Before drywall
Decide which openings might be motorized and where power or low-voltage wiring should run. Blocking above wide doors and tall windows supports heavier systems.
The essential details
Make the decision from the goal backward.
A strong fit
Consider this when…
- Whole-home motorization
- Large great-room and two-story glass
- Owners who want one consistent palette
Look again
Another answer may be better when…
- Committing to fabrics before living with the light
- Assuming plan dimensions are final
- Leaving power decisions until after drywall
Specification notes
Details that change the result.
Prewire
Hardwired motors give the cleanest result; battery and rechargeable options remain good for retrofits.
Pockets
Recessed pockets conceal rollers but must be coordinated with framing and ceiling details.
Timeline
Allow time between final measurement and installation; temporary privacy may be needed at move-in.
Continue exploring
Connected decisions, clearly explained.
From the journal
Read the decision in more depth.
Commercial · 8 min
How to Specify Window Treatments for New Commercial Construction
Treatments are often specified last and coordinated never. That is where the expensive problems start.Read the guideFrequently asked
A few useful answers.
When should I contact a window treatment designer in a new build?+
Ideally before drywall if motorization or recessed pockets are possible; otherwise once windows and trim are set.
Can builder windows be measured from plans?+
Plans help budgeting, but products should be ordered from field measurements of finished openings.
Is motorization worth prewiring if I am unsure?+
Prewiring key openings is typically far easier during construction than adding concealed wiring later.
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