How To Choose Blinds For Living Rooms

How To Choose Blinds For Living Rooms

Choosing the best blinds for living rooms can be tricky. There are so many options with different functionalities! Plus, it’s probably where you spend most of your time, so you’ll want to make sure you make the right decision.

Rollers, Romans, Verticals, Venetians, Vision, Panel, Pleated, Velux, Perfect-Fit, Shutters, and Allusion are all suitable blinds for living rooms. But to find the best blinds for your living room, you’ll need to consider what you want the blinds for! This is because all styles and fabric choices offer different benefits.

What to Consider When Choosing Blinds for Living Rooms

1) Blinds for Living Rooms with Light and Privacy Control

Is your living room facing the main road, another house, or a busy park? Do you often catch passers-by peering in? If the answer to any of the above is yes, privacy control should be a key consideration.

If it is privacy control you require, we recommend three different blind styles: Vision, Venetian or Vertical. All these styles will grant you almost total privacy whilst still letting the sunlight in.

Vision blinds for living rooms are a great choice, especially if it’s a statement piece you’re looking for! Thanks to their horizontal stripes and flexibility, you have full control over light-blocking and privacy, depending on where you position the stripes.

Venetians and Verticals make fantastic blinds for living rooms. Their tilting slat system allows you to angle the blinds so that an outsider cannot see in, but the light still shines in through the gaps!

Venetian blinds for living rooms

2) Blinds for Living Rooms with Little Space Around the Windows

Are your windowsills filled up with picture frames, vases, and ornaments? If so, be sure to consider how much space is left for a blind.

You’ll be glad to know though, there are still lots of options when it comes to blinds for living rooms with little space around the windows!

Pleated blinds for living rooms are ideal. Firstly, they require very little space in terms of depth. They’ll also improve energy efficiency in your home by insulating your windows!

Perfect-Fit blinds for living rooms are an effective space-saving choice. They’re built into a discreet plastic frame that is attached to your windows with no drilling required! Then, you can open the blinds from the top to the bottom of the frame, without interrupting your windowsill décor! The perfect-fit system works with Venetians, pleated and roller blinds.

Another option is to go for an ‘Exact’ fit rather than the more popular ‘Recess’ blind fit. This way, your blinds will hang over the outside of your windowsill area, rather than within the recess. Take a look at our measuring guide for more information on this!

Perfect-fit blinds

3) Blinds for Living Rooms with Tricky Window Styles

Consider whether your living room has any tricky windows!

Lots of living rooms feature big bay windows at the front of the house. Whilst they’re a desirable asset to have, there will be times when you’ll want to cover those large windows for some privacy.

However, if you do have bay windows, you might be restricted by which blinds you can choose. Your choice of blinds will depend on which style of bay window you have. For example, rollers, Venetians, and Romans won’t work in a ‘Bow’ bay window – however, vertical blinds will! Be sure to do your research.

For more information about which blinds work best for bay windows, have a read of our blog: What Are the Best Blinds for Bay Windows?

Roman blinds for living rooms

4) Blinds for Living Rooms with Hard-to-Reach Windows 

To be honest, whether you have hard-to-reach windows or not, motorised blinds for living rooms are always a good idea. But still, you should consider whether you need (or want) them!

Motorised blinds are operated using a remote control or an app on your mobile. Sounds Perfect! Take a seat, relax, and simply click the button. How much easier does it get! But of course, for blinds on skylight or Velux windows, motorisation will make your life a lot easier!

Having motorised blinds also means you can control them even when you’re at work or on holiday – a great security feature.  

Velux blinds for living rooms

5) Match Your Décor with Stylish Blinds for Living Rooms

Last but certainly not least, you’ll want to consider how the blinds are going to look with your décor.

Blinds for living rooms are not susceptible to the challenges faced by kitchens and bathrooms, so these blinds should last many years! Therefore, we recommend going for a timeless blind design that will endure several living room décor changes over the years.

white Venetian blinds

Feeling inspired? Transform your home with A1’s range of beautiful blinds for living rooms. Our range of blinds for living rooms includes timeless classics, bold prints, and specialist fabrics – all of which are designed to bring an air of luxury to your room. You can also rest assured knowing that our home consultations AND fitting service are both free!

So, think about our tips, browse our range, and book your home consultation today! Our team are always on hand to help you choose the perfect blinds. So, if you have any questions get in touch on 0800 193 0417 or info@a1blindsuk.co.uk.

 

 

 

                                                                                                                                   

 

 

 

Blackout Blinds & Children’s Sleep: A Cosy Recipe for Rest

Blackout Blinds & Children’s Sleep: A Cosy Recipe for Rest

When it comes to getting little ones to bed, few things are as powerful as a pitch dark and well regulated room environment. Blackout blinds for children offer a proven solution – from boosting sleep hormone levels to keeping bedrooms cool in summer and warm in winter.

