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Can You Have Blinds and Curtains on The Same Window?

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Putting Curtains Over Blinds Looks Stunning and Has Many Benefits 

When deciding on a window covering, don’t limit yourself to choosing between blinds and curtains. Combining the two not only adds a completely different look and feel to your room but can bring benefits to suit your lifestyle too.

Putting curtains over blinds is a style that, although timeless, is also on trend. Adding both coverings to the same window will give a sophisticated, warm and classy finish to any room.

Curtains and drapes look great over roller, Roman, wood or vertical blinds, and the style, colour and texture combinations are endless.

Read on for ideas on how to put curtains over blinds, what types of blinds are best to pair with curtains, and the benefits of putting them together.

What Types of Blinds Pair Well With Curtains?

Most types of blinds and shades can be successfully and attractively combined with curtains, although each has its own characteristics to bring to the pairing. Some types of blinds to consider pairing with curtains include:

  • Roller shades – a single piece of material that can be opened to any position on the window. 
  • Roman shades – fabric shades that pull up into soft folds when opened.
  • Horizontal blinds – metal blinds featuring louvred slats that can be opened or closed to your desired position for light and privacy control.
  • Wood and faux wood blinds – horizontal, louvred style blinds made from real or faux wood finishes.
  • Vertical blinds – Ideal for glass doors, vertical blinds concertina to the desired opening position, and the louvres can be adjusted for light and privacy control.
  • Honeycomb shades – popular, modern fabric shades featuring a cellular design that is highly insulating. 

What Are the Benefits of Hanging Curtains Over Blinds?

Blinds and curtains are both good options for window coverings, with each having positive features. 

Blinds provide good light control, privacy when desired and are energy-saving thanks to insulating designs and fabrics.

Curtains can block light and sound, provide insulation and bring a cozy, complete look to a room.

When you use blinds and curtains together, you get the advantages of both with the flexibility to use them as you need. Benefits include:

  • Maximum insulation and soundproofing properties.
  • Ultimate control over light and privacy.
  • The ability to change the mood of the room from bright and open to cozy and intimate.
  • Endless design and colour combinations to suit any taste and style.
  • Create a focal point – blinds are functional but don’t often turn heads. Combined with a curtain, however, they can become the focal point in a room.

When you combine specific styles of blinds with curtains, they bring unique benefits. For example:

  • Curtains over wood blinds – the warm, natural tones of real or fake wood offer a neutral base that pairs well with fresh or rich fabric colours. The combination of curtains over these horizontal blinds is the ultimate in light and privacy control.
  • Curtains over vertical blinds – the gentle folds of curtains can help to soften the long lines of vertical blinds.
  • Curtains over fabric blinds (rollers, Roman) – the solid material style of these shades provides a simple base that pairs well with curtains. Using two fabric window coverings together can result in a rich, warm look.
  • Curtains over cellular blinds –  these insulating shades benefit from the addition of decorative drapes, which also enhance their energy-saving properties.

How to Put Curtains Over Blinds in 3 Easy Steps

We know that blinds and curtains pair well together as window coverings, but it can be hard to decide which options to choose. This three-step guide will help you through the process.

  1. Choose Your Blind Type 

When deciding which blind or shade is right for your room, you should consider:

  • The window. Consider size, shape and how it opens.
  • Functionality. What do you need from your blinds, i.e., light control, privacy, insulation?
  • Operating preferences. Do you want manual or mechanical operation?
  • Style. Are you looking for something modern and streamlined or traditional and warm?
  1. Choose Your Curtain Style

There are many types of curtains – to help decide your preferred style, consider:

  • How many? Single or double-panel drapes?
  • Opacity: Light, heavy or light-blocking fabric?
  • Top finishing: Do you prefer flat panel, pleated or draped style? Will you add a cornice board?
  • Length: Window length or floor length?
  1. Choose Your Fabric Style and Colours
  • Consider the style of décor already in the room.
  • Do you want the window to be a focal point or to blend in?
  • If you want to keep the finished look interesting without being over the top, use bold colours or patterns on the blinds or curtains, but not both.
  • If you are unsure what would look good together in your room, ask your custom window covering expert for their opinion. At Ruffell and Brown, our team can advise on the right choices for a classic style or something more contemporary and everything in between.

