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Testimonials
"Hi, I would just like to say that the blinds i received the other day and fitted yesterday are fantastic. My wife is happy and thats worth a million browny points. I will certainly recommend you to my friends."
Mr Smith, Wootton
"Just a short note to thank you for your excellent service. I had difficulties finding a blind long enough for my window, but it was no problem ordering from you. The delivery was very quick and i am very pleased with the quality of the blind. It is a bit of a chance ordering off new sites but i would recommend you to anyone and will most certainly come back to order more in the future. thank you"
Mrs Walker, Gwent
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Vertical Blinds are one of the most popular designs of window blinds. Consisting of fabric strips which hang down from an aluminium headrail,
Vertical Blinds make a versatile window dressing.
Made to measure Vertical Blinds are very easy to operate. Once installed the louvers hanging down from the Vertical Blind headrail can be easily tilted a full 180 degrees by simply pulling on the beaded chain to tilt the louvers. This will allow the user to angle the blind to a degree of accuracy for the users own personal privacy. If the user wishes to open the blind fully, the louvers are simply tilted to hang 180 degrees to the window and then the cord control is pulled. This will open and close the blind accordingly pulling the louvers to either both sides (if a split draw is chosen), to the left or to the right.
With the popularity of Vertical Blinds many homeowners choose to install this style of blind in many different rooms from
bathrooms and
kitchens, to
bedrooms,
dining rooms and
conservatories. With such a wide choice of fabrics within the made to measure Vertical Blinds range, choosing a fabric to suit ones décor is not such a difficult task. Fabrics are available in many colours including the most popular
white,
cream and
beige to the more adventurous colours including
green,
brown and
blue. Not to mention vibrant
red,
orange and
yellow.
Fabrics are supplied in a variety of compositions, however most commonly louvers are manufactured from polyester. These provides a hard wearing fabric which will easily stand the test of time and provide an
easy to clean design.
If you are looking for a washable blind, look out for our range of
washable vertical blinds which can be detached from the headrail and washed in a washing machine on a 40 degree heat once all of the plastic weights, stabilising chain and hangers have been removed. This will result in a longer lasting blind which looks like new after every wash.
Prices for
Made to Measure Vertical Blinds do vary depending on two main factors, the fabric chosen and inevitably the size of the blind required. Whilst it may be considered that a cheaper fabric is of a lesser quality, this is not the case with our vertical blinds. Prices may vary from fabric to fabric depending on many factors, including if the fabric chosen is a
plain or a
patterned. However Vertical Blinds offer a great window covering for a very low price.
If made to measure Vertical Blinds are your chosen window dressing, it is worth taking note of the windowsill depth before ordering. Vertical Blinds are supplied in two common louvre widths; 89mm (3½”) and 127mm (5”). You may choose to go for a wider louvre width if space allows resulting in less louvers, this in turn will leave more window visible when the louvers are opened completely. But please be aware, Vertical Blinds do require the window sill to be clear to operate as the slide along the headrail.
Available in a wide range of colours and designs including
patterned,
plain,
jacquards,
blackout and special performance fabrics including
solar protective fabrics and
dim-out, this style of blind offers a great practical alternative to many other window dressings.
Blackout Vertical Blinds and
Dim-Out Vertical Blinds are a popular choice for night workers or those wishing to sleep during the day. This style of blind will block the light during the day leaving creating a dark room to encourage a good sleeping environment.
Solar protective fabrics or fabrics displaying the SPC symbol (Solar Protective Coating) are coated with a reflective backing on the back of the fabric. This reflective backing will reflect the heat away from a room and is often a popular choice for
conservatories where the room may become very hot during the summer months.
Plain and
patterned fabrics can be equally used as a focal point in a room as well as acting as a
window dressing. For instance, heavily patterned wallpaper can be effortlessly complemented with a plain vertical blind as an alternative for when trying to match the wallpaper pattern is not feasible. Or, in a fairly neutral room with plain walls, adding a patterned or brightly coloured fabric will add a focal point within the room creating a feature of interest.
Made to Measure Vertical Blinds consist of lengths of fabric which hang down from an
aluminium headrail. Within the aluminium headrail securely housed are several gliders which clip onto the louvers with the use of a hanger slotted into the top of the louvers. The gliders then slide along the head rail to open and close the blind when the cord control is pulled. The gliders also have a tilting mechanism built in which tilt the slats when the beaded control is pulled. This provides a
versatile window covering ideal for controlling the amount of light entering a room.
Whilst the louvers hang down from the headrail, the bottom of each of the louvers joins onto the next. The bottom of the louvre is stitched to create a small pocket for a bottom weight to be inserted; this adds weight to the fabric to prevent the louvre from curling. The weights are then joined together with the use of beaded stabilising chain to keep the louvers in line and to prevent any tangles.
