Key Points
- Simple, stylish, and often budget-friendly, Roman shades are 2026’s biggest window trend.
- Valences, trims, and woven shades bring back a modern, classic warmth to spaces.
- Smart shades will also be in demand, bringing in tons of light.
Do not underestimate the power window treatments have in shaping a room. Far from just being a practical home solution, choosing the right window treatments plays a significant role in tying a space together.
We were curious which styles and window treatment types will make major waves this year, so we tapped a few experts for their predictions.
Roman Shades With Blinds
Interior designer JoAnna Baum says she’s already seeing increased use of Roman shades paired with blinds—and she only anticipates this trend will continue into 2026.
“It’s a more casual vibe, but with intention,” she says. “The look feels effortless yet deliberate, a no-nonsense approach that still reads as thoughtful and refined.”
She envisions this setup at play in a space such a sunroom or kitchen in particular.
Regular Roman Shades
Erin Williamson Design
Roman shades on their own are also popular among designers, and they’ll continue to be. Interior designer Jennifer McKissick appreciates using these in lieu of heavy drapery.
“They require about one-fourth of the fabric that long drapery requires, making them a great option to incorporate more expensive fabrics into your space,” she says.
You could even go the ultimate budget-friendly route by DIYing your own by using leftover fabric from a past project. McKissick shares that she will most often weave Roman shades into kitchens, laundry rooms, and powder rooms.
Whether you opt for a bold color or pattern or go with a barely there look, as seen in this simple, contemporary kitchen, is entirely up to you.
Valences and Trims
Baum also expects to see valences and trims make a return in the new year.
“We’re seeing a broader return to classicism in design, but interpreted through a modern lens, and window treatments are a beautiful way to express that shift,” she says.
In particular, Baum anticipates that these window treatments will boast curved silhouettes or intricate detailing, features that she notes contribute to a custom, high-end look.
Woven Shades
Mary Patton Design
McKissick enjoys incorporating woven shades into her projects and will continue to do so throughout the year.
“They add texture, warmth, and dimension to a space and layer beautifully underneath drapery,” she says.
Plus, these shades allow for privacy without totally obstructing natural light. This type of window covering also adds instant texture and warmth to any room, making it appear more complete and collected in design.
Smart Window Treatments
Design by Surf Road Interiors / Photo by Melissa Gabriel
We’re already thinking ahead to the future, so why not get a bit techy when it comes to window treatments, too? Liz Kirby, the founder of Surf Road Interiors, anticipates both her commercial and residential clients asking about automated, smart window treatments.
“The ability to open or close a shade at the touch of a button to let in natural light or set the mood for a family movie night is going to be something that homeowners and hospitality guests will come to expect as standard in the years to come,” she says.
What’s also beneficial about these shades is how much light they let in, given that they can practically disappear.
“The trend towards massive, custom windows to let in as much natural light as possible reigns supreme,” she says.
Read the full article here

