, opt for a satin finish such as Architects’ Satinwood which, as well as being practical and durable, offers a 30 to 35 percent sheen level, which will highlight the paneling and create a beautiful light-reflecting surface. '

12. Bring shade to a porch

(Image credit: Benjamin Moore)

Think shutter ideas to keep a back or front porch cool and comfortable when the sun is high. Using them here can create a cohesive feel between the interior and exterior of a house if they’re the chosen window treatment inside rooms. 

Choose a soft green color for them and the shutters will link to the foliage of the yard, too, and create a soothing light for a space made for relaxing.

13. Ensure the perfect fit with custom shutters

(Image credit: Thomas Sanderson)

Windows are a huge part of the character of a period property, and to preserve this it’s important that they are given sympathetic window treatments. Opting for a made-to-measure service will ensure that blinds or shutters can be designed to fit around the architecture of your home, even if your windows are shaped or curved. 

An ideal bedroom window treatment, when closed the shutters will block out the light, creating a cozy and welcoming atmosphere.

14. Choose vinyl shutters for a bathroom

(Image credit: Hillarys)

Offering the ability to alter light levels without compromising on privacy, shutters are a brilliant bathroom idea. However, it’s important to consider material as wood can warp in humid areas. 

‘For bathrooms, we recommend choosing vinyl shutter ideas or faux wood Venetian blinds,’ says Yvonne Keal, senior product manager at Hillarys . ‘Both mimic the look of real wood but will withstand moisture – giving you the best of both worlds.’

15. Opt for flexibility

(Image credit: Shutterly Fabulous)

Tier on tier shutters are a flexible option for a room like a bathroom in which different levels of privacy might be required during a day. They allow just the lower part of the window to be covered, or the whole expanse of glass as needed. 

In this room a pink finish has been selected that adds welcome warmth to the space. 

What is the most popular shutter style?

Inside a home, Shaker style solid panel shutters are a popular option. They’ll block light effectively when needed and are ideal if streetlights are intrusive or to prevent daylight interrupting sleep. 

Louvered shutters are also a good choice for interiors that’s often favored. They can be full height to cover the entire window or café style across the bottom, and allow fine light control, making them ideal for living spaces and home offices to avoid glare on screens.

What goes well with shutters?

Curtains go well with shutters, creating an elegant window treatment. The pleats of the fabric bring softness that contrasts with the line and material of the shutters, and they’ll frame the window. Plus, in a cold climate, using both will result in optimum insulation for the window.

Measure for curtains that hang to the floor to make the window look as tall as possible, and fit them so that they draw back completely from the glazing and expose the shutters fully when they are open.

Fit the shutters first to ensure they can be mounted as necessary and their panels open without the curtain rod causing an obstruction.

Do shutters make a room warmer?

Shutters do make a room warmer. Helping to reduce draughts and provide an additional layer of insulation in front of your windows, shutters are a great way to retain heat in your room. 

Do shutters brighten a room?

Yes, shutters are a great way to brighten a room.  'There are lots to make to increase the amount of natural light and brighten your home, without the need to feel exposed with bare windows from wall to wall,' comments Rachel Davies, design expert at Shuttercraft . 'Shutters in subtle shades like white and cream can help optimize light levels in the home even when completely closed. Shutters with wide slats are ideal if you want the room to bask in natural light.'

Sarah is a freelance journalist and editor. Previously executive editor of Ideal Home, she’s specialized in interiors, property and gardens for over 20 years, and covers interior design, house design, gardens, and cleaning and organizing a home for H&G. She’s written for websites, including Houzz, Channel 4’s flagship website, 4Homes, and Future’s T3; national newspapers, including The Guardian; and magazines including Future’s Country Homes & Interiors, Homebuilding & Renovating, Period Living, and Style at Home, as well as House Beautiful, Good Homes, Grand Designs, Homes & Antiques, LandLove and The English Home among others. It’s no big surprise that she likes to put what she writes about into practice, and is a serial house renovator. 

30 ways with curtains, blinds and shutters |

When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here’s how it works.

(Image credit: Henry Prideaux/Tom Sullam)

Window treatment ideas are myriad. Fulfilling a vital practical function of blocking out noise and light and providing privacy, they are also amongst the most influential decorative features a room can have.

Both functional and decorative, curtain ideas and window blind ideas are the barrier between inside and outside. They shield us from harsh light during the day and are drawn tight at night. What's more, window dressings create privacy from prying eyes.

Equally, like a stand-out painting, window treatment ideas can bring character and verve to an interiors scheme or be a quiet counterfoil to a flamboyant scheme. 

So why spend money on beautiful paint shades and great quality furniture if you’re going to skimp on the window dressing ideas? They are the finishing touch to your interior design – that final piece that completes the space. 

Window treatment ideas

There are rules to follow to help you get window dressing ideas just right. These address certain issues like ceiling height, dealing with color and pattern and the big question – do you let them drape? 

We’ve pulled together a range of decorating ideas for window treatments, with expert tips on how to deal with the most common issues so you can make your room feel fabulous.