Measuring and fitting Vertical Blinds could not be simpler. Take accurate measurements using a steel tape measure, a metal tape measure is preferred as fabric tape measures are liable to stretch. Be sure to take into account any obstructions which may foul the blind during fitting or operation and adjust your sizes accordingly. Also take note as to where the blind will be fitted. Vertical Blinds have two options, face fixed into the face wall or window frame, or top fix into the lintel or ceiling.
You can view our measuring and fitting instructions for our range of
Made to Measure Vertical Blinds by clicking the following link;
http://www.soeasyblinds.co.uk/FAQ
Vertical Blinds owners learn that 'paint can warm up interiors'
Householders who are aiming to spruce up their properties as the autumn months get closer might want to introduce some warm colours to their home interiors, it has been suggested.
Speaking to Leslie Mann in an On the Move blog published by Wicked Local, NestDesignDC's Naly Yang has noted the impact that warm shades can have on a room.
The expert commented: "Painting a room a warmer colour can drastically change the atmosphere."
However, this is not the only way in which the commentator believes consumers can stop their houses from feeling cool.
In the same article, they recommended that people could "create a cozy seating area, or add candles with fall scents for an intimate setting".
Meanwhile, those who wish to make their properties feel a bit more luxurious could pay a visit to a craft shop if they want to enhance the appearance of their interiors in a budget-conscious manner, it was recently suggested by Elaine Doxie in a Helium article.
Green hotel rooms 'should offer attractive blinds' to consumers
When aiming to enhance their green credentials, hotels could offer guests items such as attractive blinds, one commentator has suggested.
Writing in a piece for the Deccan Herald, DBN Murthy has discussed some of the steps that hotels could take to improve their environmental focus.
Energy efficiency lighting is one measure that hotel owners might adopt in a bid to support their eco efforts, they stated.
In addition to this, the writer noted in their article: "For privacy and safety the room should have a metal grill as well attractive blinds or louvers that could be opened according to the needs of the guest."
Homeowners considering the adoption of blinds in the near future may also be keen to hear the views which were recently expressed in a Lon's Article Directory piece by a writer called BobHardy.
He highlighted the past popularity of wide Vertical Blinds among consumers.
Vertical Blinds 'have been popular in recent times'
Vertical Blinds have turned out to be quite popular among many people in previous years, one commentator has pointed out.
Writing in a feature for Lon's Article Directory, an author going by the name of BobHardy has discussed some of the benefits that Window Blinds can offer to consumers.
He commented that while wide Vertical Blinds were favoured by a number of householders not so long ago, horizontal products are seemingly in vogue at the present time.
In his piece, Mr Hardy said: "Blinds can make your room look clean and modern; the most common blinds at the moment are very thin and horizontal."
Off-white is a colour choice that many of those investing in blinds are opting for at the moment, the writer continued.
Meanwhile, the Home and Garden Television presenter Candice Olson recently discussed how she adopted Roman Blinds in a kitchen redesign project, in an article published by Deseret News.
Opening Vertical Blinds 'could add space to student rooms'
Opening Window Blinds, such as Vertical Blinds, could help to add some extra space to the rooms of students living in dorm accommodation, a writer suggests.
Students living in dormitory rooms might want to think about using their Window Blinds in the right way if they wish to make their living space appear bigger than it really is, it has been suggested.
Writing in an article for Helium, Eric Goudie has highlighted the need for people in this position to open any blinds they have in their rooms during daylight hours.
He commented: "Make sure you've got the Window Blinds open during the day, and adequate lighting at night, since the better the illumination the more spacious things will seem."
Storage is something else that students in dorm rooms should think about in order to generate more space, Mr Goudie continued in his article.
Under-bed storage is a topic that people could consider, the writer stated.
In a separate article published by Eco Institution, Jane Forsythe recently pointed out that Window Blinds can help in people's energy conservation efforts if they are opened and closed in the right way.
Holidaymakers 'could shut Vertical Blinds to boost security'
By closing their Vertical Blinds, people heading away from home in the near future might be able to enhance their levels of domestic security, it has been suggested by one writer.
However, security is not the only potential benefit that Window Blinds are capable of offering people, according to Jennifer Derrick in an article for SavingAdvice.com.
In her article, she stated: "Shut all blinds and curtains - not only does this provide security, it keeps heat and cold out (or in, depending on the season)."
Meanwhile, a range of other guidance has also been offered by the commentator, which could prove financially beneficial to householders going on holiday.
For instance, she believes property owners could temporarily shut down their hot water heaters.
Blinds could help people to cool down their homes this summer, it was recently pointed out by Jaime Derringer in an article published by DIY Life.
