Finding the Perfect Window Treatments: A Journey with Blinds.com

The windows are undoubtedly the highlight of our new house. They possess a unique, old-world charm, and while some require a bit of repair, they fill our living spaces with an abundance of natural light throughout the day. Many visitors have remarked that the house feels like a treehouse, a sentiment we wholeheartedly agree with, given the immersive natural light. The character of these windows truly defines the ambiance of our home.

However, after settling in, we quickly discovered a slight drawback to our treehouse-like living situation: a distinct lack of privacy. A few unintentional performances for the neighbors highlighted the urgent need for effective window treatments. Our beautiful, light-filled home had a clear vulnerability, demanding a practical and aesthetically pleasing solution. We realized that enjoying the natural light also meant addressing the need for seclusion when desired.

We embarked on a quest to explore various options, including blinds, shades, and curtains, carefully weighing their respective advantages and disadvantages. The idea of incorporating patterns and colors into our neutrally-painted walls through curtains was appealing. However, the sheer number and size of our windows – six in the living room alone – meant that most of our walls would be draped in floor-to-ceiling fabric. The prospect of choosing the right print, color scheme, and overall design felt overwhelming. Therefore, we decided to delve into the world of blinds, seeking a more subtle and manageable solution that would complement our home’s character. The challenge was to find the perfect balance between aesthetics, practicality, and privacy.

We reached out to the professionals at Blinds.com, and their assistance proved invaluable in navigating the vast selection of blinds, shades, and panels. Initially, our only criteria were a preference for a natural aesthetic, such as stained or white wood or bamboo, and a design that would resonate with the unique character of our home. Crucially, we needed a window covering that would provide a reliable barrier between our interior space and the outside world, especially during the evening hours. We wanted something that felt both organic and functional, seamlessly blending into our existing décor while offering the privacy we needed. Blinds.com’s expertise was instrumental in narrowing down our choices.

The most beneficial aspect of our blinds search was the one-on-one Skype consultation we had with Ben from Blinds.com. He skillfully guided us through the decision-making process with insightful questions that helped us clarify our needs and preferences. We were even able to give him a virtual tour of our house, showcasing our window trim and discussing mounting options. Given that our windows are a century old, they presented some unique challenges in terms of installation and compatibility. Ben’s expertise allowed us to navigate these complexities with confidence. The conversation with Ben helped us arrive at the conclusion that blinds, rather than Roman shades, were the most suitable option for our needs, and here’s why:

• Precise Light Control: We wanted the ability to regulate the amount of light entering our home based on the time of day. We needed complete privacy at night, partial coverage during sunset when the light streams in from the southwest, and minimal coverage during the daytime hours. Roman shades, even with fabric liners, wouldn’t offer the same degree of control over light levels. Blinds, with their adjustable slats, provided the flexibility we desired to tailor the light to our specific needs and preferences.
• Streamlined Profile When Raised: Due to the unique mounting constraints of our windows (we only had ¾ of an inch of space for hardware), shades would have created an unsightly bunch at the top when raised. Blinds, on the other hand, fold neatly and compactly, offering a clean and uncluttered look even when fully open. This was a critical consideration, as we wanted a window treatment that would be both functional and visually appealing, regardless of its position.
• Ease of Cleaning and Durability: With two young children in the house, we needed window treatments that were easy to clean and sturdy enough to withstand the inevitable challenges of family life. While we appreciated the aesthetic appeal of natural fiber Roman shades, Ben pointed out that they could be more difficult to clean. We also envisioned baby food and other kid-related projectiles accidentally making contact with our window treatments. Blinds offered a more durable and easily maintained solution, giving us peace of mind.

Following our Skype call, Ben promptly sent us a package containing various blind and shade samples in an array of materials and finishes. This allowed us to assess firsthand which options would best complement our windows and our overall aesthetic. After careful consideration and much deliberation, we ultimately selected the perfect blinds that met our specific requirements. The tactile experience of examining the samples in our own home, alongside our existing décor, was invaluable in making a confident and informed decision. We could truly visualize how each option would look and feel in our living spaces.

Choosing window treatments can feel overwhelming, but taking the time to consider your needs is essential. Think about light control, privacy, style and budget. The investment of your time is well worth the effort.

Our blinds have truly transformed the feel of our home. The window coverings add to our home’s asthetic while adding the privacy that we need.

The new coverings have exceeded our expectations. They compliment our home and are super easy to use!

Consider white wooden blinds for a classic and simple look. For a cozy feel think about bamboo blinds.

Different rooms in your home could require different types of window coverings. Think blackout curtains for the bedroom to allow for quality sleep.

Check back to see our windows! We are in love with our new coverings.