Windows are essential in any home: they allow the light of the day to shine through, illuminating even the darkest of corners in any space. However, you may sometimes want to cover your windows for privacy, light control, or aesthetics. Curtains are versatile: they provide various ranges of lighting allowances, come in various patterns, and exist in various lengths. At the end of the day, though, curtains may not be for everybody.
We know the difficulty of choosing the right window covering, as many options exist. You will want to consider how factors like privacy, light control, style, and budget come into play when deciding on a window-covering solution. The good news is that plenty of creative and functional options are available to meet your needs!
Whether you want to let in plenty of natural light or create a cozy and private space, we have got all of the suggestions you may need! Discover some of the best window covering options that expand beyond traditional curtains.
1. Window film
If you are not too concerned with blocking sunlight (because we all want to be able to sleep in sometimes), window film may be a good solution for you. Window film is an adhesive material that sticks to your windows and provides privacy without blocking out natural light.
This is a great option to maintain your view, as it can blur the window without completely obstructing the view. Window film comes in various patterns and colours, so you can choose a style that complements your decor!
2. Specific types of glass
You do not have to limit yourself to choosing the windows’ coverings. You can change the specific type of glass in the window itself. If you want to maintain your view while adding privacy, like with the window film above, frosted glass can be a great option.
This glass has a textured surface that diffuses light and blurs objects, making it difficult to see inside your home. On the other hand, stained glass is a magnificent way to add colour and texture to your windows. This type of glass is made by adding metallic salts during manufacturing, creating various colours and patterns!
3. Blinds
Blinds are one of those classics we adore because they can provide privacy and light control while offering a variety of styles suited to your lifestyle. One of the reasons we love blinds is that they provide excellent control over light and privacy. You can easily adjust the slats to let in just the right amount of light or block out unwanted views from outside.
This makes blinds a great option for bedrooms, bathrooms, and any other room where privacy is a concern. Moreover, you can choose from various materials, including wood, vinyl, and aluminum, so you will never run out of options. Vertical blinds are popular for sliding glass doors, while horizontal blinds are great for standard windows!
4. Shades
One of the less talked about options, window shades, are another popular type of window covering that offers many benefits to your home. They are typically made of a single piece of fabric or material that can be rolled or folded to expose the window and then unrolled or unfolded to cover it. You could consider the roller shade, made of a single piece of fabric that rolls up onto a metal or plastic tube at the top of the window.
Roller shades can be made from various materials, including blackout fabrics, sheer fabrics, and natural materials like bamboo or wood. Another option you may want to look into is the cellular shade, a honeycomb shade. These shades are made of cells that trap air, providing excellent insulation for your windows. Cellular shades are available in various colours and opacities, making them a versatile and stylish window covering option.
5. Plants
Yes, unexpected, but yes, they work just as well. This will be a great option if you want a natural way to cover your windows, as they can provide some greenery and livelihood within your place! You can hang plants in front of your windows or place potted plants on your windowsill if you are looking to consider this option.
What we love about this one is that you can choose any plant of your liking: from a bouquet of roses to a slew of green vines. This is a great way to provide privacy and add a decorative touch to your space. Another helpful addition: plants can also help purify the air in your home! Fresh air, here you come.