Vertical Blinds users learn about home selling techniques
Home sellers might want to spruce up their properties by adding a touch of paint to ceilings and walls in their houses, one commentator has pointed out.
When placing their properties on the market, Chandler Man has noted in an article for FavStocks that the ceiling is a key area that may need to be addressed by homeowners.
He stated: "Buyers often check the ceiling for signs of a leaky roof, and they might also be scared away by ceiling cracks that convey a sense of the house's instability."
Meanwhile, owners of Vertical Blinds might also be interested to note the author's views regarding flooring.
He pointed out that real hardwood floors generally prove popular among prospective property buyers.
Earlier in the month, design expert Clare Pascoe, director of Pascoe Interiors, also expressed her belief that wooden materials become more attractive in people's homes as they get older.
Vertical Blinds users 'should undertake safe home improvements'
In a bid to avoid DIY-related injuries, it might be a good idea for the nation's home improvers to start off by undertaking smaller-scale projects, an expert suggests, which could potentially include the installation of Vertical Blinds.
According to National Home Improvement Show spokesperson Michael Holmes, property values and people's wellbeing can both be negatively impacted by botched DIY jobs.
He stated: "Poorly executed DIY can have more than an affect on a homeowner's health and reduce the value of a property as much as five per cent."
Certain specialist jobs might need to be carried out by home improvement professionals rather than householders, Mr Holmes went on to say.
On a yearly basis, DIY hospital admissions can reach 200,000, he continued.
Earls Court in London will host the National Home Improvement Show later this year, with the event due to be staged between October 1st and 3rd.
Students 'can take action to spruce up rooms', Vertical Blinds users learn
University goers could decorate their study rooms in a variety of ways, one commentator has emphasised, which may interest those who are aiming to complement Vertical Blinds.
Writing in an article for the Independent, Emma Prest has noted the steps that students could take in order to spruce up their new homes.
She commented: "Cosy bedding is a must. Take a rug or a colourful throw to brighten the place up.
"Photos of family and friends are good for decorating the room."
Changes should be made by students so that their new rooms become their own, the writer went on to say in her article.
Meanwhile, Ms Prest has also offered a checklist of items that students might want to take with them to university in a bid to ensure they get off to a good start.
These can include cushions, pillows, throws and rugs, she pointed out.
A-Level students across the country will find out whether they have done enough to get into university this year when their grades are officially published tomorrow (August 19th).
People 'including heritage in interior design plans', Vertical Blinds users learn
When enhancing the appearance of their home interiors, some householders are looking to add a touch of heritage to their properties, according to one expert in the field, which may interest those with Vertical Blinds.
The Simon Hamilton and Associates director Simon Hamilton commented that people are trying to introduce a homely feel to their interiors.
He stated: "People want things that are a bit more worn in and have a bit more heritage - not everything has to be absolutely perfect."
Colours and patterns may also be growing in popularity among some consumers, Mr Hamilton continued, following a period in which interior design was quite "pared down".
At present, they seem to be adopting the attitude that not all of the items in their homes have to be "shiny and new", the expert added.
First-time buyers on average spend £3,782 in order to do up their new homes, Santander Mortgages figures recently suggested.
Blinds 'to offer more privacy' at community facility
People visiting one community facility in the coming months may be able to enjoy a greater level of privacy, it has been suggested, with new blinds being introduced to the centre.
According to the Knutsford Guardian, the privacy of those involved in meetings at the Welcome Community Centre in Longridge may be enhanced with the help of the new blinds.
Along with the blinds, a seating area in the facility has also been spruced up, with a shade of blue being applied to it.
The news provider has also reported that various other improvements have been made to the centre in recent times, with a lot of time being put in to repaint parts of the building.
Along with the Longridge centre's renovations, people who use items like Vertical Blinds in their homes may also want to note that the Evening Times recently reported that a new citizenM hotel in Glasgow is to feature Moodpad-controlled blinds.
DIY 'more important than summer holidays', Vertical Blinds owners hear
People should focus on spending money on home improvements rather than holidays this summer, one expert has suggested, which may interest those looking to make use of items like Vertical Blinds in the near future.
According to the National Home Improvement Council director Andrew Leech, consumers might be cutting down on their DIY spending during the summer holiday period.
However, he added: "That is rather a negative approach because really home improvements should take priority over holidays.
"You could say they are more essential than going away for a holiday in this day and age."
With regards to the home improvement trends that currently appear to be in vogue, Mr Leech went on to say that patios are among the areas that people seem to be focusing on.
An average sum of £3,782 is being spent on property enhancements by the country's first-time buyers, research published by Santander Mortgages suggested last month.
