Blinds; History And Uses In The Home - By: Thomas Pretty

Venetian blinds are some of the most common used in interior design in both offices and homes across the land. The origin of Venetian blinds is a matter of debate although it is generally agreed that they were brought to Europe by Venetian traders during the early medieval period from areas in the Middle East such as Persia. Originally these blind were made up of thick wooden slats, this made them heavy to operate as well as noisy in motion, for instance in high winds. Despite these limitations, in warmer climes venetian blinds became extremely popular; in colder areas however, drapes were a more preferable option.

The colonies that spread across America and the Caribbean often had interiors that used blinds due to the high temperatures. In these colonial houses woods such as walnut were used for the blinds although they were often painted to match the existing decor of the house. It was not until the mid twentieth century however that venetian blinds started to be manufactured from materials such as metal.

These modern blinds were somewhat different from the older variety, the fundamental change being that lighter materials such as aluminium and plastic enabled the blind to be tilted without excessive physical effort. The subsequent benefits were that blinds became a window covering that allowed complete control over the light being let into a room as well as creating large levels of privacy for the homeowner. The result was that blinds became especially popular in offices in the latter half of the twentieth century.

The use of these lighter materials however saw a change in terms of form for the blind. Advances in the manufacturing of vinyl meant that 'mini blinds' were now extremely light, quiet and practical for use in the home. Interior designers started to notice that the privacy gained and minimalistic style of blinds made them perfect for use in the modern home as an alternative to drapes and especially net curtains.

The modern fixation for home designs incorporating large windows in order to allow as much light as possible into the room also meant that blinds were made larger and larger. Floor to ceiling windows created a specialist problem that meant that designers utilised a vertical blind variety that had slats that ran on a roller. Naturally the ability for these slats to be tilted was incorporated in order to allow for light control.

This function of blinds, to allow different levels of light into a room throughout the day can be seen as their most attractive feature for many homeowners. Not only can they create atmosphere at any time of the day an added benefit is that they can stop furniture and other soft furnishings from fading in overly bright rooms. In addition, as blinds can be fitted right in the window frame they are a great way to save space in a room.

Modern manufacturing techniques mean that blinds are now available in a variety of different colours and patterns; it is even possible to obtain a blind printed with a favourite image, such as a family photograph or memorable vista. Ultimately this allowance for a myriad of different colours and patterns is testament to the versatility of blinds as a window covering. For a modern, contemporary feel to any home they should be considered the ideal way to bring a touch of class to interior design.

About the Author

Interior design expert Thomas Pretty studies the key considerations needed when choosing blinds for the home if they are to compliment the decor.

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