How much light do I want to let in?
With traditional window shades, light is all-or-nothing. They're either up or they're down - there's no in between. With blinds, you can adjust the amount of light you want in your room. You can pull them all the way up for a crystal-clear unobstructed view, you can pull them down but leave the slats open for lots of light, you can close the slats for hardly any light, or choose one of a practically infinite number of variations in between based on your particular desire at that moment.
The adjustable nature of blinds is also an important consideration for privacy, especially if you live in a ground-floor apartment or a neighborhood in which houses are situated close together or near the street. Blinds allow you to see out without allowing everyone else to see in.
How do I want my blinds to enhance my living space?
Many different looks can be achieved depending on the style of blinds you choose: wood, faux wood, metal, vinyl or another material. A dark, heavy, hardwood blind can bring a warm, outdoorsy feel to a room. White or light-colored vinyl blinds suggest a breezier atmosphere, perfect for a beach house or a kitchen. Colored or patterned blinds offer your room a really distinctive look, and deciding on vertical versus horizontal can also have a major effect on a room's demeanor.
How much will they cost?
Even though blinds are often considered a sleek, cosmopolitan addition to a home, it doesn't mean they have to break the bank. Love the look of real wood but can't afford the steep price? Try faux wood - many people won't be able to even tell the difference. Sure, a remote to raise and lower the blinds would be nice, but if you're trying to cut corners, you can skip that feature. If you have neither children nor pets, you don't need the added cost of cordless, either. Some blinds can be purchased for as little as $25 each, while higher-end blinds can run more than $100 each. Installation fees can vary as well, depending on where you shop. If you're handy, install them yourself and save even more. Make sure you feel comfortable tackling the job, however; it won't save you money if you end up having to call in a professional to re-do the work.
And just because you have blinds doesn't mean you have to give up fabric! Top your blinds with fun fabric patterns, or drape wide swatches on either side to soften those edges. Either will enhance your look while helping to keep dust to a minimum.
If you're tired of your old roller shades and curtains and want to bring an exciting new look to your home, consider decorating with window blinds.
