Custom Window Coverings in Seattle: What New Homeowners Need to Know
Written By Armi Avila
When you first walk into a home with big, beautiful windows, it’s hard not to fall in love. In cities like Seattle, Bellevue, Kirkland, or Mercer Island where natural light is so prized, it’s often one of the first things that draw people in. The way the sun brightens the hardwood floors and light floods the room... it’s magical.
That magic is usually still there on move-in day. Until it starts to fade—just a little—when you realize you can see your neighbor sipping a cup of coffee… and they can probably see you, too. Or when you must turn off the lights to use the bathroom because the bare window is directly in front of the shower.
From Dreamy Views to “Do They See Me in My Pajamas?”
A lot of new homeowners have that moment. You settle in, maybe your furniture isn’t there yet, and suddenly the thing you loved most — all that light and view — makes you feel a bit on display, like living in a fish bowl. It’s one of the most common things I hear from clients after they move in: “We love all the windows, but I didn’t realize how exposed we’d feel once we were actually living here” or “I don’t know how the previous homeowners managed without covering the windows.”
Some homes don’t come with any window coverings. Others have mismatched blinds from (multiple) previous owners that don’t suit your style or your needs. Then there are those that looked fine during the walk-through but fell apart the moment you try to operate them. Either way, figuring out how to cover the windows becomes an unexpected—and sometimes overwhelming—project.
Planning Before Move-In (If You Can)
If you’re ahead of the curve thinking about window coverings for your new home before you move in — great. That’s an ideal time to start the conversation. If the in-home consultation and order placement occur in a timely manner, there’s a good chance we can install them shortly after closing and before you move in. It’s not uncommon for clients to book a consultation while they’re still in escrow. That way, by the time they get the keys, things are already moving forward. However, be sure you’re fully committed to the home before purchasing.
The Decision Fatigue Is Real
That said, not everyone is ready to jump into window covering decisions before move-in—and that’s perfectly okay. With all that comes along with a new home, sometimes what you really need is a little time to settle in.
After moving, your brain is juggling a million things—unpacking boxes, furniture layout, appliance deliveries, switching utilities, where your socks are. Window coverings can feel like yet another decision. And if you’ve ever tried to Google “best blinds for a living room,” you’ve probably ended up in a sea of links, unsure what the difference is between a cellular shade and a roller shade.
It’s no wonder so many homeowners go with temporary paper shades or even bedsheets—meant to be “just for now”—only to find them still hanging six months later. There’s no shame in that. Life is busy.
If it helps, something to keep in mind is that you don’t need to figure everything out right away. Most people start by prioritizing:
- Bedrooms — for privacy and better sleep, especially if you have young kids
- Bathrooms — for obvious reasons
- Living spaces — especially if they face the street
- Entryways — to avoid awkward eye contact when you don’t want to answer the door
- West and south facing windows — because of heat and glare
Even just tackling a few of these spaces can make your home feel more comfortable right away. If you’re unsure where to even start, having someone walk you through your options—tailored to your space and lifestyle—can be such a relief. You can address most rooms all at once or go for a phased approach. There’s no “right” way—just what works for you and your household.
Not Just About Looks: Comfort, Privacy, and Function
In a place like Seattle, window coverings do more than make your home look finished. They:
- Control glare, especially in the afternoon and evening when working from home or watching TV
- Provide insulation, which can help with heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer
- Offer privacy, especially in neighborhoods where homes are close together
- Manage light, whether you’re letting it in or blocking it out
Certain materials and styles perform better depending on the room, the window size, and even the direction it faces. And that’s not something you should have to figure out from an online dropdown menu.
Seattle Homes Have Character (and Challenges)
Older craftsman homes, modern townhomes, or new builds with oversized windows—all have their quirks. I’ve worked in homes with angled ceilings, transom windows, huge sliders, and tiny corner windows where privacy is still a concern. Some of these will make you scratch your head, as you and the new homeowner look at each other and ask, “Hmm, what were they thinking?”
You’re Not Alone
Sometimes you just need someone who sees things differently and knows the right questions to ask:
- How do you want this room to feel?
- Do you like waking up with light or prefer the room dark?
- Are there kids or pets to consider?
- Would you benefit from automation?
The answers lead to solutions that fit—not just your windows, but your lifestyle.
Whether you just got your keys last week or you’ve been living with bare windows longer than you planned, know this: you’re not behind. When you’re ready, help is here.
We work with new homeowners all over Seattle, Bellevue, and the surrounding areas, whether you need ideas for one room or a plan for the whole house. If you’re at that “we need to do something about the windows” stage, you’re in good company. Let’s make it less stressful—and maybe even fun.
We are here to help! If you live in Greater Seattle or Bellevue and the Eastside, please feel free to give us a call at 206-801-6010 or email us at info@blindsbyarmi.com. Congratulations and welcome home!
Transform Your Home For Your Custom Window Coverings Needs In Seattle & Bellevue