AcoustiShade: Made in the Shade
At CEDIA Expo, Stewart Filmscreen introduced what it calls AcoustiShade, a window treatment that does double-duty blocking out light and noise.
At CEDIA Expo, Stewart Filmscreen introduced what it calls AcoustiShade, a window treatment that does double-duty blocking out light and noise. “Over the years, Stewart has been asked to design solutions that control both sound and light within the media rooms of Hollywood directors,” says company president Grant Stewart. “For unique, specialty installations, Stewart created acoustical blackout shades using sound absorbing materials to meet the requests of customers. Now we’re bringing this single solution to the market.”
The AcoustiShade, which Stewart says the company will custom-make itself to customers’ specifications, uses a patent-pending acoustical film to block incoming sound while retaining the size, flexibility, functionality, look, and style of a standard decorative roller shade. It’s available in a dual-shade system, in which the acoustical shade is closest to the window, as well as a single-shade configuration.
Stewart says the company recommends the dual-shade system because it controls both exterior noise and absorbs interior sound, for the best possible effect. According to the company, the inner panel can be solar mesh; room darkening, though not blackout; or a custom fabric.
The AcoustiShade is designed like a standard, motorized roller shade, which should mean wiring, hardware, and installation are straightforward. The company expects it to be quiet the way Lutron Sivoia QS shades are quiet, and it will supply integrators with its own mounting hardware, including a pocket headbox system, if necessary, for putting the roller into a ceiling.
Stewart says AcoustiShades are now shipping, but that a set pricing structure is yet to be determined. For now, price will depend on size, material, and other factors.
–Brad Grimes
