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The Best Custom Shades for Light Control

  • Digvijay Bhayana
  • May 28
  • 2 min read

When it comes to window treatments, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is how much light you want to let in — or keep out. Whether you’re dealing with harsh afternoon sun or trying to preserve privacy without going fully dark, choosing the best custom shades for light control is key to both comfort and style.


Side-by-side view of light-filtering and blackout roller shades on large windows overlooking a city.

In this guide, we break down the top shade types and features to help you find the perfect balance of light, privacy, and aesthetics.


Why Light Control Matters in Shade Selection


The right shades allow you to:

  • Block glare without blocking views

  • Protect furnishings from sun damage

  • Create softness and mood through filtered light

  • Maintain privacy during the day or night


Custom shades allow you to control not just light, but the way your room feels throughout the day.


Best Custom Shades for Light Control - Top Styles


1 - Roman Shades


Roman shades fold neatly when raised and lie flat when lowered. They offer excellent light control with the right lining and fabric choice.


Best For:

  • Bedrooms

  • Living rooms

  • Home offices


Natural woven wood shades partially lowered in a living room, softly filtering daylight.

Pro Tip: Add blackout lining for full light control or use sheer fabric for a softened glow.


2 - Roller Shades


Simple and modern, roller shades are ideal for clean-lined spaces. They come in a variety of fabrics from sheer to full blackout.


Best For:

  • Kitchens

  • Bathrooms

  • Modern interiors


White solar shade fully drawn down, reducing glare while preserving outdoor visibility.

Pro Tip: Use solar fabrics to reduce UV rays and glare while keeping outdoor visibility.


3 - Solar Shades


Designed specifically for controlling sunlight, solar shades reduce glare, heat, and UV exposure without completely darkening the room.


Best For:

  • South-facing rooms

  • Large windows

  • Offices and media rooms


Black solar screen shade filtering harsh light while maintaining skyline views from a modern interior.

Pro Tip: Choose lower openness percentages (1-5%) for more privacy and less light penetration.


4 - Woven Wood Shades


Natural materials like bamboo and grasses filter light beautifully while adding texture and warmth to a space.


Best For:

  • Dining rooms

  • Sunrooms

  • Earthy or organic interiors


Woven wood shade letting in warm, diffused sunlight in a cozy breakfast nook.

Pro Tip: Add a privacy or blackout liner for better control while preserving the woven texture.


5 - Top-Down Bottom-Up Shades


These offer the most versatile control — letting you open from the top for light while keeping the bottom closed for privacy.


Best For:

  • Street-facing rooms

  • Bathrooms

  • Small spaces


Fully drawn white honeycomb shade offering privacy and soft light diffusion in a neutral-toned room.

Pro Tip: Great for maximizing daylight without sacrificing seclusion.


Customization Options That Enhance Light Control


  • Lining Choices: Light-filtering, privacy, or blackout

  • Mounting Options: Inside mount for a clean look, outside mount for better coverage

  • Motorization: Automate shade movement based on time of day

  • Layering: Combine with drapery for dual-function design


Why Choose DDCD for Custom Shades?


At DDCD, every shade is made to order and tailored to your light control needs. We offer:

  • Expert design consultations

  • A wide range of fabrics and linings

  • Custom sizing and mount types

  • Hand-sewn quality from our in-house workroom



Final Thoughts


Finding the best custom shades for light control comes down to understanding your space, your needs, and your design preferences. From sun-filtering solar fabrics to blackout-lined Roman shades, custom solutions let you control not just light — but comfort, privacy, and mood.


Need help choosing the right shade for your space? Our team is here to guide you.

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