Having apex windows in your home is a great way to flood rooms with light, push ceilings higher and impress guests with their architectural appeal. They do come with their own challenges though, especially when it comes to shading.
This guide looks at two UK-based companies that homeowners often compare: Sona and Specialist Blinds. We’ll help you understand what matters with regards to apex windows, and how to choose the right coverings for your home.
What Counts When Choosing Blinds for Apex (Shaped/Triangular) Windows
- Complex shapes and large glass panels – Apex windows tend to have complicated geometry due to the formation of angles. Because of this, they require specialised manufacturing.
- Superior precision and aesthetics – As the shape is highlighted, the fitting of window coverings becomes important, since it should complement the geometry of the windows.
- Convenience – The window type is difficult to access because of its height, therefore, remote controls and motorised blinds become important.
- Light, glare and thermal regulation – Large apex windows tend to emit greater amounts of light and glare, as well as thermal gains and losses. This means effective covering is essential.
- Fabric and customisation options – Since they are customised, apex windows require window covering systems that are able to be personalised.
How Specialist Blinds Approaches Apex Windows
Specialist Blinds has made a reputation for itself by specializing in shaped-window solutions like curved and gable ends, as well as apex designs. The method used by this company revolves around custom made blinds, installed on site to make sure that everything is done according to specification. Furthermore, the range of fabrics offered by them are perfect for any shape of window blind.
How Sona Approaches Apex Windows
The primary focus of Sona when it comes to apex windows is precision and quality. They are designed to fit neatly in place, without leaving any room for gaps. Their blinds are built in the UK with a special emphasis on simplicity, functionality and modern technologies. They can also be easily paired with smart home systems for easy day-to-day use.
Side-by-Side Comparison: How They Differ
| Feature | Specialist Blinds | Sona |
|---|---|---|
| Focus on apex/gable shapes | Medium, with a specific triangular/apex category. | Strong focus, with patented Apex system. |
| Manual + motorised options | Yes, they offer both manual and motorised. | Focus on automated; cordless/battery/solar are available. |
| Smart home integration | Offers smart electric blinds but have limited information on home-automation. | Designed for premium home-automation. |
| Custom manufacture and finishing | Fully bespoke with capacity to fit blinds for large windows. | UK-made, custom sizing patented mechanisms. |
| Performance fabrics | Duette® and honeycomb fabrics are available. | Advanced honeycomb and blackout fabrics with a particular focus on thermal performance. |
| Target market | Wide bespoke shapes and fabric range suitable for most homes. | High-end clients seeking automation for smart homes and premium apex solutions. |
Why Sona May Be the Better Choice for Certain Moder-Home Projects
Automated and smart-home ready – perfect for Control4, Lutron or Crestron system compatibility.
High-quality finish and performance – premium fabric and motor spec suited to modern homes.
Patented apex-shaped system – SonaApex is designed for angled and gable-end windows.
Manufactured in the UK to custom size – blends precision with a high-end finish.
When Specialist Blinds Might Be the Better Fit
If automation isn’t a priority for you, it’s worth looking at Specialist Blinds’ basic motorised blinds, which often work out to be more affordable.
If you’re after a traditional, consultation-led process for custom-shaped blinds, these are a good option.
If you prefer to choose from a wide range of fabrics and colours without high-end automation, Specialist Blinds offer a variety of different styles.
Final Thoughts
Both of these companies provide excellent options for shaped window blinds; choosing either of them is a safe option. At the same time, there are some differences between these companies in terms of the features they provide.
Specifically, Sona pays considerable attention to the automation and integration of its products within the context of a smart home. So, if you’re looking to create a smart house with automated devices, Sona is an excellent option. In turn, Specialist Blinds provides greater freedom regarding customisation and manual adjustment, which makes it ideal for traditionalist customers seeking customised options.
When it comes down to it, the choice is up to you, depending on your preferences, whether it’s design, automation or cost.
