When the cold winter air settles over Mount Vernon and the scent of fresh coffee fills your kitchen, nothing feels cozier than sunlight streaming through your windows — unless those same windows are letting the heat escape. So, how can you keep your kitchen warm and inviting without losing the beauty of natural light?
At Lorraine’s Window Coverings, we know that the right kitchen window treatments do more than complete a look — they help you stay comfortable, reduce energy costs, and create a stylish, functional space that fits your lifestyle. As the temperature drops across Skagit County, here are the 8 best kitchen window treatments for Mount Vernon homes this winter.
Before we dive in, you can explore our full collection of Hunter Douglas shades to discover customizable designs that blend energy efficiency with timeless style. You can also check our blog on the different types of window blinds you can install in your home for a complete guide to matching treatments with every room in your house.
Why Winter in Mount Vernon Demands Smart Kitchen Window Treatments
According to Weather Spark, Mount Vernon winters are chilly, wet, and gray — with average highs in the mid-40s°F and long, damp evenings that make homes crave warmth. Older kitchens with single-pane or drafty windows can lose up to 30% of indoor heat through uncovered glass, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.
That’s why the right window coverings are essential. Insulated shades, lined fabrics, and layered designs not only protect against cold air but also help lower heating costs while adding a decorative touch that complements Mount Vernon’s mix of classic farmhouses and modern remodels.
Here are eight top-performing styles that blend comfort, efficiency, and aesthetic appeal.
1. Duette® Honeycomb Shades – Top Choice for Insulation
If you’re wondering what is the most insulating window covering, look no further than Duette® Honeycomb Shades from Hunter Douglas. Designed with air pockets that trap heat, these shades create a thermal barrier between your kitchen and the cold outdoor air.
Perfect for homes around downtown Mount Vernon or the surrounding hillsides, honeycomb shades retain warmth during early morning breakfasts and minimize drafts near sink windows. Their sleek design also filters natural light beautifully — keeping your kitchen bright but cozy.
Available in a wide range of colors and fabrics, Duette® shades provide the best of both worlds: modern elegance and superior insulation.
2. Roman Shades – Elegant Warmth in Every Fold
Roman shades add timeless style and comfort to any kitchen. Their soft, fabric folds bring a sense of warmth that feels inviting during Mount Vernon’s colder months. For homeowners who love traditional charm with a designer’s touch, Roman shades are the go-to choice.
When lined with thermal or blackout backing, they offer surprising insulation. Whether you prefer a relaxed linen look or bold prints that match your cabinetry, our design team can tailor each piece to your kitchen’s unique personality.
Roman shades are also easy to clean — a practical plus for active cooking spaces.
3. Roller Shades with Thermal Backing – Sleek and Energy Efficient
Modern, minimal, and practical — roller shades have come a long way from their simple beginnings. Today’s versions feature thermal and light-filtering fabrics that provide exceptional control over glare, heat, and privacy.
In Mount Vernon’s kitchens where condensation can build up in winter, roller shades resist moisture and maintain their shape over time. Pair them with a stylish valance or drapery overlay for added insulation and depth.
At Lorraine’s, we carry Hunter Douglas Designer Roller Shades, which allow you to choose textures and opacities that align with your interior style — from rustic farmhouse to modern coastal.
4. Wood Blinds – Natural Insulation Meets Timeless Charm
If you love the organic warmth of natural materials, wood blinds are an excellent way to combine durability and beauty. Their solid slats create a natural insulating layer that helps keep heat inside your kitchen during cold Mount Vernon winters.
They also allow flexible control of sunlight — perfect for bright, south-facing kitchens in neighborhoods like Eaglemont or Big Fir. Whether you prefer deep walnut tones or light oak finishes, wood blinds add character and coziness that synthetic options often can’t match.
For moisture-prone areas near sinks, faux wood or composite blinds can deliver the same look with added resistance to warping.
5. Café Shutters – Classic Charm and Winter Warmth
Café-style shutters are a Mount Vernon favorite for kitchens that blend privacy with natural light. Covering only the lower half of the window, these shutters allow sunshine to filter through the top while keeping chilly drafts at bay.
