Roman blinds can look beautiful mounted either inside or outside the window, but the better choice depends on what you value most: a streamlined, architectural finish or bold impact with maximum coverage. Finish your windows with Classic Roman Shades that bring timeless fabric elegance and a polished, tailored look to any room.
Inside mounts create a clean, built-in look that highlights window trim and suits modern, minimalist interiors.
Outside mounts add presence, visually enlarge the window, and perform better for light blocking and privacy.
In short:
- Choose inside mount for a tailored, understated finish.
- Choose outside mount for stronger visual impact and superior room darkening.
Below, we compare both options so you can order custom Roman shades with confidence, whether you’re prioritizing style, light control, or practicality. Bring light, breezy comfort home with Coastal Roman Shades inspired by sun-washed fabrics and relaxed seaside living.
Understanding Roman Blind Mounting Options
Roman blinds can be installed in two ways:
- Inside mount: The shade fits within the window frame, sitting flush with the opening.
- Outside mount: The shade installs on the wall or trim, overlapping the window.
Both work well for made-to-measure Roman shades. The right option depends on your window depth, trim, and how you want the room to feel. Dress your windows in iconic Laura Ashley style with Laura Ashley Roman Shades featuring timeless florals, soft patterns, and elegant fabric folds.
Quick comparison
| Factor | Inside Mount | Outside Mount |
|---|---|---|
| Overall look | Built-in, clean, architectural | Bold, tailored, more dramatic |
| Trim visibility | Shows off casing and reveals | Covers trim or frame |
| Light control | Allows slight edge glow | Better light blocking |
| Measuring tolerance | Requires precision | More forgiving |
| Best for | Modern, minimalist rooms | Bedrooms, feature windows |
How Mounting Affects Style and Visual Impact
Inside Mount: Clean and Architectural
Inside-mounted Roman blinds feel integrated into the window itself. They keep sightlines open and let decorative trim shine, which is why they’re popular in contemporary and minimalist spaces. Add cozy charm and lived-in warmth with Country Cottage Roman Shades designed for comfort and character.
They work especially well with:
- Flat or European folds
- Cordless or motorized operation
- Windows with deep, square frames
The tradeoff is minor: because the shade sits within the frame, small light gaps at the sides are normal.
Outside Mount: Bold and Tailored
Outside-mounted Roman blinds bring more visual weight. By extending beyond the frame, they can make a window appear larger and taller, especially when mounted higher on the wall. Bring depth, texture, and heritage style to your home with Rustic Americana Roman Shades inspired by timeless craftsmanship.
They’re ideal when you want:
- A strong design statement
- Better privacy and light control
- Coverage for shallow or uneven frames
Outside mounts pair beautifully with blackout-lined Roman shades, especially in bedrooms and media rooms.
Light Control and Privacy: What to Expect
Mounting choice has a real impact on performance:
- Inside mount: Typically blocks about 75–85% of light due to small side gaps.
- Outside mount: Can block roughly 90–95% of light by overlapping the window opening.
If your priority is sleep, privacy, or screen viewing, an outside mount, especially with a blackout liner, usually delivers better results. For living rooms or offices, the gentle glow from an inside mount can feel brighter and more open. Enjoy one elegant shade that works all day with Subtle Day & Night Roman Shades offering light by day and privacy by night.
Window Depth, Fit, and Measurement Considerations
Before choosing a mount, assess your window:
- Depth: Inside mounts usually need about 1.5–2 inches of clear recess depth.
- Obstructions: Cranks, handles, sensors, or mullions may require an outside mount.
- Frame condition: Shallow, uneven, or out-of-square frames are easier to cover with an outside mount.
Inside mounts demand precise measuring, while outside mounts are more forgiving, especially helpful in older homes or rentals. Keep it simple and stylish with Essential Roman Shades designed for clean fabric lines and everyday ease.
Installation, Cost, and Maintenance Differences
- Inside mounts use less fabric and look discreet but require accuracy.
- Outside mounts may cost slightly more due to extra material, especially on wide windows, but are easier to install and hide imperfections.
- Maintenance: Outside mounts can collect more dust on exposed folds; inside mounts are more protected within the frame.
Cordless and motorized Roman blinds work well with either mount and add convenience and safety. Create a soft, comfortable home with Core Comfort Roman Shades designed for warmth, ease, and everyday living.
How to Choose the Right Mount for Your Space
Ask yourself:
- Do you want a subtle, built-in look or a bold design feature?
- Is light blocking critical, or do you prefer some ambient glow?
- Are your window frames deep and square, or shallow and uneven?
- Will the shade stack interfere with your view if mounted inside?
Your answers usually point clearly to one option. Add fresh pattern and breezy character with Coastal Stripe Roman Shades inspired by casual seaside style.
When to Choose an Inside Mount
- You want a clean, integrated look
- Your window frames are deep, square, and obstruction-free
- You want trim and casing to remain visible
- You prefer a quieter, more modern aesthetic
When to Choose an Outside Mount
- You want stronger light blocking and privacy
- Your frames are shallow, uneven, or have obstructions
- You want to visually enlarge the window
Conclusion
So, do Roman blinds look better inside the window or outside? The answer depends on what “better” means to you.
Inside mounts look best when you want a refined, architectural finish that blends seamlessly into the window. Outside mounts look better when you want impact, flexibility, and stronger light control, especially in bedrooms or spaces where privacy matters most. Introduce rich texture and modern warmth with Boucle Roman Shades designed for depth and visual interest.
Both options can look beautiful when chosen intentionally. By matching the mount style to your window structure and design goals, you’ll get Roman blinds that don’t just fit your window, but elevate the entire room.
Still deciding between the two? Check out our post about inside vs outside mount to see which style works best for your home.
