Expert: Rebecca Bushner - 10/22/2009

Question
I have a quick question about selecting blind colors.  We have recently purchased a new house and it was painted with very neutral colors.  A light grey (Toasty Grey) in the kitchen and living room with dark hardwood flooring.  A very light beige (Jefferson House) in the basement with brown shag carpet. And a brown in the bedrooms (Mochaccino) with brown shag carpet.  We are looking at buying cellular shades and do not know what colors to go with.  Do we go with something that is close to the wall colors or go with darker contrasting colors where the walls are lighter and the opposite in the bedrooms or just go with a white or off-white color like the window frames?

Thanks,

Paul

Answer
Hi Paul
Here is my take on blinds. You can go two ways:

1. Blend in. If you want to blind to be unobtrusive, match them or closely match to your wall color. This makes the windows "disappear" and become part of the walls. This is also a great idea if you always keep them closed or you do not have a nice view. Of course you can also add more window treatments like a valance.

2. Contrast. This is popular when you have blinds combined with other window treatments: valance, drapes,tie backs, etc. Then it can look very good to match or coordinate the blinds to the window coverings. Or, many people choose wood-colored blinds to coordinate with wood floors or other floor materials. Going darker or lighter than the walls will crate a more noticeable window, so if that seems like a great way to add interest in the room, go for it.

Good luck!
rebecca