Lights, Camera, Curtains: How New Hanover County Homeowners Are Upgrading to Hollywood-Grade Window Treatments for the Booming Film Scene
New Hanover County has transformed into a major film production hub, with a new television series filming in New Hanover County among several productions recently approved for North Carolina Film and Entertainment Grants, bringing jobs and millions of dollars in spending to the local economy. State officials announced that the first season of the television and streaming series “RJ Decker” has been approved for a grant award of up to $11.6 million. Filming is currently underway in New Hanover County. This surge in production activity has created an unexpected opportunity for local homeowners who are discovering that their properties could be the next filming location.
The Rise of “Wilmywood”
From “Firestarter” to “One Tree Hill,” hundreds of films and TV shows have filmed in and around Wilmington, North Carolina. Others include “Blue Velvet,” “Dawson’s Creek,” “Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood,” “A Walk to Remember,” “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles,” “Nights in Rodanthe,” “Muppets From Space,” “Domestic Disturbance” and “Eastbound and Down.” Around the early 2020s—after the COVID-19 lockdowns, repeal of HB2, and changes to state film incentives—filming in the area began to increase again, with 2021 being the industry’s biggest year to date, breaking the previous record set in 2012. 2021 was also the biggest year for the whole film industry at large in the state of North Carolina.
The recent production boom has created a unique situation where your house could be used in a production! However, this opportunity comes with specific requirements that many homeowners are unprepared for.
Why Film Productions Demand Professional-Grade Window Treatments
Film and television productions require precise control over lighting conditions, which makes professional window treatments essential. Productions need the ability to completely block natural light for interior scenes, control reflections that can interfere with camera equipment, and maintain consistent lighting throughout long shooting days.
Smart homeowners in New Hanover County are recognizing that investing in high-quality window treatments not only prepares their homes for potential film opportunities but also provides year-round benefits. These Hollywood-grade treatments offer superior light control, enhanced privacy, and improved energy efficiency that benefits homeowners whether cameras are rolling or not.
Essential Features of Film-Ready Window Treatments
Professional productions typically require window treatments with several key characteristics:
- Complete Blackout Capability: The ability to eliminate all natural light when needed for controlled filming conditions
- Motorized Operation: Remote-controlled systems that allow for quick, quiet adjustments without crew members entering the shot
- Layered Light Control: Multiple treatment options that can provide varying degrees of light filtering
- Sound Absorption: Materials that help reduce echo and outside noise interference
- Professional Appearance: Clean, sophisticated designs that won’t detract from the scene’s aesthetic
Local Expertise Makes the Difference
For New Hanover County homeowners looking to upgrade their window treatments to film-industry standards, working with local professionals who understand both the film industry’s demands and the coastal environment’s challenges is crucial. Located in Hampstead, we specialize in a wide range of window coverings. No matter how large or small, whether residential or commercial, we have the skills to get the job done right.
Coastal Window Fashions NC has established itself as a trusted partner for homeowners throughout the region. We are Coastal Window Fashions, a window treatment and décor company with 50 years’ experience in Pender. It is possible to find an amateur who will charge you less for installation and design services, but nothing will compare to the quality service we provide, which comes from our years of experience. Invest in your home or business by hiring a professional with more experience.
The company’s commitment to quality is evident in their approach: Coastal Window Treatments of Pender County is proud to offer the highest quality products at the best prices. With Coastal Window Fashions, we complete all projects on schedule and with no mistakes! This reliability is particularly important for homeowners who may need to accommodate production schedules on short notice.
Beyond Film Production: Year-Round Benefits
While the potential for film income provides an exciting incentive, the benefits of professional-grade window treatments extend far beyond production opportunities. At Coastal Window Fashions, we believe that custom window treatments should offer the perfect blend of functionality and style. Our products not only elevate your privacy and style but also contribute to the overall ambiance of your home.
Homeowners who invest in quality Window Treatments New Hanover County solutions discover improvements in energy efficiency, privacy control, and interior comfort that make their investment worthwhile regardless of film opportunities.
Additionally, custom drapes offer superior insulation, helping to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature while reducing energy costs. In New Hanover County’s humid subtropical climate, this energy efficiency can result in significant savings throughout the year.
The Investment That Pays Forward
As film production brings direct economic benefits and also raises the state’s visibility among audiences, leading to increased tourism and visitor spending over time. The holiday feature film “Merv,” which filmed in New Hanover County in 2024 and also received a state film grant, debuted Dec. 10 on Amazon Prime Video. The continued growth of the local film industry suggests that homeowners who prepare their properties now will be well-positioned for future opportunities.
The key to success lies in choosing window treatments that meet professional standards while enhancing daily living. With Coastal Window Fashions’ custom drapes and shades, you can control the mood and lighting in each room, creating comfortable and visually appealing spaces. Our design experts are here to guide you in selecting the ideal window treatments that complement your decor and lifestyle.
For New Hanover County homeowners, the decision to upgrade to Hollywood-grade window treatments represents more than just home improvement—it’s an investment in their property’s versatility, comfort, and potential income-generating capability. As the local film industry continues to flourish, those who prepare their homes today will be ready when opportunity comes knocking at their door.