Embrace Vintage Charm with the Grandmillennial Trend

Premier Modern Natural Wood Shades in Nikko Pecan (left) and Half Moon Bay (right)
Premier Modern Natural Wood Shades in Nikko Pecan (left) and Half Moon Bay (right)

Vintage designs have made a comeback in recent years, and they’re going by a new name: Grandmillennial. Yes, you read that correctly.

To break it down, “grand” refers to grand, traditional aesthetic, similar to what you see in your grandmother’s home. Think bold prints, tassels, fringe, embroidery, textures.

Millennials, the 25-40 age group, are the ones taking this and weaving in modern designs. It’s a step away from mid-century modern, but this current style juxtaposes old-fashioned patterns with contemporary pieces. As for the phrase itself, it originated in a 2019 House Beautiful article; it’s synonymous with “Granny Chic.”

We love the personality this style brings into a home! Here’s how you can incorporate Grandmillennial style with your window coverings. (And if you want to get your feet wet first, consider crafting pillows or tablecloths from our fabrics – get them by the yard!)

Play with Patterns

Popular vintage patterns include chintz, baroque florals and glam jungle. You can achieve this with the V&A William Morris Collection or any of our flower designs.

Select Roman Shades and Select Custom Drapes in Victorian Floral Jade
Select Roman Shades and Select Custom Drapes in Victorian Floral Jade

If flowers aren’t your style, art deco is another Grandmillennial design to incorporate with its geometric patterns and linework.

Designer Reserve Roman Shades in Laced Navy (left) and Peruvian Graphite (right)
Designer Reserve Roman Shades in Laced Navy (left) and Peruvian Graphite (right)
Designer Series Roman Shades in Geometric Fall
Designer Series Roman Shades in Geometric Fall

Try Different Textures

Instead of velvet furniture, try out velvet drapery with our Jewel Tone Drapery! The soft texture can contrast with hardwood floors or nearby tables. On the flip side, perhaps your window coverings will bring in the natural warm wood look with woven wood shades. Edge binding is also a way to apply texture to your woven wood shades or roman shades.

Jewel Tone Drapery in Velvet Emerald
Jewel Tone Drapery in Velvet Emerald
Premier Modern Natural Wood Shades in Nikko Pecan
Premier Modern Natural Wood Shades in Nikko Pecan
Lifestyle Roman Shades in White Canvas with Greek Key Navy/White Edge Binding
Lifestyle Roman Shades in White Canvas with Greek Key Navy/White Edge Binding

Is the Grandmillennial trend for you? Call or chat with one of our Design Consultants to learn more! Call (855) 714-1942. They’re easy to talk to!

Check Out Our Top Five Products

What’s trending right now at SelectBlinds? We gathered the top product from our five top categories to make your shopping experience even easier!

Classic Roman Shades in Textured Ivory

Classic Roman Shades

Classic Roman shades are a simple yet stylish way to adorn your windows. Its polyester fabric creates a warm, casual atmosphere to any room while its texture adds depth and dimension. Choose a soft fold for the traditional roman shade look, or the pleated fold for a more modern look when pulled down.

Customer Review

I love the material of the blind and the simplicity of the design. It really is a great and simple way to update your space. We are slowly working on updating every room and look forward to using SelectBlinds from now on!

– Camilla

Pictured: Classic Roman Shades in Shoreline


Cordless Blackout Cellular Shades

Get a better night’s sleep with these budget-friendly blackout shades that block up to 99% of incoming light. The energy-efficient, 3/4″ single-cell pleats also help you save on heating and cooling costs and even act as a buffer to outside noise. Did we mention it was rated the Best Blackout Shade by Wirecutter?

Customer Review

Easy ordering, super quick order, excellent quality, excellent service! Great price! Seriously, I don’t often leave reviews, but these guys are awesome!

– The Hartmans

Pictured: Cordless Blackout Cellular Shades in Noir


2” Selectwave Cordless Faux Wood Blinds

Give your windows a sleek, lighter look with these faux wood blinds! The sleek, 2″ wave-shaped slats let more of the outside in when open while sealing tight for maximum room darkening when closed. The color-coordinated headrail blends right in with the S-shaped blades, so no valance is needed.

Customer Review

Really love these faux wood blinds. Easy to install and operate. The ordering process was easy, shipping was fast, packaging was great!

– KN

Pictured: 2″ Selectwave Cordless Faux Wood Blinds in White


Classic Cordless Woven Wood Shades

Take your windows to the next level with these trend-setting favorites! Clutter-free, stylish, and affordable, its natural materials breathe a whole new life into your space. With its varied colors and patterns, it easily blends in with any style.

Customer Review

We are so in love with these shades. The quality and look of them is everything I was wanting. Very pleased! Would purchase again.

