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Winters may seem long in Britain, but adding a conservatory to a property could help to keep the cold weather blues at bay.

Four Seasons Sunrooms explained that as long as the room is fully insulated and uses the right glass, it can be used in the colder months just as much as in the summer.

The extra exposure to natural light in there can make homeowners feel much lighter in spirit than would be the case if they were sitting in a closed-in room, the company said.

"At night, it's a romantic spot to do a little star gazing, or watch the gently falling snow from in front of the fireplace," Four Seasons added.

Gareth Short from Leekes also recently told Wales Online that conservatories make great extra living spaces.

Try adding made to measure window blinds to your conservatory so that if the winter sun gets too harsh on bright days, you can shade it out a little.

Check out the range of window blinds available at Louvolite.

Choosing energy saving blinds to cover your windows could make a real difference to your utility bills by reducing the amount of heat that gets out.

PlanetSave.com said many people may assume blinds cannot have much of an impact, but the opposite is true because windows typically let out lots of warmth.

The website suggested going for cellular or honeycomb blinds to trap air between the insulating layers.

However, any made to measure blinds will have a positive effect because they can be fitted tightly against the glass.

They are also likely to be better than shutters, which can block out too much light.

"Changing your window dressing is a quick and cheaper way to improve your home's energy efficiency; once this is taken care of, you can move on to improving your loft and wall insulation," PlanetSave.com commented.

Last month, MoneySupermarket.com found that 43 per cent of Britons cite utility bills as their biggest concern at home.

Most properties in Britain now are fitted with modern windows that have double glazing to stop heat being lost through them.

However, many thousands of people still live in period homes that have sash windows - and in some conservation areas, they cannot be replaced with newer alternatives, even if they are draughty.

To beat this problem, Dr Simon Thurley from English Heritage told Country Life magazine that roller blinds are a quick and easy solution to provide coverage without changing any of the building's features.

He explained that this can reduce heat loss by 38 per cent, something that significantly cut energy bills for the homeowners.

"Many original timber sash windows have lasted more than 200 years and it's a waste to throw them away," Dr Thurley pointed out.

It is also now possible to buy thin double-glazed windows that replicate the originals, which can be used with window blinds to cut out draughts.

PlanetSave.com recently said window blinds are beneficial when it comes to cutting the amount of heat being lost from a property.

Safety kits are being issued in part of Scotland with the aim of making old window blinds safer.

According to the Scotsman, 2,500 Make it Safe packs are being distributed in East Lothian by the Community Planning Partnership and the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA).

Available through playgroups, nurseries and childminders, the kits will contain measures that can prevent young children getting tangled in blind cords and being suffocated.

RoSPA's Jennifer Henderson said: "With blinds already fitted in so many homes, it's important to raise awareness of the danger and how these accidents can be prevented."

Many of the safety problems associated with window blinds result from legacy equipment that does not meet today's exacting safety standards.

Child-safe styles recommended by RoSPA include those that have casings to hide cords and spring roller blinds that do not need them.

Louvolite offers some of the safest window roller blinds available and ensuring safety does not mean compromising on quality.

While it can be nice to look at window blind trends in interior design books and follow them occasionally, it is more important to think about what you like best as a person.

This is the advice of Sheila Loudon from Dingwall Fabrics, who told the Scotsman she thinks this is really important.

"Following trends is all very well, but it's you who has to live with your choice - so go with the colours and fabrics you like," she advised.

However, Ms Loudon pointed out that you should not turn down recommendations from experts such as the people at Louvolite if they are available, as they will know through experience what kind of window blinds suit different spaces.

Also, it is important to have them fitted professionally so they hang correctly and look good from both sides of the window.

Interior designer Nate Berkus also recently told ABC that he does not believe in trends, as they can make people feel inadequate about the choices they make.

Get made to measure blinds at Louvolite

Anyone who feels as though they have not got enough room at home might want to think about adding a conservatory to their property.

Gareth Short from Leekes told Wales Online that they will act as an extension to your living space, while also adding plenty of light to otherwise dingy areas.

"Orangeries and conservatories remain enormously popular due to their versatility and all-round appeal," he commented.

A conservatory can be used as a kitchen-diner, a home office, playroom or simply as a sanctuary to relax in at the end of a busy day.

Mr Short pointed out that a conservatory or orangery can add up to five per cent to the value of a home, which could be very worthwhile should you ever come to sell it.

There are also a variety of different styles, sizes and accessories, meaning that everyone can get their dream room whatever their budget.

At the end of last year, Abigail Owens, design director at Carolyn Parker Interior Design, said conservatories are in demand at present among homeowners who want the opportunity to "gaze out into the world from the warmth and comfort of your own home".

She suggested that anyone who wants one should look to make the best use of space and good views while also retaining privacy.

Some landscape gardening may be necessary to ensure people cannot see in, while uplights in the windows will act in the same way.

Conservatory roof insulation firm Roofcozy also recently said that adding such a building to a property can significantly increase its value.

It may be a good idea when looking into conservatories to think about getting one constructed from UPVC.

An article in the Sunderland Echo points out that this material is modern, flexible and dependable, as well as highly energy efficient.

This should mean you do not have to pay too much money on your energy bills in order to keep the temperature comfortable.

Also, UPVC will not warp, split or rot over time like wood could and will not rust like steel.

