Author
Suzanne is an Owner/Designer
Author
Suzanne is an Owner/Designer
We have seen a shift in window covering design, and it’s all thanks to Joanna Gaines and her goal to maximize natural light in all her spaces. Gone are the days of heavy, light-blocking window coverings. Let's aim to create spaces that feel airy and open with layered lighting, including the light coming from your windows. Here’s a breakdown of the top window coverings, when to use them, and how to combine them to make your space look pulled together and function well.
We have seen a shift in window covering design, and it’s all thanks to Joanna Gaines and her goal to maximize natural light in all her spaces. Gone are the days of heavy, light-blocking window coverings. Let's aim to create spaces that feel airy and open with layered lighting, including the light coming from your windows. Here’s a breakdown of the top window coverings, when to use them, and how to combine them to make your space look pulled together and function well.
This post contains affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through them. We only recommend products we truly love!
1. Blinds
Blinds are practical and clean-lined but can feel sterile on their own. Traditional mini blinds are being swapped for sleeker pull-down blinds that are more versatile and stylish. These are great for:
Privacy needs in bedrooms or bathrooms.
Contemporary or minimalist designs.
Where to Use: A small office or bedroom where functionality takes priority. Pair them with curtains to soften the look.
We like these to allow more light in when they are open.

2. Plantation Shutters
These are classic but are often seen as bulky and light-blocking. They’re ideal for:
Colonial or farmhouse-style homes where historical charm is the goal.
Avoid in rooms where maximum light is desired.

3. Roman Shades
Roman shades are the darling of modern window coverings and for good reason. Their tailored look and ability to control light make them a versatile choice. This is a great way to add pattern into a space. Use them:
Alone for a clean, modern aesthetic.
Layered with curtains for a polished and layered effect.
Where to Use: Living rooms, bedrooms, or dining areas where you want both style and functionality. We especially like them over a kitchen sink window.

4. Sheers
Sheer curtains are the perfect way to soften a space without blocking light. Use them:
As a standalone for rooms where privacy isn’t a major concern.
Layered with heavier curtains to add texture and dimension.
Where to Use: Sunrooms or dining areas to create an ethereal, open vibe.

5. Curtains
Curtains are back in a big way, with patterned options leading the trend. They’re great for:
Adding softness, warmth, or bold patterns to a space.
Layering with Roman shades for a fully dressed window.
Where to Use: Living rooms, bedrooms, and formal spaces.

This post contains affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through them. We only recommend products we truly love!
1. Blinds
Blinds are practical and clean-lined but can feel sterile on their own. Traditional mini blinds are being swapped for sleeker pull-down blinds that are more versatile and stylish. These are great for:
Privacy needs in bedrooms or bathrooms.
Contemporary or minimalist designs.
Where to Use: A small office or bedroom where functionality takes priority. Pair them with curtains to soften the look.
We like these to allow more light in when they are open.

2. Plantation Shutters
These are classic but are often seen as bulky and light-blocking. They’re ideal for:
Colonial or farmhouse-style homes where historical charm is the goal.
Avoid in rooms where maximum light is desired.

3. Roman Shades
Roman shades are the darling of modern window coverings and for good reason. Their tailored look and ability to control light make them a versatile choice. This is a great way to add pattern into a space. Use them:
Alone for a clean, modern aesthetic.
Layered with curtains for a polished and layered effect.
Where to Use: Living rooms, bedrooms, or dining areas where you want both style and functionality. We especially like them over a kitchen sink window.

4. Sheers
Sheer curtains are the perfect way to soften a space without blocking light. Use them:
As a standalone for rooms where privacy isn’t a major concern.
Layered with heavier curtains to add texture and dimension.
Where to Use: Sunrooms or dining areas to create an ethereal, open vibe.

5. Curtains
Curtains are back in a big way, with patterned options leading the trend. They’re great for:
Adding softness, warmth, or bold patterns to a space.
Layering with Roman shades for a fully dressed window.
Where to Use: Living rooms, bedrooms, and formal spaces.

This post contains affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through them. We only recommend products we truly love!
1. Blinds
Blinds are practical and clean-lined but can feel sterile on their own. Traditional mini blinds are being swapped for sleeker pull-down blinds that are more versatile and stylish. These are great for:
Privacy needs in bedrooms or bathrooms.
Contemporary or minimalist designs.
Where to Use: A small office or bedroom where functionality takes priority. Pair them with curtains to soften the look.
We like these to allow more light in when they are open.

2. Plantation Shutters
These are classic but are often seen as bulky and light-blocking. They’re ideal for:
Colonial or farmhouse-style homes where historical charm is the goal.
Avoid in rooms where maximum light is desired.

3. Roman Shades
Roman shades are the darling of modern window coverings and for good reason. Their tailored look and ability to control light make them a versatile choice. This is a great way to add pattern into a space. Use them:
Alone for a clean, modern aesthetic.
Layered with curtains for a polished and layered effect.
Where to Use: Living rooms, bedrooms, or dining areas where you want both style and functionality. We especially like them over a kitchen sink window.

4. Sheers
Sheer curtains are the perfect way to soften a space without blocking light. Use them:
As a standalone for rooms where privacy isn’t a major concern.
Layered with heavier curtains to add texture and dimension.
Where to Use: Sunrooms or dining areas to create an ethereal, open vibe.

5. Curtains
Curtains are back in a big way, with patterned options leading the trend. They’re great for:
Adding softness, warmth, or bold patterns to a space.
Layering with Roman shades for a fully dressed window.
Where to Use: Living rooms, bedrooms, and formal spaces.

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