Each year, smart innovations find new ways to make cottaging easier. This year is no exception, with wire free window treatments and projector systems that give you more options and greater flexibility, creating a system that is both innovative and aesthetically pleasing.
Motorized drapery tracks
If you’re building or renovating your cottage, Lisa Venus, co-owner of Muskoka Smart Homes, says now’s the perfect time to take advantage of the latest in motorized drapery technology.
“We are seeing drapery track systems being specified in more and more projects.”
Lutron’s drapery track systems allow you to mount the drapery on a hidden track that can be operated by keypad or smart device.
“The tracks can be straight or curved, spanning up to 30 feet, and can be designed with countless automation options,” says Lisa.
The key is to inform your builder and designer, so they can incorporate the track in the design. From there, with the help of smart technology design experts like the team at Muskoka Smart Homes, you can tailor the automation to your needs – including the direction that your drapes will be drawn, and at what time of the day for your comfort and security.
Wire-free shades
If a renovation isn’t in your budget, but you love the idea of smart window treatments, Lisa says Lutron’s Palladiom wire-free shades are a perfect solution.
These shades offer a streamlined, minimal look, powered by no more than six, off-the-shelf D-cell batteries. “What’s incredible is that while powerful, they are whisper quiet and efficient, with a three-to-five-year battery life for each shade.” And as an added bonus, they occupy no more than 3 and ¼” of vertical space.
Wire-free shades are a touch-free solution that allows you to raise and lower each shade using a smartphone app or a wall-mounted keypad.
“They’re the perfect example of what smart technology should do: offering a solution in a way that is both simple and easy on the eyes.”
Short throw projectors
While smart shades and drapes are making window treatments better, Lisa says short throw projectors with motorized screens are doing the same for home entertainment.
“The latest short throw projectors allow you to have a large screen area with a projector placed on a piece of furniture like a credenza that’s very close to the wall, making them perfect for media rooms.”
Short throw projectors aren’t affected as much by external light sources, like ambient light from nearby windows, so the colour and picture are every bit as vivid and sharp as a 4K TV.
One of the biggest advantages of a projector rather than a conventional TV, Lisa says, is being able to retract the screen when it is not in use – using automation, of course.
“You want your cottage to work for you in every way, and look great, regardless of the activity,” she says. “Let us help you make your cottage smarter.”
TEXT SHELANNE AUGUSTINE | PHOTOS SCOTT TURNBULL
