Alternatives to Vertical Window Blinds

While vertical window blinds are a common solution for covering sliding-glass doors and large windows, they’re not the only option. Looking for something a little different? Check out the following styles (many of which are also available for horizontal windows, so you can easily coordinate styles in a space). 

Vertical Cellular Shades. Cellular shades are incredibly energy efficient, whether you’re using them for windows or doors. Their honeycomb design traps air in distinct pockets, adding a layer of insulation at the glass for year-round comfort. 

While cellular shades lend a modern feel to a space, they pair well with many design aesthetics, making them a flexible option no matter what your home’s style.

Sheer Vertical Shades. These drapery-like sheers beautifully diffuse natural light, for a softly filtered glow. The sheer fabric is attached to rotating fabric vanes, which provide light control as well as privacy. 

Because they diffuse natural light, sheer vertical shades help protect hardwood floors, furnishings and artwork from damaging UV rays while maintaining your views to the outside. 

Choose sheer vertical shades and you’ll always have light when you want it and privacy when you need it.

Panel-track Blinds. If you’re looking to create a dramatic backdrop for tall windows, look no further than panel-track blinds. 

Made of flat, fabric panels that slide on a track, panel-track blinds are a sleek, contemporary twist to vertical blinds. When open, they stack tightly to optimize your view, and when closed, you can enjoy their gorgeous texture and style.

Panel-track blinds are available in an extensive selection of fabrics and colors, including premium, globally sourced fabrics.

Woven Wood Shades. Infuse organic style and texture into a room when you cover doors with woven wood shades. Crafted from woods, reeds, grasses and bamboo, these artisanal, artistically woven shades bring a touch of the outdoors in.

Shutters. Shutters have a warm feel and are as durable as they are beautiful, making them a great choice for doors in high-traffic areas.

Composite shutters have the rich look of genuine hardwood, with added strength, while vinyl shutters can stand up to the intense sunlight and moisture of hot and humid climates. 

Shutters are available in various louver sizes; choose a size depending on how much light control and privacy you wish to have. (The larger the louver, the greater the view-through to the outdoors.) Shutters are also available with a variety of options for adjusting the louvers (including smart automation).