WFV July/August 2012

WF-VISION.COM

7/8 12 A VIEW OF WINDOW FASHION. DETAILS, MATERIALS & INSPIRED DESIGN.

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PVC

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Renaissance makes sustainability an integral part of interior design and offers consumers a unique way of covering windows with a unique and appealing, regenerated product made of 100% recycled cotton.

Why recycled cotton? Cotton is the world’s most resource-demanding fiber. Cotton, also, is a demanding cultivation and relies heavily on fertilizers and agro -chemicals. 25% of the world’s insecticides, for example, go to cotton farming.

Where does the cotton for our Renaissance fabric come from? The yarn we use in Renaissance, comes totally from the clothing industry where 20 to 40% of fabrics used in the confection end as scraps on the cutting room floor. Those scraps, after being recycled, washed and spun, become the yarn used to weave Renaissance.

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TREND?

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6/7.12 VOLUME 33 / NO. 4

A detail from the Pleat collection by Debra Folz, as seen during New York Design Week. This style, called Lynette, is one of several different hand-pleated ‘slipcovers’ for a stool. For more of Folz’s designs see the New York Design Week report starting on page 18. Photography

by Molly Akin.

THIS ISSUE / INGENUITY WORKROOM COMPETITION WINNERS THIS ISSUE 14 The Millennial Connection

by Deb Barrett A look at who we need to target for the future of our industry.

18 A New Wave of Nostalgia Craft-influenced looks set the trends during New York Design Week 2012.

24 Collaboration and

Contradiction

The urge for flexible, residential-style workplace enviroments, balanced with the need for privacy, defines many of the new designs seen at NeoCon 2012.

On the cover:

A detail from Tina Fontana’s winning entry in the 2012 Ingenuity Workroom competition. For the description of her project go to page 42.

Photographer: Pete Albert Photography.

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EVERY ISSUE 28

Jewelry at the Window New trim introductions and details from the 2012 Ingenuity Workroom competition.

32 Welcome to the Big Top

Highlights from the 2012

Creative Camp.

34

What Makes a Workroom Work Workroom pros weigh in on what they love and hate about their own workrooms.

38 2012 Ingenuity Workroom

Competition Details and insights from the custom window treatment professionals who make these stunning designs happen.

54 2012 Envision Design

Competition More winnng designs to wrap up our 2012 competition coverage.

6

Viewpoint: What We’re Loving Now Comments from contributors

8

Viewpoint: Our View President/CEO Grace McNamara

10

Viewpoint: InfoBar Renovation and remodeling stats from a recent Houzz.com survey.

12 Viewpoint: WFCP

Control the Clutter A review of the new Paperless Office coaching program.

14 Viewpoint:

I’m Officially Obsessed With

Carol Collins on precision.

62 Product Showcase 64 What’s Next

WF-VISION.COM WHAT WE’RE LOVING NOW …

Tina (Exterior Approach) I love using outdoor fabrics inside on upholstery and draperies. The fabrics are incredibly durable and the range of patterns and textures is fantastic—outdoor fabrics have come a long way since I started in the industry! I recently selected a cream chenille outdoor fabric for two upholstered sofas, it looked stunning and soft to the touch.

Marena (Slowing Down) I so enjoy creating draperies, bedding, pillows and other types of fabrication that wow my clients.I love, love, love custom so I’ve slowed down a bit in my workroom in order to spend time focusing on the details which is a more fulfulling, creative process. The interesting thing is, my clients are thrilled and don't mind paying for the extra effort!

Colleen (Tough Love) I love the hard project. In my business the trick is to come up with something that is unusual and gorgeous. Whether this means details on a project like pattern pleating, or embelishments through banding,

WINDOW FASHION VISION MAGAZINE President & CEO • Grace McNamara • grace@wf-vision.com Vice President/Circulation Director • Peggy Yung • peggy@wf-vision.com Editorial Director • Susan Schultz • susan@wf-vision.com Managing Editor • Nichole Day Diggins • daydiggins@charter.net WFCP Director & Trend Specialist • Deb Barrett • deb@wf-vision.com Office Manager • Rhianna Huizenga • rhianna@wf-vision.com Business Manager • Gabriela De Rocher • gaby@wf-vision.com SALES Advertising & Trade Show Director • Shannon Leclair • shannonl@wf-vision.com Publisher’s Representative • Kerri Caldwell • kcaldwell@kasnicmedia.com IN THIS ISSUE Contributing Writers: Deb Barrett, Carol Collins Contributing Designers: Anna Davis, David Draves, Yelana Draves, Tina Fontana, Nancy Hogan, Nanci Iiams, Marena James, JDebbie Knox, Karen Lee, Colleen B. Petersen, Olga Polyanskaya, Nancy A. Sibrava, Gillian Wendel, Katherine Wolfe, Katherine E. Wozniak Special thanks to: Therese Davis, Vivian C. Dibrell, Susan Kostelecky, Jeanne McDermott, Emily Petitt, Judy Soccio, Kathy Wakeman 2012 EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD Donna Elle, Donna Elle Seaside Living John Fitzgerald, Comfortex Neil Gordon, Decorating with Fabric Joyce Holt Susette Kubiak, Drapery Connection Rory McNeil, TechStyles Window Covering Products Inc. Tom Perkowitz, B&W Window Fashions Inc. Jane Shea, Blinds Unlimited CIRCULATION NCS Fulfillment Services • 877/344-7406 • WindowFashionVision@magcs.com

tassels or upholstery tacks, I love adding the details that make it look custom, not readymade. With the push towards modern and transitional design, I love projects that feel new and still have great detail. I am inspired by graphics, bright colors and bold textures.