It should also not need much in the way of maintenance, meaning you can enjoy your conservatory or orangery for many years to come while spending very little on it financially.

So, how could you go about decorating your new conservatory? It's a good idea to concentrate on the effect you can get from adding soft furnishings such as cushions, rugs and window blinds.

House to Home suggests going for a swing seat, which will create a great reading spot. You can then complement this with "meadow-inspired cushions and throws".

There is also the French option, which you can achieve by going for white-painted walls and white furniture. Blue accents and floral centrepieces will finish off this look, which will be great for a conservatory thanks to all the light that floods in.

Alternatively, the magazine suggests treating the conservatory as a true extension of your home by adding wallpaper, floral fabrics and rattan furniture, perhaps alongside wooden window blinds for a substantial finish.

Meanwhile, the Daily Mail's Homes section said a Scandinavian look could be ideal for a conservatory, again because the light will create a really fresh appearance.

Add pale painted furniture, fresh fabrics, candle light and glassware to complete your Nordic room.

However, you may find this is too pale if you have a young family, as children may create spills and other mess that will stain.

Consequently, pale colours in blocks could prove to be more suitable, as well as easy to clean flooring and perhaps a rug for warmth.

Feel free to go to town on the wall that is adjoining to the house though, as this will stand artwork, shelves and wall lights. Why not make it into a feature wall by adding bold patterned wallpaper? The light coming in and reflecting off it will mean the design looks even more striking.

And if you have an insulated conservatory that is suitable for use in winter, the Daily Mail suggests considering underfloor heating if you have stone or carpeting, as this will provide valuable extra warmth.

Whatever design scheme you choose to go for, made to measure window blinds will be a welcome addition to your conservatory because they are stylish as well as functional.

Louvolite has a wide selection of roller blinds, roman blinds and vertical blinds covering the very latest in interior trends, colours and fashions, so you are sure to be spoilt for choice.

Pleated blinds may look especially good in this kind of room, as they allow varying levels of light to be let in. This means you can maximise it when you need to, or adjust the blind to block a little out when it is too dazzling.

Why not check out the whole range on the Louvolite website?

People thinking of redecorating their kitchen need to carefully consider the materials they plan to use.

This is according to interior designer Carolyn Parker, who said she always starts by choosing materials and the textures she wants, rather than going for a certain colour.

"Sometimes if you are getting a marble or stone worktop it can have lots and lots of colours running through it. But if you are going to go for a high gloss-type kitchen, like a Parapan-type look, there are loads of colours available," she pointed out.

Ms Parker said that solid wood in kitchens is getting more and more popular, as are glass worktops to create a very modern finish.

If you feel as though you are struggling with how to go about starting afresh, the expert suggested speaking to a specialist kitchen designer in order to assist with all the design aspects, even if you are buying an 'off-the-shelf' style.

"They will do a precise measurement. Then they will draw it up [using] CAD (computer-aided design)," she explained.

BBC Homes states it is a good idea to group frequently used equipment and work surfaces together so that you can get to them quickly and easily while cooking.

It also warned against designing a kitchen with too much storage space, as this will encourage cluttering and is likely to make being tidy and efficient difficult.

Disposing of some cupboards could leave space for an extra appliance or breakfast bar.

To make small changes in a kitchen, the website recommends re-tiling, painting or re-cladding cupboard doors, as well as replacing worktops and updating appliances.

You could also think about getting hold of some new made to measure roller blinds with a pattern, as this will add a boost of colour without being too expensive.

It will also provide privacy but will be less messy and obtrusive than curtains.

Check out the range of made to measure blinds at Louvolite

Window blind safety has improved dramatically over the past 15 years, despite alarmist reports in the press that have overstated the risks posed by window blinds.

According to Ralph Vasami, executive director of the Window Covering Manufacturers Association in New York, claiming that blackout vertical blinds or made to measure wood weave blinds are dangerous is misleading.

Writing to the Chicago Tribune, which recently published once such damning article, Mr Vasami said that the window blinds industry has been working tirelessly for more than a decade to redesign practically every window covering to ensure they address and reduce safety risks.

He claimed that many of the safety problems associated with window blinds result from legacy equipment that does not meet today's exacting safety standards.

"Our industry is committed to safety and implementing the strongest and most feasible voluntary standard. Instead of calling for a ban on safe products, we urge CPSC chairman Inez Tenenbaum to join our industry and help educate consumers about window covering safety," Mr Vasami told the news provider.

Several modern safety solutions are currently used in child-friendly blinds - including the use of wands, which are perfect for adjusting blinds without resorting to cords, or the disguising of cords behind innovative blind casings.

In fact the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) in the UK has long campaigned for the introduction of safety features such as wands in all new blinds.

RoSPA believes that spring roller blinds and other cutting-edge window coverings allow loose strings to be hidden, making the many times safer - especially in households with young children.

Louvolite offers some of the safest window roller blinds available and ensuring safety does not mean compromising on quality.

Interior design trends for 2011 were an interesting mix. Fabric roller blinds adorned with bold colour combinations and large patterns were a must for many. It seemed that as economic austerity began to take hold, people were desperate to find a vibrant and creative outlet - and interior design was the answer.

But running alongside this bold new trend was a growing demand for simple and subtle hues. While one half of the nation was clamouring for new green, red, orange and blue colour combos, the other half were after roller blinds that blended seamlessly into their existing, understated decor.

