The difference between decorative shades and roller shades is basically the manner in which they operate. While a roller shade opens by having the shade wind around a tube, a decorative shade opens by having the shade fold up into overlapping layers.
Decorative Shade hardware systems include cord and cord lock, chain operator, and motorized. Iris Window Coverings is recognized as a leader in the motorization and automation of the various types of Decorative Shades.
There are many types and styles of decorative shade ranging from an elaborate fabric roman shade with scallops and trim to a slim and simple pleated shade. Decorative Shades are available in a myriad of fabrics, including a wide selection of natural material. All of these types of shades can function as complete window treatments or can be accessorized with valances, top treatments or drapery panels.
Roman Shades offer a clean and sophisticated look that is traditional yet modern. They are available in many different styles and in almost any fabric affording wide latitude in design approach. The appeal of Roman Shades has grown with the introduction of seamless sheer fabrics for large windows as well as duo Roman Shades utilizing blackout fabrics for bedrooms. Roman shades are ideal for children's rooms providing a room-darkening solution for napping when down and the softness of a valance when down. (Photograph by Rebecca Shiraev)
One of the most popular window coverings available in the market today, a cellular (honeycomb) shade offers a clean, crisp look to any décor. These shades are available in a huge assortment of styles and color, from single cells to triple cells. The nature of cellular shades construction offers some insulation value to this window covering. Since the cord that lifts and lowers the shade is hidden between the cells, there is no light leak through the cord holes as occurs on a pleated shade. Iris Window Coverings supplies Cellular Shades from all of the leading national manufacturers.
Pleated Shades (Z-Shades) are similar in style to Cellular Shades but are a single layer of fabric as opposed to the 2 or more layers of fabric found in Cellular Shades. This style of shade is also sometimes called a “Z-Shade” since when the shade is pulled closed the fabric unfolds in a “Z” shape. This style of shade has exposed holes through which the lift cord runs. Since there is only one layer of fabric involved, these shades are usually less expensive than Cellular Shades. These shades are also available in a greater range of Fire Retardant fabrics (for commercial applications) than Cellular Shades are.
Bring the beauty of the outdoors and add a touch of nature to any room by utilizing woven wood shades as a window treatment. These unique shades are handcrafted from reeds, grasses, bamboo and natural woods to provide an exceptional shade that combines beauty with durability and function. Iris Window Coverings is proud to represent the highest quality woven wood manufacturers, including Conrad and Castec, as well as more price sensitive manufacturers.