Roman Shades for Your Home: Uniquely Elegant, Surprisingly Affordable
The Romans gave us aqueducts, concrete, and the best roads of the day. They forged the foundations of modern law and a numeral system that only the Super Bowl Host Committee understands.
But Roman shades are perhaps their most significant contribution. At least, that’s how we see it in the window treatment business.
What Are Roman Shades?
Roman shades trace their origins to, well, the Roman Empire. Some of the earliest window coverings were described in Roman texts — often heavy cloths that insulated homes or protected them from harsh sunlight and prying eyes.
The Roman shades we know today bear only a faint resemblance to their ancestors. They’re sophisticated, somewhat unusual (if you’re used to boring old vertical blinds), and highly versatile. You can place them in any room, including bedrooms, living rooms, kitchens, and bathrooms.
They’re made from a single piece of fabric that hangs flat against your windows when lowered. When raised, the shades collapse into neat folds (or “stacks”). In a sense, Roman shades are a cross between shades and curtains. They’re also among the most affordable window treatments on the market, often much cheaper than blinds or shutters.
Materials vary, from light and airy linen to heavier, more luxurious fabrics like velvet or silk. You can also find them in bamboo and other natural materials.
Roman shades are great for small spaces since they stack up neatly. And because no bulky or complicated hardware is involved, your view is unobstructed when they’re raised all the way.
The shades offer excellent light control, privacy, and insulation. Their affordability sets them apart from most other high-end window treatments.
The Benefits of Roman Shades
Affordability
Roman shades come at a fraction of the cost compared to blinds or shutters. You can dress up your windows for a pittance, depending on your chosen fabric and style.
Versatility
Roman shades work in any room, from living spaces to bedrooms, bathrooms, and beyond. You can bring them into commercial establishments like offices and retail stores.
Style Options
Choose from the classic flat-fold style or the more dramatic cascading waterfall folds. The relaxed version has gentle curves along the bottom edge for a casual look.
And then there are patterns and colors galore! From traditional solids to vibrant prints, stripes, and checks, you can personalize your Roman shades to match any decor.
Easy Installation
Many window treatments require professional installation. Installing Roman shades is a breeze, even for the most DIY-challenged. Most come with simple instructions and hardware that fits almost any window frame.
If you’re skittish about power tools or ladders, choose cordless Roman shades instead of those requiring extensive installation work. They do away with unsightly cords and are safe for homes with children and pets.
Aesthetics
Roman Shades land an air of sophistication. Their clean, uncluttered appearance makes them perfect for traditional and contemporary interiors alike.
Light Control
You can easily adjust the shades to let in just the right amount of natural light, creating the perfect ambiance in your room.
Energy Efficiency
Roman Shades provide a layer of insulation, helping you maintain a comfortable indoor temperature. This energy-saving feature can reduce heating and cooling costs, making them a wise investment for your home.
What about Custom Roman Shades?
Sigh. We tried.
You won’t get custom-made Roman shades on the super cheap. The old adage that you get what you pay for holds true.
Off-the-shelf Roman shades are pleasant enough to look at, but custom shades can be mind-blowingly gorgeous. They fit your windows like a glove and come in the perfect style, fabric, and color options for your home. They’re made to fit, look, and function exactly the way you want.
So then, you may ask, who customizes Roman shades? We do at Aero Shade. We can customize existing shades or make them from scratch in our factory. We work with local designers, contractors, and the architects of the stars and guarantee the highest quality with every installation.
Please visit our Los Angeles showroom, or have us drop by your LA-area home for a free, no-obligation estimate. You’ll be glad you did!
FAQs: More about Roman Shades
Q: Do Roman shades block out light completely?
No, but you can pair them with blackout liners for more light control.
Q: How do I clean my Roman shades?
You can dust them regularly or opt for professional cleaning. You can wipe down some materials like bamboo or faux wood with a damp cloth. Use a mild detergent and water solution on a soft cloth or sponge for spot cleaning.
Q: Can I install Roman shades on my own?
Yes, you can! Most come with easy instructions and hardware that fits any window frame.
Q: Are Roman shades safe for children and pets?
Choose cordless options that are safer for homes with children and pets.
Q: Do I need lining for my Roman shades?
While not strictly necessary, lining adds an extra insulation layer to your windows. It also helps prevent the fading of fabrics in strong sunlight.
Q: Are Roman shades suitable for all window sizes?
Roman Shades can be customized to fit virtually any window.
Q: What are the different styles of Roman shades?
Styles include flat, hobbled, and waterfall. Each style has a unique appearance and functionality.
Q: Can Roman shades help with noise reduction?
While not designed for noise reduction, Roman Shades provide some sound insulation.