1. Team a patterned blind with wallpaper

(Image credit: Gunter & Co)

‘When you already have a patterned wallpaper,’ explains Irene Gunter, founder of global interior designer studio Gunter & Co , ‘choosing a subtle fabric in a mix of soft colors that match tonally is a good way to embrace the maximalist trend in your home in a way that is a little less overwhelming.

'It’s a good idea to use blackout lining as this ensures the fabric doesn’t look overly yellow, which can happen when the light shines through.’ 

2. Hang a Roman blind to soften a bathroom

(Image credit: Future/Simon Bevan)

A pretty Roman blind is a sure winner when it comes to window treatment ideas. Window blind ideas will add softness and character to a contemporary bathroom space. Here, a simple motif on the blind is reminiscent of Indian woodblocks, and chimes well with other elements of moody Eastern influence. 

For blinds or curtains to work well in a bathroom, make sure your room is well-ventilated to prevent any mildew developing. Avoid full-length designs if you can – or at least ones that hang on the floor – and opt for a lightweight fabric that will not only maintain privacy while letting in sunlight, but will also dry quicker in case they do get damp. 

Shown here is a Roman blind in Tasha’s Trip in Charcoal, linen by Kit Kemp at Christopher Farr Cloth and edged in Newport Galon braid from Houlès. The bath is Drummonds.

3. Choose a decorative Roman blind to add color and pattern

(Image credit: Colefax & Fowler)

Be creative with bespoke Roman blinds for window treatment ideas. You can bring a decorative aspect to windows by choosing fabrics that reflect and echo your soft furnishings – on your window seat ideas and beyond. 

It’s also important to determine whether a style of the blind is appropriate for the window and that the scale of the design complements the other fabrics in the room.

‘I often use a sheer Roman blind within the reveal and a more decorative design on the outer,’ says Janie Money, associate director at Sibyl Colefax & John Fowler . ‘If you use a plain material, define with a contrasting trim.’ 

Shown is Carsina fabric in red/sage with Corin Braid trim in tomato/teal both Colefax & Fowler.

4. Pick a slubby linen for a relaxed, country appeal

(Image credit: Future/Brent Darby)

Whereas a bedroom benefits from black-out blinds, a kitchen is a place to welcome in the natural morning light, for more inspiration, see our kitchen window ideas.

Roman blinds, which fold up rather than roll, which aren’t too heavy work well in this breakfast area by interior designer Sophie Ashby at Studio Ashby , as they allow you to control how much light comes through.

5. Frame a window to create a focal point

(Image credit: Henry Prideaux/Tom Sullam)

A ‘lambrequin’ is a traditional design technique that provides a window treatment with a dramatic edge, and is a fabulous way to jazz up a window with a blind so it becomes almost architectural in style. Interior designer, Henry Prideaux explains, ‘I am always delighted when there is an opportunity to use a lambrequin layered over a Roman blind within a suitable scheme, framing the window like a theater set to give a space structure and gravitas.'

6. Pick solar shades for bright rooms

(Image credit: Stoneside)

A bright room that you spend lots of time in during the day is wonderful, of course, but if you have noticed that your furnishings are suffering from fading, you might like to consider solar shades, which allow light in – unlike black-out blinds – but are made from a material whose weave blocks some of the light.  

‘Solar shades now come in stylish and beautiful options, and are great investment pieces for larger spaces such as a living room,’ explains interior designer Mary Patton . ‘Preserving energy and protecting your furniture from the sun is a major plus.’

Remember that fabrics with tighter weaves will allow less light in – this means you can specify the weave to suit the amount of light control you need. And, if you can't reach the shades' mechanisms, motorized solar shades are available. 

Mary’s favorite place to shop solar shades? Stoneside , who will allow you to select from a wide range.

7. Pick a roller blind that's picture perfect

(Image credit: Surface View)

Find window treatment ideas that looks just as good as the real view behind it. This blind by Surface View features Dedham Vale by John Constable is from the V&A collection.

‘Artwork can bring drama, beauty and a little fun to windows with roller blinds that are unlike anything you will have seen before,’ says Michael Ayerst, managing director of Surface View.

This kind of window treatment ideas help to create an inspiring office space no matter what time of day.

8. Create the illusion of ceiling height

(Image credit: Henry Prideaux/Tom Sullam)

One of the biggest issues with dressing windows can be low ceilings, we’re not all blessed with stunning high-ceilinged rooms, so tricks need to be employed to create the illusion of height, as London-based interior designer, Henry Prideaux shares below:

‘A trick that good designers often use – if a window is low in proportion to the ceiling height, is to position fittings as high as possible so that curtain ideas are hung above the top of the window frame to draw the eye upwards making the room feel taller and the overall effect more dramatic. 

'In a similar way, Roman blinds don’t necessarily have to sit immediately on top of the window. They can be fitted slightly higher and then pulled down to conceal any expanse of bare wall above the window to make the elevation appear taller allowing the window treatment to be more appropriate within the rest of the room. ’

9. Create a luxe look by going door to door

(Image credit: Gunter & Co)

The requirements of window treatment ideas will vary room to room, but they are all designed to provide levels of privacy, shade, soundproofing and warmth. 

