Project Work-Logs & Customer Reviews

Challenge

Large south-facing windows causing excessive heat gain and glare in the open-concept living area. Client wanted smart-home integration with existing Alexa ecosystem.

Solution

Installed Hunter Douglas PowerView motorized roller shades with 3% openness solar fabric on south-facing windows and 5% on east-facing. Configured automated sunrise/sunset schedules via Alexa routines. Battery-powered system required no hardwiring in the 1990s-era home.

Result

Client reports noticeably cooler living room in summer and estimated 20% reduction in cooling costs. Voice control and automated schedules are used daily.

Challenge

1880s Federal-style Georgetown rowhouse with non-standard window dimensions and arched transoms. Client needed UV protection for antique furniture while maintaining the home's historic character.

Solution

Custom-milled Norman hardwood plantation shutters with 3.5-inch louvers, color-matched to existing millwork. Arched top shutters fabricated for the two transom windows. UV-blocking finish protects furnishings while allowing adjustable light control.

Result

Shutters complement the home's 140-year-old architecture seamlessly. Client's antique furniture is now protected from direct UV exposure. Appraiser noted the shutters add permanent value to the property.

Challenge

Large colonial home with a mix of standard, bay, and picture windows. Client wanted a cohesive look throughout the home that would increase resale value.

Solution

Norman composite plantation shutters with 4.5-inch louvers throughout. Custom-built bay window frames with angled panels. Hidden tilt rods for a clean, modern aesthetic. All cordless for child safety (two young children in the home).

Result

Whole-home transformation completed in two days. Realtor estimated the shutters added $15,000 to $20,000 in perceived home value. Cordless design gives the family peace of mind with young children.

Challenge

1960s split-level with hard-to-reach clerestory windows. Client wanted voice control through existing Alexa and Google Home devices without any visible wiring.

Solution

Graber Virtual Cord motorized faux wood blinds with rechargeable battery packs. Integrated with both Alexa and Google Home via Zigbee hub. Programmed automated morning open/evening close schedules for the clerestory windows.

Result

Client can now control previously inaccessible windows by voice. Battery recharge cycle is approximately 8 months. Smart-home integration works flawlessly across both Alexa and Google platforms.

Challenge

Tall, narrow Victorian windows with ornate crown molding. Client wanted soft window treatments that complemented the home's period details without covering the decorative trim.

Solution

Custom flat-fold Roman shades in a linen-blend fabric, inside-mounted to preserve crown molding visibility. Blackout liners added for the two bedroom windows. Cordless lift system for clean operation.

Result

Roman shades add warmth and sophistication to the Victorian interior. Inside mount preserves all original millwork. Blackout liners provide complete darkness in the bedroom.

Challenge

Newly built home with builder-grade windows and no window treatments. Client wanted maximum energy efficiency to reduce utility costs in the 3,200 sq ft home.

Solution

Hunter Douglas Duette double-cell honeycomb shades throughout. Top-down/bottom-up operation on all first-floor windows. Light-filtering fabric in living areas, blackout in bedrooms. R-value of 5.0+ creating a thermal moat around every window.

Result

First winter utility bill was 22% lower than comparable homes in the neighborhood (per builder data). The thermal moat effect is especially noticeable near the large picture windows. Top-down/bottom-up provides privacy while maximizing natural light.

Challenge

As a professional interior designer, needed a reliable window treatment partner who could handle diverse project requirements across the DC metro area, from contemporary condos to traditional estates.

Solution

Shore Shades serves as the exclusive window treatment partner for this designer's projects. Full access to Hunter Douglas, Graber, and Norman product lines. Dedicated project coordinator for multi-room installations. Trade pricing and priority scheduling.

Result

15+ successful projects completed together across Potomac, Bethesda, and Georgetown. Zero callbacks or warranty claims. Designer's clients consistently rate window treatments as the most impactful element of their renovations.

Challenge

Wanted to bring natural warmth and texture to a bright kitchen and sunroom without blocking too much light. Budget was a consideration for the young family.

Solution

Graber Tradewinds woven wood shades in a light bamboo weave. Added privacy liners on the two street-facing kitchen windows. Cordless lift for child safety (toddler in the home). Stayed within the family's budget while delivering a premium look.

Result

Natural bamboo texture transformed the kitchen and sunroom aesthetic. Privacy liners provide nighttime coverage without sacrificing daytime light. Cordless operation meets ANSI/WCMA child-safety standards.