Too often, one thing gets overlooked in the beginning stages of the design process: window shades. To get the most out of shades, don’t wait until the end of the design process to think about them. Instead, consider them early on, when windows, curtain wall, and HVAC are being planned. ... read more

A plethora of choices exist when it comes to customizing window shades. From color combinations and openness factor to panels built to fit individual window specs and environmental benefits, window shades are one of the most customizable design solutions you can find. And they add a personalized touch, especially when ... read more

Since the development of roller blinds (possibly in 1700s Scotland), the concept appears to have remained basically the same. Today’s roller shades do look something like the original concept. They still feature a fabric panel attached to a roller. They still control glare and solar heat gain. And the strength ... read more

Audiovisual equipment isn’t always the first thing architects consider when planning a building. At the A’18 architectural conference last week, Draper and NEC Display Solutions partnered to show how a custom architectural audiovisual experience can play a major role in aesthetics, wayfinding, and messaging. To showcase that role, Draper worked ... read more

Window shades reduce glare, solar heat gain, even light pollution. But shades are much more flexible than you might realize. Here are some alternative uses of shades that have nothing to do with solar control. Cover service windowsMuseums, sports facilities, and other venues often provide food, ticketing, and other services ... read more

There are several great online architectural communities where you can get design ideas, building and product news, and solutions. Draper can be found on many such sites, and since we’ve just joined probably the biggest such community in the world, here’s a reminder of places you’ll find us: Architecture design ... read more

The construction industry continually evolves as improved technologies develop and new ways of thinking emerge. Draper has embraced that evolution with innovative window coverings and new custom solar control solutions. As we increase our range of architectural offerings, we are excited to present several new solutions at the A’18 Architectural ... read more

Skylights are a great way to allow natural daylight into buildings. As anyone who has spent any time beneath an unshaded skylight can attest, however, the amount of solar radiation that comes through horizontal and inclined glazing is much greater than from vertical facades, and can cause significant heat gain ... read more

May is Asthma Awareness Month, also known as “breathe easy month.” Keeping dangerous volatile organic compounds (VOC) out of the air is an important part of ensuring air quality. Here are four ways Draper makes that happen: Greenguard Gold products GREENGUARD Gold-certified materials meet or exceed industry standard limits for ... read more

Using your gym for non-athletic events makes good financial sense. It can be an important source of additional revenue for cash-strapped schools. But it can also cost money through damage and extra cleaning or waxing of the gym floor. Draper can help you make better use of your athletic facility, ... read more

Supergraphics —large-scale, printed artwork—have become commonplace in the overall design aesthetic of healthcare facilities. Used in both interior and exterior applications, these graphics can relay important messaging to patients. But when it comes to supergraphics, one area has been overlooked. Designers who utilize supergraphics on walls may neglect the windows, ... read more

Window shades have been the preferred daylighting control system of choice for several reasons. Shades allow natural light to enter the room while controlling unwanted, uncomfortable glare. They can provide a view to the outside world – even when the shades are down. Heating and cooling cost savings can be ... read more

Sunday is Earth Day. Every year on April 22, people around the world come together to celebrate our planet and work to keep it healthy. But being a good citizen of our planet is not just a once-a-year thing. Here are five ways Draper works year-round toward promoting sustainability: Green ... read more

On a recent, relatively mild spring day, visitors to Spiceland, Indiana, would have witnessed something strange. The streets of this 800-plus population town were filled with more than 700 people, some walking, others driving, all headed for the same destination: the old Spiceland gym. Residents didn’t bat an eye, though. ... read more

Commerce Tower, located in downtown Kansas City, Missouri, is on the National Register of Historic Buildings as the first “curtain wall” building west of the Mississippi. So when a renovation was planned for the landmark, no detail was too small—including solar control. Commerce Tower was planned as a vertical neighborhood, ... read more