If you are looking for bedroom curtain ideas, think luxury. In this three-bedroom London maisonette design by Gunter & Co, the bedroom has double doors which lead out onto a patio. Wall-to-wall curtains were added in front, not only to help block out light and sound when the room is occupied, but by using heavy fabric floor-to-ceiling, the curtains will also help keep out any unwanted drafts. 

‘We worked with a palette of rich colors to make the most of the daylight on offer in the property, from lighter colors in light-filled spaces to warm and rich shades in darker spaces,’ says Irene Gunter, founder of Gunter & Co.

As well as these practical elements, the rich textures and deep folds of the Christopher Farr Cloth fabric in the curtains help to create a cozy atmosphere in the bedroom when drawn, a great bedroom window treatment idea.  

10. Correct uneven proportions with window dressings

(Image credit: Kelling Designs)

Potentially more of an issue in older properties but a tricky issue nonetheless, so we enlisted the advice of Emma Derterding, founder and creative director of Kelling Designs for her solution:

‘If you have windows at various heights within the same room, then I'd always utilize these to give the illusion space. For the higher window, take your curtains right to the ceiling as this will make the room feel taller and make the most of the ceiling height. 

'For lower windows, fit the curtain rail to above the window leaving the wall above exposed as this will help balance the space and give a sense of grandeur.’

11. Choose a warm shade for a cool room

(Image credit: Future/Davide Lovatti)

A pelmet, also known as a cornice board, is a box frame used to conceal the top of curtains, and is commonly found in classic-style interiors. 

Pelmets can be made by using foam core or plywood to create a structure which can either be painted a similar tone to your walls, or upholstered in fabric to match the curtains hung beneath.  

Though largely a decorative feature giving prominence to windows, they – and other window valance ideas – are also designed to help conceal and also offer additional insulation around your windows, which is why they are so popular in older buildings such as this Kensington townhouse. 

Here, interior designer Christiana Syrris, then at Studio Indigo , used a bold mustard hue both on the walls and the window dressing. This technique provides a modern twist while also adding depth and interesting within a singular color palette. 

12. Use curtains as a decorative backdrop

(Image credit: Romo/Black Edition)

Great for modern curtain ideas, you can use patterned curtains to create a design statement – almost like a backdrop to the rest of your scheme, this will work especially well if the fabric is quite sheer and light can seep through them. We asked Emily Mould, Design Director at Romo and Black Edition for her advice on using patterns.

‘Creating a maximalist statement has evolved to become much more considered, moving away from the pattern clash of the past. Choose a hero pattern and introduce color, print and texture around it, allowing the design to take centerstage whilst layers of print and color add depth and textural touches to make a harmonious interior.’

13. Work with the room proportions you have

(Image credit: Interior Fox)

‘Opt for floor to ceiling curtains, ensuring there are no gaps. This look adds height to a room, while keeping a clean and simple aesthetic. And attention to detail goes a long way, explain Jenna and Mariana from London-based Interior Fox . 

‘For example, we like to swap out the eyelets to match the curtain pole. This simple but effective technique makes all the difference and helps to create a more unified and custom look. 

'Gone are the days of shorter curtains, they feel dated and can make a window feel small and boxed in. Instead create a cohesive look by complementing the curtains with the wall color. ’

14. Tackle a corner window cleverly

(Image credit: Loom & Last)

If you’re lucky enough to have a beautiful corner window then dressing it correctly is key to maintaining the light and character of the space – this might be a particular issue if you are looking for cottage curtain ideas which often have to address tricky spaces. We asked Harry Cole, founder of Loom & Last how to deal with this tricky window treatment.

‘Corner windows offer a great source of light, but it can be a daunting decorating decision when dressing them. Simplify the design process by treating each window as a single unit and hang each pair of curtains on separate rods. To ensure unity within the space, position the rods at the same height to create an L shape, but remember to allow enough room between the brackets.’

15. Choose a bold layered look with curtains and wallpaper

(Image credit: Future / Jan Baldwin)

Looking for bold and beautiful window treatment ideas? These Osborne Red curtains from Blithfield, make a strong statement alongside the Iznik wallpaper in Madder Pink from Rapture & Wright at The Fabric Collective.  

The secret here is to keep the density of color the same. Taking center stage is the side table that breaks the intensity of pattern. 

16. Opt for a feature length curtain

(Image credit: Livingetc at Hillarys)

Floor-to-ceiling curtains can create a sense of height in a space, and a contemporary solution is to conceal the track in the ceiling cavity. These are the Vedra Amarilla curtains from the Livingetc collection for Hillarys .

17. Create another dimension with a layered feel

(Image credit: Natalia Miyar)

‘Floor length curtains create warmth and layers of texture in a sitting room or bedroom,’ says interior designer Natalia Miyar . 

‘If the room has strong statement furniture, I choose a soft, textured fabric or multi-toned curtains to subtly add another dimension to the space.’ 

The curtain fabric used here is from Dominique Kieffer by Italian company, Rubelli .

18. Merge indoors and out with botanical prints

(Image credit: Future/Polly Wreford)

A curtain filled with dense foliage will echo the greenery outside. This is English Oak fabric in Teal by Linwood . 

When thinking about window treatment ideas, draw the eye through the room with a piece of furniture. Here a pouffe is upholstered in a linking design – SN Schwarzwald Col 1 by Dedar .

