There’s a lot to consider when it comes to the style of a room. The paint, the furniture, the decor and….don’t forget the window coverings!
These days, there are so many different styles of window coverings that can perfectly complement your home decor style. They are a great way to create privacy and control lighting in your home, while also adding style, functionality, and energy efficiency.
But with so many to choose from, where do you start?
In this blog post, we’ll review some of the common decor styles and recommended window coverings for each of them.
A quick overview of different window coverings
Vignette® Traditional™ with LiteRise®
Blinds
Blinds are attached to the top of a window using a rod or frame. They’re made of horizontal or vertical slats that are typically plastic, wood, or metal. The slats are kept together with a cord and tilt one way or the other to let less or more light into a room. You can adjust the lighting of blinds manually or remotely with motorized blinds.
Shades
Similar to blinds, shades are attached by a rod or frame at the top of a window. They are made out of a fabric panel, and typically lift (top down or bottom up) to let light in via a mechanism like a cord or a remote controlled motor.
Curtains & drapes
One of the most classic window treatments, curtains hang from a rod above the window and typically drop down below the windowsill. Depending on the fabric, color, and texture, they can create a formal or casual environment. Curtains are usually paired with blinds or shades.
Common window coverings for different design styles
Boho
Common elements of the bohemian design style include warm colors, bold prints, organic textures, and eclectic decor. This style focuses on creating a light and carefree environment while also prioritizing comfort with layers of blankets and pillows. You’ll find bold pops of color and furniture made of natural materials, like wood or rattan.
Recommended window covering:
- Roller shades customized with bright colors or patterns
- Woven wood shades
- White, sheer curtains to let natural light in
Mid Century Modern
Originally popular in the 1940’s and 50’s, the mid century modern style has come back into the spotlight over the past few decades. A defining feature of this style is sleek wooden furniture, often accompanied by geometric patterns, big windows, and simple, uncluttered decor. Mid century modern style focuses on connecting to nature and the outdoors.
Recommended window coverings:
- Wooden blinds
- Roller shades with an eye catching, retro pattern or in a creamy white
- Drapes with a geometric pattern — drapes can be pushed aside during the day to let the light in, but closed again at night for privacy
Contemporary
Contemporary design is always changing, but one thing that stays the same: clean lines, natural elements, and a mix of neutral creams and browns. The furniture often features smooth surfaces and soft lines and is meant to be a focal point to the room.
Recommended window coverings:
- Vertical white blinds — these will add a little visual interest to your room
- Drapes in lighter colors
- Smart blinds or shades — with PowerView® Motorization, you can schedule your blinds to stay open all day, and close when it gets dark
Industrial
The industrial design style is relatively minimalist and harkens back to warehouses of the Industrial Revolution. It achieves this by pairing raw materials like wood, metal, and exposed brick with simple, natural colors. One key characteristic of industrial design is its lighting — think bare Edison bulbs and big windows to allow lots of natural light in.
Recommended window coverings:
- Roller shades in a gray color to draw out the metal in the space, or white roller shades to allow natural light into the space
- Cellular shades — these shades help diffuse light when drawn while also blocking UV rays
Scandinavian
Scandinavian design usually comes down to 4 things: light wood, white walls, multifunctional furniture, and cozy decor. This style is very clean, simple, and uncluttered. Because some Scandinavian countries experience months of darkness or very short periods of sunlight in the winter, there’s a big focus on maximizing natural light.
Recommended window coverings:
- Curtains that are sheer, light, and airy to let the light in — white linen curtains would work well here
Modern Farmhouse
Character is the name of the game with a modern farmhouse style. Elements of contemporary design and the classic farmhouse aesthetic combine to create an environment that is comfy, warm, laid back, and inviting. This style is both sophisticated and eclectic. Furniture is usually a mix of new and vintage, and typically features wood or galvanized steel.
Recommended window coverings:
- Wooden blinds
- Woven wooden shades
- White or gray shades
- Natural textured, light colored linen curtains
Coastal
Coastal design is meant to feel, well, beachy. It utilizes natural light, clean lines, and soft white and blue tones to recall the breezy, relaxed feeling one might enjoy while at the coast. Natural materials are key here, playing up items you might find on the beach, like rope, driftwood, and glass.
Recommended window coverings:
- Woven wood shades
- Cotton or linen curtains in light colors to add to the breezy aesthetic
Minimalist
Less is more in this decor style. Minimalist design is clean and uncluttered with the goal of creating a simple and serene environment. The color palette tends to be monochromatic, and this style usually features one or two bold pieces of artwork.
Recommended window coverings:
- White sheer curtains
- White or black roller shades
- Cellular shades
Tips for choosing the best window covering for your style
Luminette® PowerView® Motorization
- Take into account the shape of your window
- Consider the fabric
- Think about the room you’re styling — for a bedroom, you might choose a blackout or light dimming window covering for better sleep. For a child’s playroom, you’ll want blinds without a cord for safety
- Don’t forget to reference the color scheme of your walls and furniture
- Make things easier with smart home functionality for your window coverings — schedule your coverings to open or close whenever you’d like!
Get started with Portland Window Coverings
Are you still unsure of your decorating style? Want some help picking window coverings? Our professional designers at Portland Window Coverings are here for you.
Get started today! We have several options available:
- Virtual: Book a virtual consultation or schedule a virtual tour of our showroom
- In-person: Book an in-home consultation, or visit our showroom in Tigard
- Call us any time at: (503) 783-1838
We have over 25 years of experience providing service to our Portland community and will work closely with you to find the perfect window covering for your style.