Automated shades featured in energy efficient home

A project run by a Virginia Tech professor has resulted in one of the most energy efficient houses in the country. According to Design News, the so-called Lumenhaus has a number of features that reduce the amount of energy it consumes.

"The thought behind the Lumenhaus design was to build a sustainable smart house with the ability to maintain optimal energy performance at all times. So when the weather is good the house automatically opens up and doesn't use energy," professor Joseph Wheeler told the news source.

An impressive characteristics of the home is its motorized blinds, which automatically adjust to the weather patterns. While the automated window treatments are more complex than what is necessary for the average abode, motorized blinds can provide homeowners with several advantages.

One of the most beneficial aspects is that motorized blinds one can easily adjust the blinds with the flip of a switch. This can be especially helpful in trying to reduce glare on a television or computer screen. The lack of cords can also be a safe alternative for those who have young children.