The best technology is the kind you barely notice. Motorized window treatments should feel exactly that way.
Motorized drapes and shades open and close with a quiet motor instead of a cord or wand. You can operate them by remote, wall switch, smartphone, voice assistant, or on a schedule, and the motor can be concealed in the headrail, cassette, or drapery track. They make the most sense on tall or hard-to-reach windows, wide expanses of glass, bedrooms, and sun-filled rooms.
Motorization used to feel like a novelty. Today, it's one of the most practical upgrades you can make to a home. A quiet motor opens and closes your shades or drapery with a touch, on a schedule, or with a voice command, and when it's done well, it fits into the room so naturally that you forget it's there.
Where do motorized window treatments make the most sense?
- Tall and hard-to-reach windows. Two-story glass, clerestory windows, and anything above a staircase.
- Wide expanses of glass. Large drapery panels glide smoothly without anyone tugging at them.
- Bedrooms. Shades that close at bedtime and open gently in the morning.
- Sun-filled rooms. Schedules that lower shades during the strongest light protect floors, furniture, and fabrics.
- Homes you're often away from. Treatments that open and close on a routine give a home a lived-in look.
How are motorized drapes and shades controlled?
We work with Somfy motorization systems, which are known for being quiet, reliable, and compatible with a wide range of home automation platforms. They can be operated by remote, wall switch, smartphone, or voice assistant, and integrated into many whole-home systems.
Can the motor be hidden?
Good motorization shouldn't announce itself. Motors can be concealed within headrails, cassettes, and drapery tracks, so the window looks clean and uncluttered. Ripplefold and pleated drapery and flat and classic Roman shades are particularly well suited to motorized systems, since they move in a smooth, even line.
Wired or battery-powered: what should you plan for?
If you're building or renovating, it's worth thinking about motorization early. Planning for power at the window lets you choose wired motors and hide every cable. Battery-powered options are available too, which makes motorization possible in finished rooms without any construction.
Which styles can be motorized?
Most of our custom drapery and Roman shade styles can be motorized. When you design custom drapes online, motorization options appear in the final customization step.
Made to work together
Motorized treatments work best when the fabric, hardware, and motor are planned as one. We build every motorized shade and drapery panel in our New Jersey workroom with the system in mind, so it moves smoothly from the first day. If you're considering motorization, we'd be happy to help you think it through. Explore motorized drapery and shades at Regal Drapes.
Frequently asked questions
Are motorized drapes quiet?
Yes. We use Somfy motorization systems, which are known for quiet, reliable operation.
Do motorized shades work with smart-home systems?
Somfy systems are compatible with a wide range of home automation platforms and can be integrated into many whole-home systems. They can also be operated by smartphone, voice assistant, remote, or wall switch, or run on a schedule.
Do motorized window treatments need wiring?
No. Wired motors let you hide every cable and are easiest to plan during building or renovation. Battery-powered motors make motorization possible in finished rooms without any construction.
Which drapery styles work best with a motor?
Ripplefold drapery and tailored shades are particularly well suited, because they move in a smooth, even line.
Can someone help me plan motorized drapes?
Yes. Our complimentary design service offers virtual consultations, personal recommendations, and measuring guidance, and motorization options are available.
