When you’re outfitting a commercial space, it’s easy to overlook the role top commercial shades play in the comfort, style, and function of your business. But savvy business owners know that the right commercial window treatments do more than block sunlight—they impact energy use, privacy, branding, and your customer’s first impression.
If you read our related article on why custom shades for offices are a smart investment, you already know the benefits. Now let’s explore the top commercial shades for different types of businesses in the Reno area—and how to choose the right one.
At Made in the Shade Reno, we help you match your needs with the perfect product. Our team will even bring the showroom to you with expert advice, professional measuring, and seamless installation.
1. Roller Shades: Sleek, Simple & Effective
If you’re after a clean, modern aesthetic, roller shades are a top choice. These top commercial shades roll up neatly into a headrail and offer dozens of fabric and texture options—from total blackout to light filtering.
- Modern offices
- Dental and medical practices
- Retail showrooms
They’re easy to maintain, offer excellent light control, and are ideal for branding with custom printed fabrics. You can even integrate them with motorized office window treatment benefits for touch-free convenience.
✅ Tip: Use light-filtering roller shades in waiting rooms to maintain privacy while keeping the space bright and inviting.
2. Solar Shades: Block Glare, Not the View
Reno gets over 300 days of sunshine each year. That’s a lot of glare on screens and heat building up inside. Solar shades are specifically designed to reduce UV rays, heat, and glare while preserving your outdoor view.
- Conference rooms
- Hospitality venues
- Restaurants with scenic views
Solar shades come in various openness factors (1% to 10%), allowing you to balance visibility with protection. They’re also a great choice for LEED-certified buildings looking to reduce energy usage.
Want to know how solar shades stack up against other options? Check out our related post that dives deeper into their energy-saving advantages.
3. Dual Shades: The Best of Both Worlds
Need flexibility in your space? Dual shades give you two fabrics on one headrail—typically a sheer and a blackout layer. You can switch between full sunlight, diffused light, or total privacy at any time.
- Hotels and resorts
- Corporate offices
- Medical exam rooms
The dual-layer design also adds insulation and reduces noise, which can be a plus in high-traffic or open-plan environments.
4. Zebra Shades: Stylish Light Control
Zebra shades, also called layered or transitional shades, feature alternating opaque and sheer bands. By adjusting the alignment of these bands, you can transition from full privacy to soft filtered light instantly.
- Creative studios
- Design firms
- Trend-forward retail stores
Zebra shades offer a bold, graphic look and are ideal for modern spaces where design matters as much as function.
5. Natural Woven Wood Shades: Warm & Textured
Want to bring natural beauty into your commercial interior? Natural woven shades are handcrafted from sustainable materials like bamboo, grasses, and reeds. They’re great for creating a warm, grounded feel.
- Boutique stores
- Wellness clinics
- Restaurants and cafes
Pair these with a privacy liner for added light control, or use them in open spaces where soft natural light is desired.
6. Sheer Shades: Soft & Sophisticated
For businesses that want a more upscale or hospitality-inspired look, sheer shades are an elegant option. These feature vanes suspended between layers of sheer fabric, allowing you to tilt the vanes for precise light control.
- Luxury hotel lobbies
- Executive offices
- Law firms
Sheer shades offer a delicate balance of privacy and ambient light—plus they look beautiful from both inside and outside the building.
7. Cellular Shades: The Energy Saver
Cellular shades, also called honeycomb shades, are engineered for insulation. Their unique structure traps air, reducing heat transfer and helping to stabilize indoor temperatures.
- Medical buildings
- Educational facilities
- Any business with high energy costs
Their sound-dampening qualities also make them great for shared workspaces and open offices.
8. Motorized Shades: Smart, Seamless & Safe
Nearly every shade on this list can be customized with a motorized lift system. Not only does this improve convenience and professionalism, it also supports ADA compliance and workplace safety—especially in public-facing spaces.
- Alexa
- Google Assistant
- Control4 or other smart office platforms
Motorized options are especially useful in spaces with high or hard-to-reach windows. You can program daily schedules or control shades remotely from your phone or building automation system.
9. Shutters and Wood Blinds for Timeless Style
If your commercial space leans more traditional—or you want to make a strong, classic statement—consider shutters or wood blinds. These add architectural interest and long-lasting durability, particularly in upscale environments.
- Law firms
- Accounting offices
- Historical buildings or remodels
Shutters and wood blinds also offer excellent light control and can be custom stained or painted to match your interior palette.
How to Choose the Right Shade for Your Business
Here are a few factors to consider when selecting the best window treatment for your commercial space:
- Sun exposure – South-facing windows may need solar or cellular shades.
- Privacy needs – Medical and legal offices benefit from dual or sheer shades.
- Design aesthetic – Zebra, woven, and wood options add distinctive style.
- Technology integration – Motorized shades improve functionality and accessibility.
- Budget and maintenance – Roller and solar shades are low-cost and easy to clean.
Still not sure which way to go? Visit our related article to compare shade types or request a free consultation and we’ll guide you through the decision with personalized advice.
We’ll Bring the Showroom to You
Your business deserves window treatments that are as functional as they are stylish. At Made in the Shade Reno, we partner with top brands like Graber, Alta Window Fashions, Norman, and Insolroll to deliver the very best in top commercial shades.
We’ll help you find the right product, measure every window, and professionally install your new shades for a flawless finish.
👉 Request a Free Consultation today—and We’ll Bring the Showroom to You!
