FLAT ROMAN SHADES
Flat roman shades are the most common style. They have a slim profile and are easy to operate. These shades are made with folds that stack neatly on top of each other as the shade is lifted and lowered.
Schumacher Pyne Hollyhock Charcoal Custom Roman Shade
Designed and Photographed by Brexton Cole Interiors @brextoncoleinteriors (Instagram)
RELAXED ROMAN SHADES
Relaxed roman shades have a soft and casual look. When the shade is raised the edges curve up slightly, creating a draping effect in the middle. They will be flat when fully lowered. Relaxed roman shades are perfect for creating a more comfortable mood in rooms like kitchen dens, bedrooms, or nurseries. They are not as easy to raise as flat roman shades. Relaxed roman shades will require a bit of styling to ensure they drape properly and have the right look. Relaxed roman shades should be made with soft, light weight fabrics to ensure they hang properly. Another thing to consider is the width of your windows. When relaxed roman shades are too wide, they tend to sag in the center. In this case, you may want to consider multiple smaller shades, this will create a scalloped look. See the second photo.
Schumacher Citrus Garden Primary Relaxed Roman Shade 36W X 30L shown in Kitchen
Photographed by @kmarksphoto (Instagram)
Martyn Lawrence Bullard for Schumacher Darya Ikat in Jewel Relaxed Shades in Bedroom
TOP-DOWN BOTTOM-UP ROMAN SHADES
Top-down bottom-up roman shades are flat shades that can be lifted from the top or bottom. These shades can be raised like a regular flat roman shade, they can also be lowered from the top to allow light in while still providing privacy. They can be adjusted from the top and bottom simultaneously. If you want to have maximum control of lighting/privacy this is the style for you. This style is perfect for bathrooms, kitchens, or any room where privacy is a concern. This is also a great option for office spaces and living rooms, or anywhere you might want to block glare on screens.
Schumacher Boughton House Porcelain Top-Down Bottom-Up Roman Shade
Galbraith & Paul Lotus Denim on White Top-Down Bottom-Up Roman Shade
SCALLOPED BOTTOM ROMAN SHADES
Roman Shade with a scalloped bottom edge. Has the same easy function and neat folds as a flat roman shade. Scalloped bottom roman shades are a beautiful way to accentuate fabrics and create a playful look.
Scalloped Bottom Roman Shade in Sister Parish Dolly Pink
This roman shade features an added Tear Drop Valance, but Scalloped Bottom Roman Shades can be made in this style as well.
Schumacher Rafe Stripe Berber Brown Roman Shade with 51" Wide Scallop Valance, 12" long, each scallop 12.25"
LONDON STYLE ROMAN SHADE
A london style roman shade is similar to a relaxed roman shade with the addition of two pleats that create a tail on either side, creating an elegant draping effect. This style is best for decorative/faux roman shades because it requires a lot of styling to get the right appearance. If you are considering London Style keep in mind the width of the window, if it is too narrow or wide the shade may not hang correctly.
Schumacher Cloud Toile London Style Faux Roman Shades 40 Wide X 40 Finished Length.
Kravet Pavillion Silk London Roman Shade
ROMAN SHADE VALANCE OPTIONS
A valance can be added to any roman shade. See different style options below.
FLAT VALANCE
Roman Shade with Valance. Trim can be added for an additional cost.
TEARDROP STYLE VALANCE
Schumacher Rafe Stripe Berber Brown Roman Shade with 51" Wide Scallop Valance, 12" long, each scallop 12.25"