(Image credit: Carlos Garcia Interiors)

Often used for living room drape ideas, in a period property, we can use the character of the original features and inspiration of the past to recreate window dressings how they used to be. In this instance, the valance complements the rest of the scheme and frames the beautiful window seat area perfectly – ideal if you are researching country curtain ideas. 

Carlos Garcia, interior decorator at Carlos Garcia Interiors shares what he did:

‘I chose a valance to give softness, warmth and a touch of understated opulence to the room. The loosely hand gathered heading adds informality too and suits the beautiful Robert Kime floral linen.’

20. Follow through on the rest of your scheme

(Image credit: Future/Rei Moon)

Your guest bedroom is a perfect opportunity to get creative and design a scheme reminiscent of boutique hotel interiors. These curtains run the course of the walls, and were custom made by JAB Anstoetz to match the velvet-upholstered sofa bed nestled in between. 

21. Get the colors right

(Image credit: Kit Kemp)

The easiest way to get the color right is to match to your existing scheme. By that, we mean the key colors, so in this room, we have the paprika walls and natural chair. Both these shades can be seen in the curtain fabric and they create a cohesive feel. 

If you love your fabric then why not have an armchair covered in the same design? Matching like this is a big trend this year and it ties in with the maximalist look that’s doing the interior rounds too. 

22. Create a cohesive feel with matched patterns

(Image credit: Warner House)

'Almost any fabric can become a blind and, as with curtains, we recommend the use of beautiful linings,’ says Emma Clarke, director of Warner House . ‘Blackout should be a consideration depending on the room and interlining material for an elegant finish. ’ 

Shown on the windows here is Warner House’s Balmoral Olive.

Adding tape or bullion trims to the bottom edge creates interest bringing individuality to your scheme. Try layering both curtains and blinds for warmth and depth.

23. Choose the right fabric and drape

(Image credit: Davide Lovatti)

Molly Freshwater, Creative Director at Secret Linen Store explains what she looks for when it comes to choosing the right fabric and drape:

‘I always think of window dressing as the final finishing touch to your room. The color is important, but for me the fabric and drape is at the top of my curtain list to get right. My first rule of curtains is that they should be long to the floor and in the case of 100% linen curtains, even longer.

'If it’s an airy, bright feel that you want in the room, it has to be 100% linen. These curtains let the light dapple through, and give you privacy at the same time. They can be drawn back to almost nothing during the day, and if you want to tie them they are so light, you need only use a lovely ribbon.

'If you need to keep the light out completely, a blind behind the linen will do this job and leave your room looking light and airy as and when you want it.’

24. Use shutters for privacy, shade – and color

(Image credit: Benjamin Moore)

Shutters aren't just for indoors – they are making their way outdoors, too, to create cool shade on a south-facing porch or for providing privacy on a porch that is overlooked. They are a wonderful tool for extending your indoor space outdoors – and for providing a colorful backdrop. Of course, a pale green is wonderful for linking that transitional zone to the foliage outdoors.

It's vital that the shutters you choose for this purpose are made from materials – and have fixings – that are tough enough to stand up to temperature fluctuations and downpours. 

25. Consider shutter color carefully

(Image credit: California Shutters)

Louvered shutters like these look effortlessly elegant – and are wonderful for bedrooms because they can filter out noise, dirt and even the cold.  

However, it's worth making a point or two about the light levels of a room and how they are affected by shutters. First – most shutters don't block out light as efficiently as other window dressings, although the darker the shutter color, the more effective they are at dulling early morning light. Secondly, the color of your shutters will alter the color of the light that filters into your room: white shutters will reflect white light in; yellow shutters will make a room feel sunnier, whereas grey shutters will make a bright room feel cool.  

26. Choose Venetian blinds for a streamlined look

(Image credit: Blinds2Go)

Venetian blinds are super smart, practical – and perfect if you are on a budget or furnishing a rental home. From outside, they give the impression of shutters – but at a much lower price. Like shutters, they do gather dust, so white or pale finishes are better for disguising this and creating bright rooms.

27. Co-ordinate curtains with upholstery

(Image credit: Kitty linen in Blue/Green, The English Garden Collection, Linwood)

Opting for decorative fabrics over curtains and upholstery is a brilliant way to inject colour, pattern and personality into a bedroom. Covering the headboard and bed frame in the same design as the curtains will not only make a beautiful statement, it will also help create a cohesive, unified look. However, if you've considering doing this, then the key is to introduce additional, subtler fabrics throughout the room to soften the strong print advise the experts.

‘Using the same pattern on two items in a room creates cohesion, however, don’t make it too matchy matchy,’ says Ella Richards, head of design at Linwood . ‘You need to add elements of surprise – the bedroom would be rather dull without the dark blue pelmet, the footstool with its tweed-style weave and the dash of yellow from the bedside table. It’s all about little surprises.’

28. Channel the ruffle trend with a ruched blind

(Image credit: Blind in Woodblock Forest linen Madeaux)

Making a feature of bathroom windows with a fabric blind is a brilliant way to inject pattern, colour and personality into what can feel cold, clinical spaces. Ruffles are all the rage at the moment so why not create a nod to the look with a ruched ‘London’ style fabric blind? 