During the latter part of the year, this natural subtlety was in ascent and textured, organic interiors started coming to the fore. And it is this, much more natural trend that is likely to continue into 2012.

Barbara Payne, head of design and marketing at interiors specialist Bisque.co.uk, said: "2011 saw a move towards textured finishes and we believe this will increase in 2012.

"It's not just about custom colour - the finish can also drastically alter the feel and style of a design. People are moving away from the glossy finishes of old and we predict textured white will be a strong trend later in the year."

This approach appears to be spurred on by the rising demand for energy efficient interior design solutions - such as eco-friendly made to measure vertical blinds.

"For specific products, 2012 will see more energy-efficient but stylish [designs].," Ms Payne concluded. Energy efficient window blind fabrics are also being complemented with low-wattage LED lighting solutions - and both can help to slash homeowners' energy bills.

Check out the latest stylish and energy-efficient blinds from Louvolite.

It was recently estimated by the Trades Union Congress that as many as 3.7 million Britons work from home regularly, so they are increasingly having to think about furnishing home offices as well as rooms like dining areas.

Whereas people would not have much choice as to layout and decor if they were to do their job in an office building, being able to work at home means they have complete control over how they want their workspace to look and how to make it more comfortable for them specifically.

Judy George, owner of Judy George International, said she has noticed that people want to soften their surroundings and incorporate them more into the rest of the property, rather than having them as completely different spaces.

This is especially the case now that equipment is so much smaller and more mobile - computers are no longer bulky and printers can be built in to other items, for example.

"Designers are fearlessly grouping unique, even eccentric elements. And consumers like the eclectic mix. With furniture - like a wonderful desk - personality is key," she commented.

Jackie Hirschhaut from the American Home Furnishings Alliance said people quite like to show off things like tablet computers and nice furniture, so they are being better integrated into living spaces, with attention-grabbing designs being sought for the same reason.

When setting out a home office for the first time, the DIY Network recommends trying several different layouts to ensure you get it right.

It is also important to think about light and how it enters your workspace. You do not want to be in a dingy corner, so setting up in front of a window could be a good idea.

However, in summer, this could result in you being dazzled and made too hot, so to prevent this, it is a good idea to invest in some made to measure blinds.

Installing roller, vertical, roman or pleated blinds will prevent passersby from seeing in and noticing expensive equipment if you are on the ground floor.

Check out the range of made to measure blinds at Louvolite

Getting hold of a decent rug to place in a living or dining room could really help to tie the decor of the space together.

This is the recommendation of interior decorator Susie Buchanan, who told OregonLive.com that lots of people are investing in such pieces to get a new look without splashing out.

"Area rugs have enormous potential to upgrade and beautify rooms without a major cash outlay. A rug really does tie a room together," she commented.

Ms Buchanan said rugs are ideal for creating conversation areas and for putting underneath furniture such as sofas and dining tables, as well as in halls.

Rugs will go particularly well with wood weave blinds, with interiors expert Rose Bennett Gilbert recently telling the Journal Sentinel that these and other pieces that create an earthy feel are all the rage this season.

A woollen rug and the wood in the window blinds should appear really rustic and homely.

Take a look at Louvolite's huge range of wood weave blinds

There are several measures homeowners can implement to improve the energy efficiency of their properties, including LED lighting and window blinds.

Natalie Timmerman, spokeswoman for independent lighting consultancy Light IQ, said, people are becoming very interested in LED lights at the moment because they are more efficient than traditional bulbs and have a much longer life expectancy.

"This is good during the darker months as lighting can be left on continuously without fear of using too much power," she commented.

Ms Timmerman recommended that homeowners should look out for new technology in lighting soon, such as organic LEDs and even better colour qualities.

Good window blinds will also cut energy bills because they improve thermal efficiency. A high level of insulation and utility bills savings of up to nine per cent can be achieved with those rated ER2, while this goes up to 11 per cent with ER1.

Blackout blinds could be used with LED lights to keep a room's ambience constant in the winter.

Check out why you should choose energy saving fabrics from Louvolite.

Making sure a home has adequate insulation and other measures to stop heat escaping is the best way to save money on energy bills.

This is according to Josh Brock, who works as a technician for American Climate Control and told Decatur Daily this is his top tip to avoid energy bills escalating and warmth being wasted.

"The more air you can stop from flowing from outside to inside or vice versa, you're going to save money there," he commented.

According to the Energy Saving Trust, all properties lose heat through their windows, but double glazing prevents the most heat from seeping out.

It also points out that conservatories are not thermally efficient and advised homeowners not to heat them.

Energy saving blinds are an excellent way of keeping heat in at windows, as they are made from insulating material but do not have to be as thick as curtains.

They could also stop conservatories from getting too cold in the winter.

Homeowners have been offered some tips on home decor from an expert and winner of House Beautiful's 2010 Kitchen of the Year award.

Jeff Lewis told the Globe and Mail he has extensive knowledge of making over properties and knows what it is a good idea and what should be left well alone.

First, he suggested measuring every piece of furniture in the store before taking it home, as it will look much smaller there than it does in a living room or dining area.Also, Mr Lewis warned against making rooms too trendy, instead sticking to neutral colours and patterns that are unlikely to get boring after a year.

Instead, he recommended looking to soft furnishings such as pillows, rugs and window blinds to add those all-important pops of colour and design.

