Roman shades have been a beloved window dressing for generations. Their popularity stems from their functionality and the wide range of fabrics and materials available, from classic bamboo to custom designer fabrics. Recently, they have gained renewed attention as an option for climate control, effectively keeping out light and retaining warmth when designed for thermal use. Manufacturers have even introduced motorized and cordless versions for easy use and safety in homes with children and pets.
Roman shades are constructed from a flat section of material that folds up and down like an accordion. The shade is raised evenly using a cord that lengthens as the shade is pulled up. There are two main categories of Roman shades, each offering numerous designer variations:
Categories
- Classic, or flat: These shades appear smooth and solid when fully extended, with no visible pleats.
- Hobbled, or looped: These shades retain soft overlapping folds, creating a cascade of fabric folds that resemble drapery.
- Embellished: These shades feature curved bottoms known as European style and offer various options, including vertical gathering in the middle, a fanned bottom, or a trimmed bottom with beads, fringe, or tassels.
Roman shades can be mounted in two different styles:
Mounting Styles
- Outside mount: The shade is slightly wider than the window and attached to the wall on the outside.
- Inside mount: The shade is precisely measured to fit inside the window and attached to the inner window casing at the top.
There is a Roman shade design to complement any style, with endless possibilities for fabrics, colors, designs, and applications. Below, we showcase ten beautifully designed bedrooms that feature unique variations of classic Roman shades:
Mediterranean Colors
Image Source: blinds.com
In this Mediterranean-inspired bedroom, fabric Roman shades in lush patterns and textured gold are perfectly installed to ensure consistency whether the blinds are up or down. The warm browns, rusts, and deep greens in the linens and furnishings complement the wood flooring and woven cane headboard. Accent pillows pick up the colors of the shades, creating a welcoming haven inspired by the warm colors of the Mediterranean.
Veranda Showcase House
Image Source: Elizabeth Dinkel Design Associates, Inc.
This bedroom features lovely coordinated double Roman shades. The outer set is made of traditional fabric pleated styling in a calming moss green, while the inner set is a sheer fabric with rounded European bottoms and soft vertical gathering on the sides. The shades are mounted both inside and outside, showcasing a unique design. Paired with moss green bed canopies and white comforters and linens, the shades create an elegant and harmonious ambiance.
New York Blue
Image Source: Amanda Nisbet Design
Navy blue Roman shades with white side striping create a crisp and classic look in this bedroom. The neatly folded edge of the shades echoes the geometric prints throughout the room. The addition of sailboat and seahorse prints, along with a bold stripe headboard, adds a hint of nautical styling. Adjustable reading lamps above the bed provide a cozy atmosphere for bedtime reading.
Chic Transitional
Image Source: Robert Brown Interior Design
This bedroom showcases a boldly patterned fabric for the Roman shades, creating a strikingly beautiful effect. Designed by Robert Brown, the room blends cream, white, black, and rich hardwoods to create a soothing ambiance. The shades' fabric is also used to cover the wall behind a side desk, adding a cohesive touch. Saffron-colored accent pillows provide a bright note and complement the stripes on the bed linens.
Florida Luxury Orange
Image Source: Beasley & Henley Interior Design
This fresh and luxurious design by Beasley & Henley Interior Design features persimmon ceilings and bright orange floral Roman shades. The tall and narrow windows are perfectly fitted with inside-mounted shades, allowing natural light to enter while offering privacy. The overall vibe of the room is cheerful and inviting, with a color palette that includes taupe, persimmon, and white.
Adorable Pink
Image Source: Unknown
This adorable pink-themed room showcases European-style curved Roman shades with vertical draws on either side, adorned with festive pink bows. Custom work allows for unity in the shades, even though the windows vary along the wall. The light pink shades with darker pink trim coordinate with the pink ceiling, creating a cohesive and inviting space. The furnishings, including white, pink, lavender, and green accents, complete the charming ambiance.
Stylish Contemporary
Image Source: Unknown
In this contemporary room, the warm tan Roman shade behind the bed balances the stonework in the fireplace, creating a casual yet stylish mood. The shade spans the entire width of the window, providing light control and privacy. The combination of contemporary elements with the complementing shade color adds a touch of sophistication to the space.
Lake Minnetonka Windows
Image Source: John Kraemer & Sons
This Minnesota lake home designed by John Kraemer & Sons features custom Roman shades for each window, including the curved array and the door leading to the outdoor swimming pool. The shades allow unrestricted views of the pool area and the beautiful lake beyond. They can also be rolled down for inclement weather. This classic use of shades preserves the stunning view and complements the wood casement windows.
Ethan Allen Refined Traditional
Image Source: Ethan Allen
A rich palette composed of dark and light tones sets the stage for an elegant and understated bedroom. The Manh Truc Woven Shades in Dove color are hung within the window frame, allowing the architectural details to interplay with the linear furnishings. The Claxton Paisley Duvet Cover, with its golden threads, matches the accent gold of the Georgetown Bed and accompanying nightstands. The London Map I serves to balance the area rug below, creating a superb traditional bedroom.
Lincoln Park Extravagant Traditional
Image Source: Design Decision Ltd.
Designed by Van H. Robinson of Design Decision Ltd., this sumptuous bedroom setting showcases an extravagant use of Roman shades. The shades, in the same color as the Venetian plaster walls, are tucked under rich gold draperies that flow to the ground. This combination creates a visually stunning effect, with the horizontal lines of the shades contrasting against the vertical lines of the draperies. The furnishings in the room boast elegance, with a mix of rosy tones, warm woods, and intricate details.
In conclusion, Roman shades offer a versatile and elegant window treatment option for any bedroom. Whether you prefer a Mediterranean-inspired haven or a chic and contemporary retreat, there is a Roman shade design that can transform your space into a beautiful sanctuary. Explore the endless possibilities of fabrics, colors, designs, and applications to find the perfect Roman shades for your bedroom.
