Privacy Is Not an All-or-Nothing Decision
Many homeowners want the peace of mind that comes with being able to enjoy their home without being seen by prying eyes on the street or next door. Unfortunately, many window treatments accomplish this by sacrificing natural light. The trick is to define when you need privacy and when you can get away with something less severe. It’s also important to consider lines of sight in relation to the room’s function and whether different amounts of screening are appropriate at different times of the day.
Know the Direction of the Views
A bedroom on the first floor with a view of a street requires different considerations than a second-floor living room with a view of a backyard. The best way to evaluate your needs is to stand where you will be standing when you look out the window and see what you can see. Eye level is important, as are other rooms and lights inside the house. Rooms that allow in light at night may be much more exposed than they seem.
Layering Gives More Control
Combining coverings often provides the most flexibility. Sheer curtains can soften daytime views while still admitting light, while blinds or shutters can provide stronger privacy when needed. Exterior roller shutters can also be positioned according to the desired balance between light, visibility and protection. Roller Shutter People is one example of a specialist that supplies shutter solutions designed to give occupants adjustable control over openings.
Use Light Strategically
Light does not necessarily have to come from a fully exposed window. Light colors on the interior, mirrors and reflective finishes may carry daylight further into a room. If a window needs stronger privacy treatment, improving interior reflection of light will alleviate feelings of confinement.
Cover According to the Room’s Needs
Bedrooms generally cater to the need of privacy and light blocking, kitchens provide the need for easy cleaning, and the living room may require smart day-time control. The home office may require reduction of glare, without being overly dark. The covering will vary according to the needs of the room, instead of being dictated to the room by an indiscriminate choice.
Day and Night Considerations
The ability to carry out privacy varies according to the availability of light. As such, a solution that provides excellent results at mid-day, may be virtually ineffective after sunset. Home owners must consider their options in the day and in the night and should assess how often a complete closure is desired. A good solution should allow maximum enjoyment of daylight where and when it is available and still provide the needed privacy.
