Why I’m Kind of Obsessed with My New Electric Shades (and You Might Be Too)

Okay, I’ll admit it: I never thought I’d be the person gushing about motorized window shades. I mean, it’s a window covering. How exciting can it be?

Turns out, weirdly exciting.

Let me set the scene: I’m in the kitchen, making my morning coffee, and the sunlight starts to pour in — right at that just the wrong angle that hits me square in the eyes and turns my countertop into a blinding spotlight. Normally, I’d pause, wipe my hands, go fiddle with the blinds, and then try to get back in the flow. But now? I just say, “Hey Google, lower the kitchen shades,” and like a little magical home elf, they glide down. Drama over. Coffee continues.

Here’s what I’ve learned since getting these electric shades (also called smart blinds or automated shades if you’re feeling fancy): they’re low-key one of the best home upgrades I’ve made. Especially in the kitchen, where you want natural light and control. It’s not a huge flashy thing. But it’s a quality-of-life thing. And honestly, those are my favorite kind.

They’re also kind of the perfect combo of function meets vibe. The light in your home totally changes the mood, right? With these, I can create a cozy morning glow, block harsh sun during lunch prep, or make the kitchen feel calm and private in the evening — without ever touching a cord.

Oh, and if you’re into the food side of this (you’re here, so I’m guessing you are), here’s something practical: they help keep the kitchen cooler, especially during hot afternoons when the oven and sun are both working overtime. Smart shades can lower automatically during peak heat times, so your A/C doesn’t have to struggle. It’s like giving your kitchen a break.

They also protect your stuff. Sunlight fades countertops, paint, art, wood floors — even that cute herb planter you keep on the windowsill. With automated shades, you can program them to close during the sunniest parts of the day. Bonus: it makes your basil last longer. 🌿

Now, for those wondering if this sounds complicated: it’s really not. I’m not a tech person. I went with a battery-powered version, so no hardwiring. Installed in like 20 minutes. Connected to my phone in five. You can control them with a remote, an app, your voice, or even set them on a schedule — like “open at 7:30 a.m., close at sunset.” No daily maintenance. Just set it and live your life.

They’re also totally customizable. I chose a light-filtering linen that still lets in that pretty soft light but blocks glare. But there are blackout options too (hello, bedroom nap mode). Whether you’re a modern minimalist or into warm, cozy tones, there’s a fabric that’ll vibe with your space.

Bottom line? If you’re into cozy kitchens, sunny mornings that don’t blind you, and a home that feels like it’s quietly taking care of you — electric shades are kind of dreamy. Not in a wild, over-the-top way. Just in a “why didn’t I do this sooner?” kind of way.

So yeah… I might be a little obsessed.

And if you’re remodeling, rethinking your windows, or just tired of cords that tangle and blinds that tilt weird, this is your sign to look into it.

Now if only they could make coffee too.