The Smart, Stylish Window Trends Transforming UK Homes in 2026: Energy Efficient and Long-Term Value Blinds and Curtains

Blinds & Curtains Trends 2026

Why Energy-Efficient and Long-Term Value Window Coverings Are Priorities for UK Homes in 2026

As we move towards 2026, UK homeowners are searching for window treatments that feel more tailored, more functional and more in line with current home décor trends. From energy‑efficient window coverings to soft, luxury curtains UK homeowners love, the focus is now on comfort, control and long-term value. That’s why motorised blinds UK, Roman blinds UK, natural curtains and made to measure blinds are fast becoming the most in-demand upgrades.


With rising energy costs and increased interest in home insulation solutions, window treatments are expected to work harder than ever.


Whether you're looking for the best blinds for large windows or simply wanting modern blinds that reduce glare and improve comfort, 2026 trends show a clear shift towards smarter, more sustainable choices.

Motorised Blinds

Effortless and Child-Safe: Why Electric Blinds Are Becoming a Must‑Have Feature

Motorised blinds are now one of the top window blinds 2026 trends. More homeowners are choosing electric blinds for their smooth, effortless operation, child-safe cordless design and clean, contemporary appearance. As a practical upgrade for modern homes, electric blinds are ideal for hard‑to‑reach windows, tall installations and wide expanses of glass.


Motorised blinds also appeal to families wanting child safe blinds UK. With no cords, they create a safer environment while offering a sleek, streamlined finish.


Whether you prefer roller, Roman or wooden blinds UK styles, the motorised option adds premium ease to everyday living.

How Motorised Blinds Fit Into Everyday Life

From reducing glare to improving sleep routines, motorised blinds help homeowners manage light throughout the day.


These modern blinds are especially useful on bifold doors, skylights and patio doors where manual blinds can be awkward to reach.


For many homes, electric blinds offer reliability, convenience and improved insulation - making them one of the best window treatments for 2026.


Explore our range of motorised blinds here.

Motorised, Electric Blinds

Roman Blinds and Curtains

Roman Blinds and Curtains: The Return of Warm, Natural Fabrics

Roman blinds remain a favourite thanks to their elegant, structured look and compatibility with a wide range of interiors. In 2026, homeowners are choosing fabrics such as linen, organic cotton and sustainable blends, aligning with wider home décor trends 2026 focused on natural materials.


These soft fabrics form part of the wider quiet-luxury movement, with warm neutral tones and soft textures defining luxury curtains UK homes are embracing.



Combining Roman blinds and curtains creates depth and warmth, with layering continuing as one of the strongest window blinds 2026 trends.

Thermal, Blackout and Layered Styles

Demand continues to grow for thermal curtains UK, thermal blinds and blackout blinds, as homeowners look for window dressings that enhance both comfort and efficiency.


Thermal blinds work by adding an insulated layer over the glass, helping to reduce heat loss in winter, keep rooms cooler in summer and improve overall energy performance.


Blackout fabrics add further benefits, blocking unwanted light and creating a more restful environment in bedrooms or nurseries.


Layered combinations - such as pairing Roman blinds with full-length curtains - also boost insulation while giving your space a warm, tailored finish.

Thermal blinds

Curtains and Blinds Combination 2026 Styles

The Best of Both Worlds: Combining Curtains and Blinds To Suit Style and Function

Layering curtains and blinds remains one of the strongest window dressing ideas for 2026. Whether you're looking for the best curtains for insulation UK properties require or exploring how to layer curtains and blinds for privacy, combinations allow you to tailor both style and performance.


Common pairings include Roman blinds with full-length curtains, wooden blinds with sheer panels, or blackout rollers beneath decorative drapes.


These combinations improve insulation, offer flexible privacy and elevate the overall look - ideal for anyone wanting contemporary curtains paired with modern blinds.

Curtains and blinds 2026 trends

Trusted Blind and Curtain Experts UK

High-Quality Fitting and Made-to-Measure Styles: Why Choose Marathon Blinds

Choosing the right window treatments is easier when supported by experts.


Marathon offers:

  • Free design consultations at home
  • Access to made to measure blinds and luxury curtains UK
  • Expert fitting by trained specialists
  • Guidance on home insulation solutions and style choices


Whether you’re exploring blackout blinds, thermal curtains UK options or the best blinds for large windows UK homes often require, our team can help you select the right fit.

