Roller Shades Raise the Curtain on Style

In the past the roller shade has perhaps received second billing to window coverings such as draperies or Roman shades. Traditional white roller shades have been the humbler, less flashy option. But a new crop of shades is changing perceptions of the window treatment. These models are equipped with pattern, color and personality.

There are many reasons to use roller shades, and this room in Nantucket, Massachusetts, by Stedila Design, demonstrates one. There are many windows in this room with a steeply pitched ceiling. Good news, as most people enjoy a light-filled space. But the wealth of windows leaves little room for artwork. The designers solved the problem by choosing shades crafted in the style of a vintage transit schedule. When they are pulled, they obviously block the light and enable sleep, but their graphic typography also adds energy and fires up the imagination.


Interior designer Alice Black added roller shades to this room in the Hamptons, New York, because the sun can blast through the windows during the day. Black chose rollers because she considers them the least obtrusive of all window coverings, but she added personality by having a pattern silk-screened on them. Her inspiration was traditional linens.

See the rest of this art-filled house


This roller shade in a room by Tom Stringer Design Partners is finished with a vintage-stye scallop, proving that fancy trims are not just for curtains. The window treatment also illustrates another reason to use rollers: Sometimes a sleek window covering is needed for a tighter space.


The fancy damask pattern on these roller shades, by ResCom Designs, shows how a traditional pattern can make the modern window treatment fit many environments.


The designers at Think Contemporary took the idea further by sourcing a brightly printed fabric online, having it laminated and turning it over to a local window treatment company to custom craft this kitchen roller shade.

The bright colors make this the very definition of a cheerful kitchen.


These shades, from Blinds.com, are more about texture than color. Rollers like these can set the style for a room.


Rollers by Delia Shades show that monochromatic can also be dramatic. These shades are based on patterns on Moorish doors.


This pull-down map shows how one Portland, Oregon, family got creative with their window coverings. The architects at Arciform say the piece is not only a shade but homework inspiration.

See more of this nonconformist kitchen

Your turn: So many patterns to choose from could mean it’s curtains for roller shade stereotypes. Have you used rollers at home? We’d love to see a photo in the Comments.

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