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Roman Window Blinds and Formal Design


By
Expert Author Mark Row


Formal, Yet Effective
The beauty of formal interior design lies in a thorough selection of all the elements, furniture and details, colors and materials all for the purpose of creating a dignified and sophisticated, very representable living area. Since windows are the most noticeable parts of every room taking into account that they are visually connecting the inside with the outside, and allowing sunlight to illuminate your living space, they deserve a proper window dressing to enhance not only their value as keepers of privacy and light controllers but also their role as decorative parts of a formal interior design. Roman window blinds can be that perfect window treatment you are looking for and there are many reasons to support this statement.

Hunter Douglas Vignette Tailored Roman Shades


Formal Decor and Roman Blinds
One should keep in mind at all times the basic principles of decorating in formal style and find a way to incorporate Roman blinds into formal design adequately. The pursuit of simplicity and symmetry is one of the main characteristics of this style. Every piece has its place and is in coherence with other elements. There is usually a focal point, a central, most eye catching piece (a fireplace, table, elaborate armoire or armchair). High ceilings, luxurious chandeliers and wall sconces, antique furniture and Oriental rugs tastefully arranged are the hallmarks of formality and refinement. Upholstered furniture, refreshed with trims and ruffles and decorative pillows, as well as the polished wood pieces and valuable paintings on the walls are often found in a formally decorated home.

"How to incorporate Roman blinds into formal style?" you may ask. In order to adapt this style and make it more comfortable for your home, instead of going for the lush and luxurious fabrics (which are after all more expensive and not very easy to maintain), opt for synthetic materials (quality is still required) in subtle and refined patterns and match the colour of your blinds with the dominant color palette of your formal style. The design of these blinds and the way they fold when raised shows their neat yet elegant nature, but the part that makes all the difference is definitely the choice of material (patterned or not) and its color, so choose wisely. The best part is the offer of patterns and colors is very rich so finding the most suitable one should not be a problem.

The Finishing Touch
If you are really keen on adding more texture and you are really determined to make out the most of this decorating design, add a valance or cornice box to your windows. It may be in matching colors to the ones of your Roman window blinds or in a contrasting or neutral color depending on the effect you are trying to make. All things considered, the overall look of your windows would serve as an example of the wonderful potential of these window blinds to enhance the beauty of a formal decor and make it appear more astounding yet unobtrusive.

Take a look at Shaftesburys for more info on our top end Roman Window Blinds. Shaftesburys offers two ranges, one very simple mainly in plain fabrics which are relatively low cost for Roman Blinds and also we offer the Eclipse Range of Fabric Romans, of which there are ample stunning designs in the present book to choose from.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mark_Row


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Spring Decorating Using Your Windows


By
Expert Author Linda A Hammond


Living out West, you are used to enjoying the outdoors most of the year, but probably you most appreciate being out in the Spring. The temperate climate lends itself to outdoor living, and the ability to bring in the outdoors is something that folks across the nation often envy. How to best make use of the outdoors is a matter of personal preference.

I have seen many beautiful gardens, and I am often surprised how little these gardens are used; they can be an easy focal point for many homeowners who are missing a great opportunity. On some level, folks love their interiors and their exterior grounds, but they do not see the connection or realize how easily the two areas can be integrated to a fuller extent.

Your windows are key to that integration. It is one thing to use window coverings for privacy, to protect your furnishings from the sun, to maintain a comfortable interior temperature during the cool months; but to miss the beauty of a garden or the vistas provided by nature is truly unfortunate.

Hunter Douglas vertical blinds


Look at your windows as portals to the outside for your enjoyment-- unless you have a neighbor only a few yards away. Each window with a view that made you fall in love with your home in the first place should be exploited. Try removing heavy drapes and layers of curtains to expose your views; doing so is like a breath of fresh air after months of being closed up inside.

Many potential homebuyers will put a view above many other practical necessities of home ownership, because locations and views are nearly as important to them as kitchens and baths and in some cases more important.

There are many clever ways to protect privacy while still enjoying the outdoors; semi-sheer drapes and window shades are just two. However, consider nothing at all on those windows that afford you the prettiest views when privacy is not a factor. Another option is to use a pleated shade hidden under a cornice box or valance for those times of the day when either privacy or protection from the sun is important.

