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By: Natalie Elmhurst
Updated: 5/14/2025
Traditional window blinds have been a popular window treatment since the late 18th century. The style is affordable, versatile, and complements a variety of modern aesthetics. It's available in different materials, including wood, metal, and faux wood. There are also various sizes and variations, like Venetian and vertical.
To this day, blinds are one of the most popular window treatments on the market. However, window blinds and other more traditional styles are noisy or clunky and don't always offer optimal privacy. The different materials and styles are also minimal, which is why many homeowners are searching for alternatives to blinds.
If you're remodeling your space or reviving the space to be more modern, we're here to help. We're here to walk you through a few of our favorite alternatives to window blinds so you can determine which style is right for your home.
When exploring different window blind alternatives for your home, always consider the size of your windows, your home aesthetic, and your privacy needs. Every window treatment is different. Some offer more privacy and light control, while others are more aesthetic.
Here are five window blind alternatives to consider:
Custom roller shades create a sleek and simple look that pairs perfectly with modern design. They’re also incredibly practical for larger windows that require a minimalistic treatment. Most designers opt for roller shades in rooms where the window itself, or the view through it, is the star. Roller shades basically disappear when they’re rolled up, hiding behind valances or headrails that come in a wide variety of finishes to complement your home or office. They also offer varying degrees of light control, from sheer to blackout, making them a versatile option for any room and lighting scenario.
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Custom cellular shades offer a similar overall look as roller shades, but add a bit of texture to a room and offer other distinct advantages. Due to their unique honeycomb weave, cellular shades give windows superior insulation, which can drastically improve energy efficiency. They also can be configured with innovative lift systems, including top-down/bottom-up lifts for spaces such as bathrooms where you may want the top portion of the window to be exposed for increased lighting but want the bottom portion of the window to be shaded for privacy. Easily motorized and featuring silent operation, cellular shades also bring a touch of high-tech to modern rooms.
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For modern spaces where a touch of luxury or warmth is desired, custom Roman shades are a popular alternative to blinds. Though they have a reputation for being used in more traditional settings, simple, monochromatic Roman shades can add a subtle touch of elegance to even the most minimal spaces without feeling out of place. It’s best to stick with a neutral palette and definitely steer clear of patterns if you’re trying to achieve a modern look, but beyond those two rules, there’s a wide range of options for modern-looking Roman shades. One more caveat, however, is that precision is key. The slightest measurement error or installation mistake can easily make Roman shades appear ill-fitting or crooked. That’s why it’s essential to work with a professional who can custom-design and install shades that will be the perfect fit.
Zebra shades are commonly referred to as transitional shades. These blind alternatives blend style and function, offering a more modernized touch for any room in your home. The style is minimal in design and pairs well with modern aesthetics and neutral color palettes. It provides depth and dimension without being too distracting to the eye.
This popular alternative to blinds is constructed in two overlapping layers, which provides optimal privacy and light control. If you’re unfamiliar with them, essentially, they’re a type of roller shade that features both a front and back layer of fabric that alternates between opaque and sheer stripes. Due to their unique design, they can be adjusted to be partially open, closed, or fully open. Thanks to their bold horizontal stripes, they work well for larger windows and can help create a sense of depth in a room.
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While drapes are typically seen as a traditional or contemporary window treatment, there are ways to use them to add a modern touch to your space. To modernize drapes, you'll want to avoid busy or ornate patterns. Stick with color choices that complement the colors in your space. To add a more modernized touch, find a way to use the drapes to add balance or contrast and avoid making your space look too busy.
Drapes designed with sheer, white materials can add a light and airy touch to your space. Sold colors or materials with a subtle geometric pattern are also popular alternatives to window blinds.
##Benefits of Switching to Shades
Switching to shades can provide functional and stylish benefits. Blind alternatives like zebra shades and cellular shades offer more privacy and light control for a space. There are also more materials, colors, and different style variations available. Shades can also be more aesthetically appealing. For example, pairing roller shades with simple sheer drapes can provide functional and aesthetic benefits. This is a great way to add depth and dimension while maintaining a minimal appearance.
The truth is, traditional blinds aren't for everyone. While window blinds will always be a functional favorite among homeowners, it's not always the best choice for every home. If you're looking for something more stylish and versatile, consider investing in a custom-made window blind alternative from Stoneside.
At Stoneside, we specialize in custom-made solutions. Our window treatments are designed with high-quality materials and made to expertly fit in your space. If you decide window blinds are more your style, we also have a variety of window blinds available if you're looking to stick with a more traditional window treatment. We also offer free virtual consultations through our nationwide network of qualified designers who can offer recommendations based on your style and needs.
Whether you're looking for traditional wood blinds or a stylish blind alternative, we have you covered. Explore our shades collection.
When looking at alternatives to blinds, it helps to work with a design professional to help narrow down your options and find a style that suits your modern decor. We offer free virtual consultations through our nationwide network of qualified designers who can offer recommendations based on your style and needs. Book a free design consultation with one of our designers to get started today!
