Enhancing privacy with stylish and functional privacy screens
A family in Essex approached Phantom Screens with a clear vision: they wanted to preserve their beautiful outdoor views during the day while minimising reflections in their five-panel bifold doors at night.
Their newly renovated open-plan kitchen-diner seamlessly connected to a large patio, creating an inviting indoor-outdoor space perfect for social gatherings. However, the extensive glazing presented challenges:
- Evening reflections: Kitchen downlights and lamps created distracting reflections in the glass.
- Lack of privacy: The open-plan space was highly visible from outside.
- Curtains or blinds?: Traditional window dressings would disrupt the modern aesthetic and create bulky fabric stacks.
Having explored various solutions, they turned to Phantom Screens for an innovative, discreet option that would blend seamlessly with their home.
quick project info
Project
Automated privacy screen for bifold doors
Concern
Reflection reduction, privacy, and solar management
Products
Mesh
SheerWeave 2360 Oyster Pearl Grey (Privacy)
Colour
RAL-matched to existing frames
finding The solution
Automated Privacy Screens
We recommended a motorised retractable privacy screen that could be seamlessly integrated into their renovation plans. By discussing the project early in the process, the homeowners were able to prepare for a fully recessed installation, ensuring that when not in use, the privacy screen remained hidden from view.
A SheerWeave 2360 mesh in Oyster Pearl Grey was selected for its unique ability to control light and privacy without compromising aesthetics. This privacy screen offered three key benefits:
- Daytime visibility & softening of light:
- The pale-coloured mesh reduced glare and harsh contrasts, maintaining a balanced, diffused daylight experience.
- Views of the garden remained clear, enhancing the indoor-outdoor living experience.
- Evening privacy & reflection reduction:
- The light mesh prevented indoor lights from reflecting on the bifold doors, minimising visual noise.
- As daylight faded, the privacy screen transitioned into an interior blind, creating an intimate dining atmosphere.
- Exterior privacy enhancement:
- At night, the privacy screen’s subtle mirroring effect obscured the interior from outside view.
- Passers-by saw reflections of the outdoor environment instead of the illuminated kitchen and dining area.
Installation
Seamless integration for a sleek finish
The homeowners opted for recessed side tracks, ensuring a clean, uninterrupted look. By colour-matching the frame, tracks, and cassette to the existing structure, the privacy screen blended perfectly into the property’s design.
The automated system allowed the privacy screen to be deployed at the touch of a button or programmed to adjust automatically based on lighting conditions.
The Result
A sophisticated, functional living space
After several months of use, the family reported a significant improvement in their living experience:
- Enhanced comfort – The privacy screen reduced solar gain, keeping the space cooler in summer.
- Improved ventilation – The bifold doors could remain open longer without unwanted debris entering the home.
- Refined aesthetics – The privacy screen complemented the home’s sleek, modern look without bulky curtains or blinds.
- Increased privacy – The discreet privacy screen ensured peace of mind without disrupting the architectural flow.
Whether you’re planning a new build or upgrading an existing space, Phantom Screens can help you achieve privacy, solar control, and a seamless aesthetic with bespoke, fully recessed privacy screens. Get in touch today for expert advice and a free consultation.
