Roman shades are made with the fabric you select. They hang from the top of the window, and when the cord is pulled, they fold up like an accordion. This type of window treatment is popular for creating cohesive and elegant interior designs. To decide if this is right for your home, here’s more information about this option and what to look for when designing yours.

Styles of Roman Shades

There are two main types of Roman shades. Flat shades are the most common. These are composed of a single piece of fabric that hangs in front of the window and doesn’t have any horizontal seams. This style shows off the fabric you’ve selected, and fits well into any style.

Waterfall, or hobbled, Roman shades have horizontal folds sewn into them. The folds are exposed when the shades are fully open, then stack over each other when the fabric is pulled up. You can use curtains and other window treatments over the window as well. The sophistication of this style complements more traditional decor.

How to Use Them

These window treatments are popular because they create clean lines, making aesthetic statements without becoming overwhelming. The way they sit flush against the window and don’t hang below it makes this option ideal for rooms where you don’t have a lot of wall space, or have furniture pressed up against the wall.

The most important consideration when selecting your shades is the fabric you’ll use. Choose a fabric that has a light or medium weight so the folds will stack beautifully. If it’s too heavy or thick, it won’t fold over well.

Choose a fabric that also fits in with your color scheme. For example, you can pick a solid shade like gray or blue for a contemporary look, or a patterned fabric for more of a statement if the rest of your home is neutral. If you want the shades to block more light when they’re closed, have a lining sewn onto the back or select darker colors.

Inside Living Style creates custom shades for homes in Fairfield County and Downtown Milford, CT. This family-owned and -operated store has been creating window treatments for over 20 years. They’ll handle the measuring and installation for you, with reasonably priced delivery services. Learn more about their products and services on their website, then call (203) 301-4939 to schedule a free, in-home interior design consultation.