‘Bathrooms often feel stark and cold, full of hard surfaces and bright white finishes, adding a large scale floral fabric ruched to create a ‘London’ blind with a contrast or striped trim delivers a touch of whimsy, creating a considered and joyful interior,’ says Richard Smith, founder & creative director, Madeaux

29. Balance light and privacy with a venetian blind

(Image credit: Blinds2Go Metropolitan Snow and Parchment wooden venetian blind)

Venetian blinds have adjustable horizontal slats, also known as louvres, which allow you to control light levels whilst maintaining privacy – this makes venetian blinds a perfect choice for bathrooms, plus, depending on the material they can be water-resistant and can be easily wiped clean which is important in moist areas.

‘As bathrooms are usually quite steamy rooms, roller blinds with polyester or polyester mix fabric are practical choices as they are resistant to damp and humid conditions and are easy to wipe clean. Alternatively, Wood Impression venetian blinds offer the look of real wood but with the water resistance suitable to a bathroom environment,’ says Jackie Hoyte of Blinds2Go

30. Choose full length curtains for a traditional look

(Image credit: Warner House)

For a traditional living room consider curtains in decorative prints inspired by historic designs such as this Palampore tree of life design from Warner House which draws from the exotic chintzes printed in the 17th-century on the Coromandel Coast for the European market. 

‘Almost any fabric can be used as a curtain provided it has beautiful drape. Best quality curtain lining and interlining materials give a luxurious finish, enhancing the beauty of the fabric and accentuating shape and fullness,’ says Lee Clarke, Director at Warner House.

‘We believe “more is more” and in almost every instance we would advise curtains should be full length: puddled for a traditional feel, or flush to the floor for a modern finish. '

'Be generous with your widths to avoid lacklustre, thin curtains – show off color and design with sumptuous fullness,' advises Lee Clarke. 'Hang curtains above the window frame for extra height and to showcase a fabulous sweeping design. We love the pinch pleat heading: triple pinch for a heritage look, or the double pinch for a sleeker finish.' 

What window treatments are popular today?

Our edit of the best window treatments ideas are in style for 2021: they include both decorative Roman and roller blinds that add layering and comfort to a room to more pared back blinds that provide solar shading; for curtains, luxurious layered looks are popular amongst interior designers; shutters are perennially popular and are even finding their way on to porches; for rental properties, Venetian blinds provide streamlined, smart looks – but on a more affordable budget than shutters. 

How do I measure up for window treatments?

Follow measuring instructions carefully for the specific blinds or curtains you wish to order and the situation you want to fit it into, such as a bay window or patio door or standard rectangular window. These are provided on most retailers’ websites. Use a metal measuring tape as fabric tapes can stretch or give inaccurate measurements. Also decide which side you want the controls on for convenience of use.

How do you decide whether to fit inside or outside the recess? Leah Brandwood, Head of Design, Blinds 2go , explains this will depend on whether your window has a recess or not and what obstructions there are to fitting the blind inside the recess, such as handles, window fittings and the direction the window opens. 

‘If the space is clear then it comes down to personal preference, but most people prefer to fit their blinds inside the recess and curtains are fitted outside the recess,’ she says.

The main options are eyelet – usually where large, metal rings are set within the fabric at the top of the curtain and easily loop onto a curtain pole – or pleated – a more classic look where gathered folds run along the top of a curtain which can be attached to a track or a pole with hooks. There are then further variations between these looks, which all give slightly different appearances.  

‘At Warner House we love the pinch pleat heading; triple pinch for a heritage look, double pinch for a sleeker finish,’ says Emma Clarke, director, Warner House. 'Be generous with your widths to avoid lacklustre, thin curtains. Hang curtains above the window frame for extra height and to showcase a fabulous sweeping design.'

Once you’ve decided, you can then start to have fun choosing a curtain pole, or take a look into pelmets to cover the top of the curtain entirely. 

How do I pick a pattern for my window treatments?

‘There are a range of practical and aesthetic considerations when choosing curtain fabric,’ says Emily Mould, Design Director Romo and Black Edition . ‘Consider whether you want to make a statement with a strong color, pattern or contrasting texture or whether you want a subtler look with a plain, textural neutral or muted pastel shade. 

See: Cottage curtain ideas – inspiration for a pretty, cozy home

'A bold, large-scale design can create a striking focal point and will work best when used for large windows where the full repeat can be fully appreciated. If you have smaller windows, opt for a small-scale pattern to create a more refined look. 

'Consider the quality of the material; an elegant lightweight sheer can gently diffuse the sunlight whilst dressing your windows with more substantial fabrics such as luxurious wools or sumptuous velvets can help prevent drafts and retain heat. 

'Color is also important; pale earthy blues and greens can provide a relaxing haven whilst rich shades of plum or scarlet create an intimate space and luxuriant tones of ochre or burnt orange can induce a feeling of warmth.'

