Statistics suggest that thanks to the pandemic, nearly 71% of people are currently working from home. Often that means once-neglected home office spaces are getting a much-needed makeover, and while you may have initially considered your desk, chair, and wall color as the primary concerns in your makeover process, you may also want to factor in another key component – your window treatments. 

How Window Treatments Affect a Space

Your office’s windows are your view of the outside world. Whether that view is absolutely amazing or you can simply see your neighbor’s house, the reality is that the type of treatment you select affects what you can or cannot see. It also, however, affects the feel of the room itself. Light-diffusing shades, for example, are likely to offer you filtered sunlight when you want it the most.

Light blocking options, though, give you the power to completely shut the outside world out. It’s not just the level of light the window treatments let in, though. It’s also their colors, patterns, and textures that can create a statement about how the room feels. Looking for something comfortable and calming? You’ll want to go with soft colors and textures. Looking for something bold and powerful? Choose bright drapes or patterned shaded. No matter what you select, understand that it will change your space. 

Making the Choice that’s Right For You

There are many different options on the market when it comes to home office window treatments, so be sure to shop around a bit. Consider the feel of the room and the kind of statement you want to make with your choice. Don’t forget to factor in how much light control you’ll need when you’re at a video conference or just working on your computer.

You may want to invest in light-blocking shades so you don’t get an incredible glare every time you join a conference. You may need something a bit more understated, though. Know how much light you want in the room on a regular basis before you shop. You may also want to consider the level of permanence. Installing plantation shutters, for example, is a bold statement, but probably not one you want to make if you’ll simply want to update your home office in just a few years. 

Ready to upgrade your home office window treatments? We can help. With a complete selection of light-diffusing shades, light-blocking shades, and many customized options that will change how you see your space, Gallery of Shades is the one place to turn right now. To learn more about how we can help, contact us today.  

If you’re like most people, you probably try to conserve energy where you can. Whether it’s turning off the lights every time you leave a room or timing your showers, you’re doing your part to lock down the amount of energy you use throughout your home. What you may not realize, though, is that your windows could be leaking energy day and night no matter what the temperature is outside. 

How Windows Waste Energy

Perhaps you have an older home with outdated windows. Maybe you have a newer home with windows that offer some energy efficiency. Either way, your windows could still be leaking energy. In fact, studies have shown that windows that aren’t carefully maintained can begin leaking energy in as little as ten years after they’re initially installed thanks to failed weather-stripping and caulking as well as shifting panes. When that occurs, your HVAC system is literally pumping warmer or cooler air outside instead of keeping it in the house with you. 

What You Can Do

Luckily, there are some easy ways to address the problem. One of the best, fast options is to invest in energy-efficient window treatments. Options like custom-made Hunter Douglas honeycomb shades mean you’ll block the cold or hot air coming into your house as well as the air leaving your house. In fact, any soft roman shades that trap the air and keep it from coming into your home will work to help you reduce energy loss. 

If you’re looking for a complete selection of energy-efficient window treatments, we can help. Visit our showroom or give us a call today, and we can do a complete in-home consultation to help you select the ideal energy-efficient options to meet the needs of your home. Not only will you notice a real difference in your energy bills, and you’ll also feel great about your conservation efforts too! 

Few people love to spend as much time outside as we do here in Arizona, but there’s a pretty serious problem with most outdoor living spaces here – the afternoon sun can push us inside when we’d really rather enjoy the beauty of the outdoors. Why even having living space outside if you constantly get pushed in by the afternoon sun? Fortunately, there is something you can do before it gets too hot! Consider patio shades for your outdoor living area. 

Shades for Outdoor Living

Many people think through the window treatments inside pretty seriously before making a decision, but few give thought to the power of patio shades. These days, though, there are lots of options to consider. From simple off-the-shelf solutions to custom patio shades designed specifically to fit the needs of your space, you’ll find lots of options. Before you begin shopping for the best patio shades to meet your needs, though, you’re going to want to consider these things: 

• The Space: Every patio is different, thus every shade option is different. Those who have a large, wide open space may want to consider something like a sail shade. Ideal for filtered spots, these only need to connect to a few spaces. If you have a gazebo or another structure, though, you may be looking for more traditional patio shades, and there are several varieties you can hang from the top of your structure to keep the sun’s rays out at various times of the day. Think hard about what might fit in your space and where it should go to provide the coverage you want. 
• The Wind: While Scottsdale isn’t the windiest place on Earth, it certainly does happen, particularly in some locations. If you tend to get fairly strong gusts of wind on your property, you may want to consider selecting patio shades that you can tie down so they don’t continually blow back and forth while you’re trying to enjoy your space. 
• Your Preferences: Don’t forget to factor in what you want in an outdoor shade. Do you want a traditional roller shade structure? Something motorized? Something that offers more complete coverage? Knowing exactly what fits your life best is the key to getting patio shades that really work for you. 

