Yes, wooden blinds significantly darken a room by blocking a large amount of direct sunlight, but they do not provide a 100% blackout effect. Because of the gaps between the slats and the tiny holes for lift cords, some ambient light will always filter through.
While there's no doubt that wood blinds look great, they have a disadvantage. They cannot withstand high humidity so installing real wood blinds in areas like the bathroom, kitchen, or the laundry room is not recommended. Long-term exposure to humidity causes real wood to warp or fade.
Tilting your blinds up creates a darker room. When you point the slats upward (creating a curve like a smile, or ---- ( if looking from the side), the overlapping flaps effectively seal out the most sunlight and harsh UV rays.
Interestingly, yes! The darker the blind itself is, the darker this will make the room look and feel, and a dark-coloured blind (particularly one in a matte or natural wood finish) will also absorb a lot of the light.
Not only should the colour and style of the blind enhance or match the décor of the room but the blind should also remain functional while giving an air comfort and relaxation. We recommend the use of either Roller Blind, Roman Blind or Wooden Venetian blind for the bedroom.
Layered window treatments remain a defining trend in 2026, but the focus has shifted toward creating greater visual depth and flexibility within a space. By combining multiple window coverings, homeowners can achieve dynamic light control while adding dimension to otherwise flat architectural surfaces.
The best blinds for a bedroom depend on your need for darkness, temperature regulation, and style. For optimal sleep, blackout cellular shades and blackout roller shades are the top performers. For design and luxury, Roman shades with a blackout liner are preferred.
Some of Stewart's homes utilize interior blinds for light regulation and privacy. Others feature windows framed by exterior shutters, operable versions of which can also be used for light control, ventilation and privacy.
There is no hard rule, but choosing lighter blinds creates a seamless, airy feel that makes a room look larger. Choosing darker blinds adds bold contrast, creates a dramatic focal point, and adds intimacy to larger rooms.
Blinds have a more modern look than curtains. They're an excellent option for contemporary interiors, but real wood blinds can work in a more traditional setting. There are curtain options galore, with fabrics ranging from formal to modern. Blinds have crisp lines, whereas curtains present elegant curves.
2026's Best Blinds
Ditching shades has a lot of upsides regardless of who you are. Uncovered windows bring in natural light, boost well-being, and offer a view of the world outside. The trade-off, of course, is that they also put those inside on display to passersby, and in the summer, they channel heat.
Turn your blinds up. This direction is better for improved privacy too, as minimized gaps between the slats don't allow curious passersby to view the inside of the house. To let in a small amount of natural light, it's best to turn your blinds down and close them.
Yes, wooden blinds are still very much in style. Instead of being considered outdated, they are widely viewed as a timeless window treatment. Their enduring popularity is driven by several factors:
Appraisers and inspectors note overall condition and presentation, and buyers may flag issues during final walkthroughs. Replacing broken blinds or updating outdated coverings before listing can help reduce small objections that sometimes turn into negotiation points.
Current trends favor clean lines, natural textures, and smart functionality. Top styles include:
Thankfully, Stewart was quick to ease our curtain concerns. She says, “They're beautiful, I don't have anything against them, I just don't live with them… I like to look outside. Every window [in my home] looks out to something nice, and it's just all open to the view.”
Curtain trends in 2026 are shifting from purely functional covers to architectural statement pieces. The top looks emphasize rich, natural textures, layered depth, warm neutral and earth-toned palettes, and smart home integration to bring quiet luxury and character to interior spaces.
What Are the Most Popular Blind Colors Currently?
Even though ornate valances were once a staple in traditional-style homes, they are now considered outdated. "Avoid overly ornate valances, which can feel dated and heavy," says interior designer Danielle Chiprut. "They can feel at odds with today's preference for light, airy interiors."
Martha Stewart, 83, has nothing to hide. She's always been unabashedly candid about her life and career, including her divorce and her 2005 stint in prison for insider trading. And now, the lifestyle guru is opening up about being diagnosed with the autoimmune disease vitiligo for the very first time.
Curtains usually look cheap because of flimsy, unlined fabrics, insufficient width (looking like a "flat sheet" when closed), or a length that stops too short above the floor. Additionally, plastic hardware and visible metal grommets often detract from an elevated design, making budget curtains stand out negatively.
The most beautiful bedroom colors are those that create a serene and deeply restful environment, tailored to your personal aesthetic. Top interior designers and paint experts consistently recommend muted greens, calm blues, warm neutrals, and soft, earthy tones to promote relaxation.
Luxury Blinds for Windows
The room's color palette also plays a role—darker blinds offer dramatic contrast while lighter shades create an open, airy feel. Blackout blinds or layered options with sheer drapes are ideal for light-sensitive sleepers.