10 Modern Alternatives For Outdated Vertical Blinds

One of the easiest ways to elevate your interior design is with window coverings that embrace modern trends and give your space a current feel. The design world is leaning very much towards classic details and fabrics, artisanal finishes (think zellige and handmade tiles), natural materials, and texture. Vertical blinds tick just about none of these boxes, and if you're sick of your home feeling like an office from the 90s — there's no reason to opt for those outdated and uninteresting window coverings when there's a plethora of other options out there.

Below are 10 modern window coverings to replace run-of-the-mill vertical blinds. These window coverings include blinds, curtains, shades, and even a handwoven macramé idea. Each alternative aligns with current and predicted future interior design trends, boasting comfort, functionality, sustainability, and individualism. Whether you choose a traditional window covering or a tech-powered innovation, swapping out vertical blinds will boost your home's aesthetic. You can even take a more unique route using creative window covering hacks that aren't curtains or shades. Read on to discover how modern window covering alternatives can add convenience and update your space.

Replace clunky vertical blinds with airy and elegant sheer curtains for a completely different effect. The main purpose of large windows and sliding glass doors in homes is to illuminate the area with natural light. Sheer curtains don't block sunlight like vertical blinds do. Instead, they diffuse it to illuminate interiors in a soft glow. This makes rooms feel more comfortable while still being brightly lit, and protects your decor, furniture, and rugs from direct UV damage. When windows are opened, a gentle breeze can still pass through and fill a home with fresh air. Sheer curtains are both functional and stylish, making them great modern window coverings. They also befit interiors of all styles, as they come in various colors, designs, and fabrics. Just take note that you may need to pair sheer curtains with thicker drapes (we go into more detail on how to do this further below), as their translucency doesn't offer complete privacy at night or much insulation during winter. If neither of these things are a concern, you can use translucent curtains on their own. 

Before ordering new sheer curtains to replace vertical blinds, figure out your "wants". If you're going for a monochromatic look, match your curtains to your wall shade. For a pop of warmth, try cream- or yellow-toned panels. These Mianbo Window White Sheer Curtains from Amazon are only $8.95 for a pack of two, come in a range of colors, and should be wide enough to cover a standard sliding door or large window that is between 60-70 inches wide. Ideally, curtains should span roughly 1.5-2 times the width of the door or window they are going to cover, so keep this in mind when shopping. 

The most modern approach to window coverings is bound to use technology. Blinds, curtains, shades, and shutters can now connect with smart devices, enabling full control without physical effort. Replace vertical blinds with tech-powered blinds or curtains that are operable through a mobile app or other smart devices. You can open and close your window coverings by speaking or tapping a mobile phone and even set automated routines. Your vertical blinds also might not have to be replaced if you use a retrofitted smart device. These devices can attach to pre-existing blinds, transforming them into an updated home feature.

Smart window coverings are also good for health reasons. Installing smart blinds that can follow a schedule ensures you get the right amount of sunlight to regulate your body's internal clock throughout the day. Interior designer Suzanne Donegan told Forbes, "I encourage my clients to invest in smart window coverings in one area in particular, the bedroom. Science has shown the impact that daylight can have on our circadian rhythm; adaptive smart window coverings help to regulate the body's internal clock, leading to more restorative sleep and more alertness and productivity during the day. " 

There are many options when it comes to smart blinds. Arpobot's Smart Shade device integrates with previously installed vertical blinds and other window coverings, and one pack is $128. It's compatible with Apple, Amazon, Google, and other popular smart devices. If you're looking to completely revamp your blinds physically and functionally, the Astomi Motorized Smart Blinds feature an automatic roller shade operable via smart devices, and cost $49.99. This option is budget-friendly but is only compatible with specific versions of Alexa. You may need a gateway hub to connect to incompatible platforms like Google Home.

With maximalism on the rise, there's no harm in going all out with your window coverings. Invest in wall-to-wall curtains that stretch from the ceiling to the floor to create an accent wall. Interior designer Andrea Benedettini told Livingetc, "Curtain walls work particularly well in spaces designed for comfort — additionally, fabric has acoustic properties, further enhancing the sense of comfort and tranquility in the space." Soft elegance is a modern theme in interior design, and these window coverings are the perfect way to keep up with current trends by replacing vertical blinds.