"That's something that can be inexpensively switched out," he pointed out.

Last month, interior designer Nate Berkus told ABC he also doesn't believe in trends.

Check out the wide selection of window blind fabrics available at Louvolite http://www.louvolite.com/virtualbooks/Louverlite/HomeLouvolite.html

It is usually the sink that takes centre stage when people are decorating their bathrooms, according to one expert.

Grahame Morrison of kbb news said this is a key feature that homeowners tend to focus on as they purchase new items for the smallest room of the house.

However, he added that this might change in 2012.

"Last year baths and toilets had a fair stab at stealing the limelight with shower toilets becoming slightly more common," Mr Morrison added.

He suggested shower toilets - they're a little like bidets but more high-tech, by the way - could be the "next big bathroom thing", as could baths that create a Jacuzzi without as many jets.

When decorating the bathroom, made to measure blinds will be the best choice for the windows as they will be subjected to a lot of water, plus they are needed to create privacy.

Anyone on the lookout for a colour to decorate with that makes a big statement could try tangerine.

This has been voted colour of the year by Pantone and is recommended for people who want fireworks for their decor and to see jaws dropping whenever they show visitors around.

The Pantone Color Institute's Leatrice Eiseman said the reddish-orange will give homeowners a real energy boost that could help them to move forward and gain strength, the Shreveport Times reports.

She explained the shade is "sophisticated but at the same time dramatic and seductive".

"It marries the vivaciousness and adrenaline rush of red with the friendliness and warmth of yellow," the expert added.

Dulux's Louise Smith did tell Female First last week that Britons want colours that are full of optimism, so perhaps this is the first step towards it!

If you're making your room bright with orange, you may want to add vertical blinds in a neutral shade such as caramel to avoid the decor clashing.

View the latest Louvolite vertical blind collection here: http://www.louvolite.com/householder_vertical_blinds.asp

The ending of Christmas and the arrival of January can create something of a blue mood among homeowners, especially when all the streamers and the tree come down to reveal bare-looking rooms.

However, author of Making A House Your Home Clare Nolan told the Shropshire Star there are measures people can take to avoid the 'decor doldrums'.

She recommended taking stock of every area to make sure it fits its purpose; for example, a bigger dining room table may be necessary for frequent entertainers, while hobbyists may also need new furniture.

A look at colours could also be worthwhile this month, Ms Nolan said, suggesting using cool colours in small spaces and richer hues in bright and airy rooms.

Made to measure window blinds may be a treat for people feeling the January blues, as they can help to create a cosy ambience in areas such as living rooms as well as preventing passersby from seeing in to overlooked homes.

Technology is becoming an increasingly important aspect of home living, so much so that people are now designing their rooms around it.

This is according to Jo Hamilton, who runs an interior design consultancy and pointed out that televisions in particular no longer "sit quietly in the corner".

She said some homeowners like to try and hide them behind clever features such as sliding mirrors and cabinets, but the other approach is to embrace televisions and make them part of the decor.

"Media rooms are becoming very popular, a huge screen being a very important ingredient in creating the home cinema experience," Ms Hamilton commented.

HowStuffWorks.com points out that glare can be a problem with some television screens when they pick up light from windows and the room in general.

Perfect Fit blinds or roller blinds made to measure could help to avoid this problem, as they can quickly be put in place to reduce glare or even totally block out sunlight from outside when people want to watch a programme.

Anyone worried about storm damage to their home should this week's tempestuous weather patterns be repeated could consider using window blinds as a safety feature.

Daniel Malone and Debra Dodd from Consumers Energy told mLive.com it is important to plan for severe weather activity, something that seems to be arriving more frequently in the UK.

"Being prepared can minimise the impact of a storm and help you and your family to stay safe," Mr Malone commented.

Many homes have been affected this week by trees falling in their gardens and smashing windows, but the experts said sturdy window blinds can help to prevent injuries.

"That will prevent glass from shattering into your home if the window should break due to blown objects or large hail," they remarked.

Winds gusting up to 70 miles per hour have been forecasted for much of the country today (January 5th 2012), prompting the Met Office to put yellow weather warnings in place for many areas.

The feel-good factor surrounding the British royal family is still having an impact on the colours we use in our homes.

Interior design expert George Bond believes that because of high-profile events such as Prince William's marriage to Catherine Middleton in April and the Queen's impending jubilee in 2012, homeowners are still decking out their rooms in a quintessentially British style.

Indeed, he stated that bright reds and blues are still all the rage and this may affect people's decisions when they come to choose a new set of window blinds.

Mr Bond added that floral designs - which often evoke an image of an English country garden - are also popular. This could be a major consideration when homeowners are looking for the ideal window blind fabric.

"There seems to be a lot of blues and reds coming in. There's a big royal influence that has a lot to do with that revival," the designer commented.

Patterned roller blinds could be on trend next year too, after owner of Nas Home Nasir Masood told Daily News and Analysis that many property owners will adopt contrasting tones throughout their rooms.

Find new panel blinds that can help you achieve the British look at http://www.louvolite.com/householder_panel_blinds.asp

Homeowners should be doing all they can to weatherproof their homes in order to cut their energy consumption.

This is the view of Andrew Leech - executive director at the National Home Improvement Council - who has suggested that with power tariffs being so high, it is important that households explore various different avenues in the pursuit of cheaper energy bills.