– Carlie

Pictured: Classic Cordless Woven Wood Shades in Hilleria


Classic Vinyl Blackout Roller Shades

Available in popular neutrals and solid tones, this pleasing, pleather blackout roller shade works with a variety of interior styles and decors. These roller shades are made of flame retardant vinyl fiberglass and are then laminated with another layer of vinyl for extra strength and durability.

Customer Review

They are easy to install, they are easy to use, they look neat and attractive, and they really darken the room. I’m going to order more!

– Tara

Pictured: Classic Vinyl Blackout Roller Shades in Black


Call or chat with one of our Design Consultants for more info on our five favorite products! Call (855) 714-1942. They’re easy to talk to!

Blinds Inspiration: National Puppy Day

National Puppy Day is on March 23rd, so we’re sharing which dog breeds remind us of certain window coverings. Let’s dive right in!

Disclaimer: Multiple dogs could have represented the categories below. If you have a suggestion, please tell us in the comments!

Wood Blinds – Chocolate Lab

As American and traditional as apple pie – wooden blinds and chocolate labradors. Reliable, beautiful and family-friendly (especially with our Cordless Lift).

Left: 2″ Select Basswood Wood Blinds in Beaver Brown

Woven Wood Shades – Goldendoodle

The natural frays from woven wood’s reed and bamboo fibers remind us of Goldendoodle’s wispy fur. Woven wood shades also fold over easily, and if you try holding a Goldendoodle pup, you’ll see they flip and flop every which way.

Classic Cordless Woven Wood Shades in Golden Poppy

Vertical Blinds – Great Dane

Great Danes seem to sway whenever they move due to their size, and it reminded us of the vertical blinds’ movement as you draw them open.

Designer Vertical Blinds in Textured Ink

Roman Shades – Corgi

We picture corgis living anywhere from wealthy homes to a secluded English cottage. Same with Roman Shades. They work with various interior design styles, thanks to the fold, pattern and color options!

Lifestyle Roman Shades in Breeze

Curtains/Drapery – Shar Pei

Shar Pei are all rolls (adorable) and drapes have a lot of rolls. Some curtains, like Jewel Tone Drapery, even have 200% fullness.

Jewel Tone Drapery in Velvet Topaz

Mini Blinds – Chihuahuas

Chihuahuas are known for being yappy dogs. If you’ve ever bumped into mini aluminum blinds or tried using broken ones, you know they make quite a bit of noise.

1″ Premier Aluminum Blinds in Pure White

Roller Shades – Australian Shepherd

Aussies have so many different color combinations from their fur to their eyes. As working dogs, they’re reliable to get the job done. Rollers are extremely durable with its PVC material, and they come in lots of colors and patterns.

Luxe Modern Light Filtering Roller Shades in Refined Honey

Cellular Shades – Pitbull

Cellular shades are one of the most commonly used window coverings, partly due to their efficiency. When thinking of a common dog, we thought of the beloved pittie. They’re a bit goofy-looking, like cellular shades (in our opinion), and great family dogs.

Designer Sleep Shades in Spanish Brown

Solar Shades – Weimaraner

Solar shades are made with a sleek colored polymer, and the Weimaraner looks so slick that water could roll off it.

Traditional Solar Shades in Vapor Gray 3%

Sheer Shades – Pomeranian

Sheer blinds are so delicate that you might worry you will damage them (you won’t); similarly you have to look down with these pups to make sure you don’t step on them.

3″ Refined Light Filtering Sheer Shades in Linen Creme

Shutters – Golden Retriever

A classic dog for a classic shade. We love how shutters can be versatile in different households, and Goldens fit any family.

White Faux Wood Shutters in Vanilla

Call or chat with one of our Design Consultants to talk more about shades – or dogs. Call (888) 257-1840. They’re easy to talk to!

Light Up Your Life and Home with the Right Window Shades

Architect Light Filtering Panel Track in Modern Gray

One reason people buy new window coverings is because they’re looking to increase their light control. After all, too much light can eventually fade your furniture or floors if there’s too much exposure to UV rays.

But don’t let that keep you from blocking away all light. Natural light does have its benefits like:

  • Boosting Vitamin D
  • Improving your sleep cycle
  • Producing serotonin and endorphins
  • Reducing stress and anxiety
  • Saving energy and money on electricity

Now that you know the benefits, you can decide exactly how much light you want in your home. Some products are better suited if you’d like more light versus if you want no light at all. We broke down our products into three broad categories based on how well they allow light in.

High Light Filtering

Designer Light Filtering Dual Shade in Coastal Cream

Light is softly diffused through the sheer fabric of these products.

