Are Roman Blinds Still in Style? Modern vs Classic Roman Blinds
Short answer: yes, Roman blinds are still in style. What has changed is the look. Modern Roman blinds use flat folds, plain linen-look fabrics and cordless or motorised controls. Classic Roman blinds use soft, looped folds and richer fabrics that suit heritage homes.
This guide explains the difference between the two styles of Roman blinds, which rooms and homes each one suits, and the trade-offs to know before you order.
Why Roman Blinds Are Still One of the Most Popular Window Treatments
Roman blinds have remained a favourite across Australian homes for a reason. Unlike roller blinds or vertical blinds, Roman blinds combine soft furnishings with structured control. When raised, they fold neatly. When lowered, they sit flat and tailored.
They also offer:
- Excellent light control
- Insulation benefits (especially with lining options)
- A polished, custom look
- Flexibility across modern, traditional, and transitional interiors
In Sydney, where homes range from historic terraces to high-rise apartments, homeowners often have to find a balance between style and function when choosing Roman blinds. That's where the choice between modern and classic becomes very important. For example, classic terrace homes looking for blinds with Balmain-style elegance and modern apartments looking for clean, modern lines.
Understanding the Core Difference: Modern vs Classic Roman Blinds
At a glance, both styles may look similar. But live with them, and the differences become clear fast.
Modern Roman Blinds: Clean, Structured, Purpose-Driven
Modern Roman blinds are all about restraint. Clean lines. Controlled folds. Minimal visual noise.
They’re commonly chosen for:
- Apartments and contemporary homes
- Minimalist or Scandinavian interiors
- Open-plan living spaces
- Homes where function leads design
Design characteristics include:
- Flat or tailored folds
- Neutral or monochrome colour palettes
- Performance fabrics
- Optional motorisation
Modern Roman blinds are great at controlling light and making sure that everything looks the same. They work great in bedrooms, media rooms, and windows that face the street when you use blockout lining with them. This is especially true in the city, where people looking for blinds in Surry Hills often want both privacy and a clean, modern look.
Classic Roman Blinds: Soft, Layered, Timeless
Classic Roman blinds lean into softness and detail. They feel warm. Lived-in. Elegant without trying too hard.
They’re best suited for:
- Heritage or period homes
- Formal living or dining rooms
- Bedrooms where softness matters
- Interiors with traditional architectural details
Design features often include:
- Relaxed or waterfall folds
- Textured or patterned fabrics
- Decorative trims or piping
- A more fabric-forward appearance
Classic Roman blinds don't just cover windows; they dress them up. They feel at home in homes with decorative ceilings, cornices, or architraves.
Roman Blind Fold Styles Explained
- Flat fold: the fabric sits flat when lowered and stacks in neat, crisp pleats when raised. The most common modern style.
- Hobbled (waterfall) fold: the fabric hangs in soft, looped folds even when fully lowered. A classic look that suits period homes.
- Relaxed (soft) fold: the bottom edge has a gentle curve. Softer and more casual, often used in bedrooms.
| Modern Roman blinds | Classic Roman blinds | |
|---|---|---|
| Fold style | Flat fold | Hobbled or relaxed fold |
| Fabrics | Linen blends, plain weaves, neutral tones | Textured cottons, patterns, warmer tones |
| Look when lowered | Flat and tailored | Soft folds, more fabric showing |
| Best for | Apartments, new builds, open plan living | Terraces, period homes, formal rooms |
| Light control | Easy to pair with blockout lining | Lets some light around the folds |
Aesthetic Comparison: What Actually Looks Better (and Where)
Rather than asking which style is better, the smarter question is: which style belongs in your space?
For Modern Interiors
If your home features:
- Large windows
- Clean architectural lines
- Neutral palettes
- Minimal ornamentation
Modern Roman blinds make sense both visually and functionally. They don't block views or make the room feel too big. They go well with it instead.
Modern Roman blinds for living rooms look best when they are paired with soft textures, like woven linens or matte finishes that add depth without being too flashy. This is a popular choice for coastal and light-filled homes in Maroubra that want blinds that are both stylish and practical.
For Traditional or Heritage Homes
If your space includes:
- Decorative ceiling roses
- Timber floors
- Bay windows
- Classic furniture silhouettes
Then, traditional Roman blinds don't look old; they look planned. Their softer folds suit older homes, but they still work well in modern homes.
Classic Roman blinds for heritage homes also allow you to introduce colour or pattern in a controlled way, which is perfect for adding personality without overwhelming the space.
Functionality: Where the Real Decision Is Made
Style draws people in. Function seals the deal.
Light Control & Privacy
The type of fabric and lining you choose for your Roman blinds has a big effect on how well they control light.
That said:
- Blockout Roman blinds or light-filter fabrics are often used in modern Roman blinds to give you more control.
- Classic Roman blinds, on the other hand, tend to let in softer light, especially in relaxed fold styles.
