WINDOWS

So the main issue I have always had with windows in Hawaii is my natural instinct to do nothing. Why cover up that beautiful view? Well, you kinda have to. First, if you have a west facing window you know how brutal that afternoon sun can be. Not only is it hot but it will fade your flooring, rugs, cabinets, carpet and furniture. Of course, privacy is another concern. And finally, sleeping. Many people absolutely require a fully dark room to get their zzz’s in. So if window coverings are essential, how to decide the best type for your windows. Cost is certainly a factor, window treatments are a significant expense. But the type of material is super important also, especially in the tropics with all that sun and humidity. Here’s a few solutions that have worked well for me over the years and some pitfalls to avoid.

Solar|Roller Shades

Solar and Roller Shades operate the same way and can be manual or motorized. I love Solar Shades for their durability against sun, moisture and bugs. They offer a simple modern solution to both sun and privacy but don’t work on their own if you want to completely darken the room for sleeping. Also at night, depending on the level of transparency outsiders will be able to see movement and some level of definition of items inside your home. Levels of transparency range from 1% to 10%. Allowing you to see some of the view even when they are down. They are up and out of the way when not in use so great for sliders. Roller Shades come in a variety of materials, and can come with a blackout backing if you want 100% privacy and a dark room for sleeping. I prefer motorization options so you don’t have cords to deal with. Most motorization is easily integrated with your phone or tablet.

Cellular Shades

Cellular shades are sometimes called “honeycomb” shades. They are the least expensive option and great when you have to cover a lot of windows on a budget. I think they work best when you can do an inside mount. They also work well on skylights with a motorization option. There are great options for blackout, up/down and hybrids that have both blackout and sheer in the same shade. The down side is that can attract little bugs and dirt in the “cells” - usually dealt with by using a hair dryer to blown them clean.
Photo courtesy of Smith and Noble.

Woven Shades

While the look of natural woven shades is beautiful and perfect for Hawaii. They are a tricky option. I have had issues with wear and tear, literally falling apart with high use areas or deterioration by the sun. There are synthetic wovens that hold up better than natural fibers and prevent bugs from settling in and don’t get moldy. I can’t recommend them for west facing windows or those where there is high use. If you use them go with a high quality vendor, consider a backing and possibly tape treatment for the edges to ensure your investment holds up over time.
Photo courtesy of The Shade Store

Roman Shades

Love the look of Roman Shades. I typically use them as a decorative treatment over Solar Shades to provide more privacy or to darken a bedroom fully. Invest in sun resistant fabrics like Sunbrella or Perennials to ensure they hold their value and to prevent mold. Sturdy fabrics like canvas seem to work the best rather than delicate fabrics for this style.
Photo courtesy of The Shade Store

Sheer Shades

Hunter Douglas pioneered this elegant look with their Silhouette and Pirouette. Other brands have followed. These shades allow a sheer look and see through vein when they are down but can be controlled to provide more sun protection or privacy. Hunter Douglas has now offered a product called Duolite that gives you the look of Silhouettes with a room darkening option. I had a home that had Silhouettes for 15 years and they looked brand new. Only caution is that bugs do tend to like getting trapped in the veins and you will need to blow them out with a blow dryer so they don’t create a permanent stain.
Photo courtesy of Hunter Douglas

Drapery

Drapery is hugely popular right now. Not the formal traditional style of your mom’s house, a more modern look. Light and airy works great for a beachy look. And drapery solves many problems at once - covering a slider, creating privacy, and full room darkening. Sheers and solid drapery panels can be combined for a day to night look. I love a grommet look in a canvas or linen fabric - please choose Perennials or Sunbrella to avoid sun damage and mold/mildew. Or a motorized drapery all the way across a large window wall or slider. The variety of colors and patterns is endless, but for an enduring look keep it simple.
Photo courtesy of Restoration Hardware

Wood Blinds

In many traditional Hawaiian homes, wood blinds were the norm. They still work for a classic look, especially with Hawaiiana décor. There are lots of options available including faux wood which can hold up well over time. Avoid vinyl - it tends to warp in high sun conditions and is not very eco-friendly. These blinds are still around because the work. When open they let the sun in and then can be adjusted through the day and night for the level of privacy and darkness needed.
Photo courtesy of The Shade Store

Plantation Shutters

Plantation Shutters are another classic look that works very well in Hawaiian homes. I love the crisp white look. But beware, these window treatments can take away from your view. Again try to avoid the inexpensive vinyl options as they do not hold up well in the sun.
Photo courtesy of Smith and Noble.

Vertical Blinds

Remember the 90’s - well don’t do that version of Vertical Blinds! There are plenty of those still around but they are dated and look out of place in the 2020’s. They sure are practical though for sliders. Think instead of vertical panels for an updated modern look.
Photo courtesy of The Shade Store