Roman shade

Independence Hall

Roman shades are a type of window covering used to block out the sun. Roman shades are different from standard window shade in that they stack up evenly when being opened; however, when they are open they are visibly smooth, not bumpy or ribbed like typical vertical shades or blinds.

Roman shades can be opened with a cord mechanism or can use a cordless mechanism. Each mechanism allows the user to adjust the height of the covered area. In typical construction, cords run vertically on the outer side of the blind running through evenly spaced horizontal stiffener rods or eyelets on the back of the shade and then attached at the bottom of the blind. In this case, the opened portion of the blinds remains smooth, while the bottom will be stacked evenly. Roman shades can also be made with top-down-bottom-up mechanisms which allow only the top of the shade to come down; allowing for privacy yet still letting in natural light from the top of the window.

Styles

Great Southern Hotel, Killarney

Roman shades are available in a variety of styles. Both "looped" and "classic" roman shades are designed to create depth and dimension. Looped roman shades, also known as "hobbled" shades, have folds that cascade down the face of the shade to help create depth, while "classic" roman shades offer a pleated design that can be batten front or batten back. Roman shades are also available in a seamless style, which feature a smooth or flat shade face, also called "waterfall" style. There are different types of Roman Shades, most of the designs will vary based on the material of the shade.

Materials

Many different kinds of materials, from wood to fabric, can be used to create Roman shades, as well as natural materials such as bamboo.

External links

Media related to Roman shades at Wikimedia Commons