Top Tips on How to Style Curtains Over Blinds

Now you know that putting curtains over blinds is a great idea for both practical and aesthetic reasons, here are some top tips to consider when making your final style decisions:

  • Make your windows look bigger: Place the headrail for both the blind and the curtain above the top of the window and choose curtains that fall to the floor. This combination results in the illusion of floor-to-ceiling windows.
  • Make your windows look wider: Use curtains and a pole that extend a few inches on either side of your window to give the impression of width. 
  • Use wide louvred blinds: To give a high-end look and also allow more light into the room during the day.
  • Use an accent colour: Choose a fabric colour that matches other accessories in your room, such as cushions or the carpet, for a coordinating look.

For some styling inspiration, see these layered window treatment ideas.

Trust Ruffell and Brown to Help You Choose a Blinds and Curtains Combination

At Ruffell and Brown, we can help you find the right curtain and blind pairing for your needs and style. 

Our window fashion experts can offer suggestions for the style and fabric combinations that would best suit your room décor and also take into account special requirements such as the need for privacy or light filtering.

Located in Victoria, BC, we have been designing and fitting custom window covering solutions for over 35 years. Drop into our showroom on Bridge Street or contact us today for help with all your window covering needs.

 

Best Living Room Blinds for Privacy and Style: A Homeowner’s Guide

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Comparing Living Room Blinds: Which Options Are Best?

Are you looking for new living room blinds but not sure which option to go for? When it comes to living room window treatments, there are a lot of choices – from simple and elegant blinds to stylish light-blocking curtains.

The best living room blinds for you will depend on what you’re looking for in a window covering. While some people want to add warmth and coziness, others may be seeking privacy or light control. Whatever your needs, there are plenty of stylish options available.

In this blog, we’ll compare options for living room blinds and other living room window treatments. We’ll also review the best living room blinds if you want more privacy and what to choose if the style is your top requirement.

What to Consider When Choosing Living Room Blinds

The living room is the one room in which the entire family gathers and spends time together. As the focal point of your home, your living room window treatment choices are important.

Unlike other rooms in the home where you need to consider the effects of dampness, steam or grease on your window coverings, in a living space, your choice need only be impacted by your specific needs and how your family uses the room.

When choosing living room blinds, consider:

  • Do you get a lot of direct sunlight or glare in your living room? Consider a shade that softens this glare and offers UV damage protection.
  • Do your living room windows look directly out onto a public space, sidewalk or busy road? Choose a blind that will provide privacy.
  • How do you use the room? If you enjoy regular family movie nights, choose coverings that darken the room when required.
  • If you love to entertain family and friends, something stylish that gives a welcoming wow factor to the room could be the answer.
  • Does your room already have a particular style that you need to compliment? Window coverings can blend in or stand out – it’s up to you.

Whether your requirements are focused on the practical or the aesthetic, or if you want something that looks good and is functional too, there are plenty of options to choose from.

Comparing Living Room Blinds – Which Style is Right for You?

While most window treatments will work well in living rooms, some styles have unique benefits that may suit your needs best. Compare the following living room blind options:

Cellular shades: These honeycomb shades have a neat, classic finish and offer gentle light diffusion, which looks clean and modern. One significant benefit is their energy efficiency and ability to help regulate room temperature.

Sheer shades: Sheer window shades combine the versatility of horizontal blinds with the light softening and UV protection of a sheer shade. The result is a beautiful, luminescent window covering that compliments most décor.

Designer banded shades: If you like the simplicity of a roller blind but want more privacy and light control, designer banded shades are a great choice. Alternating opaque and translucent stripes can be lined up or overlapped to create your desired level of view-through. 

Dual roller shades: Roller shades are a popular choice in living rooms, thanks to the abundance of fabric choices. Dual roller shades offer the added benefit of room darkening and night-time privacy with the addition of a layer of light-blocking fabric. Ideal when flexibility in light control is important.

