ABC's of condo window coverings

Living in a downtown Toronto condo has plenty of advantages.  You can find your own personal refuge right in the thick of things, just steps to your favourite shops, restaurants and favourite activities.  However, in many instances, buildings are so close together that privacy can become an issue.  Making sure that you have the right window treatments is paramount to ensure that you feel comfortable in your own home.

While there are plenty of drapery and blind options on the market, some are more suited to certain applications than others.   Here’s just a quick overview...

Roller blinds are a very popular choice for condominiums.  They have a clean modern design and are available in a variety of opacities which range from complete black at 0%  to 1%, 5% etc. Openness, depending on how much light you would like to allow through.   

Vienna blinds have a honeycomb structure which is a little more transitional in design.  They allow for privacy when both open and closed and can be purchased in light filtering and total black out models.  These tend to be a little higher in price than roller blinds as their manufacturing and final product is a little more complex than a standard roller blind.

Drapery panels are also a very popular choice for many.  They very quickly soften a room visually and can bring lots of colour and character into a space.  I often use drapery panels in conjunction with roller blinds for clients who want the esthetics of the one, and the practicality of the other.   Drapery can be purchased in pre-made panels or custom made from your choice of fabrics.

While roller blinds, vienna blinds and drapery panels are all available in many different colours, it’s important to remember that most condo boards insist that the backings of your window treatments are white!