No, all blinds in a house do not have to match. While matching everything creates a uniform look, mixing blinds allows you to tailor treatments to specific room functions (e.g., blackout shades in bedrooms vs. water-resistant faux wood in bathrooms) while staying within budget.
To keep it short, the answer is no, absolutely not! There are no hard and fast rules when it comes to styling your own home. That being said, however, you can never underestimate the appeal of cohesion! Here's what to consider when coordinating blinds in the home.
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.
The colour of your blinds should complement the room's overall scheme, either blending in for a cohesive look or standing out as an accent. Start by identifying the dominant tones in your space—wall colours, furniture, and flooring—and decide whether your blinds should match or contrast these elements.
Even though ornate valances were once a staple in traditional-style homes, they are now considered outdated.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."
A tacky look isn't always the result of bad taste or budget mistakes. Designers say it often comes down to overcommitment—locking into trends, finishes, or layouts to the point that a home stops feeling lived in.
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.
2026's Best Blinds
In the U.S., the uncovered window is perhaps less an expression of communal trust than one of personal protection. Wealthier homeowners, who can also afford state-of- the-art security systems, may not feel that they need shades. These curtainless windows have become one of our subtlest statements of privilege.
Current trends favor clean lines, natural textures, and smart functionality. Top styles include:
Yes, curtains are incredibly stylish. Moving past bare minimalism, modern window treatments have evolved into major, mood-setting statement pieces. The 2026 design landscape focuses on warmth, "quiet luxury," and architectural integration.
Interior design trends in 2026 are shifting away from stark minimalism and cool grays toward warmer, highly personalized spaces. The year's defining aesthetic prioritizes comfort, craftsmanship, organic shapes, and a "lived-in" feel that celebrates natural materials, rich earth tones, and tactile finishes.
LUCKY COLOR OF THE YEAR 2026 TRANSFORMATIVE TEAL.
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.”
The best color for blinds is white or off-white, as it is a timeless neutral that maximizes natural light, matches any decor, and provides exterior uniformity. However, the ideal choice depends on your specific goals for light control, room size, and design style.
Beyond style, window treatments significantly impact the perception of space within a room. Light-colored curtains can open up a room, making it feel larger and more airy, while darker blinds contribute to a more intimate and cozy atmosphere.
Meanwhile, the least desired home styles appear to be shipping container homes and tiny homes, the study finds.
Window blinds must be open during landing (and takeoff) as a critical safety measure. Because the majority of aviation incidents happen during these phases, open blinds allow flight crew and passengers to instantly spot exterior hazards (like fire, smoke, or debris) and let your eyes adjust to the outside lighting to avoid temporary blindness during an evacuation.
Ninety percent of the world's millionaires share a commonality in real estate. They typically own physical property, whether as a primary residence or as an income-generating rental property, to build tangible long-term wealth.
Luxury Blinds for Windows
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.
Joanna Gaines’ window treatments prioritize organic textures, warm neutrals, and maximizing natural light. Her signature modern-farmhouse style focuses on framing views instead of hiding them by hanging curtains high to make ceilings feel taller, utilizing light-filtering materials, and incorporating custom wooden elements.
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.
Martha Stewart's energizing morning routine
While many of her retired peers are leaning into leisurely retirements, Stewart treats her mornings as a launchpad to gain energy for a full workday, despite only getting four hours of sleep a night. “I read the entire New York Times,” she said. “I do all the puzzles.