Motorized Ripplefold Drapery Panels in a Downtown Savannah Penthouse

Ripplefold drapery panels can be super complicated - and when the windows span more than 16’ high and 24’ wide, a custom solution and support from an experienced window treatment partner makes all the difference.

Savannah Window Fashions teamed up with the fabulous Maureen Pacifici and Custom Audio Visual in Bluffton on this motorized ripplefold drapery project in a downtown Savannah Penthouse.

This project was challenging, both because of the epic size of the windows and the calculations required for the desired window treatments. Scaffolding was needed to remove the old window treatments and for installing the new dual layer panels.

Scaffolding was needed to remove the old drapes.

Guest Bedroom: Before

before. the guest bedroom was in need of new drapes.

The client wanted guest rooms that provided comfort and privacy. The original window treatments were in need of refreshing, and the motorization was no longer functioning properly. 

we worked with our client to choose beautiful fabrics

Guest Bedroom: After

after. stunning fabric from scalamandre

We installed this single layer blackout-lined drapery in Scalamandre Jamboree linen print on Lutron motorized tracks and the result is amazing. The incredible height of the ceiling made scaffolding a requirement in order to install the 190” tall drapery panels. 

We can’t wait to share updates when the custom bedding, pillows, and bed skirt are complete (yes, we do that too!).

Primary Bedroom: Before

BEFORE. This Savannah Penthouse was in need of a refresh.

Like the guest bedrooms, the primary bedroom was also in need of a refresh. These large windows provide an amazing view, but also present a large design challenge.

There are a lot of calculations that go into specifying ripplefold hardware, the number of snaps, and the placement of snaps, which depends on the desired drapery fullness.

When you realize at install drapery panels are missing one snap … break out sewing kit and make it happen

Drapery “fullness” refers to how much fabric we are putting into the folds, or pleats, of the drapery. This directly impacts how your window treatments look when they are opened or closed. For this project, we specified 2x fullness, our preferred standard to achieve a luxurious look.

Primary Bedroom: After

Ceiling mounted motorized ripplefold drapery hardware

The primary bedroom ripplefold drapes feature dual layers, with the sheers in the ceiling pocket and the blackout-lined draperies mounted on the ceiling. We love the Schumacher fabric selected, which provides the perfect modern update. New custom bedding and bench upholstery coming soon!

We worked with the designer and client to decide the best mode of operation for these huge panels. When deciding on how the drapes would be operated, we highly recommended motorization, even though the client initially thought they would prefer to manually open and close the drapes. Between the ceiling height and the weight of the fabric, we knew from experience that manual operation would quickly become a frustrating and impossible task.

With our expert guidance, we helped the client choose an appropriate motorized system and brought Custom Audio Visual in on the project for the installation of the motorized components. The best part? Both are operated with the convenience of a remote control.

Careful planning and detail went into ordering and installing the appropriate hardware and motorized components to ensure it could handle the weight of these huge panels. This client reaped the benefits of the fantastic collaboration between designer, window treatment specialist, and motorization installation. 

That’s the difference in working with Savannah Window Fashions. We are more than a workroom, we are your trusted advisors and window treatment experts, and we will always provide insight, education, and recommendations to make sure you’ll love your window treatments for years - or decades - to come. Our concierge-level services mean we handle every last detail for you - from design, to measurement, to fabrication, ordering the right hardware, and professional installation.

Reach out to us to schedule a consultation for your project. Our services range from custom window treatments, to custom bedding, upholstery, pillows, and soft goods - we are your one-stop solution for a home refresh!