The outdoor shading market is rapidly growing, and in that space, relative newcomers to the custom integration channel Steve Brous and Sol-Lux look to capitalize on a relatively unintegrated corner of that market: awnings. As a residential division of Carefree of Colorado, Sol-Lux already holds roughly 50 years of experience manufacturing awnings for the residential sector, but it was at CEDIA Expo 2024 that the company made its formal intentions known: that the future of outdoor spaces lies in custom installation.
Working as the National Sales Program Manager, Brous’s background reflects a colorful set of interests as well as an ambitious and forward-thinking mindset. He began his career overseas supporting the U.S. military before shifting to work for the European Sales Manager at Bose Special Markets in Germany. He then transitioned into the home automation industry where he collaborated with home builders on the integration of smart home systems into thousand of new home. Brous has also pioneered one of the first high-speed indoor go-karting facilities in the U.S. and holds a strong passion for the outdoors and high-end audio.
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CE Pro sat down with Brous recently to discuss Sol-Lux’s entry into the custom integration channel, what the company has to offer for integrators, and how the company is structured to help support integrators looking to pioneer this new range of shading solutions for outdoor spaces. Below is an unedited version of the conversation had with Brous.
CE Pro: During the CEDIA Expo 2024 show, Sol-Lux made its smart home industry debut showcasing its Mirage and Freedom Smart Awnings. What prompted the company to enter the smart home industry?
Brous: Sol-Lux, a residential division of Carefree of Colorado, brings over 50 years of experience manufacturing high-quality awnings for the RV industry. Our entry into the smart home market was driven by the growing demand for premium outdoor shading solutions that integrate with connected home technologies. By combining our proven awning manufacturing expertise with Somfy motorization, we offer instant compatibility with virtually all major home automation platforms. Our retractable designs also provide a sleek, unobtrusive look—practically disappearing when not in use—while enhancing energy efficiency and comfort.
CE Pro: Could you briefly explain how the Mirage and Freedom Smart Awnings fit into the smart home industry and outdoor technology installations?
Brous: The Mirage and Freedom Patio Awnings are high-performance outdoor shading systems designed to integrate seamlessly with home automation platforms. As smart outdoor living becomes more popular, these awnings allow homeowners to extend the benefits of their connected homes to their exterior spaces. Controlled through systems powered by Somfy and Bond, our awnings enable automated sun and weather response, creating energy-efficient, comfortable outdoor environments that align with the rest of the home’s intelligent features.
CE Pro: Additionally, can you explain how the EOS product line complements modern smart homes?
Brous: The Sol-Lux EOS product line delivers a fully autonomous window shading experience tailored to today’s modern smart homes. EOS window awnings operate without the need for user input, using built-in sensors to measure sunlight and automatically adjust for optimal energy efficiency, UV protection, and comfort. Designed to preserve views while reducing heat and glare, EOS enhances the smart home experience by offering intuitive performance and sleek curb appeal—all without relying on traditional control systems.
CE Pro: Sol-Lux has been building out its manufacturer representative network to ensure proper dealer support. How has this process gone, and how does this network help provide dealer education?
Brous: Expanding our manufacturer representative network has been a critical part of Sol-Lux’s growth strategy. With three regions covered and more on the horizon, our reps play a vital role in educating and supporting dealers across the country. These representatives are deeply knowledgeable about both the technology and installation processes, serving as hands-on resources for training, product demonstrations, and field support. This infrastructure enables us to offer comprehensive, ongoing education and support—ensuring that dealers can confidently present, sell, and install Sol-Lux solutions.
CE Pro: Looking at Sol-Lux’s relationships with dealers, how can Sol-Lux help integrators effectively present and sell these products to homeowners?
Brous: As a relatively new category for many integrators, outdoor motorized shading requires targeted support to build dealer confidence and sales success. Sol-Lux offers a comprehensive training program that includes hands-on sales kits, detailed marketing collateral, and tailored sales strategies. We equip dealers with conversation starters and visual cues to help them identify potential customer needs on-site. By making it easy to demonstrate functionality and highlight the value of outdoor shading, we empower integrators to position Sol-Lux as a premium solution homeowners didn’t know they needed—but won’t want to live without.
CE Pro: How will homeowners benefit from the addition of Sol-Lux products to their homes?
Brous: Sol-Lux products—including our patio and window awnings and drop screens—enhance a home’s functionality, efficiency, and aesthetic appeal. Homeowners enjoy expanded and more usable outdoor living spaces, protection from harsh sun and UV rays, and seamless integration with their smart home systems. Our automated shading solutions improve comfort, reduce indoor heat gain, and contribute to energy savings. With sleek design and intuitive performance, Sol-Lux delivers both the practical benefits and a “wow” factor that elevates any smart home.
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