Vertical blinds: Vertical shades such as the Hunter Douglas Luminette are a great solution for living rooms with large floor-to-ceiling windows or glass doors. Not only does the vertical operation allow for easy door access, but the vanes can be adjusted for optimum privacy.

The Best Living Room Blinds for Privacy

The living room is where we spend our downtime, so the last thing we want to worry about is people seeing in. Privacy is one of the top requirements for living room window treatments, and you don’t have to sacrifice style or light to achieve the privacy you desire.

To increase privacy in your living room, consider these options:

  • Venetian blinds: Whether wood, faux wood or metal, the horizontal slats offer ultimate control over privacy while still allowing light to enter your room. Tilt the vanes into your desired position to block the view from outside but still direct light where you need it. Some smart operating systems can be programmed to remember your preferred vane position. 
  • Roman and roller blinds: Both offer maximum privacy but block views to the outside when fully lowered. Various fabric opacities allow for natural light diffusion and filtering.
  • Sheer and designer banded shades: Both these styles allow for optimum control over levels of privacy while retaining light in the room.

The Best Living Room Window Coverings for Style

Regardless of your practical needs, everyone wants living room window coverings that look amazing too. For maximum style, consider these best living room window coverings:

  • Roman Shades: Roman blinds are one of the more decorative and luxurious styles of living room blinds. With fabrics ranging from rich, deep colours and eye-catching patterns to more modern and neutral versions, the Roman shade will always look good whatever your décor style. Ideal when you want to add warmth and class to your living room.
  • Sheer shades and drapes: The Hunter Douglas Silhouette blinds are perfect for light filtering with a touch of sophistication—a soft, modern alternative to drapes with the added benefit of continuous privacy. 
  • Curtains/drapes: Whether used alone or combined with blinds, curtains are the ultimate luxurious finishing touch for your living room. Whether you want them to close or just be a decorative side panel, a curtain can add a focal point, frame a view and add warmth to any living room. 

Need more inspiration? Check out this Ideal Home article on ‘super stylish ways to dress your living room windows.’

Invest in Function and Style for Your Living Room Blinds

Ultimately, the best living room blind for you will be the one that meets your specific needs, whether they are more practical or decorative. Remember, this is a room you spend a lot of time in. It’s worth investing in window coverings that add function and style you can enjoy for years.

Custom Made and Fitted Living Room Blinds from Ruffell and Brown 

Ruffell and Brown are your Victoria, BC, living room window treatment specialist. With so many options to choose from, our expert team can guide you toward the best choices for your home. 

To get started on your living room transformation, stop by our Bridge Street showroom or contact us for a free estimate today.

 

How to Measure Windows for Blinds

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A Guide to Getting Window Blind Measurement Right the First Time

If you’ve decided to install new or replacement blinds or shades in your home, the first and most important step is to understand how to measure windows for blinds accurately.

Knowing how to measure for window shades, how to measure for faux-wood blinds or how to measure for plantation shutters will ensure you get the right fit the first time.

While measuring windows for blinds is not difficult, it is easy to get it wrong, which can result in ill-fitting blinds, stress and additional expense.

Read on to find out why it is important to measure accurately, how to measure for inside mount blinds, how to measure for outside mount blinds and why using a professional fitter is a good idea.

Why Accurate Window Measurement is Important

If your window measurement is inaccurate, you could find yourself wasting both time and money:

  • If the blinds are too small, there may be gaps at the sides or the bottom that will let in light and prevent complete privacy.
  • If the shades are too large, they won’t sit inside the frame neatly or operate properly.
  • Errors due to inaccurate measurements will need to be fixed at your cost.

How to Measure Windows for Blinds  

Before you grab your measuring tape, one of the most important things to consider is whether you want or need inside or outside-mounted shades. These pros and cons will help you decide:

Inside Mount 

Pros

  • These shades sit inside the window casing, resulting in a neat, tidy finish. Ideal if you have decorative window molding you don’t want to be covered.
  • A good choice if you have deep feature window sills.
  • Work well paired with drapes.

