Roman shades remain extremely popular amongst interior designers for their versatility in helping to offer rooms both the maximum amount of possible light as well as the ability for complete blackout when necessary. However, choosing the right one for your home can be tricky: there are, after all, a lot of different options out there! That’s why we’ve put together this article for anyone heading off to buy some roman shades from The Shade Store:

Measure the frame. This might seem quite obvious, but you’d be surprised just how many people will go shopping for their shades without actually measuring the size of the frame. Of course, some windows will be of a unique size and you won’t be able to find ones that suit perfectly – unfortunately, this is just one of those things. However, many suppliers will be happy to have their shades cut down to size for an extra price. Alternatively, some blinds can be custom made, so you should consider this option if your frame is of a one-of-a-kind size.

Consider the aesthetic. Roman shades are – fortunately – quite a versatile form of window treatment, able to look the part in both contemporary rooms as well as those of a more traditional design. However, it’s important that you work out exactly which style you’re going for to ensure that your new shades look the part. There’s absolutely no better way of doing this than taking a photo of your room and taking it to the showroom with you – this will enable you to genuinely check the visuals out, rather than relying on the blinds looking as good in your home as they did in the showroom [here’s some free advice: they never do!].

Buy for your climate! Roman shades come in many different forms, from comparatively thick dark material to very thin fibres. This choice should be largely down to the climate in which you’ll be installing the shades. Needless to say, a big thick set of shades will turn any kitchen into an oven mighty quick if the sun’s burning outside, but it might be ideal for those who live in colder climbs. Obviously the main question is: what if you live in a variable area? [ie, the good old UK?] Simple: one set for winter and one for summer.

Consider what the window’s used for. Typically, roman blinds work best in the bedroom, where total blackout is useful [though they can of course work in other rooms]. Though they can be rolled up to allow for half-light, they’ll still be blocking out a decent amount of view – probably not what you want if you’ve got a room with a stunning view. If that’s the case, then typical white shades will probably be the right way to go. Essentially, you should consider what the individual rooms are used for and then work around that.

Hopefully, this advice should help you pick out the right blinds. However, remember that you always have the option of consulting professionals if you’re uncertain – that’s what they’re there for.