Depending on the size of your intended accent wall, finding a single curtain that's large enough to span the wall might be tricky. One of Amazon's largest options is these ceiling-mounted Hoeflife Blackout Room Divider Curtains, which are 15 feet by 9 feet and cost $80.99. This curtain is large enough to cover a short wall of roughly 7.5-10 feet (because the curtain needs to be 1.5-2 times wider than the area it covers). While a single curtain might look more seamless, there's no reason why you can't double up on curtain panels to make sure you properly span your entire wall. Having two curtain panels will also look nicer when you draw them back. Don't opt for the cheapest curtain rod you can find; you need something sturdy to hold up an entire wall of fabric. Purchase an extra long curtain rod with center supports, or connect two rods with Anndason's Heavy Duty Hinged Elbow Connector Curtain Rod to ensure stability.

A macramé curtain befits modern interior design in multiple ways since it's earthy, nostalgic, organic, and embraces individuality. Unlike standard vertical blinds with no personality, macramé adds depth and interest to boho, coastal, contemporary, mid-century modern, and traditional spaces alike. Interior designer Jessica Davis explained to Mansion Global, "There are different types of macramé, so if you wanted something more modern, find a piece with a smoother rope and no frayed ends. And make sure it's mounted on a nice, smooth finished dowel or metal rod instead of a stick." The ability to incorporate macramé in many interior designs makes it a great modern window treatment if you're looking to swap out flimsy, dated blinds.

You can make your own macramé curtain by weaving cord over a curtain rod. There are many online tutorials to follow, but the project can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days to complete. If you aren't a fan of DIY projects, skip the grunt work and order one or more of the Lush Decor Boho Macrame Tassel Cotton Window Curtains.

Vertical blinds are often one color and texture and hang in dull, straight lines. They add no character to large windows or sliding glass doors. Liven up your space and add functionality by layering curtains instead. Layering curtains and blending different materials is a great way to incorporate dimension and texture into a living space, especially now that mixed materials dominate the interior design world. Successfully layer curtains by following simple tips like having one panel for light filtering and another for blocking out all light.

Sticking to the light and heavy curtain combo is the best option for practicality and style reasons. It gives you complete control over the lighting and privacy in your home, which is especially important when choosing a window covering for large windows or sliding glass doors. Mix sheer and silk curtains for mid-century elegance, or sheer and thick embroidered drapes for a refined look. Completely personalize your curtain setup by ordering each type individually, but be aware that you will need a double curtain rod so that the sheers can operate independently of the thicker drapes. This will allow you to have the sheers closed during the day if you wish, without the heavier drapes. If this is not important to you, and you simply want the textured, soft look of multiple fabrics, you can also get blackout drapes that have sheer curtains sewn on top of them, such as the Nicetown Nursery Crushed Sheer x Blackout Curtains. This set features two sheer curtains over two blackout curtains.

One of the defining themes in modern design is sustainability. Replace uninspired vertical blinds with window coverings made from natural and recycled materials. Many sustainable window coverings are also energy-efficient, making them twice as relevant to modern-day concerns around overconsumption.

There is a wide variety of eco-friendly options, and you're sure to find one that fits your style and interior design. Recycled wood composite shutters are made from fast-growing trees and recycled plastic, and are excellent for insulation. Therefore, they have a lower carbon footprint than other materials and improve energy efficiency. Bamboo shades are also worth mentioning since they're biodegradable and add a biophilic vibe to interiors. Sustainable curtains made from 100% recycled materials are on the market too.

Order recycled wood composite shutters through local dealers, which you can locate on NormanUSA's Where To Buy page.  Bamboo shades and recycled curtains are both affordable and easier to find at online retailers and brick-and-mortar home decor stores. For example, the Lush Decor Farmhouse Stripe Yarn Dyed Eco-Friendly Recycled Cotton Window Curtains are made from recycled cotton and polyester and cost $64.99 on Amazon for a pack of two.