Made from sturdy wood or UV-resistant polysatin materials, café shutters provide solid insulation and durability even when the temperature drops. Their clean, tailored lines bring a timeless appeal that suits both heritage homes and newer townhouses across Skagit County.
Plus, they’re easy to wipe clean — ideal for busy kitchens where style meets practicality.
6. Layered Drapery & Valances – Soft Style with Serious Insulation
If you’ve ever wondered what is the best material to cover windows in winter, layered drapery is your answer. By combining lined curtains or valances with shades or blinds, you create multiple barriers against heat loss.
Heavy woven fabrics, velvets, or linen blends can trap warm air inside and block cold drafts. They also elevate your kitchen’s ambiance with texture and color. Imagine elegant fabric layers framing your kitchen’s bay window, adding both charm and function.
At Lorraine’s, we help you choose complementary designs that enhance your existing window coverings while providing much-needed warmth and softness.
7. Sheer Shadings with Room-Darkening Liners – Soft Light, Strong Comfort
Winter light in Mount Vernon can be dim and moody — but that doesn’t mean your kitchen has to feel gloomy. Sheer shadings like Hunter Douglas Silhouette® or Pirouette® shades softly diffuse sunlight while keeping heat indoors.
For added insulation, you can pair them with room-darkening liners, transforming delicate fabrics into a surprisingly efficient thermal layer. These dual-function shades are perfect for homeowners who want bright, gentle light by day and privacy at night — all while maintaining warmth.
8. Motorized Smart Shades – Warmth at Your Fingertips
Smart homes deserve smart window coverings. Motorized shades with PowerView® Automation give you control over your kitchen’s comfort with the tap of an app or a voice command.
You can schedule them to open on sunny mornings to capture warmth, then close at dusk to retain heat — ideal for Mount Vernon’s short winter days.
Smart shades not only add convenience but also improve your home’s energy efficiency, blending modern innovation with timeless comfort. At Lorraine’s, we’ll help you integrate these seamlessly into your existing smart home system.
Why Professional Consultation Matters
The best window treatment isn’t just about choosing a style — it’s about precision. Poorly fitted coverings can leak warm air and reduce energy savings.
At Lorraine’s Window Coverings, our team takes accurate measurements, recommends the best materials for your space, and installs everything with care. We’ve helped Mount Vernon homeowners transform their kitchens into warm, stylish spaces that feel like the heart of the home.
Whether you’re updating a historic farmhouse or modern condo, professional design and installation ensure your investment delivers both comfort and elegance all winter long.
Create a Warm, Inviting Kitchen This Winter
Mount Vernon’s winters may be cold and gray, but your kitchen doesn’t have to be. With the right kitchen window treatments, you can enjoy a cozy, energy-efficient space that feels as beautiful as it is functional.
At Lorraine’s Window Coverings, we take pride in helping local homeowners find the perfect balance of insulation, light, and style — all customized for your unique space.
Let’s make your kitchen the warmest and most welcoming room in your home this season.
Contact us today to schedule your design consultation or visit our Mount Vernon showroom.
FAQs
What is the most insulating window covering for winter?
The best option is cellular (honeycomb) shades, like Hunter Douglas Duette®, which use air pockets to trap heat and block drafts.
What is the best material to cover windows in winter?
Look for thick, lined fabrics, wood, or thermal composites — these materials retain warmth and resist condensation common in Mount Vernon’s humid winters.
Can kitchen window treatments really lower energy bills?
Absolutely. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, properly installed insulating window coverings can reduce heat loss by up to 40%, helping lower heating costs during winter.
Which window treatments are best for humid kitchen areas?
Composite shutters and faux-wood blinds are excellent — they resist warping and moisture while maintaining a polished, timeless look.
Where can I find expert installation for kitchen window treatments in Mount Vernon?
At Lorraine’s Window Coverings, we offer professional consultation, custom design, and precise installation to help your home stay warm and stylish year-round.
