If you live in a home without AC (almost every household in the UK) or somewhere with lots of windows, seasonal heat can be a hard problem to beat. Enjoying some extended daylight in our homes is lovely, but not when the temperatures start soaring. Clever window treatments are essential for blocking out heat and making your home feel cool — but is it possible to find options that also look cool, while doing it?
In short: yes. While changing your curtains seasonally often means opting solely for functionality, failing to consider style altogether could mean having bland-looking window treatments for a large part of the year. On the other hand, a curated treatment can completely transform a room. So, the type you choose needs to have both. Will it be blinds, shades, sheers, or curtains?
I asked the experts. From the material you choose to the color and kind of shade you're styling — it all helps keep the aesthetics looking sharp indoors and the heat where you can enjoy it, outside. Below are four modern window treatment ideas that are the most warm-weather-friendly.
1. Layered Window Treatments
Before you get too deep into the technicalities of different types of blinds and cooling shades, know that a layered window treatment scheme is often the most effective. Layers give you styling options and greater adaptability to changing weather and temperatures.
The best layered dressings for keeping heat out are those that combine a structured base layer with full-length drapery. "This approach allows something like a Roman shade or roller shade to sit close to the glass and block the initial wave of solar heat gain," explains Haley Weidenbaum, co-founder of custom window treatment brand Everham.
Then, adding drapery on top provides an additional layer of sun protection while beautifully framing the window. "When done right, this combination keeps your home comfortable without sacrificing an ounce of style," says Haley.
2. Blackout-Lined Window Treatments
So, what style of curtains and shades should you add to your windows or layered scheme? Whether you are leaning towards a Roman blind or beautiful, floor-length drapery, if direct sunlight and intense heat are a problem in your space, blackout curtains are the way to go.
"The key is always investing in custom curtains with a lining, like blackout lining," adds Haley. And contrary to the stigma that blackout curtains are thick and boring, you can actually find blackout curtains on the high street in almost all of the best contemporary curtain trends. "I like to think of the lining as the functional workhorse, while the front fabric remains soft and full of beautiful movement," says Hayley.
Alternatively, you can find blackout window liners (like this style from Dunelm) that you can attach to the back of your existing drapes without changing them. That said, they're designed not to be seen, so wouldn't work on a sheer.
3. Retractable Blinds and 'Close to the Glass' Shades
So, layers are good, and blackout curtains are an essential choice for particularly hot rooms. But what else is out there? As mentioned, in a layered scheme, a 'close to the glass' layer should always be included. This looks something like a Roman blind or roller shade, and they can also be used as a complete alternative to drapery.
"These shades work exceptionally well because they sit closer to the window, minimizing light gaps," explains Haley. "It allows you to maintain a very clean, tailored aesthetic while effectively keeping the room cool due to a lining added to a shade or the inherent material of a roller shade."
What blind you choose depends on what your room needs. A black-out lining might still be useful in a south-facing room, while wooden blinds or bamboo rolling shades could be a slightly more stylish option. Or for a shade that adds privacy without blocking too much light, something like a top-down-bottom-up blind is particularly clever. Again, it's all based on what your spaces needs.
4. External Awnings
Lastly, you can start from the outside for an even more effective way to block heat. Nip the problem in the bud, as they say, and shade the house. "External window awnings and solar screens are ideal for blocking sunlight before it hits the windows," explains green construction consultant Sarah Jameson.
With patio awnings, you'll want to "opt for thick, tightly woven screens that provide maximum shade while still allowing airflow," says Sarah. A sun sail is another way that looks super design-forward (and it's a great way to cool your garden in hot weather), while something like a retractable awning will provide more control over shading. The goal here is to preemptively block internal heat by shading windows from the sun.
Strategically placed landscaping ideas will also have a similar effect. "Roof overhangs, exterior shades, and trees properly positioned to shade the windows will further prevent direct sun exposure," explains Sarah. "And wraparound window treatments can greatly reduce heat transmission into the home."
FAQs
Are Certain Fabrics Better for Keeping Heat Out?
The short answer is yes, curtain fabric plays a big role in keeping heat out. "Weave density is the biggest factor: a tightly woven fabric blocks more heat than a loose, open weave, since less light — and the heat it carries — passes through," explains Haley.
Polyester fabrics tend to have sun-blocking properties built into the material itself. And for any fabric, adding a privacy or blackout lining meaningfully boosts heat resistance.
What Colors Block Heat the Best?
To effectively repel heat, the key is choosing light to medium neutral curtain colors. "These lighter shades naturally reflect solar radiation away from the glass, whereas dark colors will absorb the heat and radiate it back into your living space," says Haley.
Design is always about the balance between form and function, so layering your windows with a few of these heat-blocking treatments is the best of both worlds. "Pair a highly functional lined shade with flowing linen drapery to give the window depth, texture, and effortless movement," says Hayley. And don't forget to mount your blinds like an interior designer for the most luxurious-looking results.
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