Blinds and Window Treatments
Something we certainly take for granted, blinds and windows are one of those features in a home that are secondary in many ways (or even third, fourth, fifth, etc) but are extremely vital not only from a functionality standpoint, but also aesthetically as well. While many blinds appear extremely new and modern, the history of blinds and window treatments date all the way to the Egyptians. They used to string reeds together to form their own versions of blinds while the ancient Chinese opted for bamboo. Later, Persians brought blinds to Venice and from there “Venetian” blinds hit the consuming public.
Venetian blinds were so popular that a guy out of England, Mr. Edward Bevan, patented a type of Venetian blind in 1769. This was a savvy move, and it was later discovered that manipulating the wooden slats in the frame allowed for different rays of light to into the rom. Changing these angles horizontally was quite popular and John Hampson from New Orleans moved the industry even further with additional adjustments in 1841.
Thomas Jefferson had a love of blinds, and for many of us blinds and window treatments are ever-present in our own homes. The options are plenty – bamboo, aluminum, vinyl, the materials to make blinds are constantly evolving. You can also get your hands on solar shades, motorized blinds as well as mini blinds for smaller windows. When shopping however for blinds and window treatments but take care not to do it hastily. First, there is a difference between blinds and shades. Blinds are made from composite, metal or wood and have a harder look. Shades on the other hand are fabric-based and will provide a softer feel to the room.
Another item to keep in mind is privacy and light. Some people are buttoned up, private folks, while others prefer lots of light and want to keep the environment open and lively. To complicate matters, you might differ in this regard from your spouse or significant other, so the best thing to do is look internally at your situation and really assess which style you are going to go with. If you want a ton of light but have a buttoned-up partner, you can be sure your blinds and window treatments will reflect one or the other, and if you haven’t talked it over, watch out!
This next point comes up in nearly every post surrounding something you will purchase – budget. We have seen some incredibly expense treatments and blinds and have also seen some exceptional deals. Window treatments are priced by the size of the windows, so if you’ve got some big ones, the price will naturally rise. On the blinds end, you’ve got everything from specialty patterns and fabrics to features that are incredibly avant-garde. Beware, because what your heart desires here might exceed what the wallet can cover.
Whatever you go with, a great window treatment with blinds that fit your style will define your home. Pick with care, but also make it fun.
This is actually a legit blog I have read in a long time! People take curtains and blinds so easy. I mean it is one of the major things which actually frame out the entire home and it also keeps up the privacy that we all need. I am so picky in choosing the right ones for my home at least!
Blind and windows treatments, ah what a useful topic right here. I read this with my mother sitting with me and she agreed with 90% of the things mentioned in it. We always keep our house lit from the outdoor natural light, hence for us it is always preferable to go for light shaded thin blinds
This article has just won my heart. My house is very spacious and I love it when the sunlight comes through my windows. I have also installed UV protection outdoor roller shades which not only gives my house a dreamy look but also privacy. The author is true that most of us take windows and blinds for-granted. But trust me these have the power to not only change the look of your house but also uplift your spirits.