BLIND SOLUTIONS
BlindSpace Selector — Cheat Sheet
Quick-reference cheat sheet for the BlindSpace Selector tool.
Published 27 May 2026
CHEAT SHEET
BlindSpace Selector
Quick-reference companion for the free Portal tool
What This Tool Does
The BlindSpace Selector is an essential online tool on the Blind Solutions Architects Portal designed to streamline the specification of integrated blind and curtain track solutions for architects in South Africa. It helps you determine the optimal recess dimensions and product configurations required for various blind types (e.g., roller, Venetian, vertical, blockout) within wall cavities, ceilings, or bulkheads, ensuring a seamless, concealed aesthetic.
Use this tool early in the design phase when developing fenestration details, facade elevations, or interior ceiling plans. It's crucial for architects, interior designers, and facade consultants working on residential, commercial, and hospitality projects across South Africa who aim for minimalist, high-performance window treatments without compromising thermal or acoustic performance, particularly in relation to SANS 10400-XA energy efficiency requirements.
Step-by-Step Usage Guide
Step 1: Access the Tool & Project Details
Navigate to the BlindSpace Selector on the Blind Solutions Architects Portal. Input your project's location (e.g., "Johannesburg, Gauteng") and a brief project name for record-keeping. This helps the tool contextualise potential environmental factors.
Step 2: Select Blind Type & Quantity
Choose the primary blind type you intend to specify (e.g., "Roller Blind," "Venetian Blind," "Motorised Curtain Track"). Indicate if multiple blinds or tracks are required within a single recess (e.g., a sheer and a blockout roller blind for a dual system).
Example Input:
- Blind Type: Dual Roller Blind (Sheer + Blockout)
- Quantity: 2 (for a dual system)
Step 3: Define Window/Opening Dimensions
Enter the precise width and height of the window or opening where the blinds will be installed. This is critical for determining blind stack dimensions and motorisation requirements.
Example Input:
- Window Width: 2500 mm
- Window Height: 2200 mm
Step 4: Specify Glazing & Obstruction Details
Indicate the type of glazing (e.g., single, double, low-E) and any potential obstructions such as window handles, mullions, or deep sills. This ensures adequate clearance for blind operation. Consider SANS 10400-XA U-values and SHGC for your chosen glazing.
Example Input:
- Glazing Type: Double Glazing (24mm overall)
- Obstruction: Projecting Window Handle (35mm from glass)
- Recess Depth Preference: Ceiling Recess
Step 5: Motorisation & Control Options
Select if the blinds will be motorised or manually operated. If motorised, specify power requirements (e.g., 230V AC, Low Voltage DC) and control integration (e.g., switch, remote, home automation system like Crestron or Control4).
Example Input:
- Operation: Motorised
- Power: 230V AC (Standard SA mains)
- Control: Dry Contact (for BMS integration)
Step 6: Generate & Review Report
Click "Calculate" or "Generate Report." The tool will provide a detailed specification, including required recess dimensions (width, height, depth), recommended BlindSpace product codes, and CAD drawings/details for integration into your architectural plans.
Expected Output:
- Recommended Recess Depth: 150 mm (for dual roller blind + handle clearance)
- Recommended Recess Height: 120 mm
- BlindSpace Product Code: BSS-DR150-120
- Downloadable CAD details (DWG/PDF)
Common Scenarios & Expected Results
| Scenario | Input | Expected Output |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Office Block - Single Roller Blind |
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| Luxury Residential - Motorised Sheer & Blockout |
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| Hotel Suite - Motorised Curtain Track |
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Pro Tips
Early Integration is Key: Always use the BlindSpace Selector during the concept and detailed design phases. Retrofitting for concealed blinds is significantly more complex and costly, impacting ceiling heights and structural elements.
Account for Regional Climate Zones: South Africa's diverse climate zones (SANS 10400-XA) mean varying needs for solar control. Specify appropriate fabric openness factors (e.g., 1% for west-facing in Limpopo, 5% for north-facing in Western Cape) and ensure the selected BlindSpace solution accommodates the chosen fabric thickness.
Power Planning for Motorisation: For motorised solutions, confirm power access (230V AC or low voltage) at each recess location. Coordinate with electrical engineers early to ensure correct conduit and wiring runs are provisioned in the ceiling or wall cavities. This is a common oversight.
Detailed Drawings & Coordination: Download the CAD details provided by the tool and integrate them directly into your architectural drawings. Share these details with the main contractor, ceiling contractor, and window fabricator to ensure precise execution and avoid costly clashes on site.