Roman Shades
Add Warmth and Character That Blinds Never Could.
Roman shades bring softness, texture, and timeless elegance to any room — crafted from real fabrics that transform the feel of your space.
The Problem
Some rooms need more than a functional window covering — they need something that adds warmth, texture, and personality. Hard blinds and minimal shades work in some spaces, but living rooms, dining rooms, and primary bedrooms often call for something softer. Something that makes the room feel finished and intentional, not just covered.
The Solution
Roman shades fold up in elegant horizontal pleats when raised and lay flat or softly cascading when lowered. Available in an incredible range of fabrics — from crisp linens to rich textures, from subtle neutrals to bold patterns. They bring the richness of drapery with the clean functionality of a shade, and they work in traditional, transitional, and even contemporary settings.
Mark's Installer Insight
“Roman shades are where fabric choice makes or breaks the result. I always recommend bringing fabric samples into the actual room where they'll be installed, at different times of day. A fabric that looks warm and inviting in showroom lighting can look completely different with morning light coming through it versus afternoon sun. I also steer most of my clients toward the flat fold style rather than hobbled (the puffy, cascading look) — flat folds have a more modern, tailored feel that ages better. And from an installation standpoint, Roman shades need to be precisely sized — the fabric folds need to stack evenly, which means the measurement has to account for the fold pattern. It's detail work that matters.”
Key Features
- Elegant horizontal fabric folds when raised
- Vast selection of premium fabrics, textures, and patterns
- Flat fold and hobbled (cascading) style options
- Light-filtering and blackout lining available
- Cordless and motorized operation
- Can be paired with drapery panels for a layered look
Ideal For
- Living rooms and dining rooms where aesthetics are a priority
- Primary bedrooms that want softness and warmth
- Transitional and traditional home styles
- Rooms where you want to add texture and color through the window treatment
- Kitchens — especially above the sink with a flat Roman in a wipeable fabric
Why Roman Shades in Northern Idaho
Roman shades work beautifully in the craftsman and lodge-style homes that are iconic to the Northern Idaho landscape. In Coeur d'Alene and Sandpoint especially, homeowners gravitate toward natural linen and textured fabrics that complement the wood and stone elements common in our local architecture. They add a layer of refinement without feeling out of place.
Common Questions About Roman Shades
What fabric should I choose for Roman shades in my home?
Bring samples into the actual room at different times of day before deciding — a fabric that looks warm in a showroom can read very differently with Northern Idaho morning light versus afternoon sun, especially near water. Natural linens and textured fabrics tend to complement the wood and stone elements common in Idaho craftsman and lodge-style homes. Mark always recommends in-room sample review before finalizing any fabric selection.
What is the difference between flat fold and hobbled Roman shades?
Flat fold Roman shades stack in crisp, even horizontal pleats — a clean, tailored look that works in both modern and traditional settings and ages well. Hobbled (or relaxed) Roman shades have cascading, puffed folds even when lowered, creating a softer, more traditional appearance. Mark recommends flat fold for most of today's homes as it has a more contemporary feel and wears better over time.
Can Roman shades have a blackout lining?
Yes. Most Roman shade fabrics can be backed with a blackout lining, which is particularly popular for bedrooms. The blackout lining doesn't change the exterior appearance of the shade but significantly reduces light transmission, making them a great choice when you want a fabric-rich look without sacrificing sleep quality.
Ready to See If Roman Shades Are Right for Your Home?
Start with our free concierge consultation to get personalized recommendations, or call Mark directly to schedule a free in-home visit.