We have been discussing the need for function; light control, privacy and sound absorption. Now I'd like to address the issue of protecting furniture and floors from sun damage.

 

The best way I know to provide protection from UV rays is through the use of a couple of different "hard" treatments, that is, blinds and shades (fabric treatments such as draperies are called soft treatments). My favorite shades for UV protection are Hunter Douglas Silhouette and Nantucket sheer shades. These shades consist of two layers of sheer fabric with vanes in between. When the shades are pulled down and the vanes are open, the shades provide a considerable a mount of protection from UV rays, even though the fabric is sheer. These shades also reduce the need for indoor lighting during the day by pulling the sunlight deeper into the room. Another advantage to these shades is that one can see out while reducing the ability for others to see in when the vanes are open.

 

Another type of shade that helps to reduce sun damage is screen shades. You often see these in restaurants, coffee shops and other establishments where the owners want to be a be able to control the light, so that it is not disturbing customers, while letting the light in. Screen shades come in a number of degrees of openness, from zero to about 14%. Shades with a 3 to 5 degree of openness will control the light, allow people to see out, reduce the ability of others to see in and provide some protection from ultraviolet rays.

 

Now for a decorating tip. One can put a lovely soft (fabric) over any hard treatment, thus beautifying their home while controlling the light and reducing UV damage. I particularly love this valance with this intricate jabot. This is at the top of a window over inside mounted top down bottom up honeycomb shades.

 

Adrienne Micci-Smith is the owner of Curtain Call, Inc., 

a custom window treatment company serving New Haven 

and Fairfield County, Connecticut. For appointments,

call (203) 924-0909.