Tibbrix, I love the idea of painting the ceiling in the DR. A new chandy is probably 6 months out unfortunately. I have to do my re-designs in small doses so either hubby doesn't notice or not overwhelmed with my expenses! As far as the rod height, I see what you are saying but my ceiling are only 8 ft and I think going lower makes them seem lower. In my eat in kitchen I originally had panels hung right at the window trim and then raised it to the crown, looks so much better. Jeannie, yes I was planning on getting thicker rods, probably wood rods. I threw these panels up when we bought the house as they were fairly inexpensive and I could not spend a lot on window treatments at the time. We were in the midst of a nearly full house remodel and finishing touches was just not in the budget. Now I am focusing on the small things. I think my plan is to do the plantation shutter and then either the RH panels or something similar. I like the idea of going lighter. Everyone is so helpful, I really appreciate the ideas/insight!

Thank you all! My most urgent needs are night privacy and cool temp insulation. I'm leaning towards drapes on the sides to soften the space and a blind in the middle to lower at night. As for all the wood, I agree, it's too much and I've been considering painting the built-ins. I'm just worried I won't like it afterwards and can't unpaint it. It's been a tough room to deal with altogether. I appreciate all the advice!! Please keep it coming!

Hey There: "in" is what you like, so if you want plantation shutters go for it. However, I don't think they will work in your place and they will be not very functional. First things first: motorize your blinds for child safety reasons - motorization is very affordable and convenient. Roller shades will work great in your situation as an inside mount. Another option are bottom up top down pleated or honeycomb blinds - we offer them without any strings running across your glass - over 700 fabrics will give you the design and function you need and want...no compromise needed.

Ok, if you want a Roman Shade I would just do one to cover the whole bank of windows. One for the 3 window and one for the 2 window. How tall are your ceilings? Many people will mount the Roman shades higher than the window casings and allow the bottom of the Roman shade to cover just a small portion of the window, allowing for more light. You could do a wooden blind underneath for privacy and light control. In this case the Roman shade does not have to be operational but stationary and the blinds underneath will be what you use for privacy and light control. Bamboo blinds under a Roman shade are also a nice option.