Living True 2 Me

Roman Blinds – From Rome?

Of course as the name suggests Roman Blinds are indeed from Rome, there is some debate about the true orientation of their evolution but a popular theory is that they were invented to counter dust.

In ancient Rome the streets were cobbled and due to the hot climate and heavy traffic from people and horses the air used to get very dusty, the Romans were quite house proud people and so the Roman Blind was born. Of course the problematic dust was also down to the fact the most Roman buildings were created using stone and in the hot summer things would get so bad that the women and servents would wet cloths and hang them across windows to catch this acrid dust.

Dust and Dirt - Todays Rome is Different

Of course the concept evolved and soon the other benefits were realised, protection from the harsh sun and the heat of the day soon evolved these early blinds and before long Roman blinds started to show with personalised features. before long the cities and towns were festooned with colourful and intricate cloth designs with bright colours the main requirement.

It was not long before Roman retailers and craftsmen realised that this was a brand new trade and so a complete industry soon sprung up with new designs and fabrics entering the market consistently. In the end the Roman blind evolved with draw strings and layered cloth, and then also with wooden slats to keep the cloth flat.

In the modern home we still use all the same features that were developed in Ancient Rome but of course these days it is mainly about design and functionality.

When it comes to making a room look good, made to measure blinds can be just the thing. Light has a very special way of making a room feel more welcoming, warmer and more relaxing to be in. But controlling how light fills a room can be difficult, especially if you are stuck with old fashioned curtains, which really just have two settings: open or closed.

But blinds give you an infinite level of control, allowing you to keep the light out when it is too bright – and equally keep the heat out in summer. But also, if it is overcast or rainy, you can ensure that your room receives the maximum level of light.

Many people think that the living room is often the best place to put blinds. It is true that the living room can benefit a great deal from investing in blinds, but other rooms can also benefit. The bedroom, for example, would benefit from blinds, although if you want to be able to keep light out completely, then shutters are probably a better idea.