Skylights are a great architectural feature in a room. They add so many positive traits, but often some negative as well. The biggest complaint I hear about is the heat gain and the damaging effects of the sun on the interior surfaces. People are always looking for a solution to these issues with their skylights. After much consultation, this client and I came to the conclusion that the Hunter Douglas Applause shades with the SkyLift motorized skylight system would be the best solution.

We chose from the Hunter Douglas Applause line because it is a very good valued fabric. The costs of the fabric can be about 50% less than the premium Duette Honeycomb fabric line. Because the fabrics would really never be looked at, since the shades are on the ceiling, we thought that their money would be better spent on the operation of the shades over the look of them. We also chose to use a double honeycomb fabric to increase the insulation provided by the shades. In fact, the client mentioned that the temperature difference in the room was already 20 degrees, even though the shades had been partially open most of the time of the installation. We decided to use the Hunter Douglas PowerView motorization system with a DC power supply. This power supply replaces the standard battery packs that come with the PowerView SkyLift shades. Fortunately, the homeowner had an outlet installed at the top of the room where the existing ceiling fan was installed, so it was an easy plug-n-play.

You will notice in the video that there is about a 3″ gap between the shades. This was designed intentionally so the client would be able to reinstall the ceiling fan at the top of the room. If the client wishes, they can have a cap fabricated, which will clean up the final look of the skylight.

Skylight Shades

About Us

Kempler Design is located in Reno NV and serves the northern Nevada and Lake Tahoe regions with a mobile design showroom. Paul Kempler, its founder is considered a window fashions expert. Kempler Design has been featured in many prestigious projects, including the HGTV dream home in Lake Tahoe. Kempler Design works with homeowners as well as interior design firms looking for a local contact in the Reno/Tahoe area or is available for travel to your area.