This month we will look at the perfect pair that are curtains and blinds in Panamanian decoration. While they are meant to be exclusive replacements of one or the other, it is hard to argue that the end result of the pairing between the two creates a more complete whole.

Blinds offer sun control, energy eficiency, long life, easy cleaning and semi-transparency that allows you to appreciate your view. While curtains offer volume, softness, texture and patterns that the window blinds industry simply can't create due to the base materials they work with.

The example pictured in this month's section is a Comfortex Symphony Danube celular shade being pictured with an in-stock Nostalgia print. Comfortex double celular technology is widely recognized as among the most energy eficient window covering solutions, acting as insulation between the inside and outside environment. And while celular shades are decorative in their own right, particularly in their variety of colors and the sleek Omnirise system, it still has trouble fitting in with the classic decorative tendencies that we see in Panama. Unless you have a modern, or a mixed eclectic design, you might have trouble fitting your shade into it by itself.

The addition of a mere drapery panel or a full draped curtain adds a touch of pattern and softness that makes this decoration complete in any decorative style.

Symphony Double CellsIf one looks at the decorative tendency to use drapery sheers or fabric blackout curtain behind decorative designer drapes you'll realize that blinds are the natural progression of things- with blinds replacing the sheer or blackout. Blinds such as roller shades are infinitely easier to clean than drapery sheers, a wet rag on the spot, as opposed to having to take sheers down and take them to the cleaners. And roller blackout and celular shades are much more decorative and durable than traditional fabric blackout.. which can't be washed!

There's also other points to consider:

• Curtains are more apt for curved windows, combining the two makes up for the other's weakness.
• Panels or Curtains can cover up another of a blind or roller's main weaknesses- the spacing, known as deduction, between blinds or your blind and the wall.
• Cording can often be unsightly for those who do not motorize their blinds, a curtain can hide a cord behind the fabric.