7 Fresh and Modern Window Coverings for Your Home
Venetian blinds have long been a popular choice for window coverings.
However, for Vancouver homeowners looking to elevate their interiors, there are many stylish alternatives to Venetian blinds that combine functionality, energy efficiency, and modern aesthetics. Whether you're aiming to enhance natural light, prioritize privacy, or add a design-forward statement, these alternatives are worth exploring.
If you're looking for Venetian blinds in Vancouver, we have seven alternatives for you to consider.
But first, what exactly are venetian blinds?
What Are Venetian Blinds?
Venetian blinds are window coverings made of horizontal slats, typically crafted from aluminum, wood, or plastic, that can be tilted to control light and privacy. Although they have clean lines, Venetian blinds can feel dated. Moreover, they're often impractical in spaces requiring more energy efficiency or a softer aesthetic.
If you're designing or renovating your forever home, it's time for a fresh look and some new beautiful blinds that will elevate your space.
Vancouver Venetian Blinds Alternatives from Hunter Douglas
Looking for Venetian blinds in Vancouver? We have some fresh ideas for you to consider as you upgrade your blinds. These 7 Venetian blinds alternatives will help you create a space that perfectly suits your style while offering functionality like energy efficiency, motorization, and light filtering.
Are Venetian Blinds Still on Trend?
Venetian blinds have fallen out of favour and are no longer the go-to window covering solution.
Venetian blinds are no longer on trend. Many designers and homeowners are gravitating toward more versatile and contemporary alternatives. These new options offer improved light filtering, energy efficiency, and compatibility with smart home systems, making them ideal for modern living.
7 Alternatives to Venetian Blinds
Here are some updated, stylish Venetian blind alternatives for Vancouver homes that balance beauty and practicality. As a Hunter Douglas dealer and blinds expert based out Vancouver, the recommendations we list below are based on products we work with and love.
However, you can find alternatives based on what's available in your area or within your home-renovation budget. If you're in the Vancouver areas, we recommend visiting our Showroom to speak with a design expert who can help you choose the perfect window treatments for your home.
1. Cellular Shades or Honeycomb Shade
Why We Love Them:
Cellular shades are perfect for homeowners seeking energy efficiency and a clean, tailored look. Their unique honeycomb design traps air, creating a layer of insulation that can help regulate indoor temperatures—a significant benefit for Vancouver's varying climate.
Best For:
They work beautifully for bedrooms, living rooms, or any space where energy efficiency and light filtering are priorities.
Recommended Product:
Hunter Douglas Duette Honeycomb Shades are an excellent choice. Available in a wide range of colours and opacities, they offer superior energy efficiency and a sleek, modern aesthetic.
2. Roman Shades
Why We Love Them:
Roman shades bring a soft, elegant touch to any room, combining the functionality of blinds with the luxurious look of fabric. They are highly customizable, offering various fold styles and patterns to suit your design preferences.
Best For:
They’re ideal for warm gathering spaces like dining rooms or living rooms, but they also work beautifully in cozy bedrooms.
Recommended Product:
Hunter Douglas Roman Shades provide cordless operation and a wide selection of fabric options, blending timeless style with modern convenience.
3. Roller Shades
Why We Love Them:
Roller shades are sleek, minimal, and incredibly versatile. They provide excellent light control and are easy to operate, making them a favourite for modern or minimalist spaces.
Best For:
Perfect for floor-to-ceiling windows or spaces with a contemporary aesthetic, such as offices or kitchens.
Recommended Product:
Hunter Douglas Designer Roller Shades offer an array of textures and patterns, plus they pair seamlessly with motorized systems for added convenience.
4. Designer Banded Shades
Why We Love Them:
Designer Banded Shades, also known as Zebra Shades or Layered Shades, feature alternating opaque and sheer stripes, making them a versatile and stylish choice for light control and privacy.
Best For:
They’re a great choice for living rooms or offices where you want to transition between privacy and an open view easily.
