Timeless fabric artistry that folds beautifully and coordinates with everything.
Soft Structure, Lasting Elegance
Roman shades occupy a unique space in window treatment design: they're fabric, so they bring warmth and softness to a room - but they fold into clean, structured pleats when raised, never looking bunched or cluttered. That balance makes them at home in a formal dining room, a cozy reading nook, or a master bedroom that needs a touch of luxury without heaviness.
Every Roman shade is custom-made from fabric you select, which makes them one of the most personal window treatments we install. The fold style - flat, hobbled, relaxed, or waterfall - changes the entire character of the shade. The lining controls how much light comes through. The fabric itself ties everything to your room's palette and texture.
Because Colorado's intense natural sunlight shifts fabric color and texture appearance dramatically, Peter or Bri will bring actual samples to your home during the estimate - you'll see exactly how your Roman shades will look in your light, against your walls, with your furniture. No online guessing required.
Frequently asked questions
What fold styles are available for Roman shades?
Roman shades are available in four fold styles: Flat (fabric lies completely flat when lowered - the most contemporary profile), Hobbled or Soft-Fold (permanent cascading folds sewn in so the shade looks elegant in every position), Relaxed (no horizontal rods - the fabric bows naturally at the hem for a casual, gathered look), and Waterfall (continuous flowing folds that cascade top to bottom for a dramatic, fabric-forward appearance).
What lining options are available for Roman shades?
Roman shades can be made unlined, light-filtering lined, or blackout lined. The lining changes how light passes through the fabric, though light may still enter around the shade edges. Available fabrics, lining, and appearance depend on the selected product.
Can Roman shades be motorized?
Yes. Roman shades are available with motorized lift systems that can be controlled by a remote, smartphone app, or voice assistant. Motorization is especially practical for large windows, hard-to-reach windows, or rooms with multiple shades. Both battery-powered and hardwired motor options are available.
How do Roman shades differ from roller shades?
Roman shades are made from soft fabric that folds into horizontal pleats when raised - they add warmth, texture, and visual richness to a room. Roller shades use a coated or woven material that rolls up around a tube when raised, giving a more minimal, contemporary profile. Romans are more about fabric and style; rollers are more about clean lines and light control precision.
What fabrics work best for Roman shades?
Flat Romans showcase any fabric well - patterns, geometrics, and bold solids read cleanest. Hobbled Romans suit heavier fabrics like velvet, chenille, or brocade. Relaxed Romans work best in lighter-weight linens and casual fabrics. Waterfall Romans need substantial fabrics such as cotton canvas or linen blends to hold their fold lines. We bring fabric samples to every in-home estimate so you can see how your chosen material looks in your actual light.
What warranty do Alta Roman shades come with?
Warranty coverage depends on the specific Roman shade and current manufacturer terms. Ask us for the written warranty for your selection, including exclusions and component coverage.
What fabric cleaning codes apply to Alta Roman shades?
Alta Roman shade fabrics carry standard upholstery cleaning codes: W means clean with water-based solutions; S means use solvent-based dry-cleaning products only (water can cause shrinkage or spotting); WS means either water-based or solvent cleaners are safe; X means vacuum only - no liquid cleaners of any kind.
What warranty do Norman Roman shades come with?
Warranty coverage depends on the specific SmartFold™ shade and current manufacturer terms. Ask us for the written warranty for your selection, including exclusions and component coverage.
What fabric cleaning codes apply to Norman Roman shades?
Norman Roman shade fabrics carry standard upholstery cleaning codes: W means clean with water-based solutions; S means use solvent-based dry-cleaning products only (water can cause shrinkage or spotting); WS means either water-based or solvent cleaners are safe; X means vacuum only - no liquid cleaners of any kind.
How do I clean Norman Roman shades?
For regular maintenance, use a handheld vacuum on low suction or a soft brush with the shade fully lowered. For spot cleaning, dampen a soft cloth or sponge with lukewarm water and a drop of mild detergent if needed, then blot gently - never rub, as rubbing can damage the fabric weave and spread the stain. Always follow the fabric's specific cleaning code.
Can I dry clean Norman Roman shades?
Avoid dry cleaning Norman Roman shades. The lining and face fabric may react differently to dry-cleaning chemicals. Stick to the fabric's cleaning code and spot-clean only.
What fold styles are available for Norman SmartFold Roman shades?
Norman SmartFold™ Roman Shades are available in flat fold (with optional batten back or decorative seams) and hobbled styles. Flat fold with batten back creates uniform, structured folds when raised; the with-seams option adds subtle vertical lines for visual interest. Hobbled style features permanent cascading folds for a traditional, luxurious look in any position.