In today’s world of smart homes and seamless technology, automated drapes are quickly becoming a must-have feature for homeowners seeking convenience, energy efficiency, and modern style. At Made in the Shade – Eastern Iowa, we specialize in providing custom window solutions to homeowners and businesses in Iowa City, Davenport, Bettendorf, the Quad Cities, Cedar Rapids, North Liberty, Tiffin, and surrounding areas.
Whether you’re upgrading your existing home or designing a new build, automated drapes can elevate your space and simplify your daily routine. In this in-depth guide, we’ll explore how they work, the benefits they offer, and why so many Eastern Iowans are making the switch.
What Are Automated Drapes?
Automated drapes are window treatments that can be opened and closed with the touch of a button, a smartphone app, or even a voice command when integrated with smart home systems like Alexa, Google Home, or Apple HomeKit. Unlike manual drapery, these motorized options use a discreet motor to move your drapes along a track.
At Made in the Shade – Eastern Iowa, we custom fit and professionally install automated drapes that match your décor while providing unmatched convenience and control.
Why Choose Automated Drapes for Your Eastern Iowa Home?
Whether you’re in a historic Iowa City bungalow or a modern Cedar Rapids townhouse, automated drapes bring an impressive list of benefits to your space.
1. Convenience and Control
Imagine adjusting your drapes while you’re cooking dinner, lying in bed, or even when you’re away from home. Automated drapes make it effortless to control natural light, privacy, and temperature—no cords or manual tugging required.
2. Increased Energy Efficiency
In places like Davenport and Bettendorf, seasonal temperature swings can lead to high energy costs. With scheduled opening and closing, automated drapes help regulate indoor temperatures by blocking heat in summer and retaining warmth in winter. Pair them with smart thermostats for even greater savings.
3. Enhanced Privacy and Security
Whether you live in a busy neighborhood in North Liberty or on a quiet street in Tiffin, automated drapes can give you greater peace of mind. Set your drapes to close automatically in the evening or while you’re on vacation to make it look like someone’s always home.
4. Safety for Children and Pets
Traditional cords pose safety risks for little ones and furry friends. Automated drapes eliminate the need for dangling cords, making your home safer and more family-friendly.
Custom Automated Drapes for Every Style
No two homes are alike, and neither are your windows. That’s why Made in the Shade – Eastern Iowa offers fully customizable automated drapes in a wide variety of fabrics, colors, patterns, and hardware finishes. Whether your aesthetic leans classic, contemporary, or somewhere in between, we’ll help you find the perfect fit.
From bold, full-length velvet drapes in a Cedar Rapids loft to soft sheers in a Quad Cities sunroom, our design consultants work with you to create a cohesive look that enhances every room.
Integrating Automated Drapes with Smart Home Systems
Smart home integration is one of the most exciting advantages of automated drapes. When professionally installed, they can sync with platforms like:
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Amazon Alexa
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Google Assistant
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Apple HomeKit
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Z-Wave and Zigbee devices
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Smart thermostats and lighting systems
This means your drapes can open with your morning alarm, close when the sun sets, or adjust based on indoor temperature—all without lifting a finger.
If you’re already using smart home features in your Iowa City or Cedar Rapids home, Made in the Shade – Eastern Iowa can ensure your automated drapes integrate seamlessly.
Perfect for Residential and Commercial Spaces
Residential Applications
From bedroom blackout options to elegant living room treatments, automated drapes are ideal for:
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Bedrooms
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Living rooms
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Dining areas
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Home theaters
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Sunrooms
They add a luxurious and functional element to any home in Tiffin, North Liberty, or beyond.
Commercial Applications
We also install automated drapes in commercial settings, including:
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Office buildings
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Medical facilities
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Hotels
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Conference rooms
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Retail spaces
Automated systems give business owners the ability to control light and temperature with minimal effort—boosting comfort, energy savings, and professionalism.
A Solution for Large or Hard-to-Reach Windows
Many homes in the Quad Cities and Eastern Iowa area feature tall windows or windows in hard-to-reach places such as stairwells or vaulted ceilings. Automated drapes are the ideal solution—allowing full control of your window coverings without the need for a ladder or step stool.
These high-functioning systems bring beauty and accessibility to every corner of your home.
