The Bottom-up/Top-Down feature gives you the flexibility to maintain privacy, but still see out over a shade which is lowered from the top. If you're considering pleated shades, you should first consider the infinitely more popular cellular shades. There are many more colors available, cellular shades insulate 2 to 4 times better than pleated shades, and most believe they look better too. Price of course will always be an important consideration. For the least expensive cellular shade option, try NoBrainer's own Lumicel shades, HERE.