Roman Shades for Kitchen Windows - A Clever Solution

When it comes to kitchen window treatments, homeowners want options that are both stylish and highly functional. After all, the kitchen is often the busiest room in the house and needs to multitask just as much as we do. This is where roman shades truly shine as a clever solution for kitchen windows.

Roman shades offer the perfect blend of soft, elegant style, practical privacy and light control, and durability to withstand the demanding kitchen environment. Keep reading to learn all about the benefits of roman shades for kitchen windows and how to find the perfect pair for your space.

What Are Roman Shades?

Roman shades are a classic and versatile type of soft window covering. They consist of a flat panel of fabric that attaches to the top of the window frame. When raised, the fabric folds up into neat, cascading horizontal pleats similar to a roman column. This provides its signature draped look when lowered. Roman shades offer privacy and light filtering when closed, and a clean, streamlined appearance when open.

There are several features that distinguish roman shades from other window treatments like roller shades or curtains:

• Sleek, tailored look with crisp horizontal folds
• Made from various fabrics and textures like linen, cotton, velvet
• Cords, rings, or rods allow for easy lifting and lowering
• Stack neatly when raised to preserve window view
• Available as ready-made or custom fit for precision

Roman shades have changed over the years to include updated lift systems, child safety features, blackout fabrics, and enhanced customization. But their essence remains as an elegant and functional choice that suits both traditional and modern decor.

Why Roman Shades Are Perfect for Kitchens

With their stylish good looks and practical abilities, it's easy to see why roman shades for kitchen windows are a fantastic choice. Here are some of the top reasons they are so well suited for kitchen spaces:

Control Light and Privacy

Kitchens need privacy from neighbors peering in but also require light for food prep. Roman shades offer the best of both worlds - simply lower them when privacy is needed but raise them to let light flood in when cooking or cleaning.

Home chefs can filter early morning or late afternoon sun glare while preserving the view. Sheer linens allow softening natural light throughout the day. For nighttime ambiance, dimmable lighting can be layered with a partially open roman shade.

Efficient and Space Saving

In compact kitchens, every inch matters. Roman shades provide an efficient window covering solution. When raised, they stack neatly to give you full access to the window. This prevents a cluttered look in small kitchens and makes opening and closing windows easier.

With minimal fullness when lowered, roman shades don't protrude out and obstruct kitchen walkways like some other treatments. Clean lines and a flat profile help preserve your functional floorspace.

Withstand Splashes and Spills

Let's face it - kitchens can be messy places filled with cooking splatters, sauce splashes, and the occasional spilled drink. Many fabrics can quickly stain or show wear and tear in this environment. Roman shades stand up well to kitchen activity thanks to durable, easy-care fabrics.

Materials like cotton, linen, or poly-cotton blends resist moisture and stains. Just an occasional gentle wipe down keeps roman shades looking fresh in the midst of kitchen chaos. Their simple flat panels also avoid trapping grease and grime like some other window treatments.

Reduce Fire Hazard

Kitchens contain heat sources like stoves, ovens, and toasters that can increase fire risk. Long, flowing curtains near cooking areas raise safety concerns. Roman shades minimize this hazard in two key ways.

First, their compact size and minimal drape remain a safe distance from heat and flames when closed. Second, raising roman shades stacks the fabric neatly at the top of the window, keeping it away from cooking surfaces.

Noise Dampening

The soft, insulating nature of roman shade fabrics helps reduce outside noise. This allows you to enjoy a peaceful kitchen sanctuary even in an urban area or with close neighbors. Lane liners added to the back of the shade enhance sound dampening for maximum tranquility.

Easy to Clean

We all want our kitchens looking their best but don't always have time for deep cleaning projects. Roman shades make upkeep easy. Their sleek panel style eliminates dust-catching folds or pleats. Simple periodic vacuuming or dusting maintains freshness between deeper cleanings.

Many roman shade fabrics also allow spot cleaning with a damp sponge or cloth. Some can even be removed and taken to the dry cleaner when needed. Choosing durable, stain-resistant fabrics further cuts down on maintenance.

Affordable Option

You don't have to sacrifice style for budget when choosing roman shades for your kitchen windows. They provide an attractive and functional option at very reasonable prices. Ready-made shades can cost between $25-$100 per window depending on size and fabric.

Custom roman shades allow you to upgrade design and quality at still affordable averaged pricing of $100-$300 per window. Compare this to the higher expense of other bespoke window treatments.

Finding the Right Roman Shades for Your Kitchen

To enjoy the many perks of roman shades, it's key to find the right fit for your kitchen's windows and style. Keep these tips in mind:

Measure Your Windows Properly

Like any window treatment, accurately measuring the window openings is crucial for the perfect custom fit. Determine width from inside edge to inside edge across the top. For height, measure from the top inside edge down to where you want the shades to fall.

Add about 2 inches to overall width and length if doing an outside mount above the window frame. Take care with inside mount measurements to account for the window inset depth.

Consider Inside vs Outside Mount

An inside mount fits neatly within the window frame, showcasing attractive molding and creating a clean built-in look. Outside mounts install above the frame, providing more versatility for windows lacking in decorative detail.

Inside mounts work well for roman shades, especially in kitchens where you may raise and lower them frequently. Just be sure to factor in mounting brackets and minimum clearance so the shades operate smoothly.

Choose Suitable Fabric and Textures

From breezy linens to cozy cottons and elegant velvets, the fabric you choose impacts both form and function. Light filtering sheers give privacy without sacrificing views or sunlight. Blackout options block light completely for daytime movie watching.