🌙 Why Darkness Matters for Children

Encouraging Melatonin Production
Exposure to light – even low light – can suppress melatonin by up to 90%, the hormone vital for sleep regulation. A darkened kids’ room enables natural melatonin levels to rise, helping children wind down and stay asleep longer.

Better Quality & Longer Sleep
According to the UK Sleep Council, around 30% of children aged 3-17 struggle with sleep onset or staying asleep through the night. By blocking early morning light or ambient evening glow, blackout blinds in nurseries and children’s bedrooms can help extend total sleep time – especially useful in summer, when dawn breaks as early as 4:30 AM.

    🗣️ Parents’ Real World Experiences

    From UK parenting groups, many families report that blackout blinds dramatically improve early-morning wake-ups and overnight sleep:

    “We desperately need blackout blinds otherwise they’ll be up SO early… just won’t be able to get to sleep.” – Nichole.
    “Blackout blinds saved the day… she slept through the night again.” – Shannon.

    While airflow can be a trade off – especially with Velcro fit or fixed sheets – parents often find blackout solutions for kids that still allow for ventilation, such as blinds with suction cups or thermal liners.

    🌡️ Temperature Control: Summer & Winter Benefits

    In Summer
    • Thick, opaque materials block sunlight and reduce solar heat gain, making children’s bedrooms cooler even without air conditioning.
    • Tips from parents: using reflective foil, keeping blinds closed during heat of day, and opening only when ambient air is cooler.

    In Winter
    • Windows are responsible for up to 40% of home heat loss. Thermal blackout blinds for children’s rooms act as an insulating layer, trapping warmth and reducing the chill from cold panes.
    • Retaining heat helps maintain a cosy sleep friendly environment even on frosty nights.

    📊 Sleep & Health Stats (UK based context)
    • Sleep struggles: 30% of children aged 3–17 experience sleep disruptions.
    • Ideal bedroom temperature: 16–18 °C for optimal REM sleep; both overheating and chilliness disrupt sleep patterns.

    Recommended sleep durations:
    • Ages 3–5: 10–13 hours
    • Ages 6–12: 9–12 hours

    ✅ What Blackout Blinds Offer for a Child’s Bedroom

    • Total or near-total darkness helps children fall asleep more easily and stay asleep longer without waking too early.
    • An added insulation and thermal layer keeps rooms cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter, ensuring year-round comfort.
    • Noise dampening materials reduce outside noise, making it easier for children to rest without disturbances.
    • A cordless or child-safe design improves safety in nurseries and bedrooms, removing potential hazards.
    • Easy-to-open and close blinds offer flexibility for daytime naps or letting in fresh air when needed.
    • Total or near-total darkness helps children fall asleep more easily and stay asleep longer without waking too early.

    🧸 Tips for Parents

    • Choose child-safe blackout blinds – cordless or securely fitted – to avoid hazards.
    • Go for a snug, custom fit to reduce light leakage and maximise insulation.
    • In summer, close blinds during the hottest part of the day. In winter, close them overnight to trap heat.
    • Consider blackout blinds with side tracks or thermal lining for better light and temperature control.

    🌟 Final Thoughts

    Blackout blinds are more than just sleep accessories – they’re essential tools in creating a calm, restful space for kids. They help regulate temperature, support natural sleep cycles, and reduce those early wake-ups that can disrupt the whole household. For children (and their parents), a well-fitted blackout blind might just be the most peaceful upgrade you can make to a bedroom.

    Case Study: St James Boulevard, Newcastle

    Case Study: St James Boulevard, Newcastle

    482 Roller Blinds Delivered for Student Accommodation – On Time, In Full

    Client: Private Developer
    Location:     St James Boulevard, Newcastle upon Tyne
    Sector:     Commercial – Student Accommodation
    Scope:     482 Roller Blinds
    Project Status:     Delivered On Time and In Full (OTIF)

    The Project

    We were proud to be chosen to supply and install 482 roller blinds for a major new-build student accommodation scheme right in the heart of Newcastle city centre. St James Boulevard is a fast-developing area – and this project was all about high-spec, modern student living. Our blinds now form part of that premium finish.

    How It Came About

    This one came through a LinkedIn referral – a great example of our work speaking for itself. Thanks to our reputation for reliability, quality, and our hands-on approach, we were recommended for the job. With in-house manufacturing and years of experience in student accommodation, we were the right fit from day one.

