Window Covering Answers

Miracle Windows This seems nothing short of truly amazing. The future is now. What a marvellous innovation. Daylight on demand. Messing with reality, and making us feel as though we control everything. But what a cool idea.

Motorized Elliptical Arched Blinds    Covering those delightful arched windows has been difficult for most homeowners for some time now. The popularity of Palladian style windows with their wonderful views and ability to increase the light in homes was not without its problems. Too much sunlight sometimes and lack of privacy combine to create a unique set of problems for which there aren't many great solutions. Enter Macadam Blinds. Their answer involves motorization and clever applications of newer technologies. But don't take my word for it... the video at the beginning of this article says more than I can with mere words. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pHm4Gp6EEq0#action=share https://www.facebook.com/pages/Macadam-Blinds-Inc/137176836305432?ref=ts http://macadamblinds.com/ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2jpdcfErpOM&feature=player_detailpage http://macadamblinds.com/about-moon-shade/ http://www.dpncanada.com/Video-Library/Interviews/Mac

More about Valances and Pelmets     In a previous post I introduced some very beautiful valances. Now the reason for doing so with regard to energy savings.     http://www.huntedinterior.com/2012/08/diy-stenciled-cornice-board.html       According to some reliable sources a valance or pelmet can help to reduce your energy losses at the window by as much as 15%. That is no small change, especially over the life of a window.   It is an old idea but it works. Cornices, pelmets, or valances all save you money.       So here is one of the many how to do build your own valance,cornice or pelmet sites.   http://www.instructables.com/file/FOZMJKTG9NHGJTR       http://www.instructables.com/id/How-to-save-heat-money-and-energy-with-easy-pelm/         Before central heating many low tech ideas were implemented at the window to keep rooms warmer. Valances and Pelmets, also known as Cornices were one of those low tech ideas that were useful

Valances     Most of these valances photos have come from Pinterest where a cornucopia of window treatments can be found. Ginger Shafer  's  Pinterest board http://www.pinterest.com/vasilveria/window-treatments/ about window treatments is a treasure to behold for it is filled with surprising elements like the valance below... made from antique rolling pins. What a great idea for a kitchen! Away from the conventional and towards the unexpected, as we begin to turn our homes into ART. Which is always as it should be.   http://www.pinterest.com/pin/33636328439141681/ Many of these valances speak for themselves. Their seeming simplicity add beauty in an understated but vibrant way. This  finishing touch makes the entire area look more like a painting or a frame for a landscape. Which makes it ART once again. http://www.pinterest.com/pin/33636328439141681/   What makes this classic fabric in the picture below look modern and lively is the juxtaposition.  Here

  Windows that Create Power  Pythagoras Solar has been around for awhile steadily helping to build the buildings of the future.  Incorporating photovoltaics within the buildings' structure and utilizing the vast expanses of windows in modern construction... they have effectively envisioned the future in construction. Here are several links to this company's vision. http://www.smartplanet.com/blog/intelligent-energy/a-double-duty-solar-window/ http://www.pythagoras-solar.com/ http://www.pythagoras-solar.com/pvgu-benefits/net-zero-energy-buildings-why-bipv/ http://www.pythagoras-solar.com/technology-solutions/technology-overview-energy-efficient-windows/#prettyPhoto/1/ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D9pTVyY9OZw

Solar Socket       For those of you who have missed it.  This is one of the ways in which the world is becoming a better place for all of us.     Imagine plugging your charger into this little device at the window.       Built by Yanko Design, this product is still in its infancy.  A very small battery currently limits its usability... but look for this device to bring new opportunities for all of us within the near future.   Via Inhabitat. 

  Blinds that create Power  Dreams are fast becoming a reality. Solar power modules on venetian blinds create a new way to transform our lives.  NANERGY Inc. manufactures several solar powered products including a photovoltaic blind that generates electricity. At last, blinds that create enough electricity to sell back to the power utility. These venetian blinds can gather solar power in open, closed or partially open positions. This is definitely another step in the right direction. Have a look at the company's website for more information. http://www.nanergyinc.com/pvblinds.html http://www.nanergyinc.com/index.html     http://www.nanergyinc.com/projectgallery.html         Deakin University Australia   Research by Phd student Ghayatri Devi Rajmohan is currently working on ultra thin and flexible films that one day might be used to power kitchen appliances or generate power for you devices in your backpack. Here is Ghayatri Devi Rajmohan tal