Ready to learn more about the best patio shades to meet your needs? Give us a call. We’ll help you evaluate your space and come up with solutions that are perfect for your backyard this summer. 

Sheer window coverings mean lots of possibilities for a room, but they also mean reduced privacy and light control, two key factors when you’re shopping for the best window treatments. What do you do when you want the beauty of a sheer but the privacy and light control of other, more traditional window coverings? While not every company has the right answer, Hunter Douglas certainly does. Their custom Pirouette shades are the single best option on the market today. 

What are Pirouette Shades?

Pirouette is a beautiful window covering made only by Hunter Douglas that combines horizontal fabric vanes with sheer backing. With a simple pull of the wand or press of your remote control, you can close the shade, offering any space diffused light and privacy or a clear view of the outside world. How much light you let into space is completely up to you, and it can all be integrated into your smart home. 

Choices That Match Any Space

The crowning glory of this window treatment, though, is that it comes in a number of colors and textures that could reflect any space. Whether you’re looking for beautiful linen that offers some filtered light to satin which means a perfect sheen in any window space, you’ll find it with Pirouette. Colors abound with this choice too. If you need something more neutral, there are a number of different options. If you’re hoping to match the darker colors of a home office, that’s an option as well. There are even brighter colors like pomegranate for spaces that need added color. 

In a world where homes are smarter than ever, the need for smart window coverings is becoming an increasing must. Pirouette is only available from Hunter Douglas, and at Gallery of Shades, we carry a full line of Pirouette to help meet the needs of your home. To learn more about this amazing option, please reach out to us today. 

Plantation shutters can be a beautiful addition to any space. They’re a great way to enhance a variety of different styles and are a selling point for a home. Before you invest in custom shutters for your home, though, there are a few things you need to consider. 

DO’s

Factor In Material Choices: Plantation shutters come in a variety of different materials today, and you should absolutely consider what you want. While wood is the most traditional option, you’re not going to want to go with wood in a bathroom or a kitchen, or any space where there are high humidity levels. Instead, you may want to consider alternative materials in these spaces like polymer choices. 

Carefully Consider Louver Size: Wooden shutters come in a variety of different louver sizes, and they can change the look of this amazing window covering. If you’re looking for a traditional in-home feel, you’re going to want to go with something smaller. If, however, you’d prefer to enjoy your beautiful view, you’re going to want to go with a larger louver. It will afford you a greater look at your gorgeous landscaping. 

Think About Hidden Add-Ons: There are a number of things you can add to your shutters from pulls, locks, and even hidden hinges that will make them look absolutely amazing. Don’t forget to explore the possibilities as they’re often available at a fairly nominal fee and it will change the way you think about these window treatments. 

DON’Ts

Ignore the Potential Technology Upgrades: Smart add-ons have been available in the world of window treatments for quite some time, and they haven’t been overlooked when it comes to shutters. You can motorize these to tilt at certain times of day to protect your flooring and furniture from UV light. You can even have them close on their own at night. With a bit of technology, you can choose what’s best for your space. 

Forget To Look Into The Manufacturer: Not all shutters were created by reputable manufacturers. Before you make a purchase, be sure you’re working with a reputable manufacturer that offers high-quality options that will last for the long term. 

Consider This a DIY Project: Shutters aren’t like other window treatments. If you don’t use a qualified installer, you could void your warranty. Moreover, attention to detail is absolutely key. The frames have to be perfectly square or you could cause your shutters to warp. This is not the best place to show off your DIY skills. Instead, working with factory-certified installation professionals means you’ll get the beautiful look you want and the long-term quality you need. 

Wood plantation shutters are going to look absolutely amazing in your home! Gallery of Shades is happy to help you select the style and color that might look best. To learn more about how we can help you find the wooden shutters of your dreams, contact us today.  

The start of every new year brings something exciting – great trends that you can incorporate into your home. What will the new year bring for you and your window treatments? If you’re like many people this year, it could completely change your style.

Modern Technology

Smart home designs haven’t overlooked windows. Today, you’ll find blinds, curtains, and shades that can be completely controlled through a mobile app or even a remote. This gives you the ability to set up a schedule and a variety of settings to better meet the light control and privacy needs of your home. Maybe the best part, though, is the fact that they’re not a one-size-fits-all solution. Instead, they come in a variety of different colors and textures to match almost any home today. 

Lots of Colors

Custom window treatments will be almost everywhere this year, and one key theme among them will be the use of color. Colors are in again, and whether you’re going for loud options, pastels, or you still want something a bit more neutral, you’re certain to find a window covering that matches exactly how every room in your home feels. 

