You can get blinds that block glare or black out shades.

gayle, what are the styles/colors of ur room?

It's a blank slate. We haven't even moved in yet. I'm leaning toward a contemporary style with earth tones.

How about sheer curtains tone down the light/ glare. There are even roll up blinds that allow you to seeout and yet cut down the sun and glare. And still be very fashionable

I have a similar situation and I used Sillouhette shades (there are other brands w/diff name). They have three different option of view in one window covering. You can have complete privacy, or you can turn them a little so that they are sheer and still see the view, or last you can roll them right up so you can take full advantage of the view. They are easy to clean and can be ordered to also block the heat and/or harmful rays. They are pricey but worth it.

I have floor to ceiling windows and a very hot afternoon sun...it was recommended that I use "total block out" curtains, but they are ugly! I have regular curtains and they work fine.

Thanks for all the suggestions, everyone! I'm kind of leaning toward roll-up blinds under sheers, so thanks for the affirmation, kaleo. I'm curious about the Silhouhette shades, kellyz. Do you know where I can get a look at some on-line?

I owned a window covering company so I m quite familiar with your dilemma. First of all, do you need it to be absolute black out, or would it be okay if there was some light peeking in? Yes, blackout curtains will do the total lights out job, but your selection is limited. There are also blackout roller shades, and they have come out with some very contemporary patterns, that are very nice. Silhouettes are very elegant, but some light may peep in on the sides.

Wow, beautiful view! I know that there are so many options out there. If you are a visual person like me, you've got to see and feel the different styles that fit your needs and preference. All the suggestions are great.

What a beautiful view! I agree that it would be shame to cover it up. I am not sure how to address your issue about cutting light to watch movies. We have huge sliding glass doors leading to our pool. I did not want to lose that view, but the heat and glare bothered me. I elected to custom order solar shades that roll up into a nice small valance. Remote control is available. They'd look really nice with the sheers that you referred to. Enjoy your new space.

This is such a beatiful view. I would lean toward the roll up shade that hides into a valance. This would allow you to enjoy your view with minimal obstructions. Can't wait to see what you do.

Thanks everyone. Since this is my daughter's room and she insists on total black-out when she's sleeping (she even covers all her electronic equipment at night to block out the LED lights!), we're going with boring old drapery with a liner. BUT, I am going to go with the solar shades under sheers for the living room. It'll take a while to get them ordered and installed, but I'll be sure to post photos as soon as it's pau. Thanks again for all the great suggestions and comments!

How exciting! I ordered my solar shades at a place in Kaimuki. I was really happy with the service. I love the valence for a clean look. There is a noticeable difference in temp too.