Part of me imagines the creation of the first window for light and airflow, followed closely by questions of how to fill the hole in the wall to stop the air and light. Whenever we talk about “recorded history” two civilizations come to mind; the Egyptians and the Chinese.
True to that, recorded window treatment history dates back to Egypt in 3000 BC. They recorded on papyrus that they used papyrus for curtains to regulate temperature. Around the same time, the Chinese recorded using bamboo reeds and twine.
Bamboo shades are very popular as a renewable resource and environmentally conscious material. It remains an effective window covering that can be styled casually, elegantly, or dramatically. Japan used bamboo extensively in shades, blinds, and quality sheer curtains.
The Roman shade designs are drawn with a pull-string as the fabric folds into layers. This helps to control the window aperture with settings of any percentage of opening, from a sliver to open. We still use this design with diverse fabrics and floor-to-ceiling applications.
The repetitive nature of window treatment operation requires a flexible and light material. Chemical and material science has delivered a variety of fabrics. The choices are vast. You can create a soft, warm, romantic closeness or install shades designed to match a Married at First Sight or Ladies in Black set.
The geometric shapes of cellular shades allow for discrete folded storage and light penetration control via aperture and level of transparency in the material. The honeycomb design offers layers for thermal and light energy control.
The diverse types of wood used in your home decor and design can be used in natural wood panelled or matchstick blinds. Faux wood blinds are available, but nothing feels like the real thing. The slat sizes can range from 1-5cm or more.
Draperies are fabric coverings arranged in lax elegant folds that can cover from floor to ceiling but always disguise and insulate the entire window frame as a minimum. Drapes can be sheer or in heavy layers.
Technology has offered more than great fabrics and prismatic beaded curtains; we have accessories. I don’t think motorized curtains in the bedroom are too much. Imagine waking up, reaching for the remote, and barely parting the curtains to allow in a sliver of light, then closing it again for a nap.
Check manufacturer data to verify compliance with government laws, standards, and product safety codes. They apply to all window hardware. Hold-open rods, actuators, shocks, latches, child-safety locks, catches, and low-resistance rollers are available in matching patina or anodized colours in aluminium and stainless.
Treat South-facing windows with layers for seasonal-winds insulation. Cover North windows with a variable-opening blind to keep the intense sunlight out and ease the air conditioning bill. You will want to open kitchen windows fully and have a shade made with easily cleanable material.
Invent a cat-resistant shade or blind material and become the next billionaire.
