I am putting my neck out here. I still like verticals in some situations. For me, they are the BEST for light control and ease of operation. Granted most commenters will disagree. I believe that if function comes first, I would disregard what is the only current TREND for window fashions of today. Verticals allow you to control the sun and still affords a lot of light into the room. South facing and sliders everywhere. Some windows behind a sofa, creates some difficulty in opening and closing unless you use traverse rods. There are some nice woven verticals that have great textural patterns.

Another option is wide flat panel window treatments like this bamboo