Dear Mi-Ling: I have sliding glass doors in my dining room. Due to space constraints, they cannot be replaced with French doors. What are the options in covering the door, besides vertical blinds or drapery? Have vertical blinds improved from the 1980s? I would like light but privacy in the evening.
– Edmond
Dear Edmond: Yes, vertical blinds have improved over the past 20 years. There are a number of options available to cover your windows, but if you want the soft look of a drape with the control of a blind you should consider Silhouettes by Hunter Douglas.
I used this product in my master bedroom, where I have two walls of windows that I didn’t want to cover up because of the view to the backyard and pool. These versatile blinds create a soft and beautiful glow in my room during the day and at night I can close them for complete privacy.
With this product you also have the option of selecting a blackout backing.
You also can pull the blinds up into an enclosed case and they totally disappear. This way you get the full view of your windows during the day.
I love light and this was ideal for my space. It sounds like this is what you’re looking for as well.
Go to for more information on Silhouettes. You can also visit your local home-improvement store. Silhouettes are a bit pricey but well worth the money.
Mi-Ling Stone Poole is the author of “Ask Mi-Ling! When you Want the Truth About Decorating.” If you have a decorating dilemma, go to mi-ling.com.
