Blinds & Shutters

According to some experts, trends in window treatments for 2010 range from an increased interest in plantation shutters to an emphasis on woven wood and bamboo shades. Some even point to the creative nature of today’s roller shades. Cynthia Zemmerle of V2K Window Decor & More says woven wood and bamboo shades are both trendy and “green,” as they are made of natural materials.

Zemmerle suggests that pinch-pleated draperies are losing out to more casual droopy drapes and panels, and, she adds, “lots of people are choosing plantation shutters due to their appearance and insulation qualities.

In agreement is Robin Case of Advantage Shutters and Closets.  “Shutters remain the most popular and desired window treatments in the local market. Shutters are beautiful, timeless, and there are styles of shutters to compliment virtually any home decor from cottage to contemporary.”

Like others, Advantage has noticed a slow-down in its new home business, but, Case says, “We have found that instead of selling and upgrading to a larger home, many homeowners are adding on and renovating their current homes. We’ve had a lot of people upgrading from blinds and curtains to wood plantation shutters in the last couple of years.

“I think that the fact that wood shutters keep heat inside the home during the winter and outside during the summer has always appealed to customers. And keeping energy bills low and conserving is popular in any economy,” she adds.

Soft window treatments such as panels can be added over plantation shutters to add a layered look and perhaps a splash of color. In addition, shutters can be painted  or stained to match millwork and window trim. Shutters are timeless, Case says, and tie a room together. “Plantation shutters are easy to clean and generally the homeowner doesn’t have to change the window treatments; and shutters add value to a home, a plus for resale,” she says.

With the economic situation in mind, Advantage Shutters recently introduced a new, more budget friendly line of shutters that is still all wood, custom, and locally manufactured.  “Advantage Traditions” shutters are designed to offer quality at a lower price point, Case says.

In addition, Advantage offers new features including 5.5” louvers and clearview options that can achieve an open look.  Today’s roller shades can have sleek and elegant finishes with materials ranging from opaque, semi-opaque and also various metal types including bronze and brass. They work by using a clutch and cord loop or even a cordless system that makes raising and lowering the shade easy.

Bamboo shades and woven wood shades have recently emerged featured in treatments ranging from rustic or country to Asian-inspired looks in which shades compliment transitional and contemporary decor.

There are a number of sources for shades and blinds in the Nashville area including:

Advantage Shutters & Closets
Nashville
615/ 833-3425

Designs by Anna Aycock
Brentwood
615/ 794-7561

Trends & Traditions
Nashville
615/ 399-0661

V2K Window Decor & More
Gallatin
615/ 452-5800