What's In a Name: Honeycomb vs. Cellular Shades
On any regular business day at Fabric Works, we estimate that half our clients use the term "honeycomb blinds" and half say "cellular shades." That might never change, even though it's the same product. Honeycomb blinds are the older term; today's versions are incredibly versatile, and we customize them to home and business owner specifications.
Why Were They Called Honeycomb Blinds?
Even though the product isn't blinds, the design has a honeycomb construction. These window coverings have fabric cells that trap air, creating an insulating barrier at the window. The hexagonal cells give these shades their characteristic appearance and provide energy efficiency benefits that traditional blinds and curtains cannot match.
When lowered, the pleated fabrics open up to form long, honeycomb-shaped cells. Single-cell options have one layer of these chambers; double-cell versions have two layers for maximum insulation. The fabric choices range from light-filtering materials to blackout options that block virtually all incoming light.
Practical Advantages of Hunter Douglas Duette® Cellular Shade
The main advantage of Hunter Douglas Duette® Cellular Shades is energy efficiency; the trapped air creates a thermal barrier that regulates indoor temperatures year-round. During summer months, the barrier prevents cool air from escaping while blocking heat from entering. In the winter, warm air stays inside, and cold drafts won't penetrate through windows.
Sound absorption is another especially valuable benefit if you live on a noisy street or need quiet sleeping and working environments. The honeycomb shade structure dampens external sounds more effectively than flat window treatments, creating quieter indoor atmospheres.
Hunter Douglas Duette® Cellular Shades are also incredibly versatile. They fit various horizontal and vertical window sizes, glass patio doors, and specialty windows like arches and skylights. You can select from over 150 fabric/color options, including designer fabrics, different opacities, and textures. We can also explain the various control options, including Powerview® Automation.
The Best Rooms for Custom Cellular Shades
Custom cellular shades suit almost any room in a home, particularly these:
- Blackout cellular options create dreamy sleeping conditions in bedrooms. The insulation keeps the space cozy and blocks early morning light. This is why many of our clients install cellular shades in their master bedrooms and nurseries.
- Living rooms and family spaces benefit from light-filtering cellular shades that provide privacy without sacrificing natural light. The energy efficiency can reduce heating and cooling costs in these often-used areas.
- Cellular shades are a fine choice for home offices because they provide controlled lighting conditions that reduce screen glare. Their sound-dampening qualities create a more professional environment for video calls and concentrated work sessions.
- Kitchens and bathrooms benefit from moisture-resistant cellular shade options that withstand humidity while providing privacy.
We Feature Hunter Douglas Duette® Cellular Shades in Spokane, Washington
We don't mind if you call them honeycomb blinds or cellular shades—our team members love this top-selling window treatment, and so will you. And as a family-owned and operated Hunter Douglas retailer, we provide the finest products and friendly service. Contact us for service in Spokane, Spokane Valley, Liberty Lake, and Deer Park, WA; and Coeur d'Alene, ID.
