The shades are light filtering but do offer enough privacy for a common area, prob not a bedroom. They were easy to install and went up in about 10 minutes. They are stained a very dark color. The only thing I do not like is there is not a handle to raise and lower the blinds. I find that annoying but not a deal breaker.  Overall, I like the blinds, I would recommend them, and thought they were a good price.