Connecting to Collections Care

Hello all, 

Our historic house museum is looking to reduce the visible light levels coming in through our windows. We currently have UV-blocking panels on each window of the house, but would like to add additional, visible light-reducing fabric over them that would not be too intrusive aesthetically and whose hardward would fit in the very narrow (3/4"-wide) space between the interior shutters and the window. We are considering sheer curtains on narrow tension rods, but wondering if anyone out there knows of more creative solutions. Also, any general recommendations on specialty fabrics for this purpose would be appreciated!

Thank you, 

Alyssa 

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Alyssa Morein
Collections Manager
Nichols House Museum
Boston
United States
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Hi Alyssa, 

Thanks for reaching out to C2C Care! I think that the solution you proposed would work, especially if you are not looking to do a full window overhaul. Other institutions that I've worked in have added a sheet of plexiglas with reduced visible light transmittance to cut back on light in their spaces. The sheets could be cut to measure and then installed as a secondary glazing. However, the plexiglas is tinted, so it will change the overall appearance of your spaces. Here is a list of the different tones and their light transmittance if that is of interest to you: Plexiglas sample kit from ePlastics

I hope that helps!

Best,

Liz

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Elizabeth Peirce
C2C Care Monitor 2/3-2/16/2025
Conservator (Objects)
Library of Congress
Washington DC
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