Cons

  • They stack in front of the window, which may block the view depending on the style chosen. 
  • The window casing must be at least 2 inches deep to accommodate the mounting bracket and tilting louvres.
  • May not work if the window has protruding handles or locks.
  • Won’t block as much light as an outside mount, as there needs to be a very small gap at the sides for smooth operation. However, there are some solutions to this, such as the Hunter Douglas LightLock, which is available with honeycomb-style shades.

Outside Mount

Pros

  • The shade is mounted outside the window frame, completely covering the window opening.
  • Can create the illusion of bigger windows.
  • Good for blocking light as the material extends beyond the edge of the window.

Cons

  • Requires up to 3 inches of wall space above the window on which to mount the brackets.
  • Shades are more prone to being knocked or damaged, especially in high-traffic areas.

6 Simple Steps for Measuring Windows for Shades and Other Coverings

  1. Decide if you want to measure for the inside mount or outside mount – if you’re not sure at this stage, take measurements for both.
  2. Gather a steel tape measure, paper and pencil.
  3. When measuring, always record to the nearest 1/8 inch and always record numbers as W x H.
  4. Take the required measurements (see measurement guide below for different types of blinds) – always measure twice and record once.
  5. Remember to allow extra for headrails and mounts.
  6. Measure every window – don’t assume they are the same size.

Window Measurement Techniques

Follow these measurement techniques to be sure of a good fit. If you are unsure what style of window covering you want, use the general measurement technique as a starting point.

General Window Measuring Process

These techniques should be used for horizontal blinds and shades including honeycomb and faux wood styles – or used as a general base measurement.

Measuring for Inside Mount Blinds:

  • Measure inside the window frame.
  • Width – measure the top, middle and bottom of the window. Record the narrowest width.
  • Height – measure the left, middle and right of the window. Record the longest height.

Measuring for Outside Mount Blinds:

    • Measure the area that you want the blind to cover.
    • Width – Measure across the top of the window, allowing at least 1.5 inches extra on either side of the window to prevent light leakage. 
    • Height – Measure from where the headrail will be to the sill. Allow 1.5 – 3 inches at the top for the mounting hardware.

Measuring for Roller, Solar and Roman Shades:

Inside Mount: 

  • Width – Measure at the top – it’s the most important. You will, however, still need to measure in three spots all the way down.
  • Height – Measure from the top of the window to the sill.

Outside Mount:

  • Width – Measure at the top allow at least 2 inches extra on either side for light blockage
  • Height – Measure from above the window, allowing 1.5 – 3 inches for mounting hardware to the sill or your preferred length.

Measuring for Vertical Blinds:

Inside Mount:

  • Width – Measure at the top of the window only.
  • Height – Measure at the left, centre and right – use the shortest measurement.

Outside Mount:

  • Width – Measure to the outermost width required.
  • Height – Remove a 1/2 inch from the length to allow for floor clearance.

Measuring for Plantation Shutters:

Inside Mount:

  • Start by taking diagonal measurements to check if the window is square. (If not, inside mount shutters will not be suitable).
  • Measure using the general technique for an inside mount.

Outside Mount:

  • Decide if the shutters will be mounted to the trim or the wall.
  • Measure width and height accordingly.

Tip: Don’t be tempted to adjust the width to allow ‘space’ for the shade to operate. Professional custom blind companies know how to measure blinds to fit your window accurately based on your chosen style.

Benefits of Using a Professional Window Blind Measurement and Fitting Service

As you can see, there is more to measuring windows for blinds than you may have thought. If in doubt, always get your windows measured by a professional. This is beneficial for many reasons, including:

  • Guaranteed accuracy – if they get it wrong, they will remake the blinds.
  • They account for hardware when measuring.
  • Adjustments for proper functionality are allowed.
  • They will ensure the installed product fits and works properly.
  • Most good professional window covering and installation companies provide a guarantee and warranty – making it a stress-free experience for you. Ruffell and Brown stand behind our one-year warranty on all our professional installations. 

Ruffell and Brown – Accurate and Professional Blind Fitters

At Ruffell and Brown, our team of professional fitters understands how to measure accurately, whichever type of shades you choose.  Custom window coverings from Ruffell and Brown always include window measurement and installation to ensure you get a product that looks and works right – the first time.

