Lattice windows, characterized by their beautiful grid patterns (muntins) that create small diamond or square panes, are a hallmark of traditional, cottage, and Tudor-style architecture. They add undeniable historic charm and visual interest.
However, finding the right window coverings for lattice windows can be a design puzzle. The challenge lies in introducing privacy and light control without obscuring the architectural beauty of the grid itself.
The best approach is to choose minimal treatments that integrate seamlessly into the window frame, allowing the lattice pattern to remain the star.
Minimal Interference: Roller and Solar Shades
For a simple, modern solution that complements the historic grid, the roller shade is often the best choice.
Aesthetic: When fully raised, the shade disappears into a slim headrail, leaving the entire lattice pattern exposed. This is critical for maximizing daylight and showcasing the window's design.
Material Choice: Opt for sheer or solar screen materials. These shades filter harsh UV light and reduce glare while allowing a soft, diffused glow to enter, illuminating the lattice rather than hiding it.
Color Palette: Stick to muted, neutral colors—soft creams, whites, or light grays—that match the trim of the window. A busy pattern on the shade will clash with the repeating pattern of the lattice.
Function: Motorized roller shades are excellent for hard-to-reach lattice windows, offering convenient light control with the push of a button.
Classic Integration: Custom Interior Blinds
If you need the versatility of adjusting light and privacy via slats, a horizontal blind can work, provided the material and scale are correct.
Wider Slats: Choose a blind with wider slats (2 inches or 2.5 inches). Narrower slats can make the entire window look too busy, creating a dizzying effect when combined with the lattice grid.
Material:Faux wood or composite blinds are ideal. They offer the traditional look of wood while providing superior resistance to humidity and UV exposure, a necessary feature in Florida.
Mounting: The key is to mount the blind inside the window frame (inside-mount). This preserves the depth of the window sill and ensures the blind doesn't hang heavily over the architectural feature.
Soft Texture and Privacy: Sheer Roman Shades
For a softer look that maintains the cottage or traditional feel, a Roman shade made of a delicate fabric is a great option.
Fabric Choice: Use sheer linen, cotton, or voile. The fabric should be thin enough to allow the lattice pattern to faintly show through when the shade is fully lowered.
Style: Choose a flat or plain fold Roman shade. Avoid large, bulky folds (like hobbled or looped styles) that will look too heavy and dominate the window.
Mounting: Mount the shade just above the window frame (outside-mount). When the shade is lifted, it will stack above the lattice, leaving the entire window visible.
The Option to Avoid: Heavy Shutters
While plantation shutters are a beautiful, classic treatment, they are generally not recommended for lattice windows.
Shutters require significant horizontal rails and vertical stiles, which often obscure or compete directly with the lattice grid, defeating the purpose of the window's design. The same is often true for heavy, patterned drapery that covers too much glass.
The goal when treating lattice windows is always to respect the architecture. By opting for minimalist, texture-rich, or sheer treatments, you ensure privacy and light control while keeping the window's historic charm intact.
Preserve the Character of Your Windows with the Help of Capitol Carpet & Tile and Window Fashions® in Palm Beach County
Lattice windows add unique character to your home, and the right covering should enhance, not hide, their beauty.
Our design experts specialize in custom, low-profile shades and blinds that provide perfect light control while celebrating your window's unique architecture.
Call or visit Capitol Carpet & Tile and Window Fashions® in Boca Raton, FL, Boynton Beach, FL, Wellington, FL, Palm Beach Gardens, FL, and Delray Beach, FL. We are Florida's Best Source For Flooring & Design. Servicing the entire Palm Beach, Broward & Martin Counties, our flooring stores feature a wide selection of quality carpet, waterproof flooring, tile, and window treatments.