Filtering light with Vertical Blinds 'might help protect wood floors'
People with items like Vertical Blinds fitted in their homes might want to use them to stop the sun from their damaging wooden floors, it is suggested.
Commenting in an article published by DIY Life, a writer going by the name of Mrs Fixit has pointed out the potentially damaging impact that direct sunlight can have.
She remarked in her piece: "Direct sunlight can fade and discolour wood floors.
"It's best to filter light in those areas with blinds, shades, curtains, or drapes."
This guidance might apply to those who have fairly large-scale windows, the author continued.
To maintain the appearance of their wooden floors, householders could also clean them on a weekly basis, she went on to say.
Wooden floors seem to be proving popular with a number of the country's homeowners at the moment, Carolyn Park, head of design practice for Carolyn Park Interior Design, recently suggested.
Home decorators 'should adopt objective approach', vertical blinds users learn
In order to improve the look of their home interiors, it may prove useful for consumers to adopt an objective approach, one commentator has argued.
Writing for the Daily Telegraph, interior design expert Nina Campbell has discussed a variety of ways in which householders could spruce up their properties in the coming weeks.
Among her advice, Ms Campbell remarked: "Try taking a more objective view of your room to help transform it. And decide whether all your pieces fit the desired space."
Meanwhile, the expert went on to say in her article that it could be a good idea for homeowners to paint their woodwork to enhance the appearance of a room easily.
When it comes to home improvements, vertical blinds owners may also want to take into account the views recently suggested by Jason Gurskis in a FoxNews.com article.
He feels that tiling can add an elegant touch to domestic properties.
June sunshine 'benefited some DIY sales', vertical blinds users learn
A number of home improvers appear to have purchased certain DIY products in June because of the sunny weather that was seen during the period, new research suggests.
According to figures published in the latest Retail Sales Monitor from the British Retail Consortium (BRC) and KPMG, between June 2009 and the same period of this year, a 1.2 per cent growth in retail sales values was witnessed on a like-for-like basis.
Home improvers who have recently aimed to spruce up their windows with vertical blinds may be interested to note that the study suggests the sunshine offered a boost to June's outdoor DIY sales.
Discussing the month's overall retail figures, BRC director general Stephen Robertson commented: "This is decent sales growth, mainly explained by good weather and earlier summer clearances."
Meanwhile, for those looking to enhance the look of their bathrooms, free-standing baths could be a "luxurious" choice for consumers, it was recently noted by Essential Kitchen Bathroom Bedroom Magazine editor Ronnie Whelan.
Vertical blinds 'can make windows more energy efficient'
By opting for made to measure vertical blinds, people might be able to make their windows more energy efficient.
That is according to Jean Brown, who has written in an article for AnnArbor.com that consumers can lower the amount of heat that is lost from their windows by covering them effectively.
Ms Brown has commented: "Interior blinds, either horizontal or vertical, are a good choice because the slats can be used to control light and ventilation in the summer."
Meanwhile, the expert went on to say that window insulation is another option that householders might want to consider, as their energy efficiency may be enhanced with the use of such kits.
In England, homeowners have been able to improve their efficiency by taking advantage of the government's boiler scrappage scheme in recent weeks.
According to the Energy Saving Trust, 125,000 vouchers were claimed under the scheme by March 26th.
Parents 'should involve teens' in bedroom design decisions
When redesigning the rooms of their teenage children, homeowners have been advised to consult their children first.
Speaking to the Flint Journal's Jennifer Kildee in an article published on mlive.com, design expert Sabrina Soto has recommended that people get their teens involved in the decision-making process.
She stated: "Treat them like you're an interior designer and they're your client."
Meanwhile, the news provider also reports her as saying that storage space is something that householders may want to think about when considering improvement work.
She commented: "As kids get older, they need more storage space."
While Ms Soto's guidance may prove interesting to those considering the introduction of products like made to measure vertical blinds, she is not the only designer who has recently offered tips concerning the designs of teenagers' bedrooms.
Interior design expert Priscilla Castellano feels that the summer months offer a good time to carry out such work.
Floor lamps 'a popular design option' for homeowners
Floor lamps are among the lighting options that many people seem to be going for when planning their home interiors, according to one commentator.
Writing in an article for IrishTimes.com, Isabel Morton has noted that householders appear to be selecting the likes of arc lamps.
She commented: "Apart from subtle mood lighting and dramatic table lamps, floor lamps (such as arc lamps and stage lights) are popular."
Meanwhile, Ms Morton also pointed out some of the other trends that are currently being seen in the furniture market.
In her article, she has written that "smart but comfortable sofas" are among the items that people are selecting.
While Ms Morton's advice may appeal to those considering the introduction of new vertical blinds, homeowners might also benefit from tips recently outlined by interior designer Priscilla Castellano.
