Article Master

As window coverings go blinds are some of the most widely used today. They vary in design immensely from fabric sheets to materials such as metal and wood as well as rollers, track blinds and even the Venetian variety. Their name is derived from their purpose as they actively blind the vision of anyone looking through the window. Typically they come in two varieties these are solid and slat, normally slat blinds can be aligned along the vertical and horizontal while solid blinds are normally along the vertical axis in the form of rollers. Both act to block light in room whilst creating privacy for the occupants.

Blinds have been prevalent throughout history in some of the largest and most widely known civilisations. Their first recorded use was by nomad tribes in the desert who used to cover their windows with sheets to keep the fierce desert sun out; additionally they would wet the blind to increase its cooling properties. The Egyptians also used blinds; this civilisation however instead of using sheets used reeds to block out the light whilst allowing cool air to pass through the building. The ancient Chinese used blinds but instead of constructing them from reeds used bamboo; additionally the Persians were also masters of blind construction.

The blind spread to Europe from Persia, traders bringing blinds from the east to Venice. This is where the name Venetian blind arises as they soon became fashionable in this city on water. These early varieties were made from strips of cloth and were raised by a string connection to each slat. The classic styling of the Venetian blind has remained although modern varieties tend to use metals such as aluminium and wood instead of fabric. This form of blind spread throughout Europe to cities such as Pairs where they became a highly fashionable window covering; it did however take the introduction to Britain to achieve the first truly modern blind, being produced and patented in London during the year 1769.

Modern blinds are normally fitted so they fit into the window recess, up against the wall for a snug fit that will block the largest amount of light. Not all windows will have recesses however but in this instance it is possible for a frame to be constructed for the blind, much like a curtain rail. While curtains and drapes are considered a more thermally efficient window covering modern blind variants are surprisingly adept at keeping the heat in. depending upon the materials some blinds have excellent thermal properties, keeping heat in during the winter months whilst keeping a house cool during the summer.

The latest development in blinds has been automation. While this has been in existence for some time it has only been through the development of more advanced, quieter motors that they have become a viable window covering option in the domestic sphere. In terms of controlling the blind this is normally carried out with a remote control, allowing the user to control the amount of light being let into the room from the comfort of a sofa. In addition, with those who have an understanding of computers and such, there is the opportunity to plug the blinds straight into a computer system, allowing the user to control their window coverings from their wireless laptop.

It is hoped this information has given an idea of exactly how the blind has evolved through the centuries. Today it is the window covering of choice for many designers offering chic lines and a modern, contemporary look.

Interior design expert Thomas Pretty looks into the history and development of blinds and how they are fitted in the domestic sphere.