(Image credit: Henry Prideaux/Tom Sullam)

(Image credit: Henry Prideaux/Tom Sullam)

With over 30 years of working in journalism on women's home and lifestyle media brands, Rhoda is an Editorial Director, Homes Content, at Future. Over time, Rhoda has worked on the entire homes and gardens portfolio including Homes & Gardens, Country Homes & Interiors, Livingetc, Ideal Home, Style at Home, Woman & Home, 25 Beautiful Homes, Amateur Gardening and Easy Gardens. She was also editor of Country Homes & Interiors for 14 years, leading it across print and creating the blog Country Days. She has also worked at Woman’s Weekly, Family Circle and Practical Parenting.

best photo ideas for your home - INMYROOM

In order to update or refresh the interior of an apartment, sometimes it is enough to change the design of windows and the level of illumination. Blinds do an excellent job of both. Due to the variety of types and materials, you can choose a model for rooms of different purposes and styles. Design features allow you to adjust with their help the light transmission and the atmosphere in the house. And ease of maintenance saves time and money for owners.

The advantages of blinds also include:

Horizontal blinds

Designed as a "ladder", that is, the plates (lamellas) are located one above the other. The slats are fastened together with cords that run through the entire structure on the sides. Thanks to this fastening, the plates acquire the ability to move simultaneously, opening or closing the window. The rotation is regulated by a chain connected to the cords. Such models allow you to completely prevent light from entering the room.

Such blinds were one of the first to appear in the interior of houses, immediately gaining special popularity. Often found in a classic interior, but they will also look organic in a strict, concisely decorated room. Great for narrow rooms, visually adjusting their shape. Examples of horizontal blinds in the interior in the photo can be seen below.

Vertical blinds

Here the movement and rotation of the slats is carried out with the help of sliders attached to the eaves. The slats are able to move relative to the eaves to the right or left, opening the window completely. There are also models that open from the center to the edges. At the bottom, the lamellas are interconnected by a rope with weights. The plates are controlled by a cord and a chain. Such blinds most of all allow you to adjust the level of illumination in the room.

Vertical blinds are most often seen in modern interiors. Designers working in the style of hi-tech and minimalism often prefer just such options. They will look good in the kitchen, bathroom or even a nursery. Vertical blinds in the interior in the photo are shown below.

Cassette blinds

Can only be horizontal, and not only in the form of slats, but also available with a single leaf. Mounted directly on the window frame, covering only the glass. This option is convenient because it takes up little space, while the window sill remains free.

The basis of the construction is a light pipe. Rigid strings are attached to it on both sides, setting the canvas in motion. They are stretched in such a way that the canvas does not sag. From above, the pipe is covered with a box, creating a solid and aesthetic body.

Roller blinds

This design assumes that the fabric sheet is wound onto a roller using guides. The mechanism is set in motion thanks to the control cord. In this case, the canvas is collected from the bottom up, forming a roll.

The fabric can be either translucent or completely opaque. Thicker options are great for bedrooms, reliably protecting the room from the sun and providing the necessary twilight for a comfortable stay.

Materials

Plastic

Plastic blinds were among the first on the market. They are relatively cheap and therefore very popular. The dense opaque material is suitable for offices and municipal institutions. Reliable and easy to use, does not require special care. To remove dust, you just need to wipe the slats with a damp cloth. Sufficiently heavy construction requires an additional frame.

It is worth noting that white plastic is the most faded in the sun. Therefore, it is worth choosing colors that do not lose their attractiveness over time due to exposure to sunlight. When closed, they almost completely block out light, so they can be used not only at home, but even in warehouses or grocery stores. Differs in big service life.

Aluminum

The most practical material. In addition to the light-shielding function, aluminum does not heat up, does not conduct heat and is not afraid of temperature changes. Equally well performs its functions, both in a dry room and in conditions of high humidity. Therefore, this option is perfect for the kitchen, bathroom, pool room. Can be cleaned with plain water or, in some cases, soapy water. It practically does not wear out over time, so the service life of such blinds is very long.

Wood

Eco-friendly and expensive material for blinds. Gives the room solidity and elegance. Different types of wood are used, including such as pine, cedar. The color of the paint can also be different, depending on the environment. It will fit well into a cozy home interior, classic style. Among other things, wood reflects light well and provides sound insulation.

Usually the lamellas are varnished, anti-dust, anti-dirt, antistatic agents. Wooden blinds are not recommended for use in the kitchen, near heat sources, as they can be deformed from constant temperature changes and high humidity. Do not wash them with water, a slightly damp cloth will suffice.

Under conditions of competent operation, such models will last a long time, to prolong life, polishing can sometimes be done.

Fabric

Very popular type of blinds today. People prefer it because of its similarity with ordinary curtains. Therefore, there are many options for interior design. You can choose a canvas for a room of any purpose and style.

The most commonly used material is polyester, but there are also cotton blinds and even fiberglass options. Like wood, fabric canvases are treated with compounds against moisture, dust, static electricity, and also against fading.

However, fabric blinds are the most difficult to care for. They wear out quickly, get dirty, despite all sorts of modern impregnations. Cleaning them at home is quite difficult. Most likely, you will have to resort to dry cleaning, and this is an additional cost and extra time. In addition, structures consisting of lamellas will have to be disassembled one at a time in order to perform a full cleaning. But still, finding the best option is possible due to the variety of fabrics, colors, textures.