The expert from Andrea Lauren Elegant Interiors thinks that the summer months could be a good time for adults to consider redecorating the rooms of their teenage offspring.
Made to measure vertical blinds 'can shade homes from sun'
There are a number of measures that householders could take if they want to keep their properties cool this summer, a report suggests, which may include the use of vertical blinds.
A Tulsa World article has outlined a range of tactics that people might want to adopt in a bid to address the problems posed by strong sunlight.
"Close the blinds and drapes on the south and west sides of the home to keep the sun from coming in through the windows," it recommended.
However, the news provider's guidance does not stop there.
For windows that do not make use of blinds, the article hints that lightly coloured shades could be a good idea as they tend to reflect heat.
A writer known as Tom C also recently noted the potential benefits of closing blinds on sunny days, using a piece on money.gather.com to outline his views.
Large interiors 'could benefit from bolder colours'
Using bold colours might prove to be a good option for homeowners who are aiming to effectively repaint a large area of their property, it is suggested, which may appeal to those with made to measure vertical blinds.
An EMC News article published by EMC Orleans has noted that strong shades of paint can give a room a more dramatic tone.
The news provider reported: "Darker, bolder colours can create a dramatic feel and are often perfect for larger spaces.
"However, don't be afraid to use colour in a smaller space such as a powder room."
Nevertheless, the article also has advice for people who are considering putting their property on the market in the near future.
It suggests that such consumers might want to adopt neutral shades of paint.
When it comes to interior design, it was recently suggested by Marni Jameson in a piece published by the Arizona Daily Star that bedrooms can be decorated to serve a healing purpose.
Homeowners offered bedroom design advice
There are a number of measures that people can adopt if they want to create a more relaxing environment in their bedroom, an expert has suggested.
Speaking to the Daily Record, Janet Simon remarked that she favours the use of matchstick blinds in rooms.
Meanwhile, the interior designer also believes that homeowners should try to avoid cluttering their bedrooms.
In relation to her own design approach, the news provider reports Ms Simon as saying: "When I'm designing a bedroom, I try to recall elements from all the beautiful hotels I've stayed in and think of what made me relax and what didn't."
Neutrally shaded carpet made from soft material is also something that she suggests can work well in calming bedrooms.
Meanwhile, people looking to cover larger windows in their properties might want to consider the use of vertical blinds, an article in the Galway Advertiser recently reported.
Made to measure vertical blinds 'can be ideal for larger windows'
People might want to consider vertical blinds when thinking about covering larger windows in their homes, it has been suggested.
An article published by the Galway Advertiser has noted that a variety of materials can be used to make vertical blinds, including wood and fabric.
In the piece, the news provider has commented: "They are great for sliding patio doors, picture windows, or any other large window."
In more general terms, the article states that householders can currently choose from a wide variety of window covering options.
"High-tech shutters, shades, blinds, fabrics, and decorative hardware" are said to be among the products that people have the ability to invest in at the present time.
Earlier this week, research published by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) and Shelter suggested that a number of UK consumers are very keen to try and enhance the way their property appears.
Many UK homeowners 'keen to improve property appearances'
Many people who are considering home improvements would like to enhance the way their property looks, new survey results suggest.
People considering the purchase of made to measure vertical blinds to make their houses look more attractive might want to note the findings of research published by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) and Shelter.
Of those polled in the organisations' study, 74 per cent of budding home improvers are keen to change the image of their property for the better.
RIBA's president Ruth Reed has noted the potentially useful design guidance that architects might be able to offer householders.
She commented: "Only architects can give the bigger picture, offering design inspiration, knowledge of the latest fixtures and fittings, and advice on everything from planning regulations to energy efficiency."
Meanwhile, Andrew Leech, director of the National Home Improvement Council, has recently suggested that home improvers might also want to incorporate energy efficient measures into their design plans.
Could vertical blinds help deter burglars?
People might be able to enhance their home security by ensuring that their blinds are carefully angled, an expert suggests, which interest those with the likes of made to measure vertical blinds.
The Henley Standard has reported Julia Wheeler, crime reduction advisor for the Henley area, as saying that angled blinds could stop burglars from seeing valuable items through people's windows.
Net curtains might serve a similar purpose, according to Ms Wheeler.
Meanwhile, the news provider also reports the expert as saying that consumers should aim to check that their ground floor windows are fully secured before they leave their house unoccupied.
The advice issued by Ms Wheeler follows three cases of burglary in the Goring area, which took place earlier this month.
Meanwhile, the threat posed by distraction burglaries has also been highlighted this week by Sainsbury's Home Insurance.
The firm recommends that householders should avoid storing large amounts of cash at their property.