If you’re looking for new or replacement blinds but are unsure of your window measurements, stop into our Victoria, BC, showroom or contact us today.

How to Clean Cellular Shades in 6 Simple Steps

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Best Solutions for Cleaning Cellular Shades That Won’t Cause Damage

Cellular shades are a popular window covering choice for many reasons, but fabric blinds can attract dust and grime over time. If you are wondering how to clean cellular shades, we have rounded up the best tips to share with you.

Of course, regular maintenance from new is the ultimate way to keep your cellular blinds looking their best for years to come. But, if you have inherited older blinds or have had your shades for a few years, you may need to take action now to prevent permanent damage.

Read on for our simple guide to how to clean cellular shades.

What are Cellular Shades, and Why Are They Popular?

Cellular shades are simple, light, modern window coverings featuring two or more thin layers of fabric formed into honeycomb-shaped cells. 

The honeycomb cells trap air inside, making these blinds excellent insulators – keeping rooms warmer in winter and cooler in summer.

They are available in many styles and fabrics and come in room-darkening options.

Why Do Cellular Blinds Need to be Cleaned?

Due to the light fabric cellular blinds are made from, they can be susceptible to the following:

  • Dust
  • Soot from wood-burning stoves 
  • Small bugs and flies that become trapped inside the cells
  • Staining
  • Mould

These issues may not just impact the appearance of the blinds but can also compromise the fabric and lead to permanent damage.

Cleaning cellular shades regularly is beneficial for several reasons:

  • Retain ‘as new’ appearance: Custom-fitted shades are a luxurious décor item. Regular cleaning keeps them looking as good as new for years.
  • Reducing airborne allergens: Dust and allergens can get trapped in the fabric and cells of blinds, impacting air quality in your home. 
  • Save money on repairs and replacements: Well-maintained and clean shades will last longer and require less frequent repair and replacement.

How to Clean Cellular Shades – Some Things to Note

Before starting any cleaning routine, be aware of the following considerations:

  • Specific cleaning methods can damage some fabrics. Make sure to follow your manufacturer’s recommendations – especially regarding water use. Hunter Douglas has a cleaning guide that lists suitable cleaning methods for all of their cellular shades.
  • Always clean horizontal cellular shades with side-to-side motions in line with the folds to prevent fabric damage. Vertical cellular blinds should, of course, be cleaned from top to bottom. 
  • If in doubt, stick to spot cleaning only and test any cleaning method on a hidden shade area.
  • Heat can melt the glue that holds the fabric cells together. Therefore, only use cool or lukewarm water and air in cleaning treatments.

6 Simple Steps to Cleaning Cellular Shades

Whether you need a simple maintenance clean or a deep clean, follow the simple cleaning steps below:

For light cleaning and regular maintenance:

1. Gently Dust: Use a clean, dry microfibre cloth to remove light surface dust from your blinds. You can also use a lint roller on particularly stubborn dust particles. Just go gently and in line with the fabric folds.

Tip: Don’t be tempted to rub back and forth, as this could cause pilling of the fabric.

2. Blow the Bugs Away: Dust and small bugs can enter the honeycomb cells. The best way to remove these is to blow them out using a can of compressed air. Just point the nozzle into each cell and push enough air through to remove anything stuck there. 

If you don’t have compressed air, a hairdryer set to cool and low is a good alternative.

Tip: Place a drop cloth under the far end of the blind to catch anything expelled.

3. Vacuum: A vacuum can suck away heavier dust or soot built up within the fabric. Use the soft brush attachment and choose the lowest power setting if you have the option.

Removing stains and mould:

If your shades have surface stains or are showing signs of developing mould, first carry out steps 1 to 3, then follow with the following:

4. Spot Cleaning: Lightly moisten a clean cloth or rag in lukewarm water mixed with mild dish soap. Gently blot the stain until it has gone, then blot again with a dry cloth to remove excess moisture, or use a hairdryer on the cool setting.

