Many love Austin's big, open skies, but it is possible to have too much of a good thing, especially when energy costs rise as quickly as the temperature under a hot Texas sun. But while it's sizzling outside, everything is cool inside Chip and Dee Dee Thomson's home overlooking the Barton Creek golf course.

"Our home is completely glass on the western side, and overlooks Barton Creek Country Club almost entirely," says Chip Thomson. "You can actually see through our home when walking up to it, and during June, July and August we really take a beating from the sun. So, when we planned to remodel our home last year, it was important to us that we add blinds and shades to help filter the light and conserve energy."

The Thomsons were pleased to discover the variety of sun control products offered by Texas Sun and Shade. "What makes them great is how versatile they are. They don't present you with just one choice - they give you a ton of options, and then give you a ton more if those don't work," says Thomson. "Our home is very contemporary, and Texas Sun and Shade matched the design and colors of our home both inside and out. It's amazing."

Custom rolling shutters with foam-filled aluminum slats were installed on the exterior of the Thomson's master bedroom and bath windows which, when closed not only darken the room but also act as a sound barrier. Throughout the rest of the house, interior roll-up solar screens were installed to allow the Thomson's to maintain their view while effectively blocking the sun. A room darkening shade and exterior roll-up solar screen were used for the media room's large picture windows. A sun and wind sensor allows the Thomsons to set their shading system to automatically adjust according to the sun.

In addition, a motorized retractable patio awning with a drop valance was installed to provide cool shade over the patio area and part of the pool. The awning has a sun and wind sensor that allows the awning to automatically retract when it becomes too stormy and windy. "It's the most ‘James Bond' thing we have at our house," chuckles Thomson.

Texas Sun and Shade has been shading Austin for more than 20 years. Visit their showroom at 11813 Bee Caves Road, or call 512-402-0990. You may also visit their website at www.txsunandshade.com.