Motorized or battery operated? Choosing the right shades. What are the considerations? The pros and cons of each?

Luxury home technology has become an expectation. This 2025 guide benchmarks smart home costs per square foot and per unit in New York City, the Hamptons, Miami, Los Angeles, and Aspen. From lighting control to shades and automation, learn how budgets translate into seamless living and how HTE turns numbers into lifestyle results.

This 12,000 sq. ft. Boston residence showcases what happens when smart home technology is designed to enhance daily living, not complicate it. Home Technology Experts delivered a seamless integration of Lutron lighting and shading, Control4 automation, and high-performance AV—creating a home that’s beautiful, intuitive, and built to evolve.

Discover how different shade fabrics impact privacy, light control, and comfort in your smart home. Learn the difference between sheer, translucent, and blackout materials—and why choosing the right one is key to beautiful, functional, smart window treatments.

Can we convince you about the benefits of motorized shades? We think they’re like sliced bread, the invention that, once experienced, you can’t do without. Aside from the convenience of luxury of motorization, motorized shades and window treatments play a big role in your smart home, making it more comfortable and efficient.

We love motorized shades; we think they’re a must-have smart home accouterment. But, as with most things, some people have certain opinions – we prefer to say misconceptions – about them.