Make a solution of half lukewarm water and half white vinegar for mould removal. Dab onto the affected area and allow it to dry in direct sunlight.

Tip: Don’t rub at the stain, as this could cause the fabric to be pilled. Use a white or neutral cloth to avoid transferring colour to your shade.

Removing stubborn and built-up stains, dust and dirt: 

If your shades are still dull or stained after these steps, consider a home submersion or professional treatment to freshen them up.

5. Bathtub Submersion: Try a deep clean at home if your cellular shades will fit into your bathtub. 

Fill your bathtub with lukewarm water and dish soap. Add the blind and swish the water around to aid in the removal of grime. Drain and replace with clean water to rinse.

Rehang your shades and air dry in an open position. 

Tip: Be aware that some fabrics cannot withstand full submersion and may be irreparably damaged. Check your manufacturer’s recommendations before completing this step.

If you have a motorized headrail, it must be removed before submersion.

6. Use a Professional Cleaning Company: Consult a professional cleaner if your shades are unsuitable for home submersion. There are two methods professionals may use:

  • Ultrasonic cleaning – uses high-frequency sound waves that create tiny bubbles in the water to push the grime out of the fabric gently.
  • Water injection – this cleaning method works similarly to a wet vacuum by injecting liquid into the fabric and removing it simultaneously. This results in less potential water damage than submersion techniques.

If You Need New Cellular Shades, Call Ruffell and Brown

Sadly, there may be times when too much staining or damage to cellular blinds prevents these cleaning methods from working successfully. In these circumstances, Ruffell and Brown Window Coverings Centre will be delighted to assist you with choosing and installing brand-new custom-fit cellular blinds, such as the Hunter Douglas Applause Honeycomb range.

Our knowledgeable staff at our Victoria, BC, showroom is waiting to help you. So drop in or contact us today for more information.

 

Top 5 Window Coverings for Kitchens

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What to Know When Choosing Kitchen Window Treatments

Window coverings for kitchens may not be the first thing you think about when you consider your kitchen décor, but choosing the right window covering is essential for several reasons.

When considering window coverings for kitchens, you need to consider more than aesthetics – kitchen window treatments also need to be practical and durable.

Adding kitchen window blinds can provide light control and privacy and even help control kitchen temperatures. However, kitchen window coverings are exposed to high amounts of heat, humidity and grime, so you must choose a blind or shade that can stand up to these challenging conditions. 

Read on to find out what you need to consider when shopping for kitchen window blinds and our recommended kitchen window covering ideas.

Things to Consider When Choosing Kitchen Window Coverings

When considering the best window treatments for your kitchen, there is much to consider besides their appearance. So before starting to narrow down kitchen window treatment ideas, think about these factors first.

Is it easy to clean?

Kitchens can be humid, dirty and greasy places, which means whatever you cover your windows with will get damp, sticky and splashed with food debris.

Some window coverings are better suited to this type of environment than others because they are less susceptible to water damage and are easy to wipe clean – for example:

  • Faux wood (composite plastic)
  • Vinyl / PVC
  • Sheer/wipeable fabrics

Avoid natural wood or porous fabrics that can absorb moisture and stain easily – but are more challenging to clean.

Location of your kitchen window

Is your kitchen window above the sink, a food prep area or near the stovetop? If so, any window covering will be more susceptible to damage from water, humidity and grease, and you will need to choose a water-resistant window covering that is easy to clean.

Kitchen windows that are located away from these high-risk areas, such as in a dining nook, are away from the splash zone. So coverings can be chosen that have primary functions for light filtering or privacy.

Size of your kitchen

Is your kitchen a small enclosed space or larger and open to your living area? Large/open-plan kitchens are likely to have more than one window and a sliding or French door. In this type of space, it’s essential to consider whether you want continuity with window coverings throughout the room.

Smaller, fully enclosed rooms will be more susceptible to humidity build-up than open-plan spaces, so choose materials that can withstand dampness and resist mould build-up.

How much direct sunlight does your kitchen get?