Moderate Light Filtering

2″ Modern Wood Blinds in Fontana

Sunlight flows directly through when the slats are titled open. There is no fabric between the opened slats.

Low Light Filtering

Classic Fabric Light Filtering Roller Shades in Dove

Sunlight comes in when these shades are raised. When they are lowered, light typically does not flow through.

Visit our website for an in-depth look at which shade is best suited for your light control needs, or call our Design Consultant Team at (888) 257-1840. They’re easy to talk to!

3 Signs You Need to Replace Your Window Coverings

Include your windows in spring cleaning this year, and we’re not talking about standard dusting. The first step of spring cleaning is to toss out what you don’t need, so let’s start there. Here are three signs you need to replace your window coverings.

1. You hate them.

Let’s not complicate it. You can’t stand the window blinds or shades you currently have. They were already there when you moved in. Decide what you want by browsing our site or chatting with our Design Consultants!

2. Your window coverings are worn out and worn down.

The wood blinds are warped, the dog chewed the cellular shades, or your drapery didn’t withstand your children’s permanent marker designs. Whatever it is, sadly, your window coverings are too far gone. It’s time to get something new.

3. You remodeled or got new furniture.

Perhaps the new decor is modern, and your blinds feel too traditional. We have styles that will work with aesthetics from boho to farmhouse to elegant. Commit to your preferred interior design style and get the window coverings that match.

Here’s what our team says is trending:

Double Roller Shades

Unique and sleek, this window treatment layers a light filtering fabric over a blackout fabric, both of which provide UV protection. Each panel can be moved individually from the other, either manually or on your remote or smartphone. 

Double Roller Shades in China Doll / Sweet Sesame

Classic Roman Shades

Enjoy light and privacy control with a traditional, high-end look with Classic Roman Shades. Choose between a standard pleated fold or upgrade to a soft fold.

Classic Roman Shades in Dusty Teal

Premier Woven Wood Shades

Naturally filter light through the unique woven wood texture, crafted from bamboo, grasses and other organic fibers. These are a top choice among bloggers and DIY designers for their ability to blend in seamlessly with almost any décor.

Premier Woven Wood Shades in Jasmine

Double Solar Roller Shades

It’s a win-win with this unique day and night solar shade. The frontmost solar shade protects your interior from the harsh daytime sunlight. Meanwhile, the rear blackout shade provides a better night’s sleep with its insulation and blackout capabilities.

Double Solar Roller Shades in Umber Brown / Dark Maitake

Jewel Tone Drapery

Impress with this visually tantalizing jewel-toned drapery. Make your interior feel rich and plush with our Velvet Collection, or smooth and light with our Satin Collection.

Jewel Tone Drapery in Velvet Amber

Black & White Light Filtering Roller Shades

Create a monochromatic masterpiece with these shades. Using an innovative lamination technique, the top soft fabric layer is fused with a liner that makes them energy efficient but still allows the sun to make its way through in a gentle light-filtering effect. They’re also available as Black & White Room Darkening Roller Shades.

Black & White Light Filtering Roller Shades in White Frond

Have questions? Call or chat with one of our Design Consultants! Call (888) 257-1840. They’re easy to talk to!

Start the Year in Style: Colors of the Year 2023

As you’re getting ready for the holiday hustle and bustle, you may have realized some of your window coverings need a new look for the new year. But who has time to look up interior design trends right now?

Don’t worry. We got you covered. We gathered seven Colors of the Year 2023 and curated which of our window coverings are a close match!

You’ll notice a similarity within the variety of earth tones that were chosen. They represent calming themes like reconnecting, reflection, and peace. Perfect for after the holi-daze.

BEHR – Blank Canvas

Image Credit: Behr

We love the creamy, dreamy vibes of Blank Canvas. This warm white is a perfect way to start off the new year – it’s literally a blank canvas! And like a canvas, it’s a foundation to support your other pieces of home decor. Behr even vouches it “renews every room of the home.” 

Porto Cream on Designer Series Roman Shades

Jogging Path on Architect Light Filtering Roller Shade

Dunn-Edwards – Terra Rosa

Image Credit: Dunn-Edwards

Mesmerize your guests with Terra Rosa, which is part of Dunn-Edwards’ Life in Poetry color palette. This deep pink will create a warm, dare we say romantic, atmosphere in any room.

In their words, Dunn-Edwards describes it as a “high chroma, cinnamon rose hue [that] is strong, yet approachable, and acts as a refreshing neutral updated to browns and burgundies.” With that in mind, you can confidently pair window coverings in this color with one of our taupe curtains/drapes.