The best ideas for your interior

A wide variety of options allows you to choose a design option for absolutely any interior.

For modern high-tech environments or offices, simple and concise versions made of plastic and aluminium. Light shades emphasize the stylish design and simple forms of furniture.

Wooden blinds in warm deep colors are perfect for country design and classic interiors. They will create a feeling of warmth and home comfort, proximity to nature.

Fabric canvases will effectively fit into any interior, emphasizing the simplicity and elegance of design.

To add uniqueness and originality to your interior, blinds can be combined with classic curtains, tassels, laces, lambrequins. Blinds will be completely invisible if you use modern inter-frame structures that cover only the glass of the window.

Colors are not only plain. It is possible to draw a pattern on the fabric canvases on request. It looks very fresh in a modern interior. The subjects of the drawings are diverse: from geometric shapes and abstract images to natural landscapes or views of the night city.

Also, blinds made of dense materials such as plastic and aluminum can be used as a partition, thus zoning the room into several functional areas.

Beautiful blinds can be matched to any room style thanks to the wide variety of shapes and materials.

Photo

See our gallery for more ideas on using blinds in the interior of the apartment.

Video

Our video will give you some more tips to help you make your choice.

100+ photos of blinds in the interior

What are blinds?

Blinds are light-shielding structures made of adjustable slats (lamellas) interconnected, the mechanism of operation of which differs depending on the type of structure.

Advantages and disadvantages

The main pros and cons of using in the interior.

Benefits Disadvantages
Vertical slats visually increase the height of the room and raise the ceiling. These strips are not designed to be installed on the sash.

Horizontal blinds have many mounting options. They are very convenient, practical and can significantly save space.

Some models are particularly fragile. Aluminum horizontal slats create noise when gusts of wind or when raised and lowered.
Pleated blinds are suitable for designing non-standard window openings. They are very compact. Items made from paper cannot be washed.

How to choose window blinds?

Several options to choose from:

What types of blinds are there?

There are two types of blinds, which are determined by the type of location of the rails:

The photo shows a spacious living room with a bay window.

Other types of blinds for windows

There is another group according to visual and functional features:

Consider the description of each type in more detail.

Pleated

Accordion pleated fabric that can be attached to the window with Velcro. Such models are very convenient and compact, and when assembled, they are practically invisible on the window opening. Often used on skylights.

In the photo, the window sash, decorated with bright corrugated pleats, allows you to ventilate the kitchen without unnecessary movements.

Multiimpressive

Thanks to the combination of combined slats made of various materials, this design can decorate any interior and give it a very stylish look.

Photoblinds

Lamellas with a colorful realistic image printed on them look very original and emphasize the look of the window, giving the interior a creative touch.

The photo shows vertical slats with photo printing in the shape of a butterfly.

Mounting types

Consider the types of window blinds mounting:

Control methods

There are several options for how to lower or raise the blinds.

Venetian blind slat material

Louvers can be made from a variety of materials.

The photo shows white blinds on a large window with a beautiful view of the city in the interior of the bathroom.

Size classification

There are basic lengths:

Which styles are best to use?

The use of sun blinds for interiors in various styles has no limits.

For Provence, wooden slats covered with colorless varnish will be appropriate. They will create a pleasant atmosphere in the room and will not spoil the natural beauty of Provence with their appearance.

The photo shows light wooden slats in the Provence style bedroom.

And for a loft-style interior, aluminum or plastic blinds in light colors are suitable. Such models will look very stylish and keep the feeling of a wide space in the room.

In a modern style, the main thing is that the blinds match the color scheme of the room and are effectively combined with surface textures.

The photo shows wooden blinds in the interior of the living room in a modern style.

Metal overlays, perforated or reflective structures in silver, gold, steel, bronze colors will not stand out against the general background and will perfectly emphasize the high-tech interior.

The photo shows silver horizontal slats in a high-tech kitchen.

When decorating a room in a classic style, you can use both horizontal and vertical strips of light shades, which will be repeated in the interior decor.

For a Scandinavian interior, the main selection criterion is color - white, black and white or gray colors dominate. Horizontal blinds are suitable, well emphasizing the originality of the Scandinavian style.

Color palette

Certain colors create a unique design and give the room the necessary lightness, freshness or depth.

Red or burgundy slats look strict and respectable, but at the same time they add brightness and individuality to the room.

The photo shows red horizontal slats in the nursery interior.

A room with brown slats creates a solid and noble, but very cozy interior.

Green is the main favorite of modern design. Green strips give the room an attractive and expressive look.

The photo shows a living room and bright green vertical slats.

Blue looks fresh and stylish. Blue or blue blinds form a soft, delicate, but at the same time deep interior.

Yellow - cheerful and bright. Such a sunny shade gives the room warmth and light.

The photo shows a kitchen with a door and window opening decorated with yellow pleated blinds.

Golden color belongs to the warm colors, so they add even more space and light to the room.

Orange brings dynamism to the interior of the room and creates a sensual, carefree and cheerful atmosphere in it.

The photo shows orange vertical blinds in the interior of the dining room.

White planks look very expressive and stylish, and make the light coming through them even brighter.

Stylish black color adds a touch of spice to the interior, such blinds look very strict and ascetic and create a monolithic design.

