Blinds are more than just a practical way to control light and privacy - they’re a key part of your home’s aesthetic and functionality. With so many options available these days; selecting the perfect blinds can feel overwhelming and can easily be put off for another day! Here are five essential factors to consider when making your decision.
1. Style
Blinds come in various styles, each offering unique visual and functional benefits. For a timeless, elegant look, consider Roman blinds, which fold neatly when raised. London blinds provide a sophisticated yet slightly softer aesthetic and Swedish blinds are lovely with their handmade ties. If you’re aiming for a laid-back vibe, relaxed Roman blinds could be the perfect fit. You can also explore chic minimalist designs like Roller blinds for contemporary interiors. Your choice of style should complement your overall decor whilst enhancing the room’s visual appeal. I also love playing around with pelmets on blinds and details like ruffles and bows to give that totally bespoke feel. If you want a natural look for a conservatory or a morning room, with natural materials, Chik blinds are an excellent choice.
2. Window Positioning and Type
The type and positioning of your windows play a significant role in selecting the right blinds. For example, skylight windows may require Velux blinds, these are specially designed blinds that fit securely and allow smooth operation. Large, south-facing windows might benefit from blinds with UV protection to prevent heat buildup and fading furniture. We recommend linen Roller blinds plus a Roman blind on top. In contrast, for windows in shaded areas, lighter, sheer fabrics may suffice to maintain a bright atmosphere. You will want to consider the blind sitting inside the recess or outside the recess. When designing window treatments our purpose is to let as much natural light in as possible. We don’t want blinds to block out the light unless blackout is specified.
3. Mechanism and Operation
The way you operate your blinds is super important in terms of convenience and safety. Chain mechanisms are a classic and reliable choice, they will require child safety measures in households with young children, so make sure you consider this before ordering. Hand-operated blinds with chains are straightforward and don’t rely on any additional systems. For ultimate ease and for the hard-to-reach places, Motorised or Battery Operated blinds offer remote control or app-based operation - ideal for hard-to-reach windows or tech-savvy homes. Ensure that the mechanism you choose aligns with your lifestyle and preferences.
4. Room Orientation and PurposeConsider how the room is oriented and how the blinds will function within that space. In bedrooms, blackout blinds are ideal for ensuring uninterrupted sleep, especially if the room faces early morning sunlight. For the light sensitive (such as myself !!), we often suggest a blackout roller blind with a blackout lined roman blind on top - this offers a double blackout solution. In living areas, you may prefer blinds that balance privacy with natural light. Again you may want to consider a sheer blind and roman blind for style and practicality. Light does seep out of the edges of blinds so if you are after 100% blackout we can supply an Encasement blind. In workspaces or home offices, light-filtering blinds reduce glare without darkening the room entirely. Tailoring your choice to the specific needs of each room ensures optimal comfort and usability. Chik blinds can work really well to conquer glare from sunlight, they are not only functional but look really great and let light in without it being overpowering.
5. Fabric or Material
The fabric or material of your blinds is a crucial consideration. In general, blinds require less fabric than curtains, so I usually advise clients to splurge on the fabric for a blind. Depending on your needs, you might opt for light-filtering linings that create a soft, warm glow and protect from the sun or heavier linings that block out light entirely and give a cosy feel to the blind. For damp spaces like kitchens or bathrooms, moisture-resistant materials or bamboo are ideal - here you should really consider Chik blinds as they are great for privacy and moisture resistance. Natural fabrics like linen or cotton work well in living spaces to add texture and warmth. We love making blinds from fabrics with linen in it as it gives a really crisp finish and creates excellent folds.
Bonus Tip: Prioritise Functionality Over Aesthetics
While it’s tempting to choose blinds based solely on their looks, functionality should always come first. Think about how often the blinds will be used, whether you need them for privacy and if they need to withstand frequent adjustments. Practical, durable options will save you time and hassle in the long run. Blinds are a great option if you only have a limited amount of fabric or if you want to save on ordering lots of fabric, as they don’t require as much fabric as curtains.
Summary
Choosing the right blinds involves more than picking a design you like. By considering the fabric, window positioning, room orientation, style and operation mechanism; you can ensure your blinds meet both your practical needs and design aspirations. With these tips in mind, you’re well on your way to finding blinds that will enhance your home’s beauty and functionality for years to come.
