When it comes time to consider your decorating options for the windows in your home, window blinds should be the first item you consider. Whether or not you will be adding window treatments, all windows benefit in looks and/or functionality from window blinds. You may also find you are happy with a window blind by itself. There are so many options in window blinds available now that they offer their own decorative appearance.

Light Control & Privacy

Before we take a look at the variety of window blind options available from a decorating stand point, it is important to consider your lighting and privacy needs for the room or rooms for which you will be purchasing window blinds. If it is a bedroom you will want to keep in mind the darkening aspect of the window blind you are considering. If you are purchasing blinds that are facing a street or neighbor you will want a blind that offers privacy in addition to visual appeal.

Window blinds have come a long way since the original paper pull down shades. They are now available in attractive, decorative options from a wide variety of materials, including vinyl, metal, wood and fabric.

Mini-Blinds

The traditional mini-blind is a popular, inexpensive option that is most often used with window treatments. They are used primarily for darkening and privacy purposes. The mini blind is made of 1" adjustable slats out of either vinyl or metal. They pull up and out of the way during the day or dropped down at night. They can be opened in the down position to adjust the light filtering properties.

Cellular Shades

Another more option is the cellular shade. These window shades outperform the mini-blind by providing insulation in addition to lighting and privacy features. They are constructed in a honey comb style that traps the air and provides energy efficient insulation properties. They are in a wide range of darkening options from sheer to black out.

For decorating purposes, cellular shades can also be purchased in a large variety of colors. They have a soft appearance that works very well on high palladium windows or windows that don’t need window treatments but where you want to control the light or insulation. To purchase cellular shades to match your walls use a paint sample for comparison.

Wooden Blinds

Wooden blinds and shutters have also become a popular option. They look great in a den or kitchen and can be used by themselves without adding fabric window treatments. Choose from dark stained wood to bamboo, if it’s a casual look you are looking for they are a perfect option.

Roman Shades

Roman shades are a great decorating option for an office or bedroom. Made of fabric, they too can stand alone as a window treatment. Available readymade in a wide variety of fabrics they can be raised and lowered as needed just like a mini-blind or cellular shade. The large folds of fabric can be purchase to match your décor and make their own decorating statement.

Vertical Blinds

Vertical blinds are most often used on sliding glass doors or anyplace where you have 8 to 10 foot windows you want to cover. They too are now available in a variety of materials, colors and textures, from fabric to wood. They can be used alone or with window treatments.

These are just a few of the many options now available in window blinds. They are being used more and more by themselves as a decorating option.