You can find wooden blinds in lots of finishes, from lightly pickled to dark mahogany. Their fabric tapes, which come in a wide range of colors, can be coordinated with the fabric on upholstered furniture. In a kitchen, for example, white blinds with red tape can immediately brighten and bring cheer. Metal blinds , which are still ubiquitous in office settings, have a harder look to them. Lately, with so many homeowners leaving the high-tech look behind in favor of a warmer, cozier feel, they are not used as much for residential interiors.
Shutters can darken a room well and offer a lot of privacy.
Standard-size shutters are best for smaller rooms and are compatible with country style interiors. Painted white or stained dark, these window treatments work well in libraries too. For larger eclectic or contemporary-style rooms, wide plantation shutters, from floor to ceiling, can make quite a dramatic statement. Shutters can be costly because they are generally custom-made but make truly elegant window coverings. Sheer curtains can be used in many situations.