He said that draught-proofing is the cheapest way to improve a property's green credentials, but there are plenty of other options.

Indeed, by selecting window blinds that are made with the latest innovative fabrics, people can potentially save up to 15 per cent on their energy bills each year, as the coverings act as an extra layer of insulation, as well as making a room look stylish.

"In the average semi-detached house, if you add together all the gaps round the doors and windows, it can add up to the equivalent of nine bricks missing in the wall," Mr Leech commented.

He added that ensuring a house is well insulated could help a person when they eventually put it on the market too.

See how energy saving blinds can save you money each year at http://www.louvolite.com/featured.asp?id=46

A US-based interior design expert has suggested that simply increasing the amount of light that is allowed into a property can help rooms look far more appealing.

Kelli Ellis believes that an increased amount of natural glow can work wonders in making living rooms more vibrant places.

One way to achieve this is to reassess whether your window blinds are doing their job correctly. Everyone is different and while some may opt for blackout cellular blinds, others may prefer the look that wooden Venetian blinds create.

Ms Ellis added that introducing blinds that have interesting colours and textures may be the best way to go. "The trend is to blend styles. Iron and crystal combinations, drum pendants and blown-glass, and coloured crystal and organic shapes will instantly add some 'wow'," she commented.

Hosts of Canadian property development show Colin & Justin's Home Heist, Colin McAllister and Justin Ryan, recently told the Vancouver Sun that new blinds should ideally match the fabric used in upholstery throughout a room.

Find out how cellular and pleated blinds can brighten up your home at http://www.louvolite.com/householder_pleated_blinds.asp

When selecting fancy new window coverings, it can be a good idea to ensure roller blinds fabric fits in with the materials that are already used to adorn a room's furniture.

This is the view of the hosts of property development show Colin & Justin's Home Heist, Colin McAllister and Justin Ryan, who told the Vancouver Sun that it is important to ensure living rooms have a specific theme.

They were talking in reference to a project where the pair were tasked with reinvigorating a tired chaise longue, which saw them redesign a room in order to accommodate the new-look piece of furniture.

"We went to town with complementary window drapes, blinds and cushions to set the scene as part of the reinvention of this romantic chaise longue," they told the news provider.

Homeowners who are planning to redecorate their sitting room may be wise to follow this advice. While it is not essential to ensure new window blinds match existing furniture exactly, it is worth considering colours, textures and patterns before committing to a specific design.

Find the best made to measure vertical blinds for your home at http://www.louvolite.com/householder_vertical_blinds.asp

Plenty of Britons will be spending today and tomorrow (December 23rd and 24th) making their homes presentable ready for an invasion of relatives over the Christmas period. While most people will be primarily concerned with the appearance of their house, there are also safety considerations to take into account.

Your children may have grown up, or you may not have any at all, but remember to take your family's kids into account. The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) has issued a pre-Christmas warning aimed mainly at those who have window blinds. Some designs rely on draw strings that often dangle to the side of the coverings themselves. While you may not have realised it, these can be dangerous when young children are in close proximity, as they could choke on the cords.

"If you're expecting young children to visit your home this Christmas, it would be worth spending a few minutes to think about any preparations that might make your home safer for them," commented Ita McErlean, home safety manager for RoSPA in Northern Ireland.

"If you have blinds or curtains with looped operating cords, tie the cords high up out of the reach of young children or, better still, use one of the many cleats, cord tidies, clips or ties that are available," she added.

Thankfully, a number of hi-tech solutions have emerged to solve this problem. Whether you opt for Perfect Fit venetian, roller and pleated blinds or maybe even spring return roller blinds, these are ways to avoid children coming into contact with potentially dangerous cords.

While a degree of common sense can go a long way in helping little ones remain safe, advancements such as wand-controlled blinds could prove to be ideal for families. Whatever you eventually choose, it is nice to know that style, practicality and child safety can all be achieved by buying fabrics and systems from Louvolite.

Patterned roller blinds look set to be the height of fashion heading into the new year, according to the leader of a furnishing specialist.

Owner of Nas Home Nasir Masood told Daily News and Analysis that people will be paying close attention to detail when choosing fabrics for their homes in 2012.

He said that in particular, "earthy natural fabrics" are favourable. The expert also suggested that many households will be looking to achieve a "fusion style".

To do this, he added, households need to introduce contrasting tones that will complement colours that are already used throughout a room.

During winter, window blinds that use warm and homely colours are preferable, with maroons, reds and rusty shades currently in vogue.

The demand for orange hues looks set to continue into next year, as US organisation Pantone recently declared that Tangerine Tango would be the colour scheme that would define 2012.

Decide which colours you would like your new roller blinds to be at http://www.louvolite.com/householder_roller_blinds.asp

As 2011 draws to a close, many of us will already have our new year's resolutions in the back of our minds. Aside from the usual culprits like heading to the gym more often or cutting down on the booze, a lot of homeowners may have an ambition to make their property more appealing.

Redecorating can be stressful and there are so many things that need to be considered. Undoubtedly, you cannot afford to go in heavy handed and it is vital that you have a plan in place that takes colours, themes and general ambiance into account. In our opinion, installing the right window blinds is key to the overall success of a redecoration job.

