Window Blinds and Shades for Small Spaces: 10 Tips and Tricks

When it comes to working with a small space (such as in apartments and condos), the rules for window treatments and coverings can differ slightly. While in traditional homes, you may get away with larger window treatments, as well as darker, bolder style options, in smaller spaces, you want to make sure you aren’t overwhelming your space. 

This means sticking to flush, low-profile blinds and shades and also choosing colours and fabrics that are more minimalistic. In essence, you want to ensure you maximize what little space you have while complementing your existing decor and home aesthetic.

In this article, we will discuss the top 10 tips and tricks for outfitting your small space with window blinds and shades. Keep reading to find out how to make the most of your window treatments in a condo or apartment.

1. Choose cordless styles

Cordless blinds and motorized shades or blinds are great options if you want a streamlined look. Not only are these styles safer for homes with pets and children, but they are also more modern-looking and will enhance small spaces easily. 

Instead of having cords and extra cables to deal with (and look at), cordless window treatments offer a simplistic, minimalistic style that will look much less cluttered in your small space.

2. Choose low-profile options

Wood blinds and roller shades are some examples of low-profile window treatments that are not bulky or heavy. These are much better suited to small homes and areas as they will not overburden a space.

Large, complex designs such as vertical blinds can often feel suffocating in a small space and make the room look even smaller. Choose low-profile designs that fit well into your home and can be mounted flush with your window.

3. Opt for sheer shades

Sheer shades can help open up a room and make small spaces feel more homey and welcoming. This is because they filter out some light but don’t completely leave the room in darkness. 

With some light being filtered through, your space will seem more inviting and will actually look bigger than if your shades were totally room-darkening. Keep in mind that there are many lovely styles of sheer shades that you can choose from, so selection should never be an issue if you go this route.

4. Use mirrors to create openness

Hanging a mirror right in front of a window is a good style choice if you are looking to open up a room. This is because the light from the window will reflect off the mirror and create the illusion of more space and light. 

If you want to brighten up your existing space or make your windows seem larger, use mirrors strategically throughout your home.

5. Mount window coverings higher

When window treatments are mounted higher to the ceiling, it gives the impression that your windows are larger and that you have more vertical space.

This is a great style idea for condos and apartments that sometimes feel cramped and not so spacious. Give it a try when mounting your curtains or window treatments, and you will certainly notice the difference right away.

6. Choose light fabrics

When working in a small space, you will want to choose light fabrics over dark ones. This is especially true for window treatment fabrics like those used for curtains and shades. 

Go for light, airy materials and colours such as whites, creams, and pastels. These colours will give the visual illusion that the space is brighter and more open.

7. Declutter before mounting

Before actually mounting your window treatments, consider decluttering the area around your windows. Also, you want to make sure to give these spaces a good clean as they may have accumulated dirt and dust that can be an eyesore.

Decluttering will make your window treatments stand out more once you mount them and will help your overall space look cleaner, neater, and free from visual distractions.

8. Opt for solids instead of patterns

Another design trick when working with a smaller space is to opt for solid-coloured window treatments instead of bold patterns. While some intricate patterns may be beautiful and tempting to go with, these will be less likely to match your existing decor and can easily overwhelm your living space.

Bright, bold patterns can detract from a smaller residence and make it look overcrowded. Instead, choose simple, solid colours that won’t overcomplicate your home.

9. Go for a custom fit

Custom-fitted window treatments are well worth the additional price and effort. Making sure that your blinds and shades are an exact fit will help ensure that your windows look seamlessly beautiful and cohesive. 

Choose a custom fit and double-check that your measurements are right. If you are unsure, don’t hesitate to contact a professional who can help you measure your windows and get the perfect custom fit.

10. Don’t overwhelm the room

Last, but certainly not least, make sure you are not overwhelming your living space with clashing colours or styles. Try to see the materials and fabrics in person to understand how they will look in your room. 

When in doubt, go for uniform colours and styles that easily work together. And, of course, less is certainly more when working with a small space such as an apartment or condo.

Contact the Window Blinds Experts

Ultimately, the style you choose and how you mount your window treatments will help determine how they fit into your home. Making a few smart and calculated choices, such as cordless options and sheer styles, can enhance your small space.

For more information on window blinds and shades in Toronto, the GTA, and Mississauga, please call Window Blinds Direct at 647-360-7026 or contact us here. Our dedicated Mississauga team can handle any questions you may have regarding our selection of various window treatments.