The architects of silence: floating, automated curtains

Silent Gliss is renowned for its innovation in the development of curtain track technology. We spoke to their New Zealand distributors, Artisan, about corner-defying, recessed silent curtain tracks. 

Swiss company Silent Gliss is known the world over for its continued innovation in curtain track technology - from the invention of the first glider-driven track in 1952 to the development of the first automated curtain track. They were also the first to bend the curtain track, and continue to innovate in this area.  

It’s this innovation that led Artisan to start bringing the Swiss technology into New Zealand. “Silent Gliss products are truly innovative in their field, appealing to architect and client alike for the creative freedom the products allow,” Artisan’s Mike Fenn says.

What are floating curtains?

One notable innovation of Silent Gliss is the recessed curtain track, which allows for designers to create the illusion of curtains floating along the ceiling attached to a discreet and barely visible track. “We supply a recess profile to be built into the ceiling during the construction process, which allows for the track and curtains to be installed at the end of the build,” Artisan’s Mike Fenn says. 

“The system is incredibly simple to install during the build, and while it can be retrofitted into existing buildings, it is more efficient to factor it in at the design stage. Ceiling-mounted tracks are generally suggested to create a similar effect in an existing building.”

When can a ceiling track be specified?

A ceiling mounted track can be specified in most settings, and is sought after for ease of operation and aesthetic value as the innovative Silent Gliss ceiling clamp ensures there is no visible bracketing when viewed from within the room. “There are a number of popular track profiles with a recent introduction, The Funnel, proving popular as it is a specialised ceiling track designed to draw the eye towards it. It’s so well designed, many designers specify it as a room divider, using it as a unique feature to separate two rooms.”

Can curtain tracks move around corners or curved room? 

“The options for bent curtain tracks are vast in terms of style and function,” Mike says. “Silent Gliss are specialists in the bent track, and as such we can create curtain tracks for almost any shaped or sized room. The tracks can be forward or reverse bent to accommodate the most challenging installations. Bent tracks can also be recessed to allow the curtains to appear as if they hang or float directly below the ceiling.”

Are motorised curtain tracks quiet?

While there are many options available for motorised or automated curtain tracks, each of which will differ in terms of operation, Silent Gliss curtain tracks are very quiet, Mike says. “The patented two-component technology (2C gliders and rollers) developed by Silent Gliss combined with specially coated tracks allows curtains to move quietly and smoothly. These gliders are made using two materials; a hard component that ensure stability and a soft filling that absorbs the noise. The end result is unprecedented smooth operation and near silence.”

How do automated curtains work?

Electric curtain tracks can be operated with a remote control that will allow the curtains to be easily drawn or opened. “Alternatively, they can be connected to a home automation system, or managed using our app - both of which allow for easy-to-use yet complex programming options, which can be managed remotely from anywhere in the world.”

Find out more about Artisan’s Silent Gliss curtain tracks here on ArchiPro.