While these Relaxed Roman Shades are constructed to function, we consider this style to be more decorative than functional for every day use. The reason being is the unconstructed nature of this design doesn't give the shade as much "memory" as some of the other styles. If this is a concern and you want to use your shades regularly we recommend considering a Flat, Cascade, or Aventura style.

Assuming you select a liner (blackout lining or Privacy + interlining are best) your shades will certainly provide and additional layer of insulation.

The short answer is no, however, it can block most natural light from coming in. The level of light blockage and privacy you will get from a RELAXED ROMAN SHADE is mostly the result of the material you select and the lining(s) you choose. Generally speaking, the heavier the material, the less light will come through. By adding a black out liner you will block the majority of light. Small pinholes of light may be visible where rings are hand-sewn to back of shade. If you are going to be mounting the shade within the window [inside mount] there will be a deduction we will take on the width to ensure that the shade function properly and this small "gap" will subsequently let some light in the sides. Selecting an outside mount will help alleviate some of the light seepage however then the shade will be projecting off the wall and there will still be some light still coming in. Either way keep in mind that this shade style has more of an "unconstructed" look and therefore will tend to let more light in on the sides and bottom (fabric bows in slightly).

RELAXED ROMAN SHADES are one of our most popular roman shade styles BUT ARE NOT THE NEATEST! Lots of variables will determine how much fussing you will need to do to keep these shades looking the way you want. These shades are designed to give a more casual, unconstructed look and will certainly have a bit of a shabby-sheek look to them especially if you will be using them frequently. Besides the material you select, the lining is a factor as well. It will affect both the light that passes through the shade and the structure it has - also has an influence on appearance. The heavier linings [privacy + interlining and blackout lining] will certainly give a more tailored look and will typically make shades appear a bit "neater" than they would if unlined or privacy lined. If all this has you worried, our most tailored and "neatest" roman shades styles are the FLAT, CASCADE and AVENTURA. REMEMBER: Your shades will be made to the highest construction standards so treat them kindly and carefully [and ask any guests to do the same] and they will look great for years to come

There's no magic to the photos we show you, just some good taste, careful installation and some amazing interiors that we install them in. Your shades will be made by the exact same people, the exact same way. Lots of things will influence how things "look" in your space: size of shade, material / lining selected and of course the environment it is going in. All of our shades shown in photos have also been steamed.

The reason is simple: no one has the skill to make them properly. The few workrooms that perhaps can manufacture custom hand-made roman shades do so at a price point that is significantly higher than what we offer. Our staff of skilled craftsmen have been making these shades for some of the world's top interior designers for literally decades. The time and effort that goes into each shade is something that larger workrooms simply won't do. Simply put: nobody does it better.

For starters we do offer a stacking chart that will give you a general idea of what the "stack" will be. [look under measure + install]. Remember these are just approximates and the exact measurement will vary depending on length and material/lining selected. You can view stacking chart at: http://www.theshadestore.com/item-files/page_27330_file.pdf After you have checked out the stack chart, if you are still concerned you should consider doing an outside mount and installing the shade high enough above the window so that when up the shade does not block the window.