Vintage Coral on Rustic Americana Curtains and Rustic Americana Roman Shades

Cardinal Weave on Farmhouse Curtains and Farmhouse Roman Shades

Sherwin-Williams – Redend Point

Image Credit: Redend Point

Bring the outdoors in with Redend Point. The earthy tones ground you into a state of relaxation. Sherwin-Williams says, “minimal yet cozy, this color creates a comforting backdrop for the everyday moments that matter.”

Amalfi Chocolate on Designer Light Filtering Dual Shades

Graham & Brown – Alizarin

Image Credit: Graham & Brown

Graham & Brown went for a deep, muted red with its color of the year, Alizarin, naming it after a pigment used as a dye. They state this color “can be used in small spaces to create a cocooning effect or in larger rooms to transform the space into an opulent abode.”

Cinnamon DC on Select Light Filtering Cellulars

Velvet Amber on Jewel Tone Drapery

HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams – Darkroom

Image Credit: HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams

If you’re looking for a more subtle option, HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams has you covered. Their color of the year is an elegant black with purple undertones that is calming in its simplicity. The brand says, “this alluring black is a classic for heritage interiors, yet modernly retro for a throwback inspired aesthetic.”

Ashy Slate SC on Premier Blackout Cellular and 3/4″ Premier Blackout Vertical Cellulars

Vintage Shadow on Designer Elements Blackout Roller Shades and Designer Elements Blackout Panel Track

Pantone – Viva Magenta

Image Credit: Pantone

If you’re looking for a hue with more vibrancy to it, look no further. Pantone’s Viva Magenta is the energetic cousin of the red family. Its inspiration is from the cochineal dye.

Pantone describes their color as “a new animated red that revels in pure joy, encouraging experimentation and self-expression without restraint, an electrifying, and a boundaryless shade that is manifesting as a stand-out statement.”

Pyrope on Jewel Tone Drapery

Tourmaline on Jewel Tone Drapery

Glidden + PPG – Vining Ivy

Image Credit: Glidden

Moving away from the reds, both Gilden and PPG decide to look at the blues and greens in Mother Nature with their Color of the Year, Vining Ivy. Whether you’re looking for a calming presence as you wind down or an energizing color to start the day, Vining Ivy matches your mood.

Glidden describes it as a “‘bluish-greenish-something-in-betweenish’ color [that] serves up versatile vibes, making it an on-trend addition to any room.” Meanwhile, PPG says, “Its versatility takes the guesswork out of design, leaving consumers with more time to indulge in the things that matter most to them.”

Rain Water on Rustic Americana Roman Shades and Rustic Americana Curtains

Blue Matte Velour on Cozy Roman Shades and Cozy Curtains

Night Blue SC on Premier Blackout Cellulars and 3/4″ Premier Blackout Vertical Cellulars

Are These Interior Design Trends Not Your Style?

Perhaps you’d like to have one of the colors above be an accent wall, or all the walls, and you’re looking for more neutral window coverings.

In addition to the ones similar to Behr’s Blank Canvas, here are some of our favorite colors on a few blinds and shades.

Antique White Embossed on 2 1/2″ Luxe Modern Faux Wood Blinds

Luna on Luxe Modern Woven Wood Shades

Vintage Lace on Designer Elements Light Filtering Roller Shades

Call or chat with one of our Design Consultants to discuss which color will work best for your home! Call (888) 257-1840. They’re easy to talk to!

4 Ways to Spice Up Your Windows for the Holidays

As the holiday season approaches, the to-do list gets bigger and bigger: preparing the Thanksgiving food, picking up a Christmas tree, maybe buying Hanukkah gifts. Add in cleaning and decorating and your mind can get so foggy even Rudolph with his nose so bright can’t help you.

What’s one thing that often gets missed in the shuffle? Windows! They’re easy to turn a blind eye to, but really, window coverings are the finishing touch to getting your home holiday ready.

Don’t worry, we have 4 ways you can spice up your windows!

1. Make sure all your windows are properly covered throughout the home.

Plus, nothing says spice like something new! Decide first on the atmosphere of the room, choose a color, and then land on a style.

Remember:

  • Bold shades make a statement: i.e., chocolate tones, navy blue, peach
  • Natural hues brings a nature element: i.e., greens, browns, purples, and blues
  • Neutral tones add a softening effect: i.e. shades of white and beige

Traditional

These coverings are timeless for a reason. Roman shades, wood (or faux wood) blinds, and shutters each bring a classic element to a room. Roman shades especially have a wide range of materials, textures and fabric.

Left: Rustic Americana Roman Shades in Distressed Brick; Right: 2″ Modern Wood Blinds in Cypress Auburn

Modern

For those wanting to break the norm, panel tracks and dual shades add a simple but innovative look to a room. Roller shades are also a great budget-friendly way to achieve this style.

