Elegant window blinds can be used for both function and style in today's homes

Elegant window blinds can be used for both function and style in today's homes

As a window treatment, blinds can have a highly practical, even commercial, appearance. Durable, simple to clean, efficiently filtering sunlight, and offering seclusion, they have proven to be a popular window treatment in commercial and industrial spaces. These same qualities also make them desirable as interior window décor. Making them appealing was the challenge.

Varieties of Window Shades

The materials and finishes available for blinds have greatly expanded thanks to the creativity of designers and home decor manufacturers. Curtains and valances are commonly used by decorators to add a cozy touch to windows. As a result, we now have beautiful, light, airy, and modern window coverings. The following are examples of today's most popular blinds for use in private houses:

Venetian. These may still be made of aluminum, but plastic is still an option. The slats vary in width from 1 to 3 inches and have a slight bend to them. Cords and twill tape are used to join the slats together. It's possible to open, close, tilt, or draw them up to the top of the window. You can use these blinds anywhere and choose from a wide variety of colors. When closed, the slats offer complete seclusion.

A slat of wood Wood slat blinds are another name for Venetian blinds manufactured from wood. The slats are more substantial, so they will stack more densely when drawn to the top of the window. It's possible to stain or paint them. The slats can be opened to let in direct sunlight or closed to provide privacy.

Miniblind. In the last 20 years or so, their popularity has skyrocketed. These blinds have slats that are only 0.5 to 1 inch broad. They can be found in a rainbow of colors and materials, including aluminum and PVC. These venetian blinds can be rolled up, opened, or closed like any other venetian blind. These are common because they give the window a sleek appearance when closed.

Vertical. Offices and households alike frequently install vertical blinds (http://www.shades-blinds-shutters-guide.com/vertical-blinds.html). You can open, close, or slide them to the side to use them on windows or sliding glass doors. Slats made of PVC or metal are mounted on a track that runs across the top of the opening. Slats may be attached at the bottom with a chain or cord, or they may be hung independently. Some varieties are powered by electricity and can be operated wirelessly.

Woven. Woven blinds, in contrast to the aforementioned types, do not feature operable slats. Thin, interlaced slats make up the structure. The sunlight is diffused by the little gaps between the slats. To let in more light, simply draw the blind up toward the ceiling and roll up the blind. Woven blinds, unlike Venetians, do not provide quite as much secrecy.

Blinds are available in many different materials and a wide range of aesthetically pleasing designs. Windows can be made to look as the designer desires because of the wide variety of styles and materials available. Because of this adaptability, windows can suit a wide variety of interior design styles. Here are some examples of materials that can be found in blinds:

Metal

Blind slats made of metal, especially aluminum, have been highly sought-after for many years. Metal is long-lasting, doesn't rust, and can be cleaned quickly. You can choose from a rainbow of colors, and the slats range in width from half an inch to three.

Wood

The natural warmth and robustness of wood make it a popular choice for window coverings. Wood has a natural beauty that no other material can match. Wood can be stained or painted to resemble nearly any color imaginable. Wooden blinds often have slats that are between an inch and two inches wide. Pulling drawstrings opens or closes the slats, allowing you to adjust the quantity of natural light entering the space. Venetian and woven blinds both typically use  wood.

Cane

Woven blinds are made from cane. Cane may be made of rattan or bamboo. Cane slats can either be complete pieces or cut in half. There is no way to open or close the slats, but the crevices between the canes allow some light to pass in.

Vinyl

PVC. Both the Venetian and woven styles employ vinyl. It can be used in place of metal or wood in woven or Venetian designs with little effort. Vinyl lasts for a long time, is simple to maintain, and is inexpensive compared to other materials.

Fabric

Slats made from stiffened fabric are a common sight. Vinyl or metal may replace this cloth in the future. Matching or contrasting materials can be used to great effect.

In addition to or instead of other window dressings like drapes, curtains, and valances, blinds are a versatile option. When used alone, they can give a room a more open, modern feel by hiding the window. Curtains and valances, when used together, can soften and shrink a room. Blinds can produce a stark, linear aesthetic, but curtains and valances can soften that look with their fabric. The house decorator's options are practically endless.

Blinds are a versatile window treatment that may be used alone or as an accent in almost any room. For instance, a conventional living room with white Venetian blinds and a scalloped valance on top looks warm and inviting. Woven rattan blinds diffuse the harsh morning sun, creating a pleasant and breezy atmosphere in the breakfast nook. The bedrooms are secluded and stylish, thanks to the combination of floor-length double-tied, lined curtains and richly colored miniblinds. Light-colored Venetian blinds offer privacy without blocking the light in a small bathroom, giving the illusion of more space.

Blinds add a splash of color and a touch of style to every room. When paired with curtains or other window coverings, they create a chic and aesthetically pleasing linear impression. Blinds at today's medical facilities are a far cry from the sterile, antiseptic ones I remember from when I was a kid.