If you have to replace windows in your home, another way to enjoy your view is to keep the glass plain, that is, panes without grids, common to homes built in the 1980's. When there is no view, these grids may add charm; but where there is a view, they are distracting and further complicate your design if your window treatments have horizontal lines, like shutters or wood blinds. The idea is to open up and love your view.
If you do not have a pretty view, create one! Use props like a trellis to frame a view outside your formerly uninteresting window. Use colorful pots with hardy perennials for structure and annuals for color. Add a simple water feature and feed it with a drip tube attached to your watering system. You will attract birds and butterflies so your newly created view is vibrant with color and song.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Linda_A_Hammond


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The Best Colours For Blinds


By

You have just spent a lot of time and money re-decorating your house, so choosing the right blinds is an important factor. One of the key considerations is color. The color of your window blinds is just as important as deciding on the color when re-decorating, painting and choosing furniture. You want them to enhance your room and to compliment it, not look out of place or look as of you've just chucked any old blind up.
If you look at most colors in today's blinds they tend to be a single color, or with a minimal pattern. The variation of colors tends to be neutral colors such as blacks, whites and natural creams. These colors are quite simple to incorporate into an existing color scheme or decor. This provides a relaxing feel and gives the impression of a bigger space.

These neutral colors are just as they say 'neutral.' They are neither warm nor cold colors. They subtly blend into the room without overpowering with a dominant color taking over. Neutral colors work so well with nearly every other color, meaning you can add furniture and accessories without causing conflict of colors.
Of cause there are many different types of blinds and here are a few suggestions of colors that work well. Wooden venetian blinds often compliment a room containing wooden furniture, a lovely silver aluminum blind works really well with matching kitchen appliances offering a sleek, clean look. They make cleaning and wiping simple, as splashes are inevitable in a kitchen.

Living rooms need to be light and airy, letting in as much l
ight as possible so with this in mind roller blinds are a good choice. They allow you to let in the light but providing some privacy when needed. A fantastic option for bedrooms is blackout blinds essential for a good night sleep. These could be Roller or Roman blinds.

Bathrooms shouldn't cause problems with moisture and wetness, but if the blinds are in direct line of water then an Aluminum Venetian Blind are probably your best bet. Although wooden blinds are treated to resist water they are not recommended as the wood can warp over time.

Colors basically come into three groups. Warm, which are red, yellow and orange. Aptly named as they represent the sun and can warm a room. These work exceptionally well in rooms that are used a lot such as living rooms, dining rooms and playrooms. The warm bright colors give the feeling of coziness and warmth. Cool colors, which include blues, greens and purples, provide a calm, relaxed feeling to the room and can make the room have an open, bigger space feeling. These colors tend to be used in bedrooms where a calming effect would benefit a good nights sleep. And mentioned before the neutral colors.

This is just a quick guide as the style and colors are an individual preference and designed specifically to your requirements.

C. Ghand working for Colourful blinds supplier for all vertical and roller blind manufacturers, across the UK. Contact us to set up a trade blinds account.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Chan_Ghand


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Venetian Blinds - Don't Dismiss The Old Classic


By
Expert Author Russell Shearer


Legend has it that the Venetian blind did not originate from Venice (Italy), but from Persia (ancient Iran). Considering how the blinds evolved in the terrain of the arid desert, this argument seems more logical than other purported origins of the Venetian blind.

The very first blinds were made of wet vertical strips of cloth to keep out suffocating dust and regulate the hot desert temperature. From there, the blinds made their way to Europe via trade relations with the then European maritime power, Venice.

Graber mini-blinds

From Italy, the blinds were exported to France and the rest of Europe by artisans who wanted to make a living in Paris. By 1841, the very first patent for adjusting the angle of the slats was awarded to American John Hampson of New Orleans.

This is a class of window treatment that is typically installed inside window recesses. Their basic function is to regulate external light and provide a screen from external prying eyes!

Venetian blinds consist of horizontal slats. The slats are either made of wood, vinyl, or aluminum, and stack neatly together when raised. They allow light to pass through when the slats are rotated, and they can be set at an angle so as to regulate the amount of light entering the room.

Venetian blinds of the past may have been more functional rather than decorative, but they have come a long way in the last few years with the unrelenting advance of technology in materials and mode of manufacture. Because these blinds tend to be on the heavy side, aluminum is the more popular choice when home owners want durable yet lightweight and easy to maintain blinds.

Design-wise, Venetian blinds have evolved to become interesting backdrops themselves, given the trend of window blind customization these days. Unlike the monochrome and bland colours of Venetian blinds of the past, choices available today are more eye-catching and complementary to the surrounding design features. They also come in a choice of slat sizes.

Browsing through a catalogue or 'Googling' the internet for window blinds can sometimes be a daunting task when you are offered an endless variety of blinds that seemingly do the same thing. If you are overwhelmed with all the choices, it's maybe safer to stick with what others have discovered,... that good old Venetian blinds still have a role to play in this day and age.

Maintenance-wise, they can be easily wiped down with a soapy sponge and then wiped dry with a towel. Or, they can be given a bath in warm, soapy water and rinsed off in the shower!