Left: Architect Blackout Panel Track in Seal Gray; Right: Traditional Room Darkening Dual Shade in Oak Brown

Unique

Let your window coverings be the conversation starter. Whether it’s the texture of woven wood shades, or eye-catching fabrics, like our Textured Glam Roman Shades, they are sure to leave a lasting impression. 

Left: Classic Woven Woods in Golden Poppy; Right: Textured Glam Roman Shades in Beige Spatter

Our Buying Guides break down which window treatment is best for you based on the room, style and more. 

2. Layer window coverings to give the room a facelift.

Your holiday fit isn’t the only thing that looks better with layers. By adding to your current window coverings, you’re giving your home a fresh look.

Incorporate drapes to add dimension, and guests will think you did something new to your house. Reflect your personal style by choosing one of our solid color options, vintage chandelier designs, or artistic scribbles – all possible with our Lifestyle Custom Drapes.

Classic Curtains in Natural Linen layered with Traditional Light Filtering Dual Shade in Beige

If you have drapes but are looking to layer something underneath for more privacy and protection, consider adding a solar shade or cellular shades. Boom – you just added more privacy and light control to the room while creating dimension.

3. Extend the holiday spirit all the way to the windows with some decorations.

If you got it, flaunt it! Accentuate your windows by dressing them up. Just don’t forget to dust off your window blinds and shades before drawing attention to them.

You can frame or hang wreaths, snowflakes, lights, mini-ornaments and more on your windows. Depending on the window location, you can face the decor inside to add holiday cheer or face them outside for curb appeal. We recommend doing both!

Image courtesy of Brittany Lyle and @ourvintagenest
Left: Brittany Lyle accentuates her blinds with a classic garland; Right: Alicia Armstrong from Our Vintage Nest dresses up her curtains with golden bells.

4. Tie the room together with decorations that complement your windows.

If you’re completely in love with your windows and don’t want to cover them up, choose decor that will complement your current shades. Whether it’s rustic, contemporary, or something else, there is plenty out there to mix and match.

We love how Alicia Armstrong from Our Vintage Nest took a more natural, earthy approach, in decorations to complement her SelectBlinds Designer Series Woven Wood Shades in Jute Wheat. The woven texture is reflected throughout the room from the hanging wall decor to the woven blanket basket and tree collar.

Image courtesy of @ourvintagenest

But wait, there’s more!

Before you’re off to the races, be sure to do the following for a worry-free holiday:

  • Seal leaky windows with weather sealer or strips to keep everyone cozy and save on your energy bill. (Those cellular shades we talked about earlier naturally insulate your windows!)
  • Wash your windows with a DIY mixture of vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Wipe to a with a microfiber cloth for a no-streak shine. 

Want to talk this out more? We’re happy to help! Call or chat with one of our Design Consultants for more info! Call (888) 257-1840. They’re easy to talk to!

4 Favorite SelectBlinds Picks From Our Influencers

We at SelectBlinds love collaborating with, and being inspired by, designers, DIYers, content creators, and influencers.

We thought it was a great time to share some of our influencers’ top SelectBlinds product picks, as well as where in their homes they installed them, and why they like them so much.

Woven Wood Shades: Alicia, @ourvintagenest

Image courtesy of @ourvintagenest

You can strike an elegant layered look and dimension for your windows with natural, woven wood shades. Alicia, who runs @ourvintagenest, loves the woven wood shades look.

“For the main areas of our home, I chose SelectBlinds’ Designer Series Woven Wood Shades in Jute Wheat,” Alicia says.

“We chose this particular blind because of its beautiful texture and color.  It literally reminds me of a woven basket on your window and who doesn’t love an amazing woven basket?  We wanted the look of warm and cozy; I feel like we achieved that with these blinds!”

Two custom options Alicia chose for her woven woods were the no-liner option and the cordless lift.

“We chose unlined option for our downstairs blinds, because we wanted more natural light to come through in the mornings and during the day,” she says. “We chose the cordless lift option, which includes a hidden ring pull (in the middle) at the bottom of each shade.  We love this option for a clean look, but most importantly… because it’s child safe!”

Motorized Roman Shades: Chrissy, @homewithchrissym

Image courtesy of @homewithchrissym

Who knew you could be trendy and traditional at the same time? Take the classic look of Roman shades. This custom fabric window covering never goes out of style and works with the trendiest, as well as with the most traditional, interiors.

Chrissy, from @homewithchrissym, fell in love with our Classic Roman Shades in Natural Linen. 

“Our new motorized shades are up and ‘Wow!’ Why did we not do this sooner?” Chrissy tells us. “SelectBlinds makes the ordering process very straightforward and user-friendly. Once ordered, we had our new shades in a matter of weeks, not months. The best part? They are beautifully made and all you need to do is push a button to open/close them.” 

