Opposite page: Roman blinds are a popular option in today’s homes. They can block out light and nosy eyes from outside for those who value priavcy.
Left: Luxurious fabrics are making a comeback on windows.
Above: Bamboo and natural woods are popular choices for window coverings.
Left: The beauty and drama of sheer fabrics allow light in and a view to the outside.
T
he trend today is to open our homes to the beautiful outdoors through ever bigger windows,
bay windows and glass doors. After all, summer is short and we invest so much time and energy into making our gardens into private paradises, we deserve to have full-eye access to our handiwork. Nor do we like to lose touch with the outdoor world in winter. Being able to see outside helps us get through the coldest days. In spite of this, from time to time we
need a bit of privacy or some protection from the glare of the sun. We appreci- ate the opportunity to be tucked away in our cosy personal space when it’s storming outside or when we have just had enough of everything and need to withdraw a bit. The question is, can we have the best of both worlds? The answer is yes, and there are
many avenues to this perfect place, even though we may be surrounded by glass.
www.localgardener.net
Blinds, shutters and shades The world of window coverings has
never been so populated by choice enhanced by convenience. Take blinds, for example. They are making a come- back, but the new product no longer relies on springs that hardly ever work and are hard to control. Blinds are now moved up and down on a clutch- operated system that allows you to raise or lower them with a light touch of a handle or that is operated electronically. They can be opened from both ends so you can let in light from the top or the bottom of the window. Blinds can also be installed with
the roll on the window side or facing outward, which provides a tighter fit if you are looking for complete light blockage. Solar shades are even more diversi-
fied, allowing you to block UV rays but still see out. These shades can be cellular (honeycomb), pleated with a Japanese
effect or Roman (shades that complete- ly block the window with material that overlaps as it is folded up). The fabric coverings can be opaque, translucent or semi-sheer and come in a variety of colours, although trends are to white, light or warmer tones, depending on the mood you like to create. The sheers and semi-sheers permit a romantic and restful filtered light to shine through the windows while offering a muted view of what’s on the other side. Natural products are big: blinds made
of reeds and grasses, woven woods and bamboo provide a great look for the cottage, a male haven or a casual feel- ing. Wood is still important and faux woods can offer an inexpensive alterna- tive. Wider spaces between slats help with light penetration. Shades come in a wide variety of
colours, fabrics and patterns, from elegant damask to impressions from nature. Centre strings can be plain and
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