Hello Chipmonk. My final decision was to forgo the blind option altogether. We didn't need them for privacy, just for sun and heat protection. I thought I'd end up selecting a window treatment covering to minimize the sun and heat after the installation, but I haven't needed one. With my builders assistance, we chose Harvey Building Products door and window for our kitchen and decided upon the Tribute line...double pane sliding patio door (they don't put interior blinds in their doors), and double pane sliding window over the sink (so effortless to slide). We noticed a difference immediately with the double glazed, low E argon, easy sun clean glass. The amount of sun and heat that gets through is mimimal compared to our original glass. We have been through the heat of the summer and surprisingly we never missed having blinds. This glass has been wonderful for blocking out a considerable amount of noise, the suns rays, and heat...far exceding my expectations. Upon closing the slider the heat is sealed off and you can visibly see the reduction of the suns rays. We coundn't be more pleased with our selection. I enjoy having the wide open windows for unobstructed light and view. Wishing you well with your project and good luck with your final selections.

I got sliding panels and shutters. I can still open the shutters if I recline the seats as shown andI I have no reason to open the shutters other than for occasional cleaning. The windows are rarely ever opened I like the way they look, but the verticals are a bit too sheer at night. There is not enough privacy. I went outside after dark and I could see inside more I would like with the panels closed. The same panels were installed on a bedroom slider so privacy is extra important there. . I'm looking for a solution. I'm going to talk to the installer on Monday to see if they have any ideas other than replacing the panels with "black out" panels. Maybe there is a way to put a separate roll down shade behind it that will add night privacy and still allow light filtering in the daytime?

Thanks for the reply, Suezbell! Ok, I'll post a picture when I can. Style is casual, no frills, fairly contemporary. Since the doors are west-facing, we're not getting direct sunlight in the mornings through early afternoon, but it's still quite bright in the reflected Southern California sunshine. I'm not sure if an awning would block enough of that, though retractable awnings is something we've considered for a future project, when our budget recovers. Honestly, I personally would be able to sleep with just a little improvement in the light blocking in the morning, but my husband wants to be able to make it DARK in the middle of the day so he can nap, which is why I'd like to find a true blackout solution. I'm seeing some nice panel track blinds which perhaps could work... I do like the flat appearance of the panels. Nice contemporary look that is a change from standard verticals. Not sure if that will clutter up the look of things though, with too many unmatched elements.

In general, 10 feet wide roller shades are not a problem at all - specially motorized. The question is whether a roller shade (that operates bottom up) is the best way for a sliding door (opens side ways). Though you said that you might not use it very often, a panel blinds system that operates the same direction as the door might be the better choice. Best of Luck on your project! www.PleatedBlindsStore.com