Automation vs. Motorization: What’s the Difference?
The 262 signature residences in Seattle, Washington’s 40-story Emerald building were outfitted with automated shades manufactured by A&I. With the touch of a button, occupants in the iconic, faceted-glass building can control the amount of natural light entering their luxury units through floor-to-ceiling windows.
The Emerald, a striking 40-story faceted glass building, towers over the bustling streets of Seattle, Washington’s downtown, and offers panoramic views of Elliott Bay’s glimmering water and snow-capped mountain ranges. But those panoramic views of the Olympic Peninsula, Mount Rainier, and the Cascade Mountains mean lots and lots of windows, and that means lots and lots of light.
So it’s no surprise that, when the time came to choose window treatments for The Emerald, HEWITT Architecture, along with Susan Marinello Interiors, opted for A&I-manufactured automated roller shades throughout the building’s 40 stories, helping them deliver a balance between the dynamic energy of the location, the sleek, modern design of the units, and the comfort and intimacy of someone’s home. With the touch of a button, residents at The Emerald can control the amount of natural light entering their luxury condo through massive, floor-to-ceiling windows.
This brings up an important point: When it comes to window treatments, some consumers may see "automation" and "motorization" as synonymous even though they describe different capabilities. A&I proudly manufactures window treatments that are both motorized and automated. Highlighting the difference between the two can help customers make choices leading to a more efficient home.
Motorized window treatments are already a huge step up in terms of convenience. But when coupled with smart-home technology, automated window treatments can provide an added layer of functionality, leading to huge benefits for customers in terms of privacy, safety, and energy savings.
Touch-Free Convenience — Who would argue that the touch of a button isn't easier than manually raising and lowering a house full of blinds or shades?
Smart Home Integration — Automated window coverings can be programmed to react to data points from smart hubs, such as your smart thermostat's temperature readings, to open and close during the hottest parts of the day. This can lead to decreased HVAC usage and reduced energy consumption
Enhanced Security and Safety — Automated blinds can be programmed to open and close when occupants come and go — a deterrent for would-be burglars. The cordless design of smart blinds also means less risk for homes with young children and pets
Want to learn more about A&I’s line of motorized and automated products? Visit our Motorization page to learn about additional benefits of going motorized, and what to do if you’re ready to put some power behind the way you experience light!