Beige is an enveloping and relaxing color that calms and creates a favorable atmosphere in the room.

Elegant designs in gray, do not distract attention and blend harmoniously with the general background of the room.

The photo shows window openings with gray pleated blinds in the office interior.

Pink shades create a particularly elegant and delicate interior.

The photo shows pink vertical blinds in a nursery for a girl.

Design, patterns and form

Gives you the opportunity to create an expressive and individual interior design.

Flower patterns on the blinds will give the room lightness and comfort, and add liveliness and brightness to it. Often used on windows in the interior of the kitchen.

Various geometric shapes make the interior unique and unforgettable, and also bring a unique atmosphere to it. Look great on the windows in the interior of the children's room.

Blinds with photo printing look very original and non-standard, and allow you to get away from the ordinary and dullness. This window design will emphasize the creativity of the owner of the apartment.

The photo shows the interior of the kitchen and white blinds with photo printing on the window opening.

The shape of the arch is created using planks of different lengths. Blinds in the form of an arch emphasize the aesthetics of the interior of the room.

Urban landscapes - night cities, capitals of various states or their sights, will be an excellent option for decorating almost any room. Such a pattern on the curtains increases the size of the room and allows you to enjoy your favorite city panoramas without leaving your home.

Natural scenery images make any room truly unique.

Alternating colors on the slats gives them a more voluminous look and adds brightness. Such decor is able to diversify the appearance of the room.

In the photo, the windows in the interior of the dining room are decorated with figured two-color blinds.

Choosing transparent blinds is a great opportunity to give the room a trendy and stylish look.

Combination ideas

Slats also have many successful combinations with other types of curtains, such combinations require special experience in interior design, so you should carefully use this decorative technique.

Curtains made of tulle will smooth out the austere look of blinds and add aesthetics to window decoration.

The combination of blinds with linen or cotton curtains is a win-win option in interior design, because it gives the window a more cozy look.

The photo shows pleated blinds combined with dark curtains in the living room.

Horizontal planks in combination with a hard lambrequin will look very harmonious.

On the photo is a dining room and horizontal slats in combination with a hard gang lambrequin.

Options for interior design of rooms

When choosing blinds, first of all, you need to take into account the individual characteristics of the room.

Such designs will be an ideal and high-quality solution for the kitchen. Blinds in the kitchen make the operation of the window very comfortable.

The use of blinds on the windows in the bedroom not only provides good protection from the sun and heat, but is also a great way to decorate.

Horizontal, vertical slats or pleated blinds in various bright shades of pink, turquoise, yellow or lilac, thanks to their practicality and functionality, are perfect for both a nursery and a teenager's room.

The photo shows a teenager's room and bright two-tone pleated blinds on the window openings.

Various models, intelligently combined with the overall palette of the living room, will create a unique and stylish interior.

The photo shows the living room interior with horizontal bamboo slats on the windows.

Blinds on balcony windows are the most optimal and correct solution, they make it cozy and modern.

For the bathroom, choose products from materials that are not afraid of high humidity and temperature changes. In addition, in the bathroom, lamellas can be used not only to decorate a window opening, but also to mask communications or niches in which washing machines are located.

If the toilet has a window opening, then it can be decorated with both vertical and horizontal models, which can also be used as a screen and hide water or sewer pipes behind them.

The photo shows horizontal blinds on the window opening in the bathroom.

Blinds for non-standard windows

Decorating such windows requires a special original approach.

Roof windows

Blinds with rails, especially suitable for roof windows. Various modifications, materials and methods of fastening to the window sash provide an opportunity for convenient use.

Arched windows

Closed slats accentuate the original shape of the arched window.

With balcony door

The simplest and most practical way of decorating, which harmonizes perfectly with this shape of the window opening.

Panoramic windows

Most often these are spacious interiors that especially require protection from the sun and competent decor. For large windows choose long blinds in the color scheme of the interior.

Slanting

Pleated blinds with convenient attachment to the sashes emphasize the interesting shape of the sloping opening and complement it with their unusual texture.

In the photo, the interior of the bathroom in white with soft green pleats gives the room tenderness and freshness.

Triangular

For such non-standard architectural geometries, both lamella and pleated models are suitable.

The photo shows vertical blinds on a triangular window in the attic.

Bay windows

Planks fit perfectly into the bay window, close it, while letting the right amount of light into the room.

The photo shows the interior of the living room with a bay window and large windows decorated with horizontal wood-like slats.

Trapezoidal

Vertical products or pleated blinds with certain installation features will be appropriate here.

Roof windows

These windows are decorated with models mounted directly on the frame itself.

Round

Horizontal or pleated options will look very attractive and highlight the unusual shape of a round or oval window opening.

Corner windows

These windows are exposed to direct sunlight and therefore require special protection.

The photo shows a living room and a corner window opening decorated with blinds.

Air vent

Despite the irrelevance of the air vent in modern design, if it is present on the window, then it can be decorated in the same style with the window decor or to focus on it.

Sliding windows

For such window structures, models with a ceiling mounting option are suitable. They will not interfere with the free functioning of windows.

Photo gallery

Blinds are a very interesting decoration.

Learn more