Blinds can make a significant difference to the aesthetic designs and the practicality of every space, from homes to offices, and even public buildings. But what are the important considerations when choosing blinds for public buildings? And how can you make the right choice for your building?
What are the important considerations when choosing blinds for public buildings?
When choosing blinds for public buildings there are a number of important considerations to take into account. These include:
- Safety and compliance
- Durability and maintenance
- Light control and privacy
- Aesthetic design
Safety and compliance
One of the most important things to consider for blinds in public buildings is safety. This will also ensure compliance with regulations. You should consider:
- Fire safety regulations- it is essential that blinds in public buildings adhere to strict fire safety regulations, with blinds that are flame retardant and comply with the British Standard BS 5867. This ensures that in the event of a fire, the blinds will not contribute to, or accelerate, the spread of flames, providing a safer environment for the public, and helping to keep a fire contained.
- Child safety- it is also essential to consider child safety, particularly for public buildings that are used by children, like schools, nurseries, hospitals and libraries. Blinds in these settings will need to comply with the European Standard EN 13120, which mandates the use of safety devices for any looped cords. It is crucial to ensure that there is no strangulation risk from dangling cords.
Durability and maintenance
You will also need to consider the durability and maintenance of your blinds. These are important practical factors to consider that can help you save money in the long run. As part of this, you should take into account:
- High-usage areas- Some public spaces experience heavy use, so blinds must be durable and able to withstand frequent handling and exposure to various elements. Materials such as aluminum, PVC, or treated fabrics can offer longevity and resistance to wear and tear.
- Ease of cleaning- for public buildings, it is important to choose blinds that are easy to clean and keep clean, not only for aesthetic appeal, but also for hygiene. Blinds are often likely to accumulate dust and dirt, over time, and so choosing blinds with a material type that is easier to maintain can be a good idea. For example, vinyl and faux wood blinds are known for their low maintenance requirements and ease of cleaning, making them suitable for high-traffic areas.
Light Control and Privacy
Another important factor to bear in mind is the light control and privacy. As such, you should consider:
- Adjustable light levels- Public spaces like offices, libraries, and hospitals, all need blinds that offer flexibility in light control. Venetian blinds or vertical blinds are excellent choices as they allow precise control over the amount of light entering the room. This can enhance comfort, reduce glare on screens, and protect furnishings from UV damage.
- Privacy needs- In some public buildings, privacy can be very important. As a result, blinds that can be fully closed to provide complete privacy, such as roller blinds or blackout blinds, are essential.
Aesthetic and design considerations
Finally, you should also consider the aesthetic and design considerations. These include:
- Complementing your design theme- Blinds should complement the existing decor of your room for an effective aesthetic result. For modern interiors, sleek and minimalistic designs like roller or Venetian blinds might be appropriate, whereas traditional settings might benefit from Roman blinds or wooden blinds.
- Customisable options- The ability to customise blinds to fit the specific dimensions and unique requirements of the space is important. Custom blinds ensure a perfect fit and can be tailored to match the color scheme and design theme of the space.
Here at The Blinds Mart, we are Southport’s leading experts when it comes to blinds and shutters, so why not get in touch today to find out how we can help you choose the right blinds for your property?