Have you ever walked into a room filled with natural light, only to feel the overwhelming heat pouring through uncovered windows? As Bellingham gears up for another warm summer, it’s time to think beyond aesthetics and consider how your window coverings affect your comfort, energy use, and overall living experience.
With longer daylight hours and rising temperatures, choosing the right window treatments can help you stay cool, save energy, and elevate your space. In this guide, we’ll explore the best window covering ideas and trends for summer that are both stylish and functional.
And if you’re looking for expert advice, Lorraine’s Window Coverings offers customized recommendations and professional installation services right here in Bellingham.
1. Solar Shades: Sleek and Sun-Savvy
Solar shades are a go-to option for homes and offices that get plenty of sun. Their tightly woven fabric is designed to reduce glare and block harmful UV rays while still allowing a clear view outside.
In high-exposure areas, these shades help maintain visibility while significantly minimizing heat buildup indoors. For Bellingham residents who enjoy natural light but not the accompanying heat, solar shades offer a balanced, modern solution.
2. Light-Filtering Cellular Shades: Elegant Energy Savers
Cellular shades, also called honeycomb shades, are known for their impressive insulation properties. Their layered design traps air to create a thermal barrier at the window, helping to keep interiors cooler during the hottest parts of the day.
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, tightly installed insulated cellular shades can reduce unwanted solar heat through windows by up to 60%, making them an effective choice for homeowners aiming to enhance energy efficiency during the summer months. With options ranging from soft neutrals to bold tones, they provide comfort without sacrificing style.
3. Motorized Roller Shades: A Smarter Way to Stay Cool
Smart living meets sun protection with motorized roller shades. These automated solutions let you schedule open and close times based on sunlight exposure or daily routines.
In Bellingham, where the summer sun can stretch into the evening hours, being able to adjust your window coverings remotely helps keep indoor temperatures consistent. They’re perfect for large glass doors, high windows, and anyone who wants comfort with a modern edge.
4. Sheer Draperies with a Purpose
Sheer curtains often give off a soft, breezy vibe—but modern versions do much more. When layered or lined with light-blocking fabrics, they can help diffuse sunlight and reduce UV damage to interiors.
These window treatments soften incoming light while still providing a view and a light, airy atmosphere, making them a popular choice for living rooms, dining spaces, and other areas where style meets functionality.
At Lorraine’s Window Coverings, you’ll find a curated selection of Graber drapery options that balance elegance and practicality. Whether you’re looking for sheers to brighten your space or customized treatments to suit your unique style, Graber Draperies offer tailored solutions designed to elevate any room.
5. Natural Woven Shades: Texture That Breathes
Woven from bamboo, grasses, or jute, natural shades add an earthy, summery feel to any room. Their breathable material allows gentle air circulation and filters bright sunlight without making a space feel closed off.
For Bellingham homeowners who love coastal textures and organic tones, these shades bring nature indoors while helping reduce sun exposure during peak daylight hours.
6. Dual-Function Shades: All-Day Comfort, Indoor and Out
If you’re looking for maximum flexibility, dual-function shades offer the best of both worlds. These shades combine light-filtering and blackout capabilities in one sleek design, letting you easily switch modes based on the time of day.
They’re ideal for rooms that serve multiple purposes—like a home office that doubles as a guest room—or for managing shifting temperatures throughout the day. Meanwhile, outdoor patio shades can extend your shaded living space, making your deck or porch more enjoyable during the summer months.
Whether indoors or out, these versatile coverings allow you to control light, heat, and privacy with ease.
7. Outdoor Patio Shades: Your Backyard’s Summer MVP
As outdoor living becomes a bigger part of Bellingham summers, patio shades are increasingly in demand. These durable coverings help create shaded outdoor spaces for relaxing, dining, or entertaining without the discomfort of direct sun.
Whether you’re hosting a weekend barbecue or simply enjoying your morning coffee outdoors, patio shades extend your livable space while providing sun protection and privacy. Custom-fit options ensure your deck, porch, or patio looks seamless and stylish, while blocking wind and glare.
Stay Cool and Stylish with Expert Help
When it comes to choosing the right window treatments for Bellingham’s summer climate, expert guidance makes all the difference. The right solution not only improves comfort but also enhances your décor and helps you save on cooling costs.
Lorraine’s Window Coverings offers personalized consultations, premium materials, and professional installation—all tailored to your needs and local weather conditions. We are your go-to for seasonal style tips for warm weather in Bellingham, blending function and design for homes and businesses alike
Don’t wait for the summer sun to turn your space into an oven. Book your free consultation today and discover how stylish, functional window coverings can transform your home or business for the season ahead.