Chrissy selected the standard pleated fold option, without a valance for a cleaner look. She also decided to go with a standard white privacy liner as these shades were going in a bedroom.

Motorized Cellular Shades: Brianna, @briannabrowndesigns

Image courtesy of @briannabrowndesigns

Keep your vibe at home cool, calm, and quiet with energy-efficient cellulars. With kid-friendly cordless or motorized lifts, they’re the safest choice for homes with pets and young ones. 

Brianna was looking for a motorized window covering solution for her hard-to-reach windows. She needed them to block the glare on the TV while also providing privacy and energy efficiency. 

She went with our 2” Premier Light Filtering Cellulars in Thunderstorm, selecting the double-cell customized option for extra energy-efficiency.

“I am so happy with them!” Brianna says. “I ordered the Premier Light Filtering Cellulars with solar chargers and a remote (because I can’t reach those top shades without a scaffolding). These shades have made it so we can actually watch TV during the day without being blinded by the sun. Plus, they help block out the heat, the cold, and even noise!”

Woven Wood Shades: Jessi, @thegoodwrench 

Image courtesy of @thegoodwrench

Jessi, from @thegoodwrench also loves the natural look of woven woods.

“Sometimes taking care of three small kids just wipes me out, and in the middle of the day, I’m DONE,” Jessi tells us. “In the middle of the day, when I feel the need to take a load off, my wishes come true with my SelectBlinds automated shades in my bedroom. With a quick verbal command, I can get my shades closed, and then shut my eyes for a refreshing power nap.” 

Fun fact, she challenged her followers to vote on a few shades she liked and the winner was the Luxe Modern Woven Wood Shades in the color Aria for her bedroom.

DIY and Interior Design Influencers: interested in collaborating with SelectBlinds? Download the Select Blinds Influencer Media Kit here.

Check out our FREE interior design consulting as just another way we can support you from start to finish. Get tips, color guidance, product recommendations, solutions to the problems you may encounter, etc. Call us today at (855) 235-3120 to take advantage of our free design consultation resources.

Free Samples. Free Shipping. Free Design Consulting. Every Day.

Only at SelectBlinds.

Go window shopping for the easy, custom solutions to get you ready for the holidays!

How To Create Your Patio Oasis Using Exterior Shades

Outdoor Oasis with Solar Shades
Patio setup with exterior solar shades

What does the term “patio oasis” bring to mind for you? You’ll find trending the idea of taking any kind of space, from an empty, sun-scorched rooftop to a deserted backyard, and turning it into a lush retreat, ready for entertaining and for simply enjoying the outdoor weather when it’s nice out. 

Here are some pointers that can help set you up for a successful patio season this fall.

*Related: How to Begin Fall Patio Season Early

Setting Up Your Outdoor Patio Oasis

Home exterior patio with wooden decking and rattan sofa

How do you envision your oasis? Start by power washing the concrete / deck area. Then, you’ll want to ensure you provide yourself and guests with plenty of comfortable patio furniture offering room to stretch out. 

What about fans and / or misters to keep things cool when it’s warm outside? If you’re one that enjoys being outside during the evenings, you’ll want to consider proper lighting and bug-proofing of your space. 

Here are some suggestions to get into place as part of your oasis setup:

  • Fans and / or misters
  • String lighting / lamps / lanterns
  • Bug repellent plants (e.g., lavender and chrysanthemums)
  • Bug zapper lights / Tiki torches / citronella candles

Privacy & Shade

Are you providing enough privacy for your oasis area? Do you have enough shade?

First, you’ll want to strike an even balance between allowing sunlight in and providing shaded spots throughout your outdoor entertainment area. 

Bamboo shades (crafted using the natural fibers of the bamboo plant) and woven wood window treatments (woven using a combination of reeds, as well as bamboo, rattan, jute, and grasses to create a variety of color options) bring a natural, exotic, and eco-friendly beauty and feel to any space, indoor or out. 

Related: Bamboo and Woven Wood Shades Bring More “Japandi” Into Your Life

Layering these natural shades with window panels or drapes can also be done to minimize views from the outside while creating a truly customized look on the inside. If you do go with these shades made from natural materials, you’ll want to ensure that they are protected as much as possible from rain and moisture.

In addition to privacy, a reliable exterior solar shade will do a great job of keeping the glare out of your eyes and offering enough shade for your area, while still being able to enjoy the warmth. Also, you’ll be able to help protect your outdoor furniture and maintain your outside view.

*Related: What Does the “Openness Percentage” Mean for Solar Shades?

*Related: What is the Difference Between Solar Shades and Exterior Solar Shades? 

A Couple of Final Details

To keep things comfy and toasty on cooler nights, set up one or more propane heaters. A firepit for ambient effect also provides plenty of warmth. 

