Design That Works Harder: A Designer’s Favourite Window Covering Solutions

When homeowners start thinking about new window coverings, the first question that often arises is about style. But as a designer, I always encourage clients to think a little deeper. The right window treatment should not only look beautiful, it should also solve a problem. Whether that problem is excess heat, lack of privacy, or rooms that never feel comfortable, smart design choices can make a noticeable difference in how your home functions every day.

One of my favourite solutions, both professionally and personally, is the honeycomb shade, especially with a top-down option. From a design standpoint, honeycomb shades offer a clean, modern aesthetic that works in almost any space. But their real strength is performance. The cellular structure traps air, making it one of the most energy-efficient window coverings available. This helps reduce heat loss in the winter and heat gain in the summer, which can have a meaningful impact on comfort and energy costs.

I chose honeycomb shades for my own home after experiencing how intense the heat can be through south-facing windows. Our upstairs would get uncomfortably warm, making it especially difficult for my daughter to sleep during the summer months. Since installing honeycomb shades, the difference has been remarkable. By keeping the shades closed during the hottest parts of the day, we’ve been able to significantly cool the entire upstairs. It’s one of those upgrades where you feel the results immediately and it’s why I so confidently recommend this product to my clients.

Another common challenge I see in homes is finding the right solution for French doors and sliding patio doors. These areas need flexibility for daily use, light control and privacy, without sacrificing style. That’s where Norman SmartDrape has become one of my go-to recommendations. This innovative product offers the soft, elegant look of a wave drapery while functioning like a vertical blind. You can walk through it easily, tilt for light control and enjoy a clean, tailored appearance.

SmartDrape is also available with motorization, which adds convenience and a touch of luxury without feeling over the top. It’s especially well-suited for busy households where doors are opened and closed frequently.

At the end of the day, great window coverings are about more than appearance. They improve comfort, enhance privacy and help your home work better for you. As a designer, my goal is always to help homeowners choose solutions that fit their lifestyle, not just their windows. When design and function come together, the results truly transform a space.