About the Author
Russell Shearer is a Contributing Editor to Blinds-UK, one of the latest online shops for effortless ordering of window blinds in the UK. Visit Blinds-UK for the latest fabrics available, and for tips and advice on how to confidently measure your windows for ordering your blinds online. Measuring and installing Venetian blinds is not difficult when you follow some simple guidelines.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Russell_Shearer



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Top 20 World Most Beautiful Living Spaces

If you are browsing internet for Home Ideas, Decoration and Remodeling Tips you are on the right place. In today’s article we collected the top 20 most beautiful living spaces around the world. I am sure you will hate your apartment after checking out the images bellow. Starting from Switzerland, across America and up to Australia, there’s no better interior designs that the ones we collected and attached in the gallery bellow. We hope you will enjoy:

click pic for blog

http://www.stumbleupon.com/su/2GNT1c/www.ultrahome.org/top-20-world-most-beautiful-living-spaces/

Winds of Change of the Window Covering Industry


By
Expert Author Archana Gupta


India has changed tremendously over the last couple of decades, and this wind of change has touched the window covering industry deeply and dramatically. The most obvious change has been the increasing popularity of window blinds. Earlier the Vertical and Venetian range of blinds was limited to office use, but innovation, stylishness and variety has made them an extremely popular choice for home interiors. Not that the popularity of curtains has declined, but they are no longer the only 'chic' option for Indian households.
The blinds which were first available in limited colors, prints and designs now have the capacity to create conflict of choices between family members. If he wants a subtle shade of ecru, she may want the lovely lavender. In fact, manufacturers of window blinds can even create roller and roman blinds with materials that you have bought for your room furnishing. You can change the type of blind in every room of your house; honeycomb blinds that adjust to the weather, blackout blinds for privacy, zebra blinds that can be tilted and Shangrila blinds to control light. It's truly mind-boggling.

Those Indians brought up in the pre-liberalization era would be very impressed by the variety of chiks (traditional Indian roller-kind of blind) that the window covering industry offers. The blue chiks hanging outside windows and in balconies has given way to bamboo chiks and awnings. The shamianas, as fancy tents are called in Hindi and traditionally available only in white and red for outdoor gatherings, have given way to the modern Gazebos. Today their function is no longer limited to utility; instead, they enhance the style quotient and fashion forwardness of a home maker or a party organizer.

Even in the scope of hanging curtains, changes in the window covering industry paved the way for many businesses and brands. The change, which has been slow and steady, saw a complete shift from wooden pelmets and aluminum rods to sleek, colorful and eye-catching options. The first curtains rods to take India by storm were the Sophio Rods. They were made of mild steel in 28 mm diameter, or dia as the local industry refers to the thickness. It was just the first step that fuelled the creation of wooden, brass, aluminum, PU Coated rods in different diameters. Gold and silver plated rods were an option for the nouveau rich or those with old money not so long ago.

The winds of change have already altered the way most Indian homes do up their window coverings. But, one thing is for certain, the window styles and covering industry which is inspired by fashion and creativity will continue to change the shape, color and styles of its offerings.

The author is a consultant with Magnum Window Styles Pvt. Ltd. She has 15 years of experience in the field of window covering industry in India. She also has an extensive knowledge of the fashions and fads that have marked the growth of the industry. If you are keen to decorate or re-furbish your windows, visit http://www.magnumwindowstyles.com for a traditional as well as trendy variety waiting for you.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Archana_Gupta



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Beautiful Designer Bedrooms




Bedrooms come in all styles, shapes, and sizes, so how do you design your own? We've got your bedroom decorating inspiration here. With more than 80 bedrooms (and styles) to choose from, there's an idea for everyone.



By Multiple Authors


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Casual Interior Design and Venetian Blinds


By
Expert Author Mark Row
Rest Your Eyes and Mind with Casual Style Venetian Blinds
Casual interior design presents a fine opportunity to make your home a very comfortable, cosy and welcoming place, filled with joy and happy memories, where you can spend quality time with you family and friends, relax after a long and hard day and leave all your problems and worries behind. In order to be able to rest whenever you need or boost your energy with as much natural light as possible, you will need a special kind of window treatment which allows optimal light and privacy control. This is the place where Venetian window blinds step in.
Not only can they live up to any expectation in terms of light and privacy protection but they are also easily incorporated into casual interior design. This especially applies for wood blinds although artaficial wood ones may also provide a more economical substitution. Wood being the natural element brings about a kind of heart-warming and rustic quality which goes well with the principles of this type of decorating style.

The Calming Principle of Natural Elements and Neutral Colors
Since it is the material mostly used in people's homes, depending on the color, wood blinds can nicely match your hard wood floor or furniture in case your floor is tiled or stone. As they come in variety of shades, from very light to dark ones, the number of potential combinations is relatively high. Wood Venetian blinds can be paired with either a colorful curtain (avoid geometrical shapes) or a single colored one in a refreshing, neutral color. Valances are also very effective especially when they are attached to an extraordinary looking rods or drapery hardware.