Then, Don’t forget the outdoor bar area where you can reward yourself with a refreshing, cool drink after you’ve completed setting up your outdoor patio oasis!

Minding all these details will not only help you enjoy patio season to its fullest but can offer you opportunities to make this season last as long as possible.

Select Blinds Staff Recommendations for Your Outdoor Oasis

Whether or not you’re “big on social graces,” or have an abundance of “friends in low places,” perhaps you are looking for a few recommendations for your outdoor patio oasis? 

SelectBlinds staff loves offering up our selections from our different product tiers for you, to offer you excellent, customizable design solutions for any taste and budget. Spend some time window shopping to see what we have to offer!

Classic Woven Woods (Signature Tier)* 

Get your outdoor entertainment area ready to have company over and grill with these brilliant woven wood shades! Install shades where it counts while protecting your furniture from fading and discoloration. All with a nature-infused touch.

5% Classic Exterior Sheer Weave Solars (Signature Tier)*

Keep your patio or deck area cool and comfortable by blocking out harmful UV rays and adding some lovely shade to your outdoor oasis. And do so while staying true to your existing design. 

*Our Signature Tier products feature thoughtful designs in trendy styles. Made with durable materials, Signature Tier products are the perfect place to start when looking for a beyond-basic solution that is also affordable.

Luxe Modern Woven Wood Shades (Premium Tier)*

Get the natural shade you want when the sun gets to be a bit much, and let in all that beautiful sunlight whenever you like. 

Lifestyle Outdoor Motorized Shade (Premium Tier)*

Take your outdoor experience up a notch with the convenience and ease of motorized solar shades. You’ll love the gorgeous oil-rubbed valance and convenient cable tie-downs! 

*Our Premium Tier products feature lasting designs in timeless styles. Made of high-quality materials, Premium Tier products are the ideal choice for an excellent investment that’s made to last. Some upgrade features may be included.

Designer Ultimate Woven Wood Shades (Luxury Tier)*

Create the ultimate escape in your own backyard, patio, or repurposed rooftop. These timeless woven woods are just what you need for your outdoor entertainment area upgrade project, regardless of style or design.

*Our Luxury Tier products include superior design in distinct styles. Made with unique materials and quality craftsmanship. Luxury Tier products are for the homeowner looking to indulge in sophisticated customization. Some upgrade features are included.

Your Outdoor Patio Oasis Calls for the Best Customized Solutions

Our philosophy has long held that DIY Design was never meant to be done “ALL by Yourself.” For your dream home’s design, whether for indoors our outside in your back patio, we’re here to help. 

Nothing makes an outdoor patio oasis more enjoyable than attractive bamboo or exterior solar shades to keep the harmful UV rays out of your face, while keeping your patio or deck area cool. SelectBlinds is all about supporting you, all the way from start to finish. We offer you all the helpful resources you’ll need to make your life (and projects) easier, because your success is our success! Make your dream home ALL YOURS as you custom-craft it, without breaking your budget. As you sharpen those interior DIY design instincts, you will save plenty of money and enjoy the satisfaction of creating something special. 

Check out our FREE interior design consulting as just another way we can support you from start to finish. Get tips, color guidance, product recommendations, solutions to the problems you may encounter, etc. Call us today at (855) 235-3120 to take advantage of our free design consultation resources.

Free Samples. Free Shipping. Free Design Consulting. Every Day.

Only at SelectBlinds.

Go Window Shopping for the Custom Solutions You Need to Create an Amazing Outdoor Patio Oasis! >>

Why Get a Liner For Your Woven Wood Shades?

You can always expect higher quality artistry from our custom bamboo & woven wood shades.  When you compare custom-crafted woven wood shades with the off-the-shelf versions, you’ll start to notice some noticeable differences, beginning with the quality of workmanship. One factor that can add a degree of quality to your custom shades comes with adding a privacy or blackout liner. The type of liner discussed in this article is attached to the back of a window covering and is meant to face the exterior.

For starters, a liner adds a subtle, formal touch to bolster the overall aesthetic of your window treatments, not to mention a liner will enhance their functionality and how long they’ll last. Not only does a lining add some nice weight and depth to your window treatment, but it also helps it keep its shape intact and keep its crisp, unmussed appearance.  

Types of Shade Liners

Liners offer a crisper, more professional look for your window treatments, but there are also different types of liners that serve different purposes. The most common types of liners are standard/privacy liners and blackout liners. 

There are others like thermal liners, water-repellent liners, and interlining (which, in the case of fabric window coverings, like drapery or Roman shades, is inserted between the front and back of the window covering). We’ll go over standard and blackout liners here.

