Window coverings may not be the first thing you think of when it's time to design your home, but this is one of the most important selections you will make. Blinds and shades control both the amount of light that comes into your home and the amount of privacy you enjoy, so they are critically important. And you never have to sacrifice function for form — there are so many incredible options to choose from to complete the look of your home. Here are just a few of the offerings you’ll find in the Hubbell Homes Design Studio.

New Home Window Covering Options

1) Faux Wood Blinds

Made from durable materials that prevent cracking, chipping, or yellowing over time, faux wood blinds offer a tailored look that can be dressed up with curtains, or dressed down for a sleek and modern look. These blinds come with different headers that can match your trim and look great with just about any design aesthetic.

2) Roller Shades

Roller shades offer clean, modern lines and minimal maintenance. This is a great option for rooms with a wall of windows or hard-to-reach windows. 

3) Cellular Shades

Cellular shades' double cell technology offer a great option if you need to control the amount of light coming into your home. And with the top-down/bottom-up opening and closing mechanism, they can be perfectly adjusted for maximum privacy. 

4) Pleated Shades

Pleated shades are similar to cellular shades but offer a slightly more modern look due to the wider width of the pleat. These are also controlled with top-down/bottom-up technology, making them perfect for allowing in just the right amount of light throughout the day.

5) Layered Shades

Layered shades offer a unique and decorative look and give you the best function of both blinds and shades. When open, the fabric works like blinds, letting in just the right amount of light between the slats. When closed, the double layer of fabric can completely block any light from coming in. And when you want the window completely open, they roll up tightly into the valence, giving an almost unobstructed view through the window. 

6) Operating Systems

When it comes to how a shade or blind is operated, there are a few different options:

Corded is the traditional, manual way of operating window coverings, but those with small children or pets may need a safer solution.

Cordless operation is possible with any shades that offer top-down/bottom-up technology, like cellular shades and pleated shades. It's also a manual operation, but there are no cords or strings to worry about.

Powered is an option where your shades are hard-wired in or installed with a battery, and you must use a remote to lift them or lower them. This is by far the most convenient option, though you would need to change the battery often.

We hope this gives you enough information to begin thinking about one of the most important design elements in your home - your window coverings. For more new home design inspiration, be sure to check out the Hubbell Homes Design Studio.