Home Q&A: I have motorised blinds. Can I add automation to curtains? 

Automatic blind operation has become standardised, but smart-operated curtains are still something of a luxury 

I have motorised blinds. Can I also add automation to my curtains in our new build?

ANSWER

Automatic blind operation has become standardised across most suppliers, but smart-operated curtains are still something of a luxury choice. 

We spoke of the inexpensive option of retrofitted remote curtain operation a few weeks ago (the SwitchBot) which although a bit clumsy looking, comes in at just €90 per curtain for three types of rods and rails, switch-bot.com. You can find other options on Amazon. 

Ensure these track creepers can handle the weight of your window dressings. 

There’s also the popular French-designed Somfy Movelite 35 (various suppliers) in roller-gliders and wave-gliders from €199-€700. For whole-house operation, you might want to go up to something modelled for your home like Lutron Sivoia. 

Fully wired for power and control (new-builds and rewires), they also offer hybrid systems with wired power and RF control, and wireless operation with battery power and RF control, smarterliving.ie. 

Autorails also offers curtains and blinds to shut blinds and curtains or to trim out daytime scenes from the comfort of your chair. Autorails advises: “Although traditional wall switches are still available, most users opt for multi-function remote controls.” 

The look is seamless, removing any pulls (potentially dangerous for animals and children). If you find yourself away from home or even overseas, app operation allows you to open or close the curtains and blinds to indicate you are about — a handy bit of security detailing; autorails.ie. 

If you are going for a pricey inclusion like this, ensure it will marry into our wider smart home functions (for example through an appropriate hub). 

Cost very much depends on the size of your openings, whether you have curtains and sheers/blinds and the level of technical detail will impact your choice of rails/poles. 

Choose a product that can be operated manually in the event of low batteries or a power cut if you are wired in.