Home improvers 'must avoid safety risks'
When making enhancements to their properties, homeowners need to have safety at the forefront of their minds, it has been noted.
Those looking to install made to measure vertical blinds or try their hand at painting might want to heed the advice of safety expert John Drengenberg.
"With kids running around, a leaky bathroom faucet ... and a house that needs to be repainted, it's easy for parents to overlook the potential safety hazards associated with fixing up the home," commented Mr Drengenberg, who acts as the consumer safety director for Underwriters Laboratories.
He went on to say that householders should not go overboard when it comes to making DIY improvements.
Instead, they should consider hiring professionals for tasks that require a high level of skill.
Media 10's group marketing manager Rob Nathan recently suggested that bolder colour schemes are likely to be adopted by many home improvers in the near future.
Redecorating 'may not solve major home problems'
Home improvers should be wary of simply redecorating their properties while choosing to forget about larger issues that need to be urgently addressed, it has been noted.
Halifax Home Insurance's Martyn Foulds is reported by Mirror.co.uk as saying that important home renovations often seem to be pushed aside in favour of cosmetic improvements, which could potentially include the introduction of vertical blinds.
However, he commented: "Looking after cosmetic things and finishing touches, rather than structural problems, is fruitless and could end up costing an awful lot of money."
According to the news provider, water damage is just one potential threat that Mr Foulds believes that property owners might have to contend with if they are not careful.
When it comes to DIY, David Shepherd, brand manager for Dulux, recently noted that some householders appear to be combining both bright and neutral colours when repainting the interiors of their properties.
Simple designs 'proving popular among homeowners'
Simple designs appear to be proving popular among a number of householders looking to decorate their properties, an interior designer suggests, which might interest those considering the introduction of products such as made to measure vertical blinds.
Speaking to Trinidad & Tobago's Newsday publication, Trevalyne Paul Tuitt stated that clutter-free homes are what many people seem to be after.
She told the news provider: "A lot of people now are into a very simple design, where there are clean lines, minimalistic furnishings and bright colours.
"People are staying away from clutter."
Meanwhile, the expert also pointed out that people do not always have to rely on professionals to help spruce up their homes.
The importance of colour and space planning are among the things that property owners might be able to learn more about and put into practice, she suggests.
Meanwhile, home improvers might also be keen to note the view of Rosemary Sadez Friedmann, who wrote in a Scripps Howard News Service article that window coverings should fit in with the existing style of a room.
Skipton school science lab set for new blinds
New blinds are set to be introduced to a Skipton school's science laboratory, following the allocation of financial support.
Along with the blinds, the lab at Ermysted Grammar School will also benefit from new lighting in the near future, its head teacher told the Craven Herald and Pioneer.
The news provider reports Graham Hamilton as saying: "The room needs proper benches and lighting, new windows and blinds, and all that we will be able to do now."
A variety of organisations are providing the funding to help the school make the necessary improvements, including North Yorkshire County Council and the Wolfson Foundation.
In total, a sum of around £128,000 is to be provided.
Meanwhile, those considering the introduction of made to measure vertical blinds slightly closer to home might be keen to note that Britannia Living's brand manager Robert Cassidy believes that householders notably appear intent on personalising their kitchens.
Home interior tips given for halls
Homeowners should focus on whether to use made to measure venetian or made to measure vertical blinds in their hallways, one design expert has said.
According to Rosemary Sadez Friedmann, journalist for the Courier Press, the floors, walls and windows need to be the focal point of any hall area if it is not big enough to fit eye-catching furniture in.
Any blinds should be complemented with rich, textured wallpaper, a rug in the centre of the room and tasteful lighting to brighten up any photographs or paintings which are hung on the wall, it was recommended.
Ms Friedmann added: "Any of these ideas will turn a simple utilitarian hallway into an interesting and attractive centerpiece of your home."
Living-in-space.com interior designer Anita Kohn recently told the Daily Mail that homeowners opting for fashionable "nude" colour themes when decorating should contrast wooden Venetian blinds against softer fabric furnishings.
Home sellers offered window and blinds advice
An expert has outlined some of the ways in which people might be able to improve the appearance of their home by making good use of windows and blinds.
Writing in an article for the Desert Sun, Ken Cross has highlighted the potential importance of windows when people are trying to show off their properties to prospective buyers.
He advised: "Let the light in. Clean your windows and show off the view."
Meanwhile, Mr Cross also suggested that homeowners could alter the position of their blinds to make a house more attractive, which might appeal to those with made to measure vertical blinds.
Commenting in his Desert Sun piece, he added: "If the view is bad, angle the blinds so light comes in but the view is diffused."
Meanwhile, the importance of lighting in people's homes was also recently emphasised by George Clarke, a home improvements expert at the Ideal Home Show.
