Sponsored By Better Blinds in Sussex County DE
GUIDE: Mixing and Matching –
Combining Blinds, Shades, and Shutters for Unique Looks
Table of Contents
- Introduction: The Changing Season on the Coast
- The Art of Layering: Why Mix Window Treatments?
- Project 1: The Warm-Up – Cellular Shades and Drapes
- Project 2: Coastal Class – Shutters and Valances
- Project 3: The Modern Update – Motorization and Convenience
- Why Sussex County’s Climate Demands Quality
- How Better Blinds Can Transform Your Home
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
1. Introduction: The Changing Season
on the Coast
As the summer crowds disperse from the boardwalks of Rehoboth and the
quiet returns to the beaches of Lewes, Sussex County enters what locals often
call the "Second Season." The air turns crisp, the humidity drops,
and the evenings draw in earlier. While we love the stunning autumn sunsets
over the bay, this transition often reveals the weaknesses in our home decor, specifically
our windows.
Suddenly, that light and airy summer vibe feels a bit too drafty. The
large windows that let in the July sun now feel like black holes leaking in
heat and offer zero privacy against the darker evenings.
This fall don't just cover your windows; style them. The concept of
"Mixing and Matching" window treatments is a designer secret that
adds depth, texture, and incredible functionality to your home. By combining
the hard lines of blinds or shutters with the softness of drapes or shades, you
can create a fast, local-friendly project that makes your home cozier
instantly.
Whether you are looking to swap in warm-toned cellular shades or install
motorized options for convenience, Better Blinds is here to guide
you through creating a unique look that withstands our coastal elements while
elevating your interior design.
2. The Art of Layering: Why Mix Window
Treatments?
Many homeowners assume that window treatments are a
"one-and-done" decision. You pick a blind, you hang it, and you move
on. However, layering treatments—combining a hard treatment (like a blind or
shutter) with a soft treatment (like drapery or specific shades), offers
benefits that a single layer simply cannot provide.
The Breakdown
- Insulation: Two layers create a tighter air
pocket, trapping heat inside during those blustery coastal November
nights.
- Light Control: You might want filtered light
during the day (blinds open) but blackout darkness for movie night (drapes
closed).
- Aesthetics: Layering adds a
"finished" look. It takes a window from "functional"
to "featured."
Client Review:
"I had a wonderful experience with Better Blinds! The installation crew
was professional, on time, and very tidy. My new layered shades look absolute,
and the recommendation to mix textures has completely changed the feel of my
living room." — Sarah J., Sussex County
To see examples of how layering can change a room, take a moment to view our work gallery, where we
showcase various combinations installed right here in Delaware.
3. Project 1: The Warm-Up – Cellular
Shades and Drapes
If you want a project that pays for itself in energy savings, this is it.
Sussex County winters can get surprisingly nippy/chill, and glass is a poor
insulator.
The Strategy
Start with the base layer: Cellular (Honeycomb) Shades. These are
the workhorses of energy efficiency. Their honeycomb structure traps air,
acting as a barrier between the cold window glass and your warm room. For the
fall, consider swapping out neutral whites for warmer tones—think toasted
almond, soft terracottas, or warm greys.
The Layer
Add Thermal Drapery on top. Flanking your cellular shades with
heavy, floor-to-ceiling drapes creates a vertical line that heightens the room.
When closed, this combination offers near-total insulation.
Why It Works for Fall
This is the ultimate cozy factor. It softens the acoustics of the room
and visually warms the space. Plus, you can keep the shades up during the day
to let in the sun, and pull the drapes shut as soon as the sun goes down.
4. Project 2: Coastal Class – Shutters
and Valances
Nothing says "Sussex County Coast" quite like Plantation
Shutters. They offer that timeless, upscale beach house aesthetic. However,
shutters alone can sometimes feel hard or stark.
The Strategy
Install Composite Shutters. In our humid environment, composite is
superior to real wood as it resists warping from the moisture in the salty air.
Homeowners in
Selbyville often prefer this look for its durability and curb appeal.
The Layer
Top the shutters with a Fabric Valance or a Cornice. This
adds a pop of color or pattern without blocking the view or the functionality
of the shutter louvers. A box pleated valance in a navy or sea glass pattern
brings the coastal theme inside without being overwhelming.
Client Review:
"For anyone looking for window treatments, look no further. The quality
of the shutters is top-notch, and the valance adds just the right amount of
softness. The team was knowledgeable and helped us pick exactly what we needed
for our beach house." — Mark & Linda T., Bethany Beach
5. Project 3: The
Modern Update – Motorization and Convenience
As the days get shorter, we rely more on artificial light and privacy. No
one wants to run around the house manually, closing 15 different blinds every
evening at 5:00 PM.
The Strategy
Upgrade to Motorized Roller Shades. With the touch of a button (or
a voice command if integrated with smart home systems), you can lower every
shade in your living room instantly.
The Layer
Pair these sleek roller shades with Sheer Curtains. The roller
provides privacy and blackout capability, while the sheers stay closed during
the day to filter that harsh glare off the water while still allowing you to
see the view.