Daylight Control and Glare Reduction
Sun glare on TV or computer screens is a common annoyance. With automated drapes, you can control the amount of light entering your room with precision. Use voice commands or preset schedules to reduce glare during peak sunlight hours without darkening the room completely.
This is especially beneficial in home offices or media rooms in Cedar Rapids, Davenport, or anywhere with ample natural light.
Pairing Drapes with Other Window Treatments
At Made in the Shade – Eastern Iowa, we often recommend pairing automated drapes with other treatments for enhanced functionality and design. Some popular combinations include:
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Automated Drapes + Roller Shades – Layer light-filtering roller shades underneath heavier drapes.
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Automated Drapes + Wood Shutters – Combine the timeless look of shutters with soft, flowing drapery.
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Automated Drapes + Exterior Awnings – Control indoor and outdoor light levels all from one device.
This layered approach offers style flexibility while meeting practical needs like insulation and light control.
How Automated Drapes Are Powered
Our automated drapes are available in both hardwired and battery-powered options:
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Hardwired Systems: Ideal for new construction or remodels where wiring can be installed behind walls.
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Battery-Powered Systems: Best for retrofitting existing homes; batteries are long-lasting and easy to replace or recharge.
No matter your home type or layout, we have a motorization solution that works for you.
Installation Process: What to Expect
When you schedule a free consultation with Made in the Shade – Eastern Iowa, here’s what you can expect:
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In-Home Consultation: We bring the showroom to you, showing fabric samples and discussing your goals.
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Precise Measurement: We take detailed measurements to ensure a perfect custom fit.
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Product Selection: Choose from a curated selection of automated drapes, fabrics, and motorization options.
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Professional Installation: Our skilled installers will ensure your system is installed correctly and walk you through its operation.
We make the process simple, smooth, and enjoyable—serving clients from Iowa City to North Liberty and everywhere in between.
Maintenance Tips for Long-Lasting Performance
Automated drapes are low-maintenance by design. Follow these simple tips to keep yours functioning beautifully for years:
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Dust or vacuum fabrics regularly with a soft brush attachment.
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Keep tracks and motors clean and free of debris.
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Recharge or replace batteries as recommended (typically every 6–12 months).
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Schedule a system check-up every few years to ensure all components are running smoothly.
Our team is always available for follow-up service and support.
The Investment: Are Automated Drapes Worth It?
Absolutely. While the upfront cost is higher than manual drapes, the return on investment is impressive when you factor in:
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Energy savings on heating and cooling
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Increased home value
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Improved lifestyle and comfort
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Longer lifespan of window treatments due to automated handling
Plus, many Eastern Iowa homeowners find the luxury and convenience more than justify the investment.
Financing and Promotions
To make it easier to upgrade your home, Made in the Shade – Eastern Iowa offers:
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Competitive pricing
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Limited-time seasonal promotions
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Financing options on select products
Call 563-726-8040 to ask about our current specials on automated drapes and other motorized window solutions.
Why Choose Made in the Shade – Eastern Iowa?
We’re more than just window treatment experts—we’re your neighbors. Our locally owned and operated business understands the specific needs of homes and businesses in Cedar Rapids, Iowa City, Davenport, and the Quad Cities.
Here’s what sets us apart:
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Free In-Home Consultations
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Expert Design Advice
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Professional Measuring and Installation
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Custom Solutions for Every Window
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Top Brands and Cutting-Edge Technology
We’ve helped countless homeowners in North Liberty, Tiffin, and beyond transform their homes with beautiful, functional window coverings—now it’s your turn.
Ready to Transform Your Home with Automated Drapes?
There’s never been a better time to invest in automated drapes. With rising energy costs, growing demand for smart home features, and the desire for easy, elegant living, these window treatments offer the ideal solution for modern homeowners.
Whether you’re in Iowa City, Bettendorf, Davenport, or Cedar Rapids, Made in the Shade – Eastern Iowa is your trusted partner for high-quality automated drapes and professional installation.
Schedule Your Free Consultation Today
📞 Call 563-726-8040
📍 Proudly serving Eastern Iowa, including Iowa City, Davenport, Bettendorf, Quad Cities, Cedar Rapids, North Liberty, Tiffin, and surrounding areas.
Let’s bring your vision to life with custom automated drapes designed just for you.
