Window Treatments: All About Roman Shades

It’s no secret that Roman shades came from Rome, of course. Back in 70-80 A.D., Roman style window treatments evolved at the height of Colosseum construction along dirt and cobble roads, where dust filled the air all day. Citizens would drape heavy wet cloths over their windows to collect the dust and keep it out of their homes. The heaviness of the fabric also served as solar protection from the scorching Italian heat. After seeing the benefits of this, women realized these shades could also be used as adornment. They started using decorative fabrics to add some style and flare to their homes.

This practice was carried into the post Colosseum construction during gladiator events. These shades were more intricate awnings constructed to partially cover the arena and to give protection from the harsh sun. Much like roman shades of today, these had an elaborate system of ropes and pulleys; however, they were not called roman shades. They were given the Latin name “Velarium.”

Today, there are many different variations of Roman shades, and this elegant and tailored window treatment style can be seen adorning many residential and commercial windows in a variety of colors and fabrics.

Check out the Hunter Douglas Roman Shades

Made of woven and non-woven fabrics, Solera® Soft Shades create a fluid, sculpted look. The only soft shades with cellular construction, these Roman shades also come in both light-filtering and room-darkening options.

The dramatic look of The Alustra® Collection of Vignette® Modern Roman Shades makes a room. Exclusive fabrics, rich textures and a finished look with no exposed cords make these shades a defining fashion statement.

Design Studio™ Roman shades come in a wide variety of timeless fabrics like cotton, silk and linen. Available in four distinct styles. Customize even further with tapes, trims and complementary valances.

Vignette® Modern Roman Shades feature consistent folds and no exposed rear cords, keeping windows uncluttered. Choose from different fold styles and sizes, and a horizontal or vertical orientation.

So the next time you’re in your favorite Avalon Flooring location, check out our beautiful selection of window treatments—and do as the Romans did!

At Avalon Flooring, we want to make sure you’re happy from your first step in our showroom to your first step on your new flooring—and as your partner in home design, we’ll be there every step along the way. Consider us your “One-Stop Shopping” destination for all things flooring…(and window treatments)!

Our design consultants are equipped with the knowledge to guide you through the wide selection of products we offer, and our expert installation team is professionally trained to make sure everything gets installed the way you envision. We know your home is an expression of your sense of style, and we’re here to make sure you’ll be proud of it for years to come.

If you have any questions, please email us.