The rest of your casual interior design should not be limiting or traditional in any way. Strict and symmetrical lines are reserved for other types of decorating styles and they are not welcome here. The accent is on soft, round or rectangle surfaces, upholstered, oversized furniture, natural elements like wood or wrought iron, antique or vintage details tastefully arranged on your wood or wrought iron bookshelves. If your furniture is closer to traditional style than casual, you can add some decorative pillows, place a slipcover (cotton or linen) over to soften the edges and make it look more comfortable and relaxing.

As for the colours, neutral tones like tan, soft beige, grey, off-white, or pastel colours provide the basis for the upcoming decorating combination. Avoid dark colours however, for the goal is to open up the space and make it look larger, and dark colors can have an oppressing effect so use them carefully and only for decoration elements. Darker shades, olive green, navy, burgundy or cranberry red for example, should be used selectively and only as details. Details in contrasting colors are immediately observed so pick only the most effective and eye pleasing strong colored ones and place them in strategic places (that is, the parts of your home you to which want to draw attention). Framed pictures on your wall or paintings depicting wonderful scenery are a valuable addition to your walls as well as the bookshelves and mirrors with wrought iron or wood rims.

To sum up, living in a stressful environment can take its toll after a while, and the beauty of casual decorating style is that it offers a lot of matching possibilities for creating a safe and relaxing atmosphere in your home. The role of window blinds in maintaining the calming effect and increasing the decorative value of your interior is not to be overlooked, so it is safe to say that Venetian blinds in a casually decorated home are a highly appreciated window dressing.

Visit Slats for more info on our beautiful selection of custom crafted Wood and Wood Effect Venetians, perfect for any interior decoration project. Our mission is to offer quality window blinds at affordable prices.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mark_Row


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Venetian Blinds or Vertical Blinds


By
Expert Author Mark Row


Similarities and Differences
Making the right choice between Venetian blinds and vertical blinds (especially for those of you unacquainted with these types of window treatments) can be simplified with this detailed comparison review. The variety of window covering types offered on the market today can, indeed, be a cause of confusion. People searching for the most functional, practical and aesthetically pleasing window treatment have to approach the matter very seriously if they want to be certain that the choice they make satisfies their needs. One has to consider not only the aesthetical value of Venetian or vertical blinds, but also some other aspects before heading to the nearest home depot.

Venetian window blinds, also known as horizontal blinds, consist of a set of horizontal slats connected with a string ladder and pull cords. Their easy lift system allows you to lower or lift them without effort. Rotating slats, which you can position at any angle (up and down), serve to protect the inside of your rooms from curious passers-by and the damaging influences of sun rays to the delicate surfaces of your furniture.
Vertical window blinds consist of a set of vertical vanes (louvers, panels, slats), which can be traversed from the left to the right side of your window or vice versa (depending on the side of your chain mechanism). Vanes can also be rotated from left to right.

Venetian blinds and Vertical blinds standoff

 APPEARANCE
The natural, warm and refined look of wood and wood effect Venetian blinds is one of the main reasons they are considered a timeless and very classy choice of window covering. Different shades of brown and white make them adaptable to any decorating style and easy to combine with a large spectre of colors.
Vertical ones, depending on the material they are made of, come in different colors and patterns. In accordance with your personal aesthetic criteria, they can add a dose of elegance, liveliness and style to your decor.

MATERIALS
Venetians can be made of wood, faux wood, vinyl or aluminium. The quality of wood blinds, along with their closest supplement faux wood blinds, is the main reason for their high ranking among all the types of window treatments.
A range of materials starting from natural to synthetic is used for this type of window treatment. Natural materials include cotton and wood while the synthetic ones include polyester and PVC. According to the individual characteristics of each of these materials, vertical blinds can be more or less energy efficient, durable, easily maintained etc.

ENERGY EFFICIENCY
Wood and faux wood have proved to be very efficient insulators. Thanks to this addition to your windows, the level of energy efficiency in your home is very likely to rise while the amount of money you spend on your bills decreases. In addition, thanks to their moisture resistance ability, they are a safe option for your kitchen and bathroom where the condensation levels are pretty high.

The materials used for making vertical window blinds determine their energy efficiency levels. Although the vanes are treated with protective covering (those made of fabric), there is still a chance of mould appearance. PVC has shown a better performance in high condensation areas than the fabric ones.

MAINTENANCE
Regular maintaining of both Venetian and vertical blinds might prolong their lifespan and provide a neat and clean appearance of your windows. Occasional dusting of wood blinds is enough to remove dirt (vacuum cleaner with the part designed for treating the upholstered furniture). For a more detailed cleaning, wiping slats with a sponge soaked in water and a mild detergent should be sufficient.
Since the fabrics tend to attract a lot of dirt and dust, it is possible to wash them (check the labels on the back to see if this option is possible). More sensitive fabrics must be dry cleaned or steam washed. PVC blinds are easily cleaned with a sponge and water but the tricky part (as with the Venetians) is cleaning each vane separately which takes some time.