But where to start? First things first, pick the room that requires the most attention and focus on completing it before you move on to other parts of the house. Luckily for the more creative among us, there is an abundance of stylish window coverings that can fit perfectly into any room. So, once you have decided on a colour and theme for your new-look property, take some time to scour the extensive range that is available to you. From fancy wood weave blinds to more classic white roller blinds, there is plenty of scope to express yourself.

Those who are confident that they have a suitable colour scheme in mind are perhaps better placed to commit to a set of blinds, however, there are plenty of people who find it difficult to settle on one colour. And who can blame them? Redecorating is time-consuming and can be expensive, so it is imperative that you get it right first time.

One thing that makes the whole process slightly more challenging is the contrasting views of interior design experts, who all appear to have very different takes on what we should be doing with our homes. According to Adrienne Chinn of AdrienneChinn.co.uk, brighter shades are set to be all the rage in 2012, which may influence your decision when choosing the most suitable roller blinds fabric.

"We are starting to see more bright colours coming in, which is nice, because I think we are all a bit tired of taupe, grey and beige," Ms Chinn remarked. "I am starting to see rooms - where the walls might be white - but then they [add] turquoise. Turquoise is a big colour next year," she added.

Ms Chinn is certainly not alone in her predictions for the new year. US-based design specialist Lori Dennis recently told the Journal Sentinel that bold prints such as Nouveaux Teal and Luna Granite Black will be the height of fashion. She also feels that floral patterns could be in vogue next year too.

It is difficult to believe that one organisation can have overriding authority on what colours we should be going for, but US firm Pantone has insisted that Tangerine Tango is the "colour of 2012". This could be an acquired taste, however, and may be too much for some homeowners to bear.

For those who think they are being strong-armed into buying pleated blinds that are bright and garish, never fear, as some designers feel that more subtle tones may be the way to go next year. Representatives at Beasley & Henley Interior Design agreed with Pantone that orange will "still be hanging around", but also claimed that grey will be the colour that defines 2012.

"Warm grey, light grey, charcoal grey. On walls, furnishings, window treatments, artwork, grey will be everywhere," a spokesperson commented. "Also hot in 2012 will be the captivating and unique industrial look," they continued, before adding that black and white hues will also be fashionable.

The firm also has some clear ideas about what types of fabrics people will go for, with many homeowners who are looking for new made to measure pleated blinds expected to take environmental considerations into account more than they have done in previous years.

"Another great development for 2012 is that environmentally-conscious fabrics will finally be really accessible and affordable in most price categories," the Beasley & Henley Interior Design representative said.

"Married to the natural, rustic look of furnishings will be fabrics with woven, hemp-like characteristics. Nubby cottons, loose weaves, and Belgium linens will come on strong and will be found in soft earth tones like warm whites, sandy beiges, light greys and tans," they concluded.

Clearly, homeowners who are daunted by the prospect of selecting their new blinds should not pay too much attention to the latest trends, as these quickly change and, as we have seen, so-called expert opinions can often differ drastically anyway. However, one thing that cannot be doubted, in our view, is that chic blinds can add plenty of glamour to a room, regardless of whether you eventually go for a loud, colourful design or opt for a more understated wooden theme.

Long gone are the days when kitchens were used solely for cooking and preparing food.

According to one professional furniture maker, modern day kitchens are almost as important as living rooms and so it is important to ensure they are stylish and welcoming, as well as practical.

Bosses at US-based Seigle's Cabinets told the Daily Herald that more effort is going into kitchen design than ever before.

"The kitchen is the heart of the home and people have finally realised that you are not going to get everyone out of the kitchen," commented company president Mark Seigle.

With this in mind, roller blinds for kitchens are likely to be all the rage for quite some time and homeowners have a multitude of options when it comes to selecting the perfect window blinds.

Indeed, Mr Seigle added that browns, deep blues, chiffon yellows, reds and earthy greens are now being commonly used in kitchens, as they create a warm and homely ambiance.

Louvolite has a huge selection of roller blinds designed specifically for kitchens.

One consideration that often gets overlooked by people buying new window blinds is the child safety factor.

Of course, aesthetics are crucial and choosing window coverings that fit seamlessly into a room and are stylish to look at is vital, but for families, nothing is more important than protecting young children.

Some blinds come with dangling cords, which have been known to cause child fatalities in the past when youngsters have become entangled in the wires, but new innovations in blind design mean that parents can now rest easy.

Sophisticated roller blinds and other varieties can now be controlled via a wand, while some designs hide away potentially dangerous cords.

The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents has long campaigned for better safety features in blind designs. Representatives recently highlighted the benefits of spring roller blinds - which do not require any loose strings - and the organisation is also a vocal advocate of wand and gear-activated blinds.

Check the safety credentials of window roller blinds at Louvolite

Emerging technological innovations could revolutionise the way window blinds are used in the future.

The popularity of solar panels is growing sharply, with many homeowners installing them on their roofs in order to make savings on energy bills.

However, according to Power Engineering, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) has come up with a method to make these panels more effective. It has devised a way to transform a window pane into a solar module, which soaks up the infra-red rays of the sun, while still allowing enough light to pass through the glass.

The stored energy can then be used to heat or cool a home and the new technology remedies one of the biggest problems with current solar panel films - that they are not transparent enough.

To make further reductions to quarterly power bills, office and homeowners can choose specially-made energy saving blinds, which boost the insulation of a property.