A bright kitchen is lovely to work in, but if there is a lot of natural sunlight from the windows, consider blinds or shades with UV protection. Because UV rays can damage and fade hardwood flooring and fabrics, window coverings such as Pirouette sheer shades that block UV rays but still allow in natural light are a great option. However, ensure these shades are not installed above a sink, as they are a bit more challenging to clean. 

Is privacy needed?

Can your neighbours see you making your morning cup of coffee? Then you need a kitchen window blind that will increase privacy. Fabrics with varying opacity levels are available depending on whether you want to retain some natural light and visibility. 

Need a covering you can control when privacy is needed? Choose a blind or shutter with a tilt wand or smart control.

Décor preference 

Practicality is essential, but kitchen window treatments offer the opportunity to add personality to a room that is often neglected. Adding colour or pattern can brighten an all-white kitchen and soften the hard lines and surfaces of stainless steel and stone.

Consider whether you want your kitchen window covering to be subtle or bold, permanent or changeable. For example, a roller blind will roll almost entirely away into its header bar for a clean and unobstructed look, whereas a roman blind will lift into a decorative valance. Some sheer shades will remain permanently closed as they offer partial visibility.

The 5 Best Window Covering Options for Kitchens:

Now that we know what factors to consider when buying window coverings for kitchens, what are some of the best options to choose from?

  1. Faux Wood Blinds – Hunter Douglas Everwood alternative wood blinds are an excellent choice for kitchens because they are resistant to heat and dampness and can easily be wiped clean. They offer a clean and simple look that will compliment any style of kitchen. In addition, they can be easily adjusted to light and privacy by tilting the slats.
  2. Vinyl shutters – These window coverings are another option for a timeless look that is durable and easy to maintain. Ensure there is room to open the shutter doors if placed behind a sink or faucet.
  3. Roller Blinds – A simple, modern option suitable for all kitchens. They work well on smaller windows or where a complete view is required as they roll away neatly. Roller blinds are available in a wide range of fabric options, from room darkening to light filtering sheers for subtle light control and privacy. Choosing roller blinds offers the chance to add fun, colour, texture or pattern to your kitchen. Most roller blind fabrics are easy to spot-clean too.
  4. Roman Blinds – Offer a more decorative look for your kitchen. They are easy to operate and come in various colours and designs. While Roman blinds are vulnerable to stains, they can be adjusted to a preferred height to avoid potential splashes. 
  5. Cellular Shades – Honeycomb style shades, such as Duette cellular shades by Hunter Douglas, are ideal for heat and light control. These shades are best suited for larger windows away from direct heat, grime and water, as they are harder to clean. 

Thanks to their insulating design, cellular shades can help keep a hot kitchen cooler in the summer months. 

Perfect Kitchen Window Coverings from Ruffell and Brown

When you are ready to choose the best window treatment for your kitchen, speak with the experts at Ruffell and Brown. 

Our team can help you decide which type and style of blinds are the most suitable for your kitchen.Visit our showroom in Victoria, BC, where you will find some window covering inspiration for every room in your home or contact us today for more information.

Big Windows? No Problem! Best Blinds for Large Windows

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Best Modern Window Coverings for Large Windows

Big windows are a beautiful addition to any home – letting in natural light, warmth and expansive views, but when it comes to covering them, which are the best blinds for large windows?

Large expanses of glass can add a stunning appearance to the architecture of any home as they create an open and bright look and feel. But all that glass comes with a challenge too. What if you want to control the light or have some privacy? Off-the-shelf blinds won’t work for large windows, so a custom solution is required.

To help you choose the right big window blinds for your home, follow this guide to the best modern window coverings for large windows.

What to Consider When Choosing Window Coverings for Large Windows

Despite all the positives of large windows, they bring some downsides too, such as:

  • UV damage: With glass comes sunlight. While natural sunlight is good for us, it can be damaging to your home. UV rays can damage and fade furniture and flooring over time. A window covering will help prevent glare and damage.
  • Heat transfer: Glass doesn’t insulate, so large expanses can let in heat during warm weather and lose it in the winter. Blinds can help reduce this heat transfer and, as a result, save energy used on heating and cooling. 
  • Privacy: While having an unobstructed view of the outside is desirable, it also means anyone outside can see into your home. Installing window coverings will enable you to retain the view when you want it but add a layer of privacy when it’s required – especially at night.