Recommended Product:
Hunter Douglas Designer Banded Shades come in various styles and can be customized to suit your space.
5. High-Quality Shutters
Why We Love Them:
Shutters offer a classic, timeless look while providing excellent light control and durability. They are also an excellent investment, adding value to your home.
Best For:
They’re perfect for kitchens, bathrooms, or homes with traditional or coastal design themes.
Recommended Product:
Hunter Douglas Palm Beach Shutters are beautiful and made from quality materials that provide a high-end, polished look.
6. Sheer Shades
Why We Love Them:
Sheer shades blend the softness of curtains with the functionality of blinds, offering diffused natural light while maintaining privacy.
Best For:
They’re ideal for living rooms or spaces with large windows where you want to maximize light while reducing glare.
Recommended Product:
Hunter Douglas Silhouette sheer shades are an excellent choice, offering beautiful light diffusion and UV protection.
7. When In Doubt, Choose Motorized Blinds
Why We Love Them:
Motorized blinds add convenience and sophistication to your home. They allow you to adjust your window coverings with a remote, smartphone, or even voice commands, making them perfect for hard-to-reach or large windows.
Best For:
Great for large homes, tech-savvy homeowners, or spaces with multiple windows that require frequent adjustment.
Recommended Product:
Hunter Douglas PowerView Automation can be integrated with smart home systems, providing effortless control and scheduling.
Common Questions about Vertical Blinds Alternatives
What kind of blinds should I use for my sliding glass doors?
For sliding glass or patio doors, panel track blinds or vertical cellular shades are excellent options. These styles provide easy side-to-side movement and ensure smooth operation while maximizing light control and privacy. Hunter Douglas Luminette Privacy Sheers are a particularly elegant and functional choice.
Are vertical blinds different from Venetian blinds?
Yes, vertical blinds have vertical slats that slide side-to-side. Venetian blinds, on the other hand, have horizontal slats that tilt to control light and privacy.
What are roller blinds?
Roller blinds are simple, flat shades made of fabric or material that rolls when not in use. They are sleek, minimal, and good for controlling light and privacy. Hunter Douglas Designer Roller Shades come in various patterns and colours and are ideal for modern, minimalist spaces.
Which blinds will give me a sleek and simple look?
Roller blinds, cellular shades, or panel track blinds offer a sleek, modern look. They have clean lines and are highly functional without unnecessary bulk.
What are transitional shades?
Transitional shades, also called zebra or layered shades, feature alternating sheer and opaque stripes that create a unique, adjustable look. These shades allow for light diffusion or privacy with a simple adjustment. Hunter Douglas Designer Banded Shades are a stylish option for this category.
What is the most popular alternative to Venetian blinds?
Cellular shades are a popular alternative to Venetian blinds. They offer excellent energy efficiency, light control, and a modern look. Hunter Douglas Duette Honeycomb Shades are a top choice, combining practicality with a wide range of styles and colours.
Final Thoughts on Vertical Blinds Alternatives
Whether you're looking to modernize your home or optimize its functionality, alternatives to Venetian blinds offer superior design and practicality. From energy-efficient cellular shades to luxurious Roman shades, fresh and modern window treatments can enhance any space in your Vancouver home.
Visit Fresh Design Blinds on West 4th Avenue in Vancouver to consult a design expert to find the perfect solution for your space. It’s time to elevate your home with window treatments that are as stylish as they are practical.
Live in Vancouver? Take the Next Step
You can turn any room into a sanctuary of style and comfort when you find just the right window blinds or drapery. If you live in West Van, North Van, or Vancouver, let the blinds and drapery experts at Fresh Design help you find the perfect window covering solutions for your space.
Read More
Get more design inspiration for your next project.
Visit Our Vancouver Showroom
With over 25 years in business, we can help you with any custom window blinds and drapery project. From one window to 100 windows, we help homeowners and designers bring their visions to life. Providing professional installation services, we ensure your window coverings fit perfectly - even if you have unusual window sizes.