Commercial Case StudiesReal Results for Charleston Businesses
See how we have helped hotels, restaurants, and commercial properties throughout the Lowcountry achieve their window treatment goals.
Featured Commercial Projects
Detailed case studies showcasing our commercial expertise
Summerville Resort & Spa - Hotel Guest Room Renovation
Boutique Hotel - Summerville, SC
87 Guest Rooms + Common Areas
Challenge
Complete hotel renovation requiring blackout window treatments for 87 guest rooms, lobby, and restaurant areas. Tight 6-week deadline before grand reopening. Previous treatments were outdated, offered poor light control, and contributed to high HVAC costs due to inadequate insulation. Property manager needed ADA-compliant solutions for accessible rooms and volume pricing to stay within FF&E budget.
Solution
Installed Norman USA commercial-grade cellular shades with blackout backing in all guest rooms, featuring cordless lift systems for ADA compliance. Coordinated with general contractor to complete installation during off-hours to avoid construction delays. Provided designer-selected roman shades for lobby and restaurant areas that complemented the coastal elegance aesthetic while offering UV protection for artwork and furnishings.
Results & ROI
Energy Savings
23% reduction in HVAC costs
Timeline
Completed 5 days ahead of schedule
ROI
Projected 18-month payback period
- Zero guest complaints about light control in first 6 months
- Perfect score on property inspection for ADA compliance
- Successful coordination with 4 different trade contractors
We needed blackout treatments for 87 guest rooms during a complete hotel renovation. Carolina Interior Installations delivered ahead of schedule and stayed within budget. Their project manager coordinated perfectly with our general contractor, and the quality of the Norman products has exceeded our expectations. Zero complaints from guests and the energy savings are significant.
Michael Patterson
General Manager, Summerville Resort & Spa
Harbor View Restaurant - Waterfront Dining UV Protection
Fine Dining Restaurant - Downtown Charleston, SC
Dining Room, Bar, Private Event Space
Challenge
Popular waterfront restaurant with floor-to-ceiling windows offering stunning Charleston Harbor views. Intense afternoon sun was causing significant fading to custom upholstery, artwork, and hardwood floors. Window glare created uncomfortable dining experience for afternoon and sunset service. Owner needed solution that would protect interiors while maintaining the signature harbor views that attract customers. Installation had to occur without disrupting restaurant operations.
Solution
Designed and installed custom solar shades with 5% openness factor, providing 95% UV protection while maintaining clear harbor views. Fabrics selected in neutral tones to complement the restaurants sophisticated coastal decor. Installation completed over two consecutive nights (Monday-Tuesday when restaurant was closed) to avoid any service disruption. Added motorized operation to allow staff to easily adjust shades throughout the day based on sun position.
Results & ROI
Energy Savings
18% reduction in afternoon HVAC usage
Timeline
2-night installation, zero service disruption
ROI
22-month payback through reduced fading and energy costs
- Eliminated customer complaints about window glare
- Protected $40,000+ in custom furnishings from UV damage
- Maintained 5-star reviews highlighting harbor views
Our waterfront restaurant has massive windows with intense afternoon sun. The UV protection treatments they installed have completely solved our fading problem while maintaining the beautiful harbor views our customers love. The installation was completed over two nights without impacting service. Professional, efficient, and the results speak for themselves.
Jennifer Martinez
Owner, Harbor View Restaurant
Lowcountry Corporate Center - Multi-Building Office Complex
Commercial Property Management - Mount Pleasant & Summerville, SC
3 Office Buildings, 140+ Individual Offices
Challenge
Property management company needed to upgrade window treatments across three office buildings in their portfolio. Existing treatments were mismatched, outdated, and contributing to tenant complaints about glare on computer screens. Buildings had mixture of standard and oversized windows requiring multiple solutions. Needed consistent, professional appearance across all properties while respecting individual tenant preferences where possible. Project required coordination with multiple tenant move-in schedules and existing leases.
Solution
Developed standardized specification using Norman USA commercial-grade motorized roller shades for all buildings, offering three neutral fabric colors to accommodate tenant preferences. Motorized operation with wall-mounted controls provided easy adjustment for glare control throughout the day. Created detailed installation schedule coordinating with property management to minimize disruption to occupied offices. Provided training to property maintenance staff on motorized system operation and basic troubleshooting.
Results & ROI
Energy Savings
15% average reduction in tenant energy costs
Timeline
8-week phased installation across 3 buildings
ROI
Increased tenant satisfaction scores, reduced vacancy time
- Eliminated 90% of tenant glare complaints
- Standardized appearance improved building marketability
- Created ongoing maintenance agreement for service and repairs
We manage a portfolio of office buildings in the Charleston area and have used Carolina Interior Installations for multiple projects. Their understanding of commercial specifications and ability to work within tight construction deadlines is impressive. The motorized shades they installed have performed flawlessly, and their service response time is excellent. Highly recommend for commercial property managers.
Robert Chen
Property Manager, Lowcountry Commercial Properties
Ready to Start Your Commercial Project?
Let us create a custom solution for your hotel, restaurant, or commercial property