DURABILITY
Venetian window blinds are very durable. Their slats are can be more or less rigid and bendable, but they are still very hard to break.
Small children and pets present a potential danger to vertical window treatments in your home. They may easily tear the fabric blinds thus making their change inevitable. PVC blinds are more durable and not as easy to damage as the fabric ones which also applies to the wood blinds.

PRICE
Venetians are a more expensive option, but their durability and other advantages compensate for their higher price. A less expensive option is faux wood, similar in appearance to wood but more moisture resistant and slightly more energy efficient.

Prices may vary from more to less expensive, cheaper vertical blinds depending on the chosen material.
The choice is yours, and hopefully, it is an easy choice to make!

Visit Discount Blind Centre for more info on Venetian and Vertical Blinds. Our mission is to offer quality window blinds at discounted prices.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mark_Row


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The Benefits of Roller Blinds


By



Window coverings significantly impact both the style and mood of a room. Whether you want to achieve a modern, sophisticated design or a classic, elegant design, window coverings are a focal feature that set the decorating tone of a room. Many contemporary designs are offset with window blinds because they are functionally appropriate for different rooms, they can match any budget, and they are stylish. Roller blinds have been popular since the 1970s and the modern types provide an attractive addition to any room while providing flexibility, ease of operation, and durability. Indeed, there are many benefits associated with these blinds.

First and foremost, roller blinds today are aesthetically pleasing. They offer clean, simple lines that are flush to the window or wall where they are mounted. Unlike traditional window coverings, these blinds eliminate excess fabric and thereby contribute to a modern aesthetic. Because of their simplicity, these blinds fit closely to the window so they blend easily in to any room's décor. Furthermore, they are available in a wide range of colours and fabrics including translucent fabrics, sun-screening fabrics, and even black-out fabrics. This means the designer has an incredible degree of creativity when choosing roller blinds for a room. In fact, the versatility of colours, patterns, and fabrics mean that roller blinds can also be chosen to match the existing design of a room.

Another benefit of roller blinds is their flexibility. Obviously there are a range of styles that allow them to be matched to any design palate, but they're functionally flexible as well. Again, due to the wide range of fabrics and materials that roller blinds can be constructed from, these blinds are suitable for just about any room. You can install these in bathrooms, children's rooms, living spaces, and kitchens - they are an appropriate fit for any situation. Some homeowners may even choose a dual a roller blind wherein two blinds are installed on the same mount. For example, you may want complete control over the amount of light that enters a room. In this case, you can install dual sun-screening blinds and black-out blinds; sun-screen blinds allow light to pass while blocking glare and UV rays, while black-out blinds are impenetrable to light.

Roller blinds ease of operation and durability also make them a popular choice for home and business owners. Because they feature a range of operating systems from spring assisted or chain drive to fully motorized, they are a great fit in any room. They open and close easily, and with motorized blinds you can control all blinds from a central location. Plus, these blinds are especially durable as they feature strong steel tubes, high quality fabrics, and rigorously tested operating systems. Roller blinds are an attractive and lasting covering for your windows.

Find out more about the many types of blinds at Arlene's Interiors
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Alex_Pupkin


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How Electronic Blinds Work


By
Hunter Douglas
Electronic blinds can have some really great advantages over every other type of blind on the market. They come in a variety of materials and can even run on a preset timer so that your blinds can close automatically to protect certain rooms from sunlight by closing at certain times of the day even if you at work. In addition, they offer a small bit of security when you are gone for a long weekend, by automatically opening and shutting making would be burglars think you are at home.

Electronic blinds makes opening and closing blinds on high windows simple and convenient as well. But just exactly how do electronic blinds work? While the basic workings of these blinds are the same the exact way they work depends on the type of electronic blind you decide on getting.

All Electronic blinds have an internal motor that is located at the top of the shade. It is inside a casing so that motor does not show. Older electronic blinds needed to be hard wired right into your electrical circuits by a professional. However, today you can wall mount controls that simply plug into an outlet. You then simply push a button that either raises, lowers, or tilts the blind to let in the right amount of light for you. Some of these shades come with a built in timer, that you can preset just like you can preset your DVD to record your favorite movies or shows when you are away from home. The preset timer then raises or lowers the blind when it reaches the preset time.


Remote controlled electronic blinds are also extremely popular. These blinds make opening and shutting blinds for high windows convenient and are extremely useful to those who may have difficulty getting around or reaching up to raise and lower a blind. Remote control electronic blinds normally work from 40 to 50 feet away from the blind, use a battery operated control, and like that television remote you simply point the remote at the sensor to open or close the blind. Remote control blinds operate on different size batteries. Some use double-A, some triple-A and some use D batteries.

In addition, some remote control blinds also come with an adapter so that you can plug in the blind to your electrical system. Purchasing an electrical blind with an AC adapter may be a good idea just in case your batteries die at an inopportune time, although many of these remote controlled blinds batteries are designed to last two or three years. Experts advise that you have different remote control for blinds in each room of your home.