Teign Housing commits to affordable home improvements
The company responsible for Teignbridge Council's housing stock has launched a new £20 million maintenance programme to refit the majority of the properties.
Teign Housing will begin improvement work, which may include the installation of new vertical blinds, across the 3,500 homes it is responsible for in the area, reports the Herald Express.
The firm is keen to ensure tenants have a better quality of life and lower heating bills, which is the main reason for the improvements to meet government standards.
It comes less than a week after Teign Housing was granted approval to regenerate five buildings in Teignmouth.
The £3 million makeover will include improvements to external walls and roofs.
Commenting ahead of the work beginning, deputy chief executive at the firm Jo Reece explained: "We believe the new and improved buildings will have a positive impact on our customers and the wider community."
Girls Aloud singer turns hand to interior design
Homeowners will soon be able to team vertical blinds with celebrity wallpaper, after Sarah Harding announced she was branching into interior design.
The Girls Aloud singer has been busy perfecting her own wallpaper product, which will feature prints of herself in a variety of designs, reports the Daily Star.
A source told the newspaper: "For Sarah to have her picture on wallpaper at such a young age is pretty amazing.
"She has an amazing body that looks fab in photos and will look even better covering a wall. It's going to be a massive seller."
Homeowners could team colourful vertical blinds with a feature wall, perhaps featuring Sarah Harding printed wallpaper, to achieve a chic look in 2010.
Interior designer Adrienne Chinn noted earlier this month that homeowners are becoming more relaxed and courageous about fun room refurbishment.
She added that there are plenty of opportunities for homeowners to personalise a space, perhaps with some vintage items, colour or an unusual pattern.
Feminine florals 'could refresh a bedroom' this spring
Feminine florals could give bedrooms a fresh new look for spring, it has been claimed, with certain shades expected to be popular in 2010.
A colour palette of "soft duck-egg blues and greens" will be "bang on-trend" this season, according to Ideal Home Magazine.
This advice holds whether homeowners decide to match vertical blinds with duvets and other bed linen, or if they adopt a mixed approach.
Earlier this month, interior designer Linda Barker highlighted the importance of doing research before embarking on a bedroom refit.
She suggested that homeowners collect together colours and swatches from magazines to collate and compare ideas and motifs.
Ms Barker added: "I really encourage people to do it for themselves in their own home, it need not be elaborate at all but it just kind of helps people to focus their ideas.
"They can see a recurring theme or a recurring pattern, that kind of thing."
Kelly Holmes admits love of Hoppen interior design
Olympic gold medallist Kelly Holmes has explained that one of her few true star-struck moments occurred with interior designer Kelly Hoppen.
In January, Hoppen suggested that shabby chic will be the next big trend to hit interior design in 2010.
In an interview with Mrs Magpie, she suggested that the style will be popular emerging from the recession, with homeowners keen to use vertical blinds and other fittings to make a home look lived-in, personalised and cosy.
Speaking to the Mirror, Holmes explained that she has all of Hoppen's books, which is why visitors to the Olympian's house should be unsurprised by any Hoppen-inspired use of vertical blinds.
Commenting on her meeting with the designer at an event, she told the newspaper: "It's because I love interior design so much and she's such a heroine of mine."
DIY home makeovers are 'no surprise' in economic climate
It is little surprise that many Brits are choosing to fit their own vertical blinds to save on tradesman costs during the economic downturn, it has been claimed.
However, Andrew Skipworth, founder of tradesmen search portal Ratedpeople.com, has urged homeowners not to cut corners on more complicated tasks such as fitting appliances.
He said that DIY projects are an obvious way to save money, but underlined the importance of having someone with the appropriate expertise on hand to ensure the proper safety procedures are being followed.
Mr Skipworth added: "It is not surprising that home owners are trying to save and do the work themselves, especially given the economic climate.
"However, it is more important than ever that home owners don't throw their money away by taking on more complex work and getting it wrong."
Commenting earlier this week, the news editor at Construction News magazine Alex Hawkes suggested that property owners are more likely to undertake existing home refits rather than invest in new builds during the economic downturn.
BBC Trust calls on interior designers at new London offices
The BBC Trust has splashed out on interior designers and other experts to refurbish its new central London offices, spending £3.2 million on the revamp.
Although the watchdog claims to have recycled and reused furniture and fittings, such as office tables and vertical blinds, where appropriate, it has come in for heavy criticism for its allegedly frivolous use of taxpayers' money.
Around £250,000 is thought to have been spent on interior designers at the new headquarters - a converted Edwardian mansion - which appears to a number of MPs to be in conflict with its responsibility for ensuring that British taxpayers get value for money from the BBC.