For kitchens, medium-weight fabrics with some texture or body work well to withstand bumps and splatters while still draping beautifully when lowered. Cotton duck, polyester-cotton blends, or Belgian linen are excellent choices.

Select Color to Match Decor

Roman shades come in a rainbow of colors, making coordination with your existing decor simple. Choose bold hues for a dramatic statement, warm neutrals for versatility, or purposeful patterns to enhance the kitchen motif.

Pair shades in the exact accent shade found in kitchen backsplashes, countertops, or appliances for a cohesive finished look. Contrasting shades in tone-on-tone hues keeps the palette sophisticated.

Add Optional Features

One of the appeals of custom roman shades is the ability to add special features like:

• Blackout lining to block outdoor light
• Thermal backing to boost insulation
• Top down/bottom up settings for flexible privacy and light control
• Motorization for hands-free opening and closing
• Cordless operation for added child safety

Choosing options like these allow you to create the perfect product for your needs and budget.

Go Custom or Ready-Made

Custom roman shades guarantee an exact fit and allow you to personalize with specialized details. Ready-made versions offer convenience at lower prices but have less flexibility and sizing options.

Semi-custom shades bridge the gap - start with standard product sizes and personalize with custom fabric, length, and added features. Shop sample books or order free swatches from shade retailers before purchasing.

Places to Shop for Quality Kitchen Roman Shades

Looking for the best roman shades to purchase? Here are places to find quality options guaranteed to elevate your kitchen:

Online Retailers

The convenience of online shade retailers like Shades of Light, Blinds.com, and Select Blinds makes shopping a breeze. Browse their broad selection of custom and ready-made roman shades, order samples to see fabrics, and utilize helpful virtual design tools.

Local Blind Stores

Visit local blind retailers to get professional design advice and see product samples in person. Many provide free in-home consultations to take measurements and help you coordinate fabric with room colors and decor.

Custom Window Treatment Specialists

For a fully tailored product, specialized workrooms like The Shade Store offer the expertise to craft roman shades specific to your kitchen space. Expect higher pricing but enjoy unparalleled customization.

Discuss mounting types, lift systems, fabrics, linings, and any other considerations to bring your ideal vision to life. Local decorators and interior designers often have workroom relationships to assist clients.

Price Considerations

Kitchen roman shades can range from $25 for a basic ready-made shade up to $500+ for a fully customized window with high end details. Most quality shades fall between $100-$300 per window. Price depends on factors like:

• Custom vs. ready-made
• Fabric selected - textures like linen or velvet cost more
• Features added like blackout lining or motorization
• Brand, quality, and workmanship
• Size of windows being covered

Consider roman shades a smart investment that lasts for years with proper care. Their functionality, beauty, and durability justify the reasonable price point for most kitchens.

How to Install and Use Roman Shades

Installing and operating your new kitchen roman shades is straightforward. Follow this advice to get the most from them:

Mounting Tips

Mount roman shades with brackets evenly spaced across the width to prevent sagging. Place them at least 2-3 inches above the window frame for clearance when lifting and lowering the shades.

For inside mounts, position towards the top of the window inset but leave enough depth for the shade to operate properly. Avoid over-tightening screws to prevent fabric dimples.

Raising and Lowering

Cords or lift rings on the back make it simple pull up or down your shades. Lower them slowly and evenly on both sides to maintain the crisp pleats.

Use hold downs on the bottom hem or weights in the hem rod pocket to keep shades from drifting when partially raised. This helps regulate sunlight throughout the day.

Daily Use and Cleaning

Keep kitchen roman shades looking fresh between deep cleanings by periodically using your vacuum's soft brush attachment to remove dust.

For spot spills or splatters, gently blot with a damp cloth and mild detergent. Check manufacturer's fabric care instructions. Some roman shades can also be removed and dry cleaned.

Design Ideas and Styles for Kitchen Roman Shades

The versatility of roman shades suits a wide array of kitchen motifs and color schemes. Here are some inspiring ideas:

Modern Minimalist

For contemporary kitchens, choose sleek roman shades in solid neutral hues like white, tan, or gray. Pair with metal hardware and sparse decor for clean lines.

Farmhouse Cozy

Warm white roman shades with natural linen texture and visible wood rods evoke cozy farmhouse charm. Coordinate with buttery yellows, antique accents, and distressed woods.

Cottage Curtains

Add a delicate rod pocket curtain valance above roman shades in floral prints or gingham checks. Choose cotton fabrics and wood rods for cottage kitchen appeal.

Tropical Chic

Infuse breezy island vibes with roman shades using rattan, bamboo, or grasscloth textures. Pair with palm leaf patterns, cane accents, and bright citrus colors.

Eclectic Mix and Match

For bohemian flair, mount whimsical mismatched roman shades gathered from antique shops and fabric outlets. Play with patterns and combine varied textures.

With their stylish tailored profiles, practical abilities, and durable yet classic nature, few window treatments work as beautifully in busy kitchens as roman shades. They offer the ideal blend of softness and function. Roman shades control light and privacy while providing an efficient, low-maintenance accent that stands up to the rigors of kitchen use.

Hopefully this guide has shown how romans can elevate your kitchen's decor while making your food prep and clean up easier. Remember to measure properly, select suitable fabrics and features, and pair shades with your existing motif. With the right roman shades, you can transform those kitchen windows from utilitarian to inspiring.