Window Coverings for Your Transitional Spaces

With so many options to choose from, selecting window treatments can be a challenge. Different rooms call for different styles of window coverings - it's not a one-size fits all approach.

Here at Somfy, we pride ourselves on making your life simpler, including helping you choose the right window coverings for your home. With that in mind, we've created a ten-part series to help you choose the best window coverings to suit each room of your home.

Part Nine: Transitional Spaces

Transitional spaces in the home can be among the hardest spots to decorate and are often forgotten in terms of window coverings. If you are lucky enough to have windows in these spaces, we are here to help.

Big and wide windows in these spaces are perfect for expanding the size of the space to the eye. For example, windows in the hallway can dramatically open up an otherwise tight space.

Unfortunately, windows in these spaces are often left naked and bare as it can be difficult to find a solution to suit, but these tricky spaces need quality window coverings as well! Uncovered windows leave your furnishings exposed to UV damage, extreme heat or cold and consquently increased energy bills.

In this month's blog, we look at three common transitional spaces and how you can choose window coverings to suit.

Entryways and Hallways

First impressions are everything and your entryway is no exception. It sets the tone for the rest of your home so you want to create a soothing and inviting atmosphere. Similarly, a hallway should create a special moment as you are lead from one room to another. The type of window treatment you should use depends on the type of window you have in this space. 

Many void spaces swap solid walls for windows which open the space and create appeal by taking advantage of the view outside. This presents an insulation problem as heat can escape in the winter and enter the home during the summer.

Sidelight windows beautifully complement your entryway but extend a lack of privacy, with nosy neighbours able to peek inside your home.

In this space, sheer treatments can combat the problems, offering light control and privacy without completely blocking the sun. Additionally, if the windows in your entryway sit above the door, motorised blinds are the optimal solution, with the ability to control them from wherever you are in the world.

Stairwell

Voids in stairwells open the home to a flood of natural light. They are particularly useful in areas of the home which may otherwise be lacking light. Large windows in voids can create a dramatic focal point and effortlessly enhance the space.

However, uncovered windows can create heat pockets on your stairway during summer and cold during winter which will have your heating/cooling system working overime.

In this space, external venetian blinds are a great solution, having a major impact on the temperature loss/gain. Motorised external venetians allow you to precisely control the amount of sunlight coming in and reducing glare. Venetians are also a good option for privacy protection as the slats can be angled to prevent people from seeing in!

Skylights

Skylights provide spectacular views and an abundance of natural light while also adding a magical design element to your home. They are a sleek way to open up a space but can be a source of unwanted heat. 

Excessive heat gain in summer and glare can be major problems, leaving you wishing you could turn your skylights off! They can also pose tricky problems for window coverings due to their location, shape and angle. However, it is easy to enjoy benefits of skylights all year round with external blinds.

External blinds allow you to control the amount of light coming in and the temperature of your room, all while reducing energy consumption and costs. Most importantly, external blinds block the elements before they reach the window. Don't worry, this doesn't mean you will have to climb up on your roof to close the blind. Somfy motorisation means you can control your blinds using a remote, sensors, timers, a smartphone app or even your voice!

Recommendations

Windows in transitional spaces are the ultimate way to elevate dark interiors. However, it is important to provide insulation with window treatments to avoid precious heat loss or unwanted heat gain. Roller blinds or venetian blinds are great options for these transitional spaces allowing you to maintain a steady flow of light, the level of which is decided by you!

Motorisation is perfect for window coverings in these areas as windows are often high and hard-to-reach, especially with skylights. Using Somfy ensures you can change the position of your blinds whenever you like, and with our automation options, you can leave your blinds to do the work for you!

If you're interested in Somfy-motorised window coverings for your transitional spaces, or would like to know more about our home automation solutions including voice control, speak to your local Somfy Expert retailer today!

More:

Part 1: Window Coverings for Your Bathroom

Part 2: Window Coverings for Your Home Theatre

Part 3: Window Coverings for Your Kitchen

Part 4: Window Coverings for Your Home Office

Part 5: Window Coverings for Your Bedroom

Part 6: Window Coverings for Your Living Room

Part 7: Window Coverings for Your Nursery

Part 8: Window Coverings for Your Dining Room