Shadow culture secretary Jeremy Hunt described the refit spending as a "ridiculous situation".
He added: "What with this and reports of massive overspending on buildings, the whole of the BBC needs to get a grip."
Office makeovers have been on the increase during the recession, the chairman of the Society of British Interior Design Vanessa Brady told the Times last week.
She explained that the increase has come at just the right time, with commercial clients replacing private ones on many interior designers' books.
Office makeovers on the increase
Businesses are replacing homeowners as the main clientele for interior designers, as firms strive to improve working environments.
A number of companies, such as Google, Confused.com and Innocent Smoothies have set the bar high when it comes to creating a homely office workplace.
However, interior designers are increasingly being enlisted by commercial clients to kit out buildings with vertical blinds and other fittings.
Speaking to the Times, chairman of the Society of British Interior Design Vanessa Brady suggested that this rise has been unexpected for many in the industry.
She told the newspaper that the imminent introduction of a new law requiring public buildings to have carbon reduction strategies in place has also sparked a move towards commercial refits.
Ms Brady explained: "This forces the upgrade to include environmentally-friendly lighting, heating and insulation."
Earlier this month, interior designer Adrienne Chinn suggested that adding colourful accents to an building environment such as an office is a great way to create a new look for very little cost.
This could be particularly appealing for businesses keen to improve their office environment as they emerge from the economic downturn.
Bright red vertical blinds 'may enhance a colour space'
Bright red vertical blinds could help to enhance a small room by adding a splash of colour to a space, it has been suggested.
Homeowners should be bold with their colours, as well as making the most of space with floor to ceiling storage, interior designer Kia Sunda told the Guardian.
In her recent interview with the newspaper, she added that some rooms will "always be dark - regardless of the colour you pick".
Ms Sunda added: "Work with the shadows it has; that way, instead of people putting on the light and still saying, 'Oh, it's dark in here', they'll say, 'Wow, what colour is this?'"
Interior designer Adrienne Chinn indicated earlier this week that using accent colours is a great way to update a home on a budget, noting that paint is cheap and can often be a great complement to white wooden Venetian blinds and other fittings.
Bright coloured blinds could be back on-trend
Use of bright and vibrant colours across vertical blinds and other interior design accessories is becoming increasingly popular, it has been claimed.
Interior design clients are becoming more amenable to the use of colours than they did five years ago, according to Adrienne Chinn of Adrienne Chinn designs.
She explained that she is finding much easier to use colours with clients.
Ms Chinn added that a few years ago "everybody wanted taupes and neutrals and creams".
"What I am finding is we are going for quite fresh colours, fresh apple green accents, fresh turquoise, a bit of purple, ... [and] fresh pinks. Still with neutrals being there to tone it all," she added.
According to House Beautiful Magazine, patterned fabrics and tailored upholstery are coming back on to the interior design radar, with the widespread influence of retro decor in cult TV shows such as Mad Men taking hold of people's imaginations.
Comforting blinds and furniture 'help provide cocoon during hard times'
Vertical blinds in warm colours are likely to be the preference of homeowners during the economic recovery, according to an interior designer.
People like to feel cocooned during hard times, according to Mary Leslie, such as with warm colours and soft furnishings.
This has prompted a move away from neutral colours and angular furniture, such as black oak, chrome and greige during the recession, she suggested.
Ms Leslie, who is a member of the British Institute of Interior Design, explained: "I think the trend away from that quasi Italian-style decor will move beyond the designers and into the mainstream over the next few seasons.
"When times are hard, people want comfort and cocooning and as the hard times may continue for a few years yet, I believe that will be reflected in the home."
Those keen on investing in some comforting made to measure roller blinds or vertical blinds this spring should ensure that they get their window size right.
SoEasy Blinds recommends using a metal measuring tape as the best option as fabric tapes are prone to stretching, which can lead to inaccurate measurements.
Powers could tackle landlords with blind-less properties
Councils will receive extra flexibility to license landlords, allowing them to better regulate private lettings that do not offer suitable living conditions for tenants.
Housing minister John Healey has announced that councils will be able to introduce their own licensing schemes in areas where landlord management is a problem.
A new National Landlords Register will also be introduced to raise standards across the sector.
Mr Healey said: "Private landlords play a big part in meeting the housing needs of millions so I want to raise the standards and stamp out the worst landlords that drag down the reputation of the rest.
"Councils know their communities and are best placed to help tenants facing landlords who rent unsafe or substandard accommodation."
Roller blinds installed to improve the quality of a letting property can also be used to improve energy efficiency, according to the Tribune Democrat.
Speaking to the newspaper, a spokesperson for US FirstEnergy suggested that tenants close their blinds during the summer to cool the house, allowing them to potentially reduce the use of air conditioning units.