Battery-Powered Shades. The QMotion may look like a simple pull-down shade, but a motor and battery pack are concealed inside its roller tube. According to the maker, the roller's precision steel ball bearings are so effective at reducing friction, the unit can run for up to five years before the standard (D-size) alkaline batteries have to be replaced. The shade is made to order and comes in a wide range of colors and textures. Prices start at $450. HomeRun Holdings Corp., 877/849-6070, qmotionshades.com
