Must-Have Zebra Shades From Hunter Douglas

Some interior design trends come and go, while others have long-term staying power. Since custom window treatments are an investment, the choice is easy: Hunter Douglas Designer Banded Shades, also known as zebra shades, fall into that second category. They’ve been around for a while and have held their place as an efficient, effective, and attractive window treatment.

This innovative style combines roller shade and sheer fabric features with eye-catching, alternating panels of sheer and opaque fabrics. When the panels are down, they overlap, creating a striped, "zebra-like" effect. Intrigued? Let’s look at the customization options you can get at Smart PNW.

Beyond their undeniable good looks, Hunter Douglas Designer Banded Shades are highly customizable. During a consultation, you can select from different control options and styles, including:

Control Options

Here are some control customizations you can choose from:

• UltraGlide® Wand: This retractable cord system remains a constant length when raising and lowering window treatments.
• Beaded Loop Cord: With this option, you’ll enjoy easy control by pulling the cord.
• SoftTouch® Motorization: This battery-powered system has a wand for touch-and-go functionality.
• PowerView® Automation: You can control your zebra shades with a remote, app, or voice commands. They seamlessly open, close, and adjust on the spot.

Style Options

Some various style customizations include:

• Choose from light filtering to room-darkening fabric opacities for precise light control.
• Consider recycled fabric materials.
• Select the perfect pattern, texture, and color from over 90 fabric or color choices.
• Add ClearView® sheers for superior view-through.
• Upgrade to a fabric-covered headrail for a complete look.

Several advantages make zebra shades an even better choice aside from their many customization options, such as:

Increases Energy Efficiency

Zebra shades are quite energy efficient. Their dual-layer design offers insulation, keeping homes in and around Tacoma, WA, comfortable year-round.

By controlling the amount of sunlight entering your home, the shades minimize the need for daytime artificial lighting, which can also lower energy bills.

Enhances Privacy

With Designer Banded Shades, the alternating sheer and opaque panels maintain your privacy. Although you enjoy better privacy in your home, you can still revel in your outdoor view due to the sheer panels.

Improves Aesthetics

Hunter Douglas Designer Banded Shades have that elusive “wow” factor. Their modern, sophisticated design ignites conversation and complements various interior styles. Zebra shades have clean lines that enhance contemporary spaces.

Additionally, the sheer and solid bands adapt to casual and formal settings.

Fits Specialty Windows and Doors

Hunter Douglas also customizes them for specialty shapes like bays, corners, patio doors, sliding glass doors, and French doors.

f you’re still wondering, “Should I choose room-darkening shades or blackout shades,” that answer depends on the function and atmosphere you want to create in each room. Room-darkening shades are perfect for reducing glare and softening natural light without blocking it entirely, creating a cozy feel.



We recommend blackout shades for bedrooms, particularly if you need to sleep during the day, have small children who don’t sleep well, or are sensitive to light. They’re also ideal for enhancing a home theater experience by blocking most light for better viewing experiences.

Smart PNW specializes in the full line of Hunter Douglas window treatments and more. Ready to have a look? Our expert design team can’t wait to show you these stunning zebra shades in person.

Request a consultation online or call us at (425) 448-3279 to learn more about Hunter Douglas Designer Banded Shades. Smart PNW is proud to serve homeowners in Gig Harbor, Seattle, Belleview, North Seattle, North Tacoma, Olalla, Silverdale, Poulsbo, Bremerton, and Bainbridge Island.