We recently met with the team behind Shadehaus who visited us at Sue Whimster HQ to show us their innovative range of automated blinds.

Launched earlier this year, Sue Whimster Curtains is now one of the main distributors for Shadehaus’ range, which includes minimalist panels, as pictured here, as well as pleated and roman options.

Although we have seen motorised blinds and curtains for a number of years now, the technology behind Shadehaus’ window dressings means that it is now possible to automate shading with no wiring, no mess and no additional expense, unlike more traditional options.

Shadehaus has taken advantage of significant leaps forward in technology and teamed up with some of the world’s leading brands to develop a long-lasting battery-powered system matched with an impressive range of fabric options that, together, should revolutionise many a designer’s repertoire. What’s more, these blinds are much more affordable than traditional motorised varieties, which is even better news for those pressed with more modest client budgets.

By aligning with industry-leaders, Lutron and Creation Baumann, Shadehaus benefits from the two manufacturers’ expertise and technology prowess to offer quality and reliable battery-operated systems, with the average battery lifespan between three and five years.

Excitingly, the Lutron and the Creation Baumann Systems can be controlled via multiple devices to provide a lovely user interface.

Below, we’ve listed some of the key benefits that we think set Shadehaus apart as a very exciting new launch:

• Convenience: Operate multiple shades simultaneously, no matter where you are in the room. They’re also quick and easy to install, taking just minutes.
• Safety: No more loose cords, meaning they comply with changes in health and safety regulations.
• Aesthetic: No visible mechanisms and operation wands make for a more pleasant visual appeal, allowing the fabric to take centre stage.
• Integration:  These systems can be integrated to existing lighting and home management control systems, as well as operated via smartphones, tablets and home computers.
• Saving energy: Homes that are installed with automated shading can save more money on utility bills, than those that don’t. Why? It’s the convenience factor; the easier and quicker they are to operate, the more they are used to control heat loss and heat gain.
• Security: Automated shading can provide additional security benefits, especially for homes vacant during holidays. Shades that move at pre-determined times of the day act as a useful deterrent to potential intruders.
• Cost effectiveness: By avoiding the need for electrical certification, wiring provisioning, and the ease of installation, the battery-operated system is more cost effective. The price point of each system is also cheaper than its hardwired counterpart.
• Maintenance: In the case of a wired system, it can sometimes be prohibitively expensive to disconnect for servicing, faults and cleaning. Battery powered systems can be taken down by anyone and easily put back into place when required. No mess, no electricians and no re-installation fees.

Lutron Triathlon honeycomb shades
Up to 5 year battery life
Insulating R Value up to 3.4
Built in wireless communication
Operating speed of 45mm per second
Maximum dimensions 2438mm x 2438mm

Lutron Triathlon roller shades
Up to 5 year battery life
Ultra quiet operation (38 dBa)
Built in wireless communication
Fashionable aesthetics
Maximum dimensions 2438mm x 3048mm

Creation Baumann Ecotric roller shades
Capable of furnishing windows up to 3m squared
Shades install and operate without wires
Batteries last 4-7 years and can be replaced without taking the shade down
Choose from a wide variety of fabric colours and textures
A safe solution for homes with children or pets