Balancing Aesthetics with Practical Comfort

A Starbucks outlet faced a unique architectural challenge. Behind its inviting full glass façade, an issue of excessive sunlight began to compromise the customer experience. The task at hand was to find a solution that mitigated the sunlight issue, aligning with Starbucks' commitment to sustainability and customer comfort.

The Challenge

The café's design, while aesthetically pleasing, brought about a practical dilemma. The seating, arranged along the glass wall, exposed customers to the harsh glare and heat of the morning sun. Traditional shading solutions were impractical due to the seating alignment and were financially unviable, given the prohibitive costs of installing electrical points for wired motors. The need was for a solution that was not only effective in controlling sunlight but also cost-effective and minimally invasive in its installation.

Innovative Collaboration

In our quest for a suitable solution, Louvolite emerged as a crucial partner. Their expertise in innovative shading solutions paved the way for a bespoke approach. We delved into their product range and engaged with their technical team, ensuring the proposed solution fits Starbucks' unique requirements perfectly.

Solution: Solar-Charged, Motorised Roller Blinds

The decision to install solar-charged, motorised roller blinds marked a pivotal moment in the project. These blinds, powered by Louvolite's advanced 1.8Nm DC Tubular Motor with a built-in rechargeable Lithium-ion battery, offered a blend of efficiency and sustainability. The motor's features, including a 6kg maximum weight capacity, simple programming, and four additional mid-limit settings, made it an ideal choice for the café's needs​​.

Eco-Friendly and Efficient Design

The blinds were powered by Louvolite One Touch® Solar Panels, designed for high performance even in reduced light conditions. These panels utilised amorphous silicon technology, considerably enhancing solar ray absorption and operability. This meant that even in the variable light conditions typical of the UK, the blinds would function efficiently, continuously receiving power without the need for regular charging from a power socket. This not only reduced the environmental impact but also aligned with Starbucks' sustainability goals.

Considerate Installation Process

The installation process was meticulously planned, with a focus on safety and minimal disruption. The easy installation of the solar panels, using screws and brackets provided, allowed for a quick setup without compromising the aesthetic appeal of the café. The blinds' design ensured continuous operation even in partially shaded conditions, a crucial feature given the café's orientation and the varied sunlight it received throughout the day​.

Transformative Impact

Post-installation, the Starbucks outlet underwent a remarkable transformation. The blinds effectively reduced heat and glare, making previously underused areas comfortable and inviting. The sleek design of the blinds added to the store's modern aesthetic, enhancing the overall customer experience.

Client Reflection

"The blinds are fantastic and work perfectly. The lads that installed them were amazing," remarked Scott Gill, the Starbucks Manager. This feedback underscored not just the functionality of the blinds but also the professionalism and skill of our installation team.

The Impact of Innovative Sustainability Solutions

This project stands as a testament to the power of innovative, sustainable solutions in transforming commercial spaces. It highlights the importance of understanding client needs, collaborative problem-solving, and the value of tailor-made solutions. For Starbucks, this was more than just an installation of blinds; it was a step forward in enhancing customer comfort and reaffirming their commitment to sustainability.