Find out how much you can save by installing new patterned roller blinds

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Although we have been experiencing some milder weather over the past couple of days, many households will still have had their central heating on for large parts of the day. This is usually regarded as standard practice in December, but the fact that all of Britain's major power suppliers decided to hike their rates recently has left plenty of homeowners feeling the pinch.

Rather than shivering in the corner of the 'warmest' room in the house, property owners can take a few simple steps to make significant cuts to their annual energy bills and keep that heating on a little bit longer.

Of course, insulation and draft exclusion are vital, so make sure your home is sufficiently lagged so that heat stays in. Other than open doors, the biggest source of heat loss are windows, therefore introducing some sort of covering to minimise the amount of valuable energy that drifts through your glass is crucial. Many savvy homeowners have already recognised that energy saving blinds are the future. Advancements in roller blinds fabric have enabled UK manufacturers such as Louvolite to create a beautiful array of shades that will not only make your living room look great, but also provide some much needed relief for your bank account.

With Christmas just days away, the importance of weatherproofing is heightened considerably. This is particularly the case for families with children, as a recent study by academics at the University of Salford showed that electricity consumption goes through the roof during the festive period, as many youngsters receive gadgets as gifts. This, the researchers stated, can add an extra £150 to power bills - something that most families could do without.

The study also noted that loft insulation with a thickness of 270mm can help trim bills by £25 a year. Well, we can assure you that energy saving blinds have a far bigger impact than this. All of the materials used in Louvolite's window blinds are rigorously tested, before being issued with an energy rating. Blinds that are created using ER3-rated fabrics can result in savings on energy bills of up to 11 per cent - or £95 - for the average three-bedroom detached house with single-glazed windows.

This is increased to 12 per cent - the equivalent of £110 - for ER2 blinds, while the most impressive performers are roller blinds that utilise ER3 material. Homeowners who opt for this type of window covering can slash their bills by up to 15 per cent (£133). In the current economic climate, savings like this certainly aren't to be sniffed at.

In the past, most homeowners only bought blinds for aesthetic and practical reasons, as they can make windows look far more appealing and they are obviously required when the sunlight is becoming too much to bear. However, it seems that an increasing number of people are now fitting them for energy saving purposes, as plenty of Britons have had enough of sky-high gas and electricity bills.

Ofgem - the organisation that regulates the UK's energy market - recently conducted a study that highlighted the strength of opinion when it comes to power bills. Nearly three-quarters of consumers said they wanted tariffs to be simplified, while the majority of those polled said they were disillusioned with the whole industry and radical changes were needed if their confidence is to be restored.

"Encouragingly, we are seeing that major energy companies like British Gas, E. ON and Scottish and Southern Energy are recognising the problems that Ofgem has identified and there is a growing sense of consensus forming behind the need for a simpler, more competitive energy market," commented Ofgem chief executive Alistair Buchanan.

"Ofgem is now calling on all suppliers to back its reform programme, which gives energy suppliers a chance to draw a line under the past and an opportunity to restore consumer trust," he added.

However, until these proposed reforms become reality, it appears that many homeowners are turning down their thermostats. According to statistics published by Utility Week, energy consumption fell in the fourth quarter of 2011 when compared with the same period in 2010, although as mentioned, the weather has been a bit kinder this year so far.

Aside from the financial gains, there is another upside to buying high quality, made to measure roller blinds that have impeccable insulation credentials. By ensuring you are not having your radiators emitting heat 24-7, your carbon footprint is also being reduced significantly. Louvolite takes great pride in ensuring its products meet stringent EU and international standards relating to environmental performance and is constantly looking to develop ways to help Britons curb their greenhouse gas emissions.

Therefore, people who buy new roller blinds for bathrooms or any other part of their house can rest assured that they are doing their bit to save the planet. It may not seem like it now, but each small effort to become greener is helping the UK government reach its target of reducing carbon output by 80 per cent by 2050, when compared with pollution levels from 1990.

People in the UK have long held the belief that conservatories are only worth having in the summer months and are rarely used once the temperature starts to plummet. However, bosses at Conservatory.net believe this is a common misconception and that more homeowners are now recognising the benefits of having one of the extensions in the winter too.

Bosses at the firm have stated that they have seen the demand for new conservatories grow sharply in the build up to the festive period. They certainly come into their own around Christmas time, as there is far more room to entertain friends and family. The company also stated that UPVC conservatories are popular, as they help keep the warmth in.

Of course, it is vital that conservatories are inviting and a cold room is not likely to impress guests at all. Therefore, it is pivotal that energy saving blinds are fitted throughout the extension. Installing Perfect Fit roller blinds is a smart move on two counts, as first and foremost they are extremely attractive to look at and secondly, they are likely to save you plenty of money on fuel bills in the long run thanks to the impressive insulation credentials of the fabric.

It is also important to realise that buying shadings for your conservatory is a significant investment and you want to ensure that your final selection can be used all year round. This is why made to measure roller blinds may be the best option in this case. When they are pulled down they add a homely feel to a conservatory, especially if it is dark outside. However, once summer comes around again, they are more than likely going to be left up for long periods. This is when you will be glad to have selected roller blinds, as they are hardly noticeable at all, meaning nothing will obstruct your view as you gaze out into your sun-filled garden.

Homeowners who are planning a major redecoration job on their properties in the new year should be looking to introduce bold orange colours, design experts have suggested. Those who are keen to follow seasonal fashions may or may not be familiar with US-based organisation Pantone, which is a global authority on colour and colour standards, according to its leaders.