    What the Client Needed

    The brief was clear: style, safety, and performance.
    We supplied blinds that ticked every box:

    • Blackout fabric for full privacy and light control
    • Fire-retardant (FR) materials to meet regulations
    • Colour-matched components for a clean, consistent look
    • A solution that was cost-effective without compromising on quality

    Why They Chose Us

    We brought more than just products to the table:

    • We’re a local manufacturer with full control of our production schedule
    • We’ve got a proven track record in commercial and student accommodation work
    • We listened, adapted, and delivered exactly what was needed
    • Our team kept things simple, professional, and on track from start to finish

    How We Delivered

    From the first site visit to the final installation, we worked in phases, fitting in with the client’s build schedule. Each floor was carefully surveyed, manufactured, and installed without a hitch.

    • ✅ Delivered On Time and In Full
    • ✅ Zero defects across all 11 floors
    • ✅ Smooth installation with minimal disruption to other contractors

    What the Client Said

    “Thank you for A1 Blinds’ commitment to the project – much appreciated. The rooms look very crisp. A1 Blinds have done a very good job and have been very helpful throughout.”

    Nick Campfield, Project Director

    The Result

    This was a big one – and we’re proud of the result. The blinds we supplied don’t just look the part – they add comfort and functionality to every room. More importantly, we proved once again that we can handle large-scale commercial work without ever dropping the ball.

    In 2024 alone, we delivered over £250,000 worth of commercial blind solutions – and with more exciting projects already underway, 2025 is shaping up to be even bigger.

    Ready for the Next One

    With projects like St James Boulevard under our belt, our commercial division is going from strength to strength. If you’re planning a development and want a trusted, local partner for blinds and shading – we’re ready when you are.

    Best Blinds to Keep Your House Cool in Summer

    Best Blinds to Keep Your House Cool in Summer

    When the UK finally gets a stretch of warm weather, it’s brilliant — until your home turns into a sweaty, sleepless oven. If you’re searching for how to keep your house cool in hot weather (without running a fan 24/7), you’re not alone.

    One of the most effective and energy-efficient ways to regulate indoor temperature is by choosing the right window blinds. In this guide, we’ll share the best blinds to keep your house cool in summer, with expert tips and links to products proven to beat the heat.


    ☀️ Why Blinds Matter in Hot Weather

    In the UK, up to 30% of unwanted summer heat enters through your windows, according to government energy data. That’s a big deal — especially in homes with large windows or glass doors.

    Blinds help reduce heat gain by blocking or reflecting sunlight before it warms up your interiors. But not all blinds are created equal. Here’s what to look for.


    🧊 1. Thermal Blinds Work in Summer Too

    Thermal blinds aren’t just for winter. The same insulating layer that keeps the cold out can also reflect heat away from your home in summer.

    By reducing solar gain, thermal blinds can make a room feel several degrees cooler — perfect for bedrooms, loft conversions or sun traps.

    ✅ Top tip: Choose lighter-coloured thermal blinds to reflect rather than absorb sunlight.


    🌓 2. Vision Blinds Offer Flexibility & Style

    Vision blinds combine sheer and opaque fabric stripes, letting you adjust how much light and heat enters your room throughout the day.

    They’re especially effective in rooms where you still want light, but need to control glare and warmth — like kitchens, conservatories or home offices.


    🪟 3. Venetian Blinds Let You Deflect Sunlight

    Venetian blinds, particularly aluminium or faux wood, are ideal for regulating sunlight without completely blocking it. Simply tilt the slats to bounce the sun’s rays upward, reducing heat while maintaining brightness.

    They’re also easy to clean and look great in modern homes.


    😴 4. Keep Bedrooms Cool with Blackout Blinds

    Getting to sleep in a hot room can be tough. Blackout blinds help by not only blocking early sunlight but also reducing heat build-up during the day — especially in south- or west-facing bedrooms.

    Combine them with open windows in the evening for a cooler, more restful night.


    🔧 5. Perfect Fit Blinds = Maximum Coverage

    Perfect fit blinds offer edge-to-edge coverage inside the window frame — meaning less light leakage and less heat sneaking in. They’re ideal for doors, conservatories or awkwardly shaped windows.

    The snug fit means better temperature control and a sleek, tidy finish.


    💡 Bonus Tip: Combine Blinds with Smart Ventilation

    For best results, open windows early in the morning or later in the evening to let in cooler air — and keep your blinds shut during the hottest parts of the day to block the heat.

    Still not sure which blinds are right for your space? Check out our expert guides on the best window coverings to keep out heat and how roller blinds can help cool your home in summer for more ideas and inspiration.

    ✅ Ready to Cool Down Your Home?

    Browse our full range of heat-busting blinds:

    Book your free home appointment here
    📞 Or call us on 0800 193 0417

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