While electronic blinds may be somewhat more expensive than other types of blinds and window treatments they do offer many people simplicity and convenience as well as a margin of added safety. Since these blinds come in a variety of styles and colors they can easily fit and look great in most homes. Best of all there are no cords to detract from the clean lines of these blinds or pose a danger to small children.

Shutters can make a huge difference to the look and functionality of your home for better or worse, so chose carefully. To learn more about the types and applications of electronic shutters visit. Treefrog Shutters & Blinds

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Updating Your Windows: Tips and Ideas


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Windows are a key element in any home - every house has them. Depending on how you dress them they can be a design feature in a room, a focal point, an accent or a contrast. When decorating a room it can be easy to get swept up in choosing the wallpaper, carpets and furnishings, but you shouldn't overlook the windows. Updating the look of your windows can change the look and feel of a whole room. Windows should not just be seen as purely functional - only there to let light and air in - but as an important contributing factor to the style of the whole room.

Before wading in and covering your windows with swathes of fabric, you will need to take the time to consider the overall theme and style of the room. There would be no point in adding sleek and streamlined window treatments to a room that has an old-fashioned charm. Equally, hanging fussy or overly decorative window treatments in a modern or minimalistic room can ruin the aesthetic.

As well as thinking about the style of the room you should also bear in mind the functionality you will require from your windows. If you like to have your windows open to let the air in, avoid overly complicated window treatments that will only get in the way. If the windows face the west (or the south) then you may have to factor in whether you will need your window treatments to block the sun at certain times of day. Rooms that look out onto a street or a neighbour's garden may need more privacy.

Arguably the most popular form of window treatments are curtains. Changing your curtains can quickly liven up and update a room. Colour and pattern are hugely important. A high-contrast colour can work well in modern rooms and patterns can add interest. Textured fabrics can bring a degree of warmth and softness to a room that is primarily furnished with hard woods. For those with low ceilings, a vertically-striped curtain can help to add height to a room.

Curtains do not have to be full length, opaque fabrics, more and more suppliers are now offering a variety of styles. A white or sheer curtain can provide privacy during the day but will not block the light out. For a more rustic feel café-style curtains are also a good choice for those concerned with privacy. A sheer under-curtain in a bright colour can add a splash of colour to a room without being overwhelming.

A form of window treatment that works well in both modern settings and with a rustic style, are interior shutters. Wooden shutters can be a durable and low-maintenance option. Plantation shutters with adjustable slats (or 'louvres') can provide privacy while letting in the sunshine and airflow. Similarly, hand carved shutters let the light filter through an attractive pattern carved into the wood. You can paint your shutters an accent or contrasting colour, or simply leave them as they are, letting the wood finish add a measure of warmth. Shutters come in a variety of styles depending on your needs. Solid shutters can play up the architectural features of a Georgian house, while café style can provide privacy for street level rooms without losing the natural light.

It can be easy to get confused between certain types of window treatments. Valances, cornices, pelmets, swags and lambrequins do have certain aspects in common, but there are differences between them.
A valance is a fabric window treatment that spans the top of a window horizontally. They can be used to add interest to a window while concealing the window hardware. A valance can be used in conjunction with a cornice to give an old-fashioned style.

Cornices and pelmets are essentially different terms for the same type of window treatment. Like a valance, a cornice spans a window horizontally but is more structured and is usually made of wood such as MDF. Cornices can be upholstered with fabric to match the curtains or blinds.
A lambrequin is very similar to a cornice, in that it is a structured window dressing, but it comes further down the window, usually at the sides.

Swags are simply made of long pieces of hemmed fabric that are wrapped around the curtain poles. This material is then pulled down to form swags.

Choosing one or a combination of these window treatments can help to frame your window. Scalloped valances can bring an old world charm while a straight cornice can play up the modern feel of a room. A cornice fixed above a window can help to make it seem larger. Adding curves to a window treatment such as a lambrequin or a cornice can soften rooms like kitchens that are usually full of straight lines and boxes.
You may, however, want to let the window speak for itself. For modern rooms, painting windows a bright colour can really turn them into a focal point. Adding window boxes filled with greenery, flowers or herbs to the outside of a window can help to improve the view and make nature feel closer.

If you want a certain amount of privacy without bulky curtain or shutter options you can add a frosted film. These are a good option if replacing the window pane with frosted glass is too pricey. You can find films that have clear detailing and patterns and you can choose how much of the window you want to cover. It can be a useful option for renters as the film can be removed quickly and cleanly. For a slightly more ostentatious (and expensive) look you could replace the panes of smaller or side windows with stained or etched glass.
Finally, if you want to update the look of your windows, you should not forget the detailing.