Every year, the group reveals its "colour of the year" and has now decided that Tangerine Tango will be all the rage in 2012. People who like their homes to reflect the latest trends may consider this when picking new window blinds, although bright orange might be a bit too ostentatious for many property owners.

However, there is a reason for Pantone's unusual choice of colour, as executive director at the company Leatrice Eiseman said it follows on from the 2011 colour of the year Honeysuckle in providing a home with "verve and vigour". "Sophisticated but at the same time dramatic and seductive, Tangerine Tango is an orange with a lot of depth to it," she remarked.

"Reminiscent of the radiant shadings of a sunset, Tangerine Tango marries the vivaciousness and adrenaline rush of red with the friendliness and warmth of yellow, to form a high-visibility, magnetic hue that emanates heat and energy," she continued.

By no means does this mean that people looking to add a degree of class to their homes should automatically settle for this particular shade. Indeed, there are a multitude of options available to those who want to create an elegant ambiance. From classy made to measure pleated blinds to wood weave blinds, homeowners have plenty of scope to express themselves when redecorating their rooms.

Sliding panel blinds are also a shrewd choice for those who favour the chic look and these are appearing in many more homes, as they are sophisticated, yet quite understated. Perhaps you could throw a token orange cushion in for good effect in order to keep the fashion police happy, while safe in the knowledge that your blinds - whatever you eventually go for - will remain fashionable on the other side of 2012.

Stylish window coverings such as patterned roller blinds can go a long way to improving the look of a house, it has been suggested.

Representatives of the Orangeville & District Real Estate Board told the Orangeville Citizen that small improvements can really revolutionise the appearance of a property, although getting the colour of new blinds correct is crucial.

A spokesperson for the organisation stated that homeowners should not be afraid of opting for bright hues, but it is important that any new additions fit in with the theme throughout the rest of the house.

"Before you begin your home improvement project, determine your style. It's best to choose colours and decorations that stick to one style - traditional or contemporary for example," they were reported as saying.

Maintaining the same colour scheme throughout a property can really help make rooms look more spacious and new fabric roller blinds should match the colour of a room's furniture to achieve the ultimate effect.

Real estate agent Jennifer Ferland recently told the New York Times that people who are feeling underwhelmed by their current window fittings "should absolutely invest" in new blinds.

Why not cast your eye over Louvolite's extensive range of roller blinds?

Bespoke, made to measure roller blinds can completely transform a room - giving it an air of elegance that far surpasses that afforded by cheap, tatty curtains.

Their clean lines, easily adjustable nature and the uncompromising high-quality fabrics used all help revitalise, without becoming a distraction.

What's more, a decent set of roller blinds can make a property much more saleable.

Jennifer Ferland, a real estate agent with New York-based A C Lawrence & Company, told the New York Times: "If you have something that looks kind of tacky and cheap, well, it's funny the little things that can steer buyers away from feeling comfortable in a home."

She told the news provider that if your blinds are looking underwhelming it might be time to consider getting some new ones.

"You should absolutely invest in new window shades," she concluded.

Blinds are also a great way of keeping up with the latest interior fashion trends and can do far more to improve the look of your living room or dining room than tacky wall art or cheap cushion covers.

Interior design expert Adrienne Chinn believes geometric patterns and bold colours will be the standout trend for 2012.

So why not spruce up your living room with some on-trend patterned roller blinds?

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A great way to add value to a property is to build a conservatory and this may be an increasingly popular option for many while the housing market is subdued.

Extensions come in all sorts of shapes and sizes and there are a number of ways to maximise the interior space they offer.

Installing made to measure Apex blinds could be a shrewd move, as it is vitally important to allow the right amount of light into the room.

Conservatory blinds come into their own in the summer months in particular. It is nice to sit in the room while the sun is beaming and natural light can help make the space look bigger, but those who install televisions in their conservatories sometimes need an effective, yet stylish way to block out excess sunshine. This can be achieved through classy window blinds.

Interior design expert George Bond recently stated that conservatories are in vogue at the moment, but if you are going to have one, make sure it is decorated to suit the seasons.

He reiterated the importance of letting light in and urged homeowners to avoid drape curtains, as they "look awful".

Louvolite has an extensive range of window blinds for conservatories with Apex blinds and pleated blinds being extremely popular at the moment.

Interior design expert George Bond believes that high-tech bathrooms are currently in vogue in the UK.

He stated that even in old houses, homeowners are starting to ditch safe, traditional designs in favour of a bit more razzmatazz.

Homeowners may bear this in mind when they come to decorate their washrooms and swanky, modern roller blinds for bathrooms may be high on their shopping lists.

According to Mr Bond, dressing a window correctly is proving to be as important as selecting a state-of-the-art bathtub, shower enclosure or Jacuzzi.

"In bathrooms, I used to get asked a lot to do drapes but not now it's all plantation shutters - they are huge," he remarked.

The expert also insisted that those who have "weird-shaped windows" can still boost the appearance of their room with stylish new blinds.

It is important that the colour of new blinds matches the shades that are used throughout the rest of the bathroom.

Design expert Lori Dennis recently told the Journal Sentinel that strong patterns and bold hues will be all the rage heading into the new year.

Louvolite has a wide selection of roller blinds for bathrooms