When choosing window coverings for your large windows, consider:

  • Weight – Large blinds can be very heavy. Choose lightweight materials or multiple smaller blinds to overcome this issue.
  • Operating Systems – Floor-to-ceiling or double-height window coverings are going to be out of reach for most people. If you have a particularly high or long window to cover, consider using a motorized operating system, which can be controlled from either a remote control or your smart automation system.
  • Is the ability to adjust important? Do you want permanent coverage or do you want to be able to adjust the view and light filtration on your window covering? Consider a Duolite shade that can give you both light filtration and the ability to block harsh UV by combining two shades in one treatment.

Best Blinds for Large Windows

There are many options for window coverings that work well on large windows, including:

Cellular Blinds

Honeycomb-style cellular blinds are extremely lightweight and have superior insulation, making them ideal for large expanses of glass. Available in widths up to 12 feet, they have a small stack that minimalizes their appearance when open.

Vertical Blinds

While vertical blinds are most suitable for sliding glass patio doors, they are also very effective on floor-to-ceiling windows and can work on the widest expanses of glass. The ability to tilt the vertical vanes gives great control over light without having to fully open the blind.

Vertical blinds are not just for the office – softer styles like the Luminette privacy sheer from Hunter Douglas have the look of soft drapery when closed, which brings a warm style to any room.

Sliding Panels

Fabric panels, such as the Hunter Douglas Skyline Gliding Window Panels, slide on tracks so their position can be changed as desired. Available in a vast range of fabric choices and opacities, they offer a decorative solution for floor-to-ceiling windows or patio doors.

Roller Shades

The cleanest look for a large window. Roller blinds have a simple profile and roll up neatly when open, complimenting minimalist décor. Light enough to be used across a wide window, or consider 2 or 3 side by side to allow more selective light control.

Roman Blinds

The soft folds of roman blinds give a graceful finish to oversize windows. Available in wide widths, they can be used in different ways:

  • One large blind across a row of 2 or more tall, slim windows.
  • Multiple smaller blinds across one large window – if you choose this option, go with a solid colour or a simple pattern that can be lined up.

Shutters

If you want your oversize windows to be the statement centrepiece of your room, consider adding shutters. They create a classic frame around the windows and can break up a very large expanse of glass.

Shutters minimize heat transfer which is ideal in extreme weather locations. As well as traditional door style opening, shutters can be fitted on tracks so they can be stacked to the side when you want an open view.

Wooden options

While faux wood horizontal blinds are an option for taller windows, they are too heavy for wide windows. If you particularly like the look of wooden blinds, consider real wood, which is considerably lighter, eliminating the risk of sagging or mechanism damage.

Tip: When your window is too wide for a single blind, consider multiple smaller units attached to one headrail. While each can be operated independently, the overall look is cohesive and classy.

See this piece by houzz.com for more ways to dress wide windows.

Curtains and Drapes for Large Windows

Curtains and drapes offer another option for large windows, whether used alone or in combination with shades or blinds.

Using drapes offers a decorative finish, which can add warmth to a room or complement a more traditional style of décor. Ways to use drapes on large windows include:

  • Use narrow curtains on either end of a row of windows, like bookends.
  • For full-room-width windows, use one continuous length of drapery for a consistent and contemporary finish.
  • Layering drapes with different opacities gives optimum light control – pair a sheer drape with a heavy curtain for a classic look.
  • Use light or sheer fabrics for filtered light with full privacy.
  • For lower energy bills, layer drapes over energy-efficient blinds.

See this article by homesandgardens.com for more large window curtain ideas and inspiration.

Go Custom for the Best Large Window Coverings

For the best results, choose custom-made for your large windows coverings. Victoria, BC is the home to Ruffell and Brown, specialists in coverings for all your windows, including oversized ones. 

Our expert staff can offer advice on which blinds will work on your large windows and ensure the measurement and fitting are completed accurately.

Contact us today to arrange a measurement and consultation for your big windows.