If you’re Planning at your kitchen windows and wondering how to make them look bigger, brighter, or just less boring, you’re in the right place. Maybe your windows are too small, awkwardly placed, or just not giving you the style you want. We get it—kitchens are the heart of the home, and your window treatments shouldn’t feel like an afterthought. That’s where outside mount blinds come in. By the end of this article, you’ll know exactly how to use them to solve those kitchen design headaches, add personality, and even make your space feel bigger. Let’s dive in!
What Are Outside Mount Blinds (and Why Your Kitchen Needs Them)
Outside mount blinds are like the superheroes of window treatments. Instead of fitting inside the window frame (that’s inside mount), they’re installed on the wall around the window. Think of it like putting a picture frame around a tiny photo to make it stand out. If your kitchen has small windows, weird shapes, or cabinets that block the frame, outside mounts can save the day. For example, imagine a cozy kitchen in a Craftsman-style home near Portland’s Alberta Arts District—those classic smaller windows could look way more polished with a bold outside mount blind framing them. Plus, they’re great for blocking light gaps, which is a win if you hate glare on your countertops while cooking.
Design Hacks to Make Your Kitchen Pop
Let’s talk style. Outside mount blinds aren’t just practical—they’re a chance to add color, texture, or even a little drama. Here’s how:
- Go bold or go home: Try a bright red or navy blind to contrast white cabinets. Picture a mid-century modern kitchen in the Pearl District—those clean lines would pop with a retro-inspired color.
- Mix materials: Faux wood blinds add warmth, while aluminum ones give a sleek, industrial vibe. At HomeCrt, we’ve seen clients use bamboo blinds for a Pacific Northwest-friendly, eco-chic look.
- Fake bigger windows: Install blinds wider than the window frame. This trick draws the eye outward, making your window (and kitchen) feel larger. It’s like wearing vertical stripes—but for your house!
Picking the Right Blinds (Without the Stress)
Not all blinds are created equal. Here’s what to consider:
- Durability matters: Kitchens get steamy. Avoid real wood—it warps. Faux wood or moisture-resistant fabrics are your friends.
- Easy cleaning: Grease and dust happen. Look for wipeable surfaces. One HomeCrt customer in Beaverton swears by vinyl blinds she can scrub down after frying bacon.
- Measure like a pro: Outside mounts need precise width and height. Add 2-3 inches on each side for full coverage. Don’t guess—use a metal tape measure!
Check out HGTV’s guide for more measuring tips, or peek at This Old House’s ideas for historic homes.
Avoid These “Oops!” Moments
Even good ideas can go wrong. Here’s how to skip the regrets:
- Don’t block the view: Mounting blinds too low can chop your window visually. Keep them snug to the ceiling or molding.
- Hardware headaches: Heavy blinds need sturdy brackets. Drywall anchors aren’t enough—drill into studs or use toggle bolts.
- Style clashes: A super-modern blind might look odd in a farmhouse kitchen. Match the vibe. At HomeCrt, we’ve helped folks blend rustic cedar blinds with shaker cabinets for a cohesive look.
So there you have it! Outside mount blinds are a game-changer for kitchens that feel cramped, dull, or just need a refresh. Whether you’re framing a tiny window above the sink or adding a pop of color to match your Portland Timbers pride, these tips can help you nail the look. Remember, it’s all about choosing the right style, measuring carefully, and avoiding common slip-ups. And hey, if you ever feel stuck, HomeCrt’s got your back—we’re just a click away at homecrt.com. Now go make those windows shine!