 Simply replacing the catches and handles of a window can give them a new lease of life. Exchanging old window catches for brushed metal ones can help to modernise a window. Alternately, if you are going for a more classic look, antique style handles can help the window to stay in-keeping with the décor. A lick of paint on the windows will also help to freshen them up! Curtain ties do not just have to be strips of fabric; strings of beads or antique doorknobs can give a unique feel, while tasselled rope tie backs provide a more opulent look. Taking the time to decorate your windows can really help to complete the look of a room and can put new life into your house.
© Izzy Evans 2013

If you would like to find out more about wooden treatments for your windows then you should visit a shutter supplier.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Izzy_Evans


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Questions to Ask Before Buying Window Treatments


By
Expert Author Valarie Baser


Besides considering budget, reducing glare and creating privacy; there are other questions to ask when selecting the right window treatments.
Do you enjoy looking outside and having sunlight come into the home?
Some of us may forget that with the wrong window treatments, it will cause us to hide inside our homes. This could affect a persons mood over time as some say that humans need some exposure to the sun. Mayoclinic.com states that, "reduced sunlight can cause a drop in serotonin that may trigger depression." So have a place in the home where you can easily enjoy some sunlight whenever you want. Also if you're the kind of person who enjoys looking at nature while being in home (especially if work from home), consider a design that will allow you to do so easily.
Are the windows the first thing you see when entering the room?
If the windows are "pictorial" type of windows that are big and dramatic; first impression means everything. So selecting a window treatment that will make you happy is important. Boring window treatments that only serve as a function is, well, boring. And remember that since these windows are big, it will take up a lot the visual interest in the space. Also think about how window treatments are seen from the outside of the home.
How will it look from the outside?
Have you ever walked down a neighborhood and have seen bedding sheets used as windows treatments? This is the best example of using something just to serve as a function, which is to create privacy and that's it. Consider an interesting design with some color or pattern. This will also affect the homes curb appeal when it comes to selling it. Thinking about how the window treatment will look from outside will help make a good choice.
Do you like natural air coming into the home?
Allowing fresh air into the home is the best way to get rid of toxins and unwanted smells. Also using fans instead of air conditioners supports an eco-friendly environment and lifestyle. So consider a design that will easily allow you to open your windows whenever you want.
What is your home decor?
If you have a traditional home with traditional style home decor then selecting treatments with that in mind will create a harmonious space. If the homes decor is rustic with elegant drapes then the overall style will be confusing and not well planned.
Which room in the house gets the most intense sun during the day?
The sun is most intense in the morning and noon. Depending on the location of the home and placement of windows, certain rooms in the home will be hotter than others because of this. So if there's a room in the home that gets the most intense sun, consider window treatments that can tolerant harsh sun rays and heat. Not silk curtains. Also remember that sun rays can also cause the fabric on sofas and hardwood used for flooring to lose its color over time.

Share with me your experiences
I'd love to hear from you. Did you wish you knew certain tips earlier and would like to share?
Visit http://www.vmdecor.com to learn more interior design and home decor ideas by Valarie Michelle Decor.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Valarie_Baser


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Patio Door Window Treatments to Consider


By
Expert Author Cookie Maxwell


Sliding glass doors on to a patio are a wonderful way to maximize your view. Whether you are looking out onto the water, trees, or watching your kids play in back, there is a lot of benefit to those glass doors. However, you will find times when you need more privacy. At night, when glass doors are not covered with blinds or drapes, it is easy to see directly into your home. If you are searching for window treatments for your patio doors, you can learn more about your options here.

Curtains or Drapes
Within the curtain and drape category, you will find a variety. A sheer curtain that slides easily to the side is a nice option for someone who wants to diffuse the bright light from the sun, but not eliminate it entirely. If your home requires the room to have a black out effect, choose a more solid drape. Side mounted panels are hung purely for decorative purposes. They do not move and are there enhance the look of the room. Make sure that you match your rods to the curtain. If you choose a thick drape that will block out all of the light, you can use a heavier rod. A lighter curtain requires thing rings and a thin rod that continues the theme of light and airy.
Hunter Douglas

Blinds
Blinds are a nice option for patio door window treatments because of their versatility. You can shut them all the way for privacy and room darkening. You can also open them in a way to allow some light to filter in. Drapery and curtains do not have an in between option. Vertical blinds are the most popular choice for sliding glass doors. If you have French Doors, you can either go with thin vertical blinds, or cellular shades. Roman shades are a warm and luxurious look for both sliding glass doors and French Doors. Vertical blinds for patio doors come in as many styles as the blinds you can use for your windows. Choose the material or fabric that complements your interior decor and meets your requirements for functionality. You can choose wood or faux wood panels that cover the door from top to bottom. When they are fully closed, they will deliver total privacy. A sheer fabric panel will allow more light to filter into a room, and will give the room more of a soft glow.

No matter which option you prefer, it is always a good idea to request samples from a manufacturer. It will be easier to picture the final product if you can hold a small piece of it up against the doors you are working with.

