Roman shades are modern and stylish window treatments made from fabric. Categorised as soft window treatments, Roman shades can be used to add a stylish minimalist theme to an interior space.
Unlike blinds, shades have no adjustable vanes or slats that help you adjust for daylight filtering, rather, they came in various types with different levels of opacity.
Roman shades offer a clean, smooth look that is elegant without being overbearing, like heavy curtains and drapes. Its streamlined look works well with rooms that have small to medium-sized windows. This doesn’t go to say that you can’t use them for wider windows. However, with wider windows, you may need to install two or three Roman shade panels.
How you install Roman shades depends on the type of windows you have. If you have beautiful window openings with mouldings, trims, and elaborate sills, then it's best to fit them inside the window. This will keep the architectural details in view. However, if you have non-descript or plain windows typical of modern homes, it is better to mount the shades on the outside of the window frame.
Types of Roman Shades
There are different types of Roman shades. The variety of fabrics and opacities means that these shade offer a choice for every kind of window and every type of interior design concept. It also means that there is always a choice available to suit everyone’s taste and style. The different types of shades include:
- Cascade Roman shades
- Pleated Roman shades
- Cassette Roman shades
- Waterfall Roman shades
- Flat Roman shades
- Relaxed Roman shades
- Cassette Roman shades, and,
- Hobbled Shades
Features of a Roman Shade
1. They stack up evenly in horizontal folds when opened.
2. They are visibly smooth with a clean uncluttered look, and without bump or creases.
3. New innovations in liners and operating systems.
4. Can be raised or lowered with the help of a cord system and rings sewn on the back of the fabric.
5. Gives a clean, streamlined look to the window
6. Roman shades are available in both rolling and stacking options.
7. Durable and easy to clean.
8. Available in an array of colours, textures, patterns, and dramatic designs,
9. They usually have a neutral colour back lining for a smooth consistent view from the outside of the building.
10. Roman shades can be customized to feature curved bottoms, embellishments, tassels, embroidery, fringe, or other types of bottom trims.
11. Thermal or blackout liner for energy efficiency, light blockage, and complete privacy.
12. Can be equipped with cordless operation for both convenience and child safety.
Roman shades have a wide price range, from the cheaper versions to the much more expensive ones. Prices tags will depend on the fabric used, the features they have, and the type of operating system they possess.
Further reading:
Energy Saving Window Treatments - Honeycomb Window Blinds