For those interested in smart home integration, our professional installation services ensure that your
motorized blinds are programmed correctly and function seamlessly from day one.
Client Review:
"We love our new motorized blinds! It makes adjusting the light in our
high-ceiling great room so easy. Better Blinds made the whole process simple
from selection to installation." — Mike R., Lewes
6. Why Sussex County’s Climate Demands
Quality
Living near the coast in areas like Ocean View, Delaware, presents unique
challenges for window treatments. The combination of intense UV rays in the
summer, high humidity year-round, and the potential for damp cold in the winter
means "big box store" blinds often fail prematurely.
- UV Damage: Cheap plastics yellow and crack.
- Humidity: Metal blinds rust; untreated wood warps.
- Salt Air: Corrodes low-quality mechanisms.
At Better Blinds, we curate products specifically designed to withstand
the Delaware coastal environment. We utilize materials that are UV resistant
and moisture-proof, ensuring your investment lasts.
7. How Better Blinds Can Transform
Your Home
When you choose Better Blinds, you aren't just buying a product; you are
buying local expertise. We understand the angles of the sun in Sussex County,
the privacy needs of local subdivisions, and the aesthetic of coastal living.
We invite you to learn more about
Better Blinds. Our team is dedicated to customer satisfaction, providing on-site
consultations to match samples directly to your lighting and furniture.
Client Review:
"The best customer service experience I've had in years. They came to
my home, measured everything perfectly, and the installation was flawless.
Highly recommend!" — Jessica M., Rehoboth Beach
For more design inspiration, tips on maintenance, and the latest trends
in window fashion, be sure to check out the Better Blinds Blog. It is a treasure
trove of ideas for your next home improvement project.
Digital Identity:
For further verification of our business presence and resources, you can visit
our Resource Page.
8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What are the best window treatments for insulation in cold weather?
Cellular shades (honeycomb shades) are generally considered the best for
insulation. Their honeycomb design creates air pockets that trap heat,
preventing it from escaping through the window. Layering these with heavy
drapes increases the R-value (insulation capacity) even further.
2. Can you mix blinds and curtains on the same window?
Absolutely. Mixing hard treatments (blinds/shutters) with soft treatments
(curtains/drapes) creates a high-end, designer look. The key is to balance visual
weight, for example, pair sleek roller shades with flowy sheer curtains, or
substantial wood blinds with textured stationary side panels.
3. Are motorized blinds worth the investment?
Yes, particularly for hard-to-reach windows or large banks of windows. They
offer safety (cordless), convenience (remote or app control), and energy
efficiency (can be scheduled to close during the hottest/coldest parts of the
day).
4. How do I choose the right color for my window treatments?
If you want the treatments to blend in, match the window trim or wall color. If
you want them to frame the view, choose a contrasting color. For a coastal vibe
in Sussex County, we often recommend neutrals, whites, soft blues, and sandy
beiges.
5. What is the difference between room darkening and blackout shades?
"Room darkening" significantly reduces light but may simply be an
opaque fabric that still glows slightly or has light gaps. "Blackout"
shades use opaque fabrics often with side channels or tracks to block 99-100%
of incoming light, making them ideal for bedrooms and media rooms.
6. Do plantation shutters work on all window types?
Plantation shutters are incredibly versatile and can be custom fitted to almost
any window shape, including arches, circles, and French doors. They are a
permanent fixture that can actually increase the appraisal value of your home.
7. How do I clean and maintain fabric shades?
Most fabric shades can be maintained by regular dusting or vacuuming with a
brush attachment on a low setting. For spot cleaning, use a mild detergent and
warm water, blotting (not rubbing) the fabric. Always check the manufacturer's
care instructions first.
9. Conclusion
As the leaves change and the air cools, there is no better time to turn
your attention inward and refine the comfort of your home. Mixing and matching
blinds, shades, and shutters allows you to customize your light, privacy, and
style in ways that single treatments simply can't.
Ready to Upgrade Your Home with Window
Treatments That Actually Work?
If you’re considering new blinds, shades, or shutters for your Sussex
County home, Better Blinds makes the process easy, personal, and
stress-free—with a Free In-Home Consultation to help you choose the
perfect solution for your space, style, and budget. Their experienced local
team specializes in coastal-ready materials, custom designs, and professional
installation built to last in Delaware’s unique climate.
With over 200 five-star Google reviews, homeowners throughout
Sussex County trust Better Blinds for honest recommendations, quality
craftsmanship, and beautiful results you’ll love for years to come.
Schedule your Free In-Home Consultation today:
Better Blinds
Ocean View, DE 19970
📞 (302) 402-6180
🌐 https://betterblindsshades.com/
⭐ Read 200+ Google Reviews: https://betterblindsshades.com/reviews/
✉️ sales@betterblindsshades.com
Local expertise. Proven trust. Custom window treatments designed for
coastal living.
REFERENCES:
Government Links
- Department of
Energy: Energy Efficient Window Attachments
- EPA: Smart Home
Energy Management
- Sussex County
Delaware Building Code
Wikipedia Links