Alternative to blinds on ground floor office?

[erwelty]

I am working with a community to increase their overall window transparency for pedestrian comfort. Many of the office tenants have fully drawn window blinds on street front spaces, making the space as attractive from a pedestrian standpoint as a brick wall. What are some alternative strategies that they can present to these tenants that will provide more transparency while still protecting privacy and preventing sun glare? We just want to be able to provide 'best practices' that they can suggest. An ordinance is not likely to succeed.

[ColoGI]

I am working with a community to increase their overall window transparency for pedestrian comfort. Many of the office tenants have fully drawn window blinds on street front spaces, making the space as attractive from a pedestrian standpoint as a brick wall. What are some alternative strategies that they can present to these tenants that will provide more transparency while still protecting privacy and preventing sun glare? We just want to be able to provide 'best practices' that they can suggest. An ordinance is not likely to succeed.

Maybe a real nice window decal advertising the local tattoo parlor or liquor store. I mean, windows are the next great space for advertisements, right?

[Hink]

Frosted windows. Allow a percentage of the window to be frosted, which allows privacy, but gives a much more open feel than a wall would.

[Cardinal]

The answer somewhat depaned on the building in question. Older, traditional commercial storefronts can use the space up front for reception functions without much need to have it screened from the street. Alternatively, the window bays can be used for displays related to the business, or perhaps to give additional display space to the BID/chamber/mainstreet program to promote the district. It is especially attractive if it can be done with a low wall, rathern than sealing off the entire window.

It is harder to work with modern buildings, which may have floor to ceiling windows and large open spaces. Again, something half-height is preferable to the entire window. Yes, vinyl decals may be an option - maybe a mural? Another option is landscaping/streetscaping on the outside of the building. If the interior can be easily rearranged, try putting walkways, common spaces, conference rooms, and similar uses along the windows. There is less need to screen these kinds of functions. As for shade, instead of blinds inside, encourage them to consider awnings or similar devices outside.

[Veloise]

Cafe curtains for the lower half of the windows, and hanging plants above. Probably not quantifiable in an ordinance; more of a photosim type of deal.

HTH