Why Designers Are Putting Blackout Shades in Luxury California Homes

Enhanced Privacy, Elevated Design, & Interior Protection

For many people, blackout shades are seen less as a design statement and more as a necessity. They maintain complete darkness in bedrooms and media rooms, allowing for uninterrupted sleep and enhanced entertainment. 

Today, however, blackout shades do much more. These window treatments come in numerous styles that elevate a home’s design. From Roman and roller shades to honeycomb cellular shades and draperies, luxury homes maintain their aesthetics while enjoying the benefits of room-darkening window coverings.

Here, we’ll explore why these shades are a designer's first choice for luxury homes.

SEE ALSO: Why Smart Motorized Shades Are the Future of Window Treatments

Architectural Features in Luxury Homes

Today’s affluent homes are defined by expansive glass walls and architectural windows that showcase their views. While the benefits are many, from enhanced natural light to breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean or sparkling city lights, these designs also come with unique challenges. 

These windows increase exposure, reducing privacy and allowing UV rays to damage artwork, upholstery, rugs, and other high-end finishes. The answer to this challenge lies in blackout shades, which provide maximum privacy and protection without compromising the interior or exterior aesthetics. 

When a home is filled with designer furniture, rare woods, and valuable collections, blackout shades are essential for protecting these items from excessive sunlight. These shades also reduce glare on TV and computer screens, benefiting a work-from-home lifestyle.

Effortlessly Managing Natural Light & Privacy

Designers are turning to automated blackout shades to provide effortless control over privacy and harsh sunlight. These shades can be scheduled to automatically open and close at set times throughout the day. For instance, in the morning, the shades rise in 10% increments, gently bringing light into a home. 

During the day, the shades lower in rooms that receive direct sunlight to protect the home’s interior. They rise again when the sun grows less intense. In the evening, after another glorious Southern California sunset, they lower to ensure privacy at night.

The Benefits of Blackout Shades

Light in Southern California comes from numerous sources, including city streetlights and rush-hour headlights. Blackout shades create a completely dark environment, promoting serenity and ensuring a restful night’s sleep. In living rooms, where homeowners want to enjoy stunning views and privacy, dual shades enable the perfect selection for the time of day.

At Window Collections, we partner with Lutron, the industry leader in lighting control. Their dual shades feature two separate roller shades, such as blackout and sheer. Homeowners can enjoy the beauty of diffuse sunlight or complete privacy and darkness with the touch of a button or voice command.

The layered look is also in high demand, with designers integrating decorative draperies with blackout shades. Designers are also selecting blackout shades behind shutters, seamlessly integrating the two through matching colors. This look pairs well with homeowners seeking coastal or farmhouse aesthetics.

Support for the Design Team

Our in-house window shade design experts help designers select the ideal automated window coverings for every room, and program them to achieve the effortless lifestyle our discerning clients require. Our customized solutions align with your client’s preferences and the unique architectural features inherent in many modern homes. 

Natural light is a defining element in today’s luxury homes. Privacy and personal sanctuaries are core expectations, and designers are ensuring that both needs are met with automated blackout window coverings. To learn more about the latest features in blackout shades or to schedule a complimentary consultation, contact Window Collections.