Rich fabrics like velvet add sophistication and comfort and are a popular choice for large windows. Velvet blends modern and timeless styles together and aligns with other modern concepts when dyed in earth-inspired colors. Interior Designer Erika Dale told House Digest, "Velvet drapes add such a wonderful, rich texture to a space, especially when the fabric is a warm, earthy brown tone. It feels simultaneously opulent and of-the-earth, a wonderfully unique balance." In addition to the aesthetic, velvet curtains block a lot of natural light, helping keep your home cool and dark when desired.

Styling velvet curtains takes more strategy than other types of window coverings. Keep these luxurious drapes somewhat modest by choosing styles that aren't stuffy and overpowering. Avoid designs with tassels and gaudy embellishments that make them look over-the-top rather than cozy. The StangH 2 Panel Theater Velvet Curtains are $41.95, available in an earthy rust color, and aside from ruffling above the curtain rod, have no extraneous embellishments that distract from the plush velvet fabric. This is a truly budget-friendly window treatment option that looks high-end, which makes it a great pick for many households. 

Roman shades have a minimalist style that creates subtle impact in a space, making them a great alternative to vertical blinds in any room. Flat-style Roman shades are especially popular due to their streamlined design that prioritizes practicality. These shades hoist up and down to block light as needed. They're a great replacement for outdated vertical blinds if you're looking for something uncomplicated but more on par with current trends. In addition to their understated look, these shades have specialized fabrics and features for controlling privacy and light, making them excellent for energy efficiency. They can even be hooked up to a motorized smart system that automatically shuts them during the day. Roman shades usually come in a narrow width to make them easier to raise and lower evenly, so you may need two or more for large windows and sliding glass doors.

Although flat Roman shades reign supreme, other styles are also relevant in modern design. These styles are often categorized as cascade, pleated, relaxed, or tulip, which complement various designs from rustic farmhouses to minimalist modern homes. If you're looking for simple Roman shades, try the WindowLady Cordless Linen Roman Window Shades for $69.99. On the other hand, if you want shades with more texture, the $34.99 Comzone Cordless Blackout Bamboo Roman Shades meld sustainability with function. You'll need two of WindowLady's shades to cover large windows, but Comzone's bamboo blinds are wide enough for standard-size sliding glass doors. 

One of the biggest focuses in modern interior design is personalization and individuality. Remove the same vertical blinds that millions of other homeowners and renters have and replace them with custom-made designs. In today's day and age, you don't have to resort to blinds and shades that don't quite match up with your window or sliding glass door dimensions. No window has to go uncovered, and even arched and angled glass panels can be outfitted with one-of-a-kind designs.

Custom-sized blinds were once harder to come by. Nowadays, you can order customized blinds from many popular retailers, including Amazon. MYshade Custom Size Cellular Shades are $39.99 and offer full customization for those searching for a window covering that perfectly fits their needs. Arched and angled shades are a little trickier to come by. If you trust your DIY skills, you can cut and install the MYshade Arch Window Shades for $59.99. However, you can also turn to options like the Graywind Blinds and American Blinds for window coverings made explicitly for unconventional shapes.

Health and wellness are major priorities in modern design. Entertain this priority for your own sake and swap out vertical blinds with blackout shades designed to promote good sleep. Architect and designer Julio Arco told House Digest, "Our mood, energy level, and overall health are all profoundly influenced by the amount of artificial and natural light we are exposed to on a daily basis." Melatonin, the hormone that regulates your sleeping habits, is produced in the dark. When you have shades blocking artificial light from penetrating your bedroom at night, this can encourage melatonin production and help regulate your body's natural sleep cycle. Therefore, blackout shades have a practical purpose while simultaneously accentuating style, making them the epitome of modern design.

Solar and tinted shades are rated by their percentage of openness. The lower the percentage, the darker they are, so blackout shades typically have a 0% open rating, which implies the fabric is completely opaque. No one can see inside, and no natural light passes through. Keep in mind that although many manufacturers follow this logic, it's not a standard in the window covering industry. Blackout shades are also energy-efficient, as they naturally reduce electricity use by keeping rooms cooler in summer. They are layerable under other window coverings and pairable with smart devices, making them far more versatile than vertical blinds. Get custom-sized blackout blinds to fit your large windows; the LazBlinds Cordless Cellular Shades start at $54.99. Another option is to DIY a custom blackout window shade using supplies from Walmart or another big box retailer.