Windows 7 - Dedicated area for Gadgets? I.e. maximize window and still see gadget?

Is there a way to make it so that hitting "maximize" on a window will not cover-up the gadgets? I know that you can have Gadgets always display on-top; however, I want to be able to have a dedicated area on the desktop where the gadgets will be located even if a window is maximized.


Here is an example of what I am thinking, the only difference is that this window would be maximized instead of manually resizing it to allow for space for the gadgets.




I understand that with the nature of Gadgets in Windows 7 there is no dedicated "sidebar" space like there was in Vista; however, I am fine with dedicating a specific space for this "zone" while ignoring other Gadgets that may be all over the place.

I am a software engineer and am proficient in .net etc, so if the only solution is programatic; that is fine, I am willing to work on it. However, I want to know if this is the only way and if anyone has any suggestions on how to go about doing this (even from a high-level.)

Thank you very much in advance for your help! I am excited if there is a way to make this work!.

MikeY

Sorry if i am wrong, but what about to replace sidebar in WIndows 7 with one from Windows Vista?
It will work in WIndows 7 and you will get desired dedicated area.

Vista Windows Sidebar - Reinstate on Windows 7

7 Sidebar Gadget - Vista-Sidebar for Windows 7
I have read about Stardock or Rocketdock which may fill your needs too.

myurkus,

Welcome to SevenForums.

Another approach:

Live with it, but use WIN + Spacebar key combo to see desktop until you release the WIN key. This is the approach I use.

WIN is the key with the Microsoft flag on top..

You could set up Winsplit Revolution and disable the standard Aero Snap feature. I use WIN+[numpad] to set up upper and lower left and right and a few sizes of left, center, and right. You could set it so that there is no "maximize", only left 15%-100%, which would leave the same space. You'd still have to avoid the "maximize" button, but it's a workaround.