Blockout Roman blinds are a must for bedrooms or windows that face the street, no matter what style you choose.
Insulation & Energy Efficiency
The way the fabric is layered in Roman blinds makes them a natural insulator.
Lined Roman blinds add a layer of fabric over the glass, which helps keep a room warmer in winter and cooler in summer.
Adding thermal or blockout lining makes your home much more energy-efficient, no matter what style you choose, modern or classic.
Ease of Use & Maintenance
Modern Roman blinds often integrate:
- Cordless systems
- Motorised options
- Smart-home compatibility
This makes them ideal for:
- Large or hard-to-reach windows
- Families with children
- Homes prioritising convenience
Classic Roman blinds may need a little more care, especially if the fabrics are textured, but it's easy to keep them in good shape if you choose the right fabrics.
Fabric Choices: The Silent Decision-Maker
Fabric is where style and function meet.
Modern Roman Blind Fabrics
- Linen blends
- Performance synthetics
- Plain weaves
- Neutral tones
These fabrics are great for minimalist spaces and are often easier to clean, which is great for families with a lot going on.
Classic Roman Blind Fabrics
- Textured cottons
- Jacquards
- Subtle patterns
- Warmer tones
These fabrics make things feel richer and softer, especially in bedrooms or formal rooms.
When picking out Roman blinds fabric, always think about how much sun and humidity the room gets and how you use it every day.
Motorisation: Modern Convenience Meets Classic Style
Motorised Roman blinds can now be used in more than just modern homes.
You can motorise both modern and classic Roman blinds today. This gives you:
- One-touch operation
- Improved child safety
- Better longevity (less manual handling)
Motorised Roman shades are becoming more and more popular in homes in Sydney, especially in bedrooms and open-plan living areas with lots of windows.
How to Choose Roman Blinds for Your Home (Room by Room)
Living Rooms
Modern Roman blinds look good in open spaces, but classic styles are better for formal lounges.
Bedrooms
Blockout lining is essential. Pick modern for a sleek, calm look and classic for a warm, soft look.
Dining Rooms
Classic Roman blinds make a room look more elegant. Modern styles work well in casual dining areas.
Home Offices
Modern Roman blinds help reduce glare and give a room a clean, professional look.
The Downsides of Roman Blinds
Roman blinds are not right for every window. Things to know:
- Stack height: when raised, the folds sit at the top of the window and take up some of the glass. On short windows this can block part of the view.
- Wet areas: fabric can absorb moisture and cooking smells, so choose fabrics carefully for kitchens and bathrooms, or use a roller or aluminium Venetian there.
- Cleaning: fabric collects dust and needs regular vacuuming. Most cannot be put in a washing machine.
- Cost: made-to-measure Roman blinds usually cost more than roller blinds of the same size because there is more fabric and work involved.
Roman Blinds vs Curtains
Roman blinds sit inside or just above the window and use less fabric, so they suit smaller windows, kitchens, studies and rooms where furniture sits under the window. Curtains suit wide windows, sliding doors and tall ceilings, and give the most light blocking when made with a blockout lining. Many homes use Roman blinds in some rooms and curtains in others.
Cost Considerations: What Influences Price?
The cost of Roman blinds in Sydney depends on:
- Fabric type
- Lining choice
- Size and window shape
- Manual vs motorised operation
Custom Roman blinds Sydney homeowners choose tend to cost more upfront, but they last longer, fit better, and perform significantly better than off-the-shelf options.
Roman Blind FAQs
Are Roman blinds old fashioned?
No. Flat fold Roman blinds in plain or linen-look fabrics are a popular modern choice. Classic hobbled styles can look dated in a minimalist room, but they still suit heritage homes well.
Are Roman blinds still in style in 2026?
Yes. Natural fabrics, simple flat folds and motorised options keep them a common choice in new and renovated homes.
What is the downside of Roman blinds?
They take up some window height when raised, need more care in wet areas, and usually cost more than roller blinds.
Can Roman blinds be blockout?
Yes. Adding a blockout lining makes them suitable for bedrooms and media rooms.
Can Roman blinds be motorised?
Yes, both modern and classic styles can be motorised. Ask us about options when you book your measure and quote.
The Final Verdict: Modern or Classic?
There’s no universal winner.
Choose modern Roman blinds if you value:
- Clean lines
- Smart functionality
- Minimalist design
- Easy maintenance
Choose classic Roman blinds if you want:
- Soft elegance
- Timeless appeal
- Visual warmth
- Traditional detailing
Or, and this is becoming more common, use both styles on purpose in different rooms.
The best homes don’t follow rules. They make intentional choices.
Get Roman Blinds Made for Your Windows
Roma Blinds makes and installs custom Roman blinds across Sydney, in modern and classic styles, with blockout or light filtering linings.
Not sure if Roman blinds are right? Compare them with roller blinds and Venetian blinds in our guide to Roman vs roller vs Venetian blinds.
