08/26/2026
A lot of condo and townhouse owners never look properly at window treatments because they assume the board has already decided for them. In most Calgary buildings, the board has decided considerably less than people think.
What boards typically do control is the exterior appearance - specifically, the color visible from the street. A white or off-white street-facing backing is by far the most common requirement, and it exists so the building reads as uniform from outside. Boards also generally control anything that requires an exterior fixing or an alteration to the window frame itself, which is entirely reasonable since the frame is usually common property.
What they typically do not control is the side facing into your home. Behind a compliant white backing, the fabric, the colour and the texture facing your room are generally your decision. This is the part most people are surprised by, and it is why a dual-backed roller is such a common answer in Calgary buildings - the street sees white, you see whatever you chose.
Motorization is usually fine as well, provided nothing is attached to the exterior and any wiring stays inside your unit.
One step worth not skipping: ask for the relevant bylaw in writing before you order anything. Custom window coverings are non-returnable, and a verbal 'that should be fine' from someone on the board is not the same as a bylaw. Worth saying plainly: every corporation writes its own rules, so treat this as a guide to what is usual rather than a ruling on your building.
Does your building have window covering rules? Tell us what they are below.
Free in-home consultation: www.allurewindowfashions.com
