Take a look at your paint scheme and room purpose and then decide: should blinds be lighter or darker than the walls?
When it comes to decorating a room, one of the key decisions that homeowners need to make is selecting the right window treatment. Blinds are a popular option in the Nashville area for many reasons, including their versatility and practicality. But despite blinds being common and easy to find, the question remains: should blinds be lighter or darker than walls?
There are pros and cons to each.
Dark And Dramatic
One of the main advantages of darker blinds is that they create a more dramatic and striking look. They add depth and contrast to the room, drawing attention to the windows and making them the clear focal point. Dark blinds can also create a cozy and intimate atmosphere, especially in the bedroom or living room.
Another primary perk of darker blinds is that they are more forgiving in terms of showing dirt and stains. If you have kids or pets, don’t count out dark blinds. Further, darker materials may block the most light, which is important if your windows face the sun. And if you work at night and sleep during the day, the darker, the better.
However, there are also some drawbacks to darker blinds. Nashville homes are getting smaller and smaller, and dark blinds might make your space feel squeezed even more than it is. And if your overall paint scheme consists of mostly shadowy hues, dark blinds can make a small space a claustrophobic nightmare.
On The Bright Side
Lighter blinds get the job done, and they have a more subtle and understated effect on the room. They blend in with the walls and create a cohesive and harmonious look. Lighter blinds can also make a room feel larger and more open, which is ideal for tight spaces.
Another benefit of lightly-colored blinds during Nashville’s hot summers is that, despite letting light in, they can keep heat out, helping to keep the room cool and your energy bills down. Energy-efficient window treatments may even pay for themselves over time.
But they are not perfect, and even light blinds have a dark side. They can be more challenging to keep clean. You’ll see every smudge and smear. And if you tend to leave your windows open during the spring and fall, you might even see the shadow of flies buzzing between your screen and your blinds. That might sound like a small problem to have, but if you get distracted easily, it’s something to think about!
You also want to pay close attention to your wall color. If they are already white or on the lighter side of gray, a white or cream window covering can make the room feel a bit sterile. And that’s the last thing you want in your family’s gathering areas.
So, which option is better – darker or lighter blinds? Ultimately, it comes down to your own personal preference. If you’re looking to create a sweeping and intimate atmosphere, dark blinds may be the way to go. On the other side of the proverbial token, light blinds can make your Nashville home open, airy, and more enjoyable.
7.0 Blinds & Shutters is one of Nashville’s oldest and most respected residential and commercial window treatment businesses. Founded by window installation specialist Fred Fitzgerald and his wife Cheryl, 7.0 Blinds & Shutters has grown tremendously in the last four decades. Today, the company is owned and operated by Michelle and Gino Brannan, who continue to learn under the expert guidance of the Fitzgeralds. Featuring Nashville’s best blinds, shutters, draperies, and Roman shades, 7.0 Blinds & Shutters has window treatment options to fit any budget. One call is all it takes for your free consultation. Visit our website regularly to see what’s new in window coverings.