Curtains are a tried and tested way of generating greater privacy from prying eyes which might like to look into your home or your workplace through your windows. One of the problems with curtains, however, is that you need to draw them shut in order to generate the privacy you want. Alternatively, you could opt for net curtains which are a practical solution which still allow light in. However, this form of curtains look very fussy and don't really fit in with contemporary interior design principles. If you are looking for more privacy but want to avoid hanging curtains over your windows, what are the best options for you?
Louvred Windows
These days, lots of people don't just want privacy but more airflow into their home from their windows. As such, a louvre window system can be highly effective. For example, Altair louvre windows can be constricted which form screens that immediately blocked out both light and prying eyes when shut. If the idea of a total block out does not appeal, then these sorts of windows can be fitted with grey satina glass or even made with tinted glazing in order to allow a soft amount of diffused light into the room whilst retaining your full privacy.
Venetian Blinds
Blinds are often overlooked as an alternative to curtains because many people consider them to be very similar options with little to choose between them. Of course, heavy drapery from Roman blinds has many of the same drawbacks as curtains. However, Venetian blinds are a different matter entirely. Lightweight materials such as aluminium mean that you can hang a set of blinds over your windows and raise and lower them easily according to your altering privacy needs. What's more, you can adjust the angle of the slats, much like louvres, in order to allow sunlight in whilst still retaining the degree of privacy you wish. When the slats of a Venetian blind are moved towards the vertical, they afford a very high degree of privacy.
Smart Glazing
Nowadays, you do not need a window treatment in order to obtain privacy at all. Instead, you could opt for the latest technological solution. This comes in the form of so-called smart glass. Essentially, what this technology does is to create a tinted look to the glazing which you can turn on and off. Smart glazing products are now being used extensively in office buildings both for external windows and internal partitions. With a flick of a switch, you can turn a transparent window into an opaque panel. In some cases, you can even automate the times of day you want your smart glazing to switch modes.
When it comes to house windows, you probably never give them more than a second glance to ensure they are closed and locked. However, when I renovated my house last year, I learned a lot about windows and the type of maintenance they need. For example, when not sealed correctly, a window lets out a lot of that beautiful cold air-conditioned air that you pay for. I began this blog to help other people who need help when it comes to window renovations. From the different types of glass to how to identify leaking windows, my blog posts are written to help you keep that treasured cold air inside your home.