Better Home Workspaces

Across the United States, more people than ever are working from home, and that means a constant glance at those window treatments. Scottsdale home office workers are no exception to that rule, and that means upgrading those window treatments for something better. Whether you go with shutters to create a stylish sophistication or something a bit more nostalgic like printed roller shades, you’ll have many options that can completely change the feel of your new workspace. 

If you’re ready for unique window coverings to better meet the needs of your home, give us a call today. At Gallery of Shades, we offer a variety of window treatment options that match any design style. Learn more when you schedule a free consultation session with us today. 

With any house, there’s one thing you can be certain of- you want your windows to look great and bring light into your house. Custom UV solar shades in Scottsdale can help you achieve the look you want for your home at a great low price.

What are UV Solar Shades?

UV solar shades are a great type of shade that can actually help protect the inside of your home or business. Instead of going through your windows, UV solar shades actually reflect the sun’s rays, preventing damage and fading to your walls and furniture. In addition to that, UV solar shades absorb heat from the outside, keeping your home cooler when it’s hot outside. While they do block a lot of sunlight, UV solar shades are actually see-through- they’re made of a thin, tightly-woven fabric that’s translucent in the light.

The Benefits of UV Solar Shades

UV solar shades can do great things for your home- like lowering your energy bill overall.  In both a commercial and a home setting, UV solar shades can prevent glare from the sunlight onto your computer screen, making for a better work environment- especially if you’re still working from home. But they don’t block your view- depending on the opacity of the shade, you can choose how much sunlight you want to see, and how much of the outdoors you want to be visible. Their neat and simple design can match with any setting, and works well in both an office and a home setting for professionality and home decor. UV solar shades are both long-lasting and durable, so your home or office will be able to look amazing for as long as you need it to.

Ready to buy solar shades? Scottsdale has one of the best options available – Gallery of Shades. With some of the best window treatments Scottsdale has to offer, we have a variety of choices including UV solar shades. Schedule a visit with us today to explore our complete inventory.

As you shop for energy-efficient window coverings, you’re likely to come across a number of different options, but often cellular window shades are at the top of the list of the best window treatments available today. What is this window covering, though, and why is it considered to be one of the most efficient options on the market? This quick guide can help give you all of the information you need. 

What Are They?

Cellular shades are two pieces of fabric that fold up along horizontal pleats. They come in a number of different colors, and you can get them from sheer to blackout light control options. You can also select various pleat sizes when you buy them. 

Why Are They So Popular?

There are several reasons cellular shades are so popular. One of the biggest is the fact that they create a layer of insulation between the window itself and the room, which makes them very energy efficient. If you live in a particularly warm environment, like Arizona, this kind of added protection is a must. The number of options is also a huge plus for many people. Not only can you choose the color, the pleat size, and the opacity when you design custom cellular shades, you can also choose how you want these to function within your window. You can choose top-down cellular shades, cordless options, or even motorized options. Duette shades, from Hunter Douglas, for instance, are a cellular shade that comes in a variety of options, including the PowerView system that allows you to operate them from your smartphone. 

Are They Right For Your Space?

Cellular shades may be right for your space if you have a fairly versatile design and you’re concerned most about energy efficiency. If you’re looking for something that goes with a unique décor scheme perfectly, though, you may want to consider another option. 

Your best bet? Schedule a one-on-one in-home design consultation with us! We’ll help you choose from all of the best options available and ensure you get exactly what you want for your space. To learn more about how we can help, contact us today.

If you’ve decided that you want to put blinds in your home, you’ve already been confronted with yet another decision- do you want vinyl blinds, wood blinds, or faux-wood blinds? There are lots of different options to consider like durability, versatility, and even warping over time- but if you look at the information, faux-wood blinds are clearly the best bet for your home or office.

The Spots Where Wood Blinds Aren’t So Great

Wood blinds look good in a home, but they aren’t suited for high-humidity areas like your kitchen or bathroom, because the water in the air will make them warp or fade over time, diminishing the appeal of your home. Wood blinds also have to be deep-cleaned with special products like furniture polish or lemon oil, making them a hassle to have in your home. 

Why You Should Buy Faux-Wood Blinds Instead

Faux-wood blinds, on the other hand, afford your home a natural aesthetic without worrying about warping or difficult cleaning measures. They’ve got a rich array of colors and styles, something that might be difficult to find with real wood blinds, and look great in every room of your house. Instead of being limited by your area or your manufacturer, you can choose custom faux-wood blinds instead to better meet your needs. 

Faux-wood is more durable than wood, and they are also easier to clean- you can just wash them with soap and water instead of investing in some new product to make your shades shine again. 

Looking for the perfect faux-wood blinds? Scottsdale has one of the best sources available – Gallery of Shades. Give us a call today to learn more about our inventory!