I agree cellular shades can be a hassle with bigger windows. We tried them once in our bedroom, and while they worked fine for smaller windows, the larger ones always seemed to sag or get stuck halfway through. Ended up being more frustrating than helpful, honestly. We switched to roller shades—those thicker blackout ones—and they've been pretty solid so far. They're smooth to operate and still help with insulation, though probably not as much as cellular shades or thermal curtains would. Still, they're sleek-looking and easy enough to handle on big windows without wrestling with cords or uneven pulling. Just another option worth thinking about if curtains aren't your thing...
We went through something similar—tried cellular shades first, and yeah, the sagging was real. Roller shades were better, but we ended up going with vertical blinds in the living room. I know, I know...vertical blinds scream "90s dentist office," but honestly, they've come a long way style-wise. Plus, they're super easy to slide open and closed on big windows. Anyone else brave enough to admit they're rocking vertical blinds, or am I alone in this retro choice?
"I know, I know...vertical blinds scream '90s dentist office,' but honestly, they've come a long way style-wise."
Gotta admit, I still can't shake the dentist office vibe, no matter how updated they get. But I see your point about practicality—big windows are tricky. We ended up going with sheer curtains layered over roller shades. The sheers soften the look and diffuse the sunlight nicely, while the roller shades handle privacy and glare control. It's a bit more fuss than vertical blinds, sure, but it feels warmer and less clinical to me. Also, vertical blinds always seemed to get tangled or twisted whenever I used them in the past...maybe I'm just unlucky? Anyway, glad they're working out for you—style is so subjective, after all.
I feel you on the vertical blinds thing. We moved into our first house last year, and the previous owners had these updated vertical blinds installed—supposedly "modern" and all—but honestly, I still couldn't shake the dentist office flashbacks every time I walked into the living room. Plus, ours always seemed to jam or twist awkwardly whenever we tried to open them. Maybe it's user error, but it drove me nuts.
We ended up ditching them for cellular shades with some sheer curtains layered on top. It was pricier than I'd hoped, but the difference in atmosphere was huge. The room instantly felt cozier and less sterile. I get that vertical blinds have improved, and they're definitely practical for big windows, but personally, I just couldn't get past the clinical vibe.
"style is so subjective, after all."
Exactly this. At the end of the day, if it works for your space and you like it, that's what matters most.
Cellular shades with sheer curtains are a solid choice—definitely warmer and more inviting than vertical blinds. I've installed them for a few clients, and they're usually pretty happy with the results. Did you go cordless or motorized? Motorized can be pricier but super convenient, especially for those huge windows where cords become a hassle... Curious if you considered that option or stuck with manual?
Motorized is definitely worth it on big windows. Did a huge install last summer—client initially hesitated about the price, but after a week of manually adjusting shades on 12-foot windows, she called me back to upgrade. Said it was the best decision she'd made in months, haha. Manual's fine for smaller setups, but once you hit those oversized windows, convenience usually wins out. Plus, fewer cords dangling around is always a bonus...
Totally get what you're saying about motorized shades. My sister had these huge windows in her living room—beautiful views, but a nightmare to manage manually. She thought motorized was overkill at first, but after a month of wrestling with cords and poles, she caved and upgraded. Now she jokes about how lazy she's gotten, but honestly, convenience matters, especially when you're dealing with windows that size. Sounds like your client made the right call...
I've been tempted by motorized shades myself, but I'm still on the fence. I mean, convenience sounds great, but how's the reliability long-term? Like, do they need frequent maintenance or battery swaps? If it's a hassle to keep them running smoothly, that kinda defeats the purpose, right? Love the idea of ditching those annoying cords though...
"I mean, convenience sounds great, but how's the reliability long-term?"
I've had motorized shades installed for about three years now, and honestly, reliability hasn't been much of an issue. Mine are rechargeable, and I only need to plug them in maybe twice a year—pretty manageable. The convenience factor is huge, especially with large windows where cords can be a real pain. I'd say the occasional recharge is worth it to avoid tangled cords and uneven blinds... just my two cents.
"Mine are rechargeable, and I only need to plug them in maybe twice a year—pretty manageable."
Twice a year sounds pretty reasonable. I've read some studies suggesting motorized shades can actually improve energy efficiency by automating shade positioning based on sunlight intensity and time of day. Curious though, have you noticed any measurable difference in your energy bills since installing them? I'm considering making the switch myself, but I'd love to see some real-world numbers before committing...