Standard, or Privacy Liner – A standard shade liner (often referred to as a privacy liner) usually consists of lightweight fabric (usually white or off-white) to add weight to reinforce your shade’s thickness, and create, overall, a fuller, richer window covering. The neutral white color keeps a consistent appearance for street-facing windows. Standard liners enhance the privacy offered by your window treatment, and they can also reduce incoming UV rays to help keep your furniture and interior from fading.  

Blackout Liner – These liners are ideal for bedrooms and media rooms, and are meant to block out up to 99% of incoming light and glare. Blackout liners typically come in white/off-white neutral colors, and tend to be of heavier, thicker weight. They’re great for when you want to watch your favorite movie or game, unencumbered by incoming glare, and also for weekends . . . when you might just want to sleep in!  

Room Darkening Liner – These liners are also great for bedrooms and media rooms, and you might even like one in your home office. They don’t block out as much light as a blackout liner, but you’ll still get a subdued lighting effect in your interior space. Room darkening liners also generally come in white/off-white neutral colors, and tend to be of heavier, thicker weight.

The 3 Best Things About a Shade Liner

Better Insulation

Liners on the back of your woven wood shades add an additional layer of insulation between incoming noise and your interior. This is the perfect enhancement for more quiet indoors that you’ll appreciate.

Better Light Control

More insulation on the back of your shade means fewer UV rays peeking through, and more protection for the shade itself, and for your furniture and indoor space. Keep the outside outside, and your indoors indoors.

Better Privacy Control

Shade liners are especially effective for lining window treatments made with thinner and more sheer fabrics. They can provide more privacy, especially at night.

More Personalized

In short, liners for your custom bamboo & woven wood shades (or for any other type of window treatment) add an additional degree of personalization and quality to make your window coverings more ‘yours.” 

*Related: What Is Edge Binding on Window Shades?

Select Blinds Staff Recommendations for Your Space

What would look amazing with those liners you’re considering? Some of our beautiful, custom-crafted woven wood and bamboo shades for your windows! If you’re looking for some recommendations for your home, be sure to keep on reading. We’ve made selections from each of our product tiers for you, to offer you excellent, customizable design solutions for any taste and budget. Spend some time window shopping to see what we have to offer!

Premier Woven Wood Shades (Premium Tier)*

Liven up your windows with this popular array of exotic woven woods. Naturally filter light through the unique textures, or add a privacy or blackout liner for more light and privacy control. Privacy and blackout liner upgrades available.

Premier Modern Natural Wood Shades (Premium Tier)*

Upgrade your interior aesthetic, starting with these window coverings to go from basic and boring to exotic and exciting. These lovely woven woods come in beautiful, natural materials and patterns to match any design you can dream up for your space. Privacy and blackout liner upgrades available.

*Our Premium Tier products feature lasting designs in timeless styles. Made of high-quality materials, Premium Tier products are the ideal choice for an excellent investment that’s made to last. Some upgrade features may be included.

Designer Series Woven Wood Shades (Luxury Tier)*

Level-up your interior design skills by featuring these dazzling woven woods. Choose from a wide selection of gorgeous woods ranging from light to dark neutrals. Room darkening and blackout liner upgrades available.

Designer Ultimate Woven Wood Shades (Luxury Tier)*

Create the ultimate escape in your own interior space. These timeless woven woods are just the ticket to finish off your latest home reno project, regardless of your personal sense of style and design. Room darkening and blackout liner upgrades available.

*Our Luxury Tier products include superior design in distinct styles. Made with unique materials and quality craftsmanship. Luxury Tier products are for the homeowner looking to indulge in sophisticated customization. Some upgrade features are included.

Create the Home You’ve Always Dreamed About

So you’ve decided to do a home redesign, and your vision is to create a dream home you’ll be proud of. Or, maybe you just want to redesign a single room in your house. Never fear! DIY Design never meant “Do it ALL by Yourself.” For any space, a home design upgrade should never feel intimidating. 

Nothing makes a space look warmer and more inviting than beautiful new window treatments, and Select Blinds is all about supporting you, all the way from start to finish. We offer you tons of helpful resources to make your life (and projects) easier, because we’re invested in your success! Make your dream home ALL YOURS as you custom-craft it into your dream home, without breaking your budget. As you sharpen those interior DIY design instincts, you can save yourself plenty of money in the process. 

Check out our FREE interior design consulting as just another way we can support you from start to finish. Get tips, color guidance, product recommendations, solutions to the problems you may encounter, etc. Call us today at (855) 235-3120 to take advantage of our free design consultation resources.

Free Samples. Free Shipping. Free Design Consulting. Every Day. Only at SelectBlinds.com.

Go Window Shopping Today for Custom Window Solutions to Complete Your Dream Home! >>