As the smart home and commercial automation markets continue to evolve, one category is rapidly gaining traction: smart blinds. No longer a luxury afterthought, automated shading is becoming an essential component of modern AV and smart building solutions. For custom installers, this shift presents a unique opportunity — one that can drive profit, secure early project influence and future-proof their businesses. OneAV explores the topic:
The Market Is Ready — Are You?
Smart blinds are no longer a niche product. Rising consumer demand for smart, comfortable homes and increasing energy efficiency requirements in commercial spaces have accelerated their adoption. Whether it’s a new build, retrofit, or multi-dwelling unit (MDU) project, shading is becoming a standard expectation.
Custom installers are perfectly positioned to lead this conversation. As the first on-site, they can influence the specification, design, and installation of shading solutions before architects or designers are even involved.
This early access provides:
- Stronger Client Relationships
- Enhanced Future-Proofing of Spaces
- A Clear Path to Profit in the Shading Phase
Why Now? Understanding the Smart Shading Surge
2024 is set to be a tipping point for smart shading due to:
- Consumer Awareness: Smart home technology has become mainstream, with customers expecting intelligent control over lighting, privacy and energy efficiency.
- Energy Regulations: Stricter efficiency standards make smart blinds an effective solution for reducing solar gain and cutting HVAC costs.
- Easy Integration: Solutions like Umbra smart blinds integrate seamlessly with leading control systems, simplifying installation.
Profitability Beyond the Basics
Smart blinds offer significant profit potential as a design-driven, customisable solution, unlike commoditised products such as televisions or speakers. With Umbra, custom installers benefit from:
- Robust Margins
- Fast, Tidy Installations
- Scalable Solutions (from single rooms to full buildings)
- Upsell Opportunities (demo kits, future upgrades)
- Long-term Client Loyalty through Comprehensive Solutions
Umbra’s Advantage: Design, Integration and Support
Umbra’s smart blinds offer precise light control, enhanced privacy, energy savings and seamless integration with major control systems, including Control4, Crestron and Lutron.
At OneAV, we empower installers by providing:
- Live Training and Webinars
- Access to Umbra Demo Kits
- Hands-on Training
- Expert Guidance on Specification, Quoting and Sales
Leading the Shading Conversation
Many installers have been “thinking about blinds” for a while, but by the time they act, it’s often too late — ceilings are closed, electricals are complete and design decisions are final.
By starting the shading conversation early, installers can:
- Secure Greater Project Control
- Ensure Future Revenue Streams
- Strengthen Their Reputation as Complete AV and Smart Building Experts
A Market Poised for Growth
According to the 2024 CEDIA Professional Smart Home Market Analysis, lighting and shading are among the fastest-growing categories in the UK smart home sector. This trend highlights the increasing importance of smart shading solutions for custom installers.
Let’s Talk About Growth
Ready to lead with smart shading? Contact OneAV today to discover how Umbra can enhance your service offering, boost your margins and position you as a complete solution provider in the AV industry.