Hilton Head Island has long had guidelines for lighting inside homes that have windows facing the beach. These guidelines, from May to October, state that the windows should not have light shining out toward the beach from 10 pm – 6 am. There are proposed changes to the current ordinances which date from1990, which will include no light shining out from first and second story windows, and any outdoor porch and swimming pool lights need to be changed to red, orange, or amber. All windows and doors facing the beach will need to have tinting or window treatments allowing only 20% of the light to be transmitted toward the beach.

When sea turtle nests hatch , the emerging baby turtles go toward the light. In nature, that light is the moon shining on the ocean. When artificial light from homes nearby shines on the beach the baby turtles will go toward these lights (in the wrong direction) and often die from dehydration or exhaustion, or drown in pools, get hit by cars or taken by predators. When choosing window treatments that conform to the guidelines set by the town there are a number of choices that can work. Roller Shades are a great choice and they “disappear” really well. By rolling up into a cassette, especially if you coordinate color to your window trim they are very unobtrusive. Honeycomb shades are also a great option. They not only have a small profile when open, they also have great insulating properties so you can save on utilities, and conform to the new rules as well.

Draperies, with blackout lining, that draw back off the window when open are a beautiful alternative that also add a softening decorative feature to a room. They can be as subtle as the wall color or make a great decorative impact with the pattern and color. There are many ways you can add beauty and function to your home with a variety of window coverings while meeting the guidelines to protect the sea turtles and still preserve your amazing view!

As window treatment professionals we look forward to helping you find the best product for your home environment as well as protecting the sea turtles.

Submitted by Jennifer Kirkland, ASID Graduate Parson’s School of Design Owner of Carolina Window Designs