Book Your Free Design Session Today

We bring the samples, do the measuring, and give honest advice based on what will work best for your home. No pressure. Just practical guidance and products that fit the way you live. 

Functional Pleated Blinds
Book A Design Session

Choosing Right Blinds or Curtains for Your Home

Unsure Where to Start? Let’s Break Down Your Window Covering Options

Start with your priorities - privacy, insulation, light control or style - and choose window treatments that support how you use each room.



Unsure how to choose blinds for different rooms? Book your Free Design Session - our specialists will walk through the best blinds, shutters and curtains for your home - helping you compare styles, fabrics and finishes with confidence.

Book Your Free Design Session Today

We bring the samples, do the measuring, and give honest advice based on what will work best for your home. No pressure. Just practical guidance and products that fit the way you live. 

Functional Pleated Blinds
Book A Design Session

Blinds and Curtains FAQs

Got Questions About Blinds and Curtains? We’ve Got You Covered

  • What are the best electric blinds for UK homes?

    The best electric blinds for UK homes are typically electric roller blinds and motorised Roman blinds, as they offer smooth operation, a clean finish and excellent compatibility with modern interiors. These styles work especially well on large windows, bifold doors and hard-to-reach areas where manual blinds are impractical.


    At Marathon, we assess your window size, room orientation, light levels and preferred look to help you choose the best electric blinds for your home, ensuring they fit perfectly and enhance insulation, privacy and day-to-day comfort.

  • Are motorised blinds worth it in the UK?

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  • Which window coverings help with heat loss?

    If you're looking for window coverings that help reduce heat loss, some of the most effective options include thermal Roman blinds, cellular blinds (honeycomb blinds) and thermal curtains UK homeowners rely on for insulation. These designs add a valuable extra layer over your windows, helping keep rooms warm in winter and cooler in summer.


    During your design session, Marathon will show you the best insulating blinds and curtains for your specific rooms, helping reduce drafts and energy bills with made-to-measure solutions.

  • How do I layer curtains and blinds for privacy?

    Layering curtains and blinds is one of the best ways to achieve daytime privacy and night-time light control. A popular approach is combining sheer curtains with blackout blinds, or pairing Roman blinds with full-length curtains for increased insulation. This setup softens the room while still giving you the privacy you need at any time of day.


    Marathon helps you design the perfect layered look by recommending fabric types, blind styles and colour combinations that suit your space and boost functionality.

  • What are the best child-safe window blinds for family homes?

    The safest blinds for families are cordless blinds, motorised blinds, and securely fitted Roman blinds, as they remove or conceal dangerous cords. This makes them ideal for nurseries, bedrooms and living spaces where children play.


    Marathon only supplies and installs child-safe blinds UK regulations fully support, and our fitters ensure everything is installed securely for complete peace of mind.

  • What is the cost of made-to-measure blinds in the UK?

    The cost of made-to-measure blinds UK homeowners purchase varies depending on fabric choice, blind type, window size and whether you choose manual or motorised operation. Made-to-measure options are more accurate, longer-lasting and offer better insulation than off-the-shelf alternatives. 


    Marathon provides clear, transparent quotes during your free consultation, ensuring you get the best value without hidden costs - and a perfect fit for every window.

Locations We Install Window Shutters Midlands

Areas We Serve in the Midlands

Book Free Window Covering Design Session

Ready to Refresh Your Home With Smart Style? Book Your Free Design Session Today

Whether you're updating your blinds and curtains, exploring modern blinds for a living room or bedroom, or searching for energy efficient window coverings that enhance insulation, our team can help.


During your design session, we measure your windows precisely, help you compare blinds and curtains, and recommend the best blinds for large windows UK homeowners often request. It’s a simple, no‑pressure way to explore styles, fabrics and finishes tailored to your home.


Book your free design session today and take the first step towards a more stylish, comfortable and future‑ready home in 2026.

Book Your Free Design Session Today

We bring the samples, do the measuring, and give honest advice based on what will work best for your home. No pressure. Just practical guidance and products that fit the way you live. 

Functional Pleated Blinds
Book A Design Session