Should You Choose Room Darkening vs Blackout Window Treatments for Your Guest Room?
The holidays mean constant planning for guests. You want everything to be perfect and for your guests staying overnight to be comfortable. Usually, you don’t realize just how much your window treatments play into this until your guests are already on their way, but thankfully, there are window fashion choices you can make now to create a cozy space in the future and reap the benefits all year long.
One of the most common questions homeowners have about light control in guest rooms is whether or not they should choose room darkening or blackout window treatments. So, let’s dive into the top considerations for both, as well as our favorite window coverings that bring the best qualities to your home.
Blackout vs Room Darkening: What’s the Difference?
The difference between room darkening and blackout window treatments boils down to the opacity. The most popular window coverings come in opacities ranging from sheer to blackout, each offering its own unique benefits.
Room darkening window treatments filter out a considerable amount of light, but allow some to still filter through. You can find light filtering blinds and shades alike. For many homes, these are enough to block out unwanted light from the outside world. In the mornings, sunlight gently warms the room without any glare or uncomfortable solar heat gain.
Blackout shades, on the other hand, can make it appear almost as dark as nighttime even in the middle of the day. These window coverings are reinforced with a secondary blackout panel that reflects any excess light for the highest degree of light control. This makes them a popular choice for night-shift workers who sleep well into the daylight hours.
Room darkening shades vs blackout shades—which is better? Like anything, the answer depends. If you want near total darkness, go for blackout shades. But, if you want to allow for some natural light to gently fill a space, filtered through your shades or blinds, then go for room darkening.
Finding the Perfect Blackout and Room Darkening Shades
When it comes to picking out the best room darkening or blackout shades for your guest room, our designers have a few favorites that are beloved for a reason.
Duette® Cellular Shades
These cellular shades are expertly designed to not only block light, but keep your bedroom more comfortable year-round. They come in an array of colors, patterns, and textures that is perfect for playing up your windows as art rather than simply as a utility. Duolite® technology adds a secondary panel without added bulk for the highest degree of light control. Even when drawn closed, you won’t see any light leaks.
Vignette® Roman Shades
Style and functionality meet in this collection of Roman shades from Hunter Douglas. Luxurious fabrics in 4” full fold of 6” flat fold adorn your windows in a visually interesting way that is sure to leave a lasting impression on your guests.
Combine light filtering or room darkening opacities with a Top-Down/Bottom-Up operation for a way that allows you to open up the room to bright sunlight without compromising on privacy. This style also works with Duolite®, so you can opt for blackout shades in the guest room and light filtering in the living room without having to choose another style of window treatments.
Get Room Darkening or Blackout Window Treatments Today
Ready to explore these collections for yourself? Our design team is here to answer your questions and help you find the perfect window coverings for your guest room. Whether you’re a homeowner or a small bed and breakfast owner looking to elevate your guest experience, we’re ready to work with you. We offer the full line of Hunter Douglas window treatments, as well as custom drapery, bedding, and more.
Schedule a complimentary in-home consultation today to get started.
We are locally owned and operated, based in New Hyde Park and Plainview, NY, and are always happy to service homes and businesses across Long Island from Manhattan to Montauk; Westchester, Connecticut, and Florida.