Options for Light Filtering

Q: I have wonderful windows in the front of my house that really let in a lot of light. I love the light, but my windows face the street and I'm hoping to improve my privacy with some window treatments. Do you have any suggestions for shades that let me keep the light but also shield me from the street?

A: You're in luck! There are lots of options for light filtering shades! Roman shades, roller shades, and cellular shades (probably the most popular) all come with light filtering options. If you love the look of drapes but like the convenience of shades, you may want to consider Roman shades. If your style is more contemporary or you want a low-profile window treatment, you might like roller shades (Forget the vinyl, modern roller shades come in all sorts of soft fabrics and colors).

Cellular shades, also known as honeycomb shades, are probably one of the most popular choices for light filtering shades. These unique shades have pockets of air that help insulate your window in addition to diffusing sunlight. Like roller shades and roman shades, cellular shades also come in room darkening colors and textures.

Light filtering means that you keep the soft natural sunlight but gain privacy at the same time. Keep in mind, though, that some of these shades will show your shadows at night so you may want to either consider a 2-in-one shade with room darkening benefits, or combine your light filtering shade with a drape or window treatment you can close at night.