“Light is the first element of design; without it, there is no color, form, or texture.” — Thomas E. Farin
Basements aren’t what they used to be. No longer dark, cold storage zones, many Colorado Springs homeowners are upgrading their lower levels into home gyms, guest suites, playrooms, or media lounges. And that’s where basement window shades come in.
They’re more than a finishing touch. They solve real problems—privacy, insulation, and glare—while adding visual polish. But finding the right fit can be tricky.
Let’s break it down. What works. What to avoid. And how to make your basement feel like part of your home, not an afterthought.
The Problem with Bare Basement Windows
You might be tempted to skip shades entirely in the basement. After all, who’s looking in?
Plenty of reasons not to.
- Security becomes an issue with uncovered basement windows
- Natural light can create harsh glare in TV or workspace areas
- Heat escapes quickly in winter, making your basement colder
- Direct sunlight can fade flooring or furniture
And then there’s the privacy issue. Even small ground-level windows are vulnerable.
Let’s fix that.
What to Look for in Basement Window Shades
Basement windows aren’t like your upstairs windows. They’re often smaller. Sometimes wider than they are tall. Sometimes oddly placed or sunken below ground.
That means your window treatments need to do more than “look nice.” They need to fit, function, and last.
Here’s what to consider:
- Light control: Block harsh rays or filter soft light depending on how you use the room.
- Privacy: Prevent views in—especially if you’re below ground.
- Insulation: Keep warmth in and cold out.
- Durability: Basements have higher humidity. You need materials that can handle it.
- Style: Even your basement deserves to look sharp.
Not sure what’s best? That’s why we offer free in-home consultations. We bring the showroom to you.
Best Basement Window Shades (And Why They Work)
Let’s get specific. These are our top shade solutions for basements—ranked by performance, versatility, and style.
1. Cellular Shades
These are a top choice for a reason. The honeycomb structure traps air and helps regulate temperature.
- Keeps cold air out in winter and heat out in summer
- Available in light-filtering or blackout fabrics
- Ideal for guest rooms, media rooms, or playrooms
Bonus: cordless options keep things clean and safe for homes with kids.
2. Roller Shades
Sleek. Simple. Effective.
Roller shades sit close to the window frame, which works well for shallow basement windows.
- Easy to operate
- Block UV light without blocking all visibility
- Available in hundreds of colors, patterns, and opacities
Use solar roller fabrics to reduce glare while keeping a hint of the outside view.
3. Faux Wood Blinds
Want the look of wood without the warping? Faux wood blinds hold up better in humid areas like basements.
- Moisture-resistant and durable
- Tilt for adjustable light control
- Easy to clean and long-lasting
These work great for functional spaces like laundry rooms or home offices.
4. Woven Wood Shades (with Liners)
Want to warm up your basement with texture? Woven wood shades are a smart pick. Just make sure you add a privacy or blackout liner.
- Natural textures soften modern basement designs
- Optional liners allow for more control over privacy and light
- Cordless or motorized options available
5. Blackout Shades
Basement theater room? You’ll want full darkness.
- Blocks up to 100% of incoming light
- Helps reduce outside noise
- Ideal for shift workers, gamers, or serious movie nights
We measure for a tight fit to minimize light leaks.
Why Custom Matters in a Basement
Basement windows are rarely standard.
Many are short, narrow, or oddly placed. Some are egress windows that require easy access. Others are behind furniture or built into tricky walls.
Custom shades solve all of that.
Our expert technicians measure your windows down to the eighth of an inch. We make sure hardware fits the depth and the frame. And we offer solutions you won’t find on a shelf.
Mass-market shades might seem cheaper—but the frustration, light gaps, and poor fit aren’t worth it.
More Than Looks: Why Basement Shades Matter
Here’s why basement window shades are more than decoration:
- They keep your HVAC working efficiently
A well-insulated basement saves energy. That’s good for your wallet. - They make the space usable year-round
No more cold drafts in January or stuffy heat in July. - They protect your investment
Furniture, floors, and electronics can fade or degrade without UV protection. - They add resale value
Finished basements with quality window treatments show buyers that your home is cared for.
Don’t Guess. We’ll Come to You.
At Made in the Shade Colorado Springs, we’ve handled every basement scenario.
Odd-shaped windows? No problem. Need blackout in one room and light filtering in another? Easy. Want to see fabrics in your actual lighting? That’s what our free in-home consultation is for.
Here’s what to expect:
- Book a time that works for you
- We bring the showroom to your basement
- You get expert recommendations
- We measure for precision
- Our trained technicians install everything
No stress. No pressure. Just smart solutions and a finished look you’ll love.
Why Work With Us?
You have choices. So why choose Made in the Shade?
- We’re local
We know the sun, the snow, and the way homes are built here. - We’re personal
You get one-on-one service. We listen. We care. - We’re professional
Our installers are trained, respectful, and on time. No shortcuts. - We’re convenient
From design to installation, we handle everything.
This isn’t a big box store. You’re not just another project. You’re our neighbor—and we treat your home like our own.
Ready to Upgrade Your Basement Windows?
If your basement still has bare glass or poorly fitting blinds, let’s fix that.
Great shades can make your basement feel more finished, more comfortable, and more useful.
Whether you want better insulation, more privacy, or a sleek modern look, we’ll help you find the best basement window shades for your space.
It all starts with one step.
Book your free in-home consultation today.
We’ll bring the showroom to your basement. You bring the questions—we’ve got the answers.
Made in the Shade Colorado Springs
Custom Shades. Local Experts.
We bring the showroom to you—so your basement gets the attention it deserves.
Although we’re based in Colorado Springs, Made in the Shade serves clients nationwide. No matter where you live, you can expect personalized consultations and access to our high-quality window treatments. Visit Madeintheshadeblinds.com to locate your nearest showroom and discover the perfect solutions for your home.
