Dear readers:
In last month's column, I talked about the pros and cons of using the pierced PVC shades for covering windows. These are the shades that allow you to maintain outside views, while at the same time filtering out sunlight.
As I pointed out, there are a few drawbacks to these shades. One is the lack of privacy, especially at nighttime. The source of light is always the view, so people can see into your home after dark. Another possible problem, at least aesthetically, is the fact that there are limitations on the sizes of these shades due to the materials and functioning parts. You may have to order several shades to cover an expansive window. In addition to several shades, each of these shades will have to have it's own control, usually a chain hanging on one side.
I would like to add another question that has come up frequently with clients. The pierced PVC shades do very little to control the temperature in the home. Last week I visited a new client's condo for this specific problem. His bedroom faced west with a solid wall of windows covered in these blinds. In the summertime, the bedroom was sweltering, even though there was a strong air conditioning system. Not too surprisingly, the winter will bring a lot of cold air into the unit. In addition to those problems, he is a late sleeper and the sunlight was waking him up too early. My client knew what he had to do!
The only way to combat the problems of privacy and temperature is to add draperies in front of the blinds.
The photo here shows an installation that I did in another new condo. The client had remote control shades, but was experiencing the above problems. In addition, the sunlight was still too harsh at various times of the day. What I did was a two-layer process. Directly in front of the blinds is a layer of draperies with sun block lining. These are closed at night for privacy and completely shut out the morning sunlight. In front of this drapery treatment is a layer of sheer draperies. These can be closed during the day for a softer look and more protection from the sun. My client can have the shades alone or several combinations using the drapery panels.
There are a lot of condos and homes in the Chicago area with expansive windows. People are being constantly sold on the idea that the PVC shades are the answer to all of their problems, including privacy and sunlight control. Don't let this happen to you! If you are buying into space with these shades, know their limitations!
Please send you questions to jos.riceinteriors@att.net . In the subject box, put 'WCT Design.'
Joseph Rice is an interior decorator who specializes in window treatments. Visit his Web site at www.josephriceinteriors.com . You can reach him at the above e-mail address or call him at 773-271-2361.
