Core values
The guiding principles that help us determine if we are correctly setting and reaching goals with respect to our products, staff, customers and suppliers.
Core values →Company
Independently owned since 1905.
Illinois Window Shade Company designs and manufactures custom solar control solutions including PowerMove® motorized shade systems, SmoothMove® manual shade systems and SmartMove® controls. Our factory is located in Elmhurst, IL by Chicago O'Hare International Airport.
121
Years manufacturing
54+
Projects delivered
50
States covered
Nationwide dealer network
Fig. 01Mission
Our mission
To provide custom solutions for solar control challenges through a simple, efficient customer service process.
What that means in practice
- A quote back to you within 24 hours.
- A standard lead time of 10–15 business days after receipt of order.
- Every shade posted on a test rack before it ships.
- A limited lifetime warranty behind all of it.
Fig. 02History
121 years, three addresses, one business.
1905
Illinois Window Shade Company first opened its doors in January of 1905 on the south side of Chicago.
1946
IWS moved to the north side, setting up shop in the Chicago neighborhood of Edgewater, from which it serviced all of the new construction going up along Lake Shore Drive.
1974
J&J purchased the business from Philip Weinstein, beginning the ownership line that runs to today.
2010
Full CNC fabric cutting was introduced, taking the factory from hand-measured cuts to machine-repeatable ones.
2015
WPL bought the business.
2021
IWS moved to Elmhurst, Illinois to expand its manufacturing footprint and better support its nation-wide dealer program.
—
A formal safety program was put in place across the factory floor.
—
A QC/QA program was instituted, adding documented inspection to every stage of production.
Fig. 03The owner
Born into the business.
Bill Lichtfuss on custom work, on relationships, and on why a $50 panel shade gets the same attention as a $10,000 one.
Manufacturing methods
Proven manufacturing processes that ensure we produce top-quality products with on-time delivery — including shades up to 300" wide and 600" high.
Manufacturing methods →Come see the factory.
Our showroom in Elmhurst is available by appointment. Call 773-743-6025 or send us a note.