7 Stylish Window Coverings for Your Home
Vertical blinds have been a reliable choice for decades, especially for large windows and sliding doors. However, with changing design trends, many homeowners are seeking more stylish and functional alternatives. Fortunately, modern window treatments offer better options to complement your home’s decor while improving light control, energy efficiency, and aesthetic appeal.
What Are Vertical Blinds?
Vertical blinds are a type of window treatment made up of vertical slats (also called vanes) that hang from a track system. These slats can be rotated to control the amount of light entering a room or drawn to the side for a clear view. They are often used to cover large windows or sliding glass doors because of their ability to span wide openings.
Vertical blinds were first patented in 1950 by Edward Bopp and Frederick Bopp. The brothers were inspired to create a practical solution for covering large windows and doors, offering better control over light and privacy than horizontal blinds.
The patent was later sold to Joe Hunter, who established Hunter Douglas as a major manufacturer of vertical blinds, popularizing them in the home decor market.
Vancouver Vertical Blinds Alternatives from Hunter Douglas
Looking for vertical blinds in Vancouver? We have some fresh ideas for you to consider as you upgrade your blinds. These 7 vertical blinds alternatives will help you create a space that perfectly suits your style while offering functionality like energy efficiency, motorization, and light filtering.
Are Vertical Blinds Still on Trend?
Vertical blinds rose to popularity in the 1970s and 1980s, particularly in North America. And while you will find some blogs online telling you that vertical blinds are still on trend, that's quite true. You won't find top designers using vertical blinds in their designs. Instead, designers today opt for modern window treatments that offer improved functionality and aesthetics. And design-conscious homeowners now prefer modern alternatives that offer improved functionality and aesthetics.
You can add texture and warmth or sleek elegance to any room with high-quality vertical blinds alternatives.
There are so many modern styles to choose from that selecting vertical blinds simply doesn't make sense. It's time to move on from vertical blinds and try something fresh!
7 Alternatives to Vertical Blinds
Here are some updated, stylish vertical blind alternatives for Vancouver homes that balance beauty and practicality.
1. Vertical Cellular Shades
Best For: Sliding doors and large windows.Vertical cellular shades, like Hunter Douglas’ Duette Vertiglide, offer excellent energy efficiency thanks to their honeycomb design. These shades are perfect for maintaining indoor temperatures and reducing energy bills, especially during Vancouver's cooler months. They’re a sleek, modern choice for homeowners looking to prioritize functionality without compromising on aesthetics.
2. Sheer Vertical Shades
Best For: Spaces needing soft light and privacy.
For an elegant yet practical option, consider Luminette Privacy Sheers from Hunter Douglas. These shades combine soft fabric with vertical vanes, allowing you to diffuse light while maintaining privacy. They’re a fantastic choice for living rooms or bedrooms with expansive views, offering UV protection and a sophisticated touch.
3. Panel-Track Blinds
Best For: Wide glass doors and expansive windows.
For a clean, contemporary style, Skyline Gliding Window Panels are an excellent pick. These wide fabric panels glide smoothly along a track, stacking neatly when open. Perfect for modern homes, they add drama and elegance to any space while maximizing your view.
4. High-Quality Shutters
Best For: Timeless appeal and durability.
Shutters are a classic option with a contemporary twist. These are ideal for Vancouver homes where durability meets design, offering exceptional light control and insulation. Shutters work beautifully in dining rooms or home offices for a polished, sophisticated look.
5. Roman Shades
Best For: Adding warmth and softness.Roman shades bring fabric elegance to your windows. Hunter Douglas’ Vignette Modern Roman Shades come in various textures and colours, making them a great option for spaces like the dining room or master bedroom. Their sleek, cordless design ensures safety and a clutter-free appearance.
6. Roller Shades
Best For: Minimalist and modern interiors.Roller shades, like Designer Roller Shades from Hunter Douglas, provide a clean and straightforward aesthetic. These shades are ideal for spaces requiring blackout options, such as media rooms or bedrooms. Their simple operation and custom fabrics make them a practical yet stylish choice.
7. Woven Wood Shades
Best For: Natural textures and warmth.Bring a touch of nature into your home with Hunter Douglas’ Provenance Woven Wood Shades. Crafted from natural materials like bamboo and reeds, these shades create a cozy, organic feel in spaces like kitchens or sunrooms.
Bonus Idea: Try Drapery with Tracks
Drapery systems offer softness and luxury while maintaining modern functionality. Tracks allow drapes to glide effortlessly, making them an excellent choice for formal living rooms or bedrooms. Check out Fresh Design Blinds in Vancouver for custom options tailored to your space.
Bonus Tip: Choose Motorized Blinds
For the ultimate convenience, consider motorized blinds. Hunter Douglas’ PowerView Automation lets you control your window treatments with a remote, app, or voice commands. Ideal for hard-to-reach windows or busy households, they bring a tech-savvy edge to any space.
Common Questions about Vertical Blinds Alternatives
Do designers use vertical blinds anymore?
Not often. Designers prefer more modern and visually appealing options like cellular blinds or sheer shades.
What are the disadvantages of vertical blinds?
Vertical blinds can look dated, are harder to clean, and are not energy efficient.
What are people replacing vertical blinds with?
Many homeowners are replacing vertical blinds with alternatives like vertical cellular shades, panel-track blinds, and sheer vertical shades.
Are vertical blinds outdated in 2024?
Yes, the classic type of vertical blind you'd see in a rental apartment or hotel in the early 2000s is out of date in 2024. There are much more elegant and functional solutions available.
What are the best vertical blind alternatives?
For patio doors, glass doors, and large windows, consider options that balance functionality and style. Panel-track blinds provide a contemporary aesthetic and glide smoothly for easy access. Vertical cellular shades offer insulation and energy efficiency, while sheer vertical shades diffuse light beautifully, maintaining privacy. These choices suit large spaces perfectly.
What are the best blinds for patio doors, glass doors, and large windows?
For patio and glass doors, Skyline Panel-Track Blinds may be a good option. They offer a modern look and smooth operation. Duette Vertiglide Cellular Shades provide insulation and a sleek fit, while Luminette Privacy Sheers offer soft light diffusion. These solutions enhance aesthetics while delivering functionality for large spaces.
What kind of blinds should I use if I have a large window frame?
Large window frames demand stylish and functional blinds that enhance the space while providing light control. Options like vertical cellular shades offer energy efficiency, while panel-track blinds create a sleek, modern look. Sheer vertical shades diffuse light beautifully, and woven wood shades bring natural warmth, making them perfect for expansive windows.
What are the best window blinds on the market?
Hunter Douglas offers premium window blinds that combine functionality, durability, and style. Options like Duette Honeycomb Shades provide energy efficiency and a beautiful aesthetic. For modern simplicity, designer roller shades provide sleek designs with light control. Hunter Douglas is one of the leading manufacturers of window treatments in North America. For innovative, customizable, and high-quality window treatments, we recommend Hunter Douglas.
Final Thoughts on Venetian Blinds Alternatives
If you’re ready to say goodbye to outdated vertical blinds, there’s no shortage of elegant and functional alternatives for your Vancouver home. From energy-efficient cellular shades to natural woven wood designs, Hunter Douglas offers options for every style and need.
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.
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