How to spec a recessed shade pocket

A recessed shade pocket only looks effortless when it is planned early. Specified at the right moment and coordinated with the right trades, it produces a clean trimless slot at the ceiling. Left until construction is underway, it becomes a retrofit. Here is how to spec it properly.

Decide during design, not during construction

The pocket is a recessed element built into the ceiling assembly, so it has to be accounted for before the ceiling is closed. The decision to conceal, and which enclosure to use, belongs in the design phase while the ceiling and window details are still on paper.

What drives the choice of enclosure:

• The shade or blind being concealed, and its motor.
• The opening width and any non-standard geometry such as skylights, bays, or stacked shades.
• The ceiling assembly and available depth.

For standard conditions, a standard enclosure works. For premium, design-driven work, a modular enclosure gives more flexibility. For non-standard geometry, a custom enclosure is made to order. See how to choose between M, S, and C Series.

Detail it in the drawing set

Pull the pocket into your construction documents. Request CAD and DWG files for the enclosure so the section detail is accurate, and call out:

• Pocket location, width, and depth.
• Required blocking and framing.
• The reveal or slot dimension at the finished ceiling.
• Coordination notes for the drywall and finish trades.

Request drawings and CAD through Downloads, organized by system.

Coordinate the rough-in

The single most important step is coordinating the rough-in at the framing phase. Confirm the pocket with the framer and general contractor before the ceiling is closed. The enclosure is set before drywall and finish, so the ceiling can be finished tight to it. The shade is installed later, after the finish is complete.

For the full sequence, see the installation and coordination guide.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Specifying it late. If the pocket is not coordinated before the ceiling closes, you lose the clean result.
• Skipping the section detail. Without an accurate detail, the reveal ends up inconsistent.
• Not confirming compatibility. Confirm the enclosure suits the specific shade, blind, or track. When in doubt, ask.

Specifying concealment on a project? Request a spec pack and we will send drawings and CAD for your condition.