MyReviewsNow.net offers information regarding patio blinds. For more on patio door window treatments, please shop online with us at MyReviewsNow.net.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Cookie_Maxwell


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Make Your Home More Spacious With Venetian Blinds


By
Expert Author Mark Row
Having troubles with space?
Living in small apartments or houses with tiny rooms requires careful choice of multifunctional furniture and intelligent use of space. The way we use colors, exploit natural light and combine the elements affects our living area in such a way that it causes the rooms to appear more or less spacious. Venetian window blinds are, believe it or not, a top choice of window treatments in houses or apartments with limited space.
Color themes
Dark colors in small spaces are definitely not an option. Instead of opening up the home space, they tend to be burdening especially when dark shades are a predominant choice for both walls and furniture. Light colors can help creating an illusion of wide, open space while grouping decorations in similar tones creates a harmonious atmosphere. In light colors, any white hue or soft, natural colors of wood, in combination with the similar, light color of your walls will do wonders for your home. Not only will the rooms appear wider and more elongated, but it will also seem more neat and elegant.
Windows and lighting
Large windows are an essential part, especially in small living rooms. Apart from taking care of your privacy, the possibility of adjusting the light exposure according to your needs is what makes Venetian window blinds a unique and irreplaceable choice of window treatment for both large and small windows. In rooms with sufficient amount of light, only this type of window treatment will do the trick. However, those parts of your home with insufficient light exposure will need additional lighting, so consider placing lamps or any other source of light in each corner and hang mirrors on your walls (they reflect light nicely).
Choice of furniture
It may be hard but try to get rid of any piece of furniture or decoration that you do not use or need (or the ones you are not sentimentally attached to). Make the best of what you decide to keep, try to find a way of incorporating it into your design and give it some purpose. A piece of advice is that when you buy new furniture, you opt for the multifunctional pieces. What does this mean? It means that instead of large, space consuming pieces you decide to buy smaller ones with storage possibility. Coffee tables with drawers, beds with additional parts for storing the bedding when it is not used, wall units or shelves which cover the wall from top to bottom are examples of what you should keep in mind when choosing the right, purposeful furniture. Again, try to match the colors either with the color of your floors or the furniture theme.

Avoid clutter at any cost, place all the trinkets in a decorative box, neatly organize your decorations instead of spreading them casually all over your room. In the same manner, organize all other small useful tools like scissors, needles and threads etc.

Hopefully, all of the above mentioned suggestions will be of use to you and help you create a more spacious living area with Venetian blinds as both aesthetical and practical window covering.
Visit Slats for more info on our beautiful selection of custom crafted Wood and Wood Effect Venetians, perfect for any interior decoration project. Our mission is to offer quality window blinds at affordable prices.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mark_Row



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How Much You'd Expect to Pay For a New Set of Blinds


By
Expert Author Cookie Maxwell


Window blinds can be a beautiful and functional alternative to cloth curtains on your windows. Blinds come in a variety of materials and styles, and they can be functional as well as decorative. They come in a variety of materials that include wood, plastic, vinyl, metal, fabric and even bamboo. There are many different styles of blinds to choose from to customize the design of your windows. Vertical, horizontal, honeycomb, flat, and roller are just a few types of blinds that you will find from retailers. Blinds that are labeled as energy efficient insulate the windows that they cover and help keep the heat and air conditioning bills lower. There is no typical cost for blinds because of the variety of materials and designs. However, there is a range that a homeowner can expect to find when they are pricing window treatments.

Accounting for the large variety in material, quality, quantity and size, people can expect to pay anywhere from $8 to $1000 per blind for their home. That range includes budget blinds from a hardware store that can cost between $15 to $180 per window and the moderately priced energy efficient blinds from a large home store that will run $30 to $130 per window. Designer custom blinds made from the highest quality materials cost from $100 to $1000 per window. The lower end of the price range covers smaller window blinds that are made from wood and fabric. The highest end of the price range encompasses woven silk blinds and tapeless ladder system blinds.

There are additional costs to account for when planning the window treatments budget. Professional installers charge to install the blinds for home windows. The rule of thumb is that the cost increases as the complexity of the job increases. Keep in mind that larger windows cost more to cover. That is also true for windows that are oddly shaped and are not traditional. If you do not want to hire an installer, most blinds can be installed without the help of a professional.

Installation is not usually part of the blind package price, but there are a few more extra parts that a person will need to factor in when purchasing new blinds. A purchased blind includes a blind that is the right size to cover one window, any hardware necessary to install the blind, a rod, a cord, and a system to position the blind. If the blinds are vertical then there is an included head rail or valance from which to hang the blind from. Most custom blind retailers will offer a warranty for the blinds that they sell.

MyReviewsnow.net offers information regarding selecting blinds. For more about window treatments, please shop with us at MyReviewsNow.net
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Cookie_Maxwell


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