Olga (Home Town Heros) The fires that have devastated the state of Colorado have renewed my love for my adopted home town

We’re on Facebook twice! facebook.com/wfvisionmagazine and facebook.com/vision.iwce

Window Fashion Vision magazine makes every attempt to credit each person involved in the process of creating a window covering and will not be responsible for crediting any person whose name, company or participation did not surface during the informationgathering process. Crediting disputes between parties other than Vision magazine are solved at the discretion of those involved.

Keep up with all the VISION12: IWCE Chicago tweets at twitter.com/#!/VISION12IWC

Window Fashion Vision® (ISSN 0999-7777; USPS 708930) is published six times a year,

by AIM Communications LLC, 4756 Banning Ave., Suite # 206, White Bear Lake, MN 55110; NEW NUMBERS: Tel 651/330-0574; Fax 651/756-8141. Visit our website at www.wf-vision. com. Periodicals class postage paid at St. Paul, MN and additional offices. Postmaster: send address changes and subscription correspondence with mailing label to Window Fashion Vision, 4756 Banning Ave., Suite # 206, White Bear Lake, MN 55110. Allow 60 days for address change. Subscription rates: $22/yr. U.S. and possessions; $29/yr. Canada; $90/ yr. Foreign (includes airmail postage). Single copies/back issues $6 each, except for special issues, which are individually priced. (Payment must accompany order.) Copyright ©2010

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of Colorado Springs. I always took inspiration for my work from the beauty around me, but sadly, it took a fire to realize just how much this city and people who live here mean to me.

Some of my friends and clients were displaced and unfortunately some lost their homes. However, the outpouring of support for those that have lost everything is incredible. It’s encouraged me to come up with ideas so that my own business can aid in the recovery.

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VIEWPOINT

Sizzling Hot Summer Cool ideas for your business

don’t know about you but I’ve been spending more time indoors this summer than ever, which is disappointing since I live in Minnesota. We have six months of winter that keeps us indoors so we want to be outside every minute that the weather permits. During these 90+ degree days with 85% humidity, the only relief is air conditioning, or a raft on a lake or pool. Fortunately, living in the land of 10,000 lakes (there are actually over 15,000), we do have access to water but it isn’t the most practical thing to do on a regular basis.

So, like everyone else, I’ve been spending more time at home and actually focusing on my interior. I decided to paint most rooms, upholster a couch and order some beautiful new draperies. Blinds and shades are lowered during the day which makes a huge difference in the temperature of the house. I wouldn’t be surprised if your customers are doing the same—looking at the four walls that they’re spending more time in than they want to and thinking of how to make their home cooler and more attractive. Time to take ad-

8

| VISION

vantage of the heat to do some marketing to your customers to see if you can help them stay cool.

We’ve got some great summer reading for you in this issue. First, a review of a great new business class offered

by WFCP online: Paperless Coaching with Sandy Cruz. This incredible class taught even me how to be more efficient without paper! We’ll be offering it again this fall and it is an amazing business and organizational skill—I highly recommend it. Our New York Design Week and Neocon show reviews bring you highlights from two of the more important design events in the U.S. Some of my favorite pieces of the year in VISION magazine are the wonderful ideas and inspiration we get from the winners of the Envision Design and Ingenuity Workroom Competitions. I hope you enjoyed the great designs in the last issue; we're bringing you even more starting on page 38. While you’re relaxing on vacation, seriously consider entering the competitions in 2013. There is nothing like the excite-

ment and thrill of the Design Competition Awards, which by the way, will be help at IWCE: VISION '13 on April 19, 2013 in New Orleans. that should be an even greater inspiration to get you going. Don’t wait until the last minute— enter early!

Enjoy the summer, stay cool and hopefully I’ll get to see some of you at our fall regional educational programs in New Jersey on October 9 and 10, and in Dallas on October 23 and 24. You’ll see some of the best programs we offer LIVE and have a chance to see some great new products shown by our exhibitors. For more information, visit us online at wf-vision.com/education.

Have a great summer! V

Grace McNamara President and CEO

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V

ONLINE PARTNERS

InfoBar

Houzz & Home Survey Overview

WWW.WF-VISION.COM

www.astraproductsltd.com

A recent survey conducted among users of the Houzz app and website, an online platform for home design and remodeling with more than four million unique users each month, revealed some interesting information regarding home design projects under consideration in the next two years.

U.S. Houzz Users

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89%

78%

homeowners

27%

married

first-time homeowners

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$450k

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average home value

$124k average income

Project Plans For the Next Two Years

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72%

plan to decorate or redecorate

40%

plan to remodel or build an addition

10%

plan to have a custom home built

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10

| VISION

Top Five U.S. Cities for Custom Home Builds

21% 18% 18% 14% 13%

Jackson Houston Little Rock Dallas Austin

Palnned Spending in the Next Two Years

$28.6K

on kitchen remodel

New website designed with the

Pro CustomeR iN miNd.

$12.7K

on bathroom remodel or addition

$9K

on living/family room addition or alternations

$7.6K

patio/landscape additions or replacements

In our annual survey, you asked for an enhanced website, and we’ve answered.

We’ve upgraded our website to make searching and ordering easier. We’ve brought back the quick order form. You can shop by category or easily search by item name or number. Videos and instructions are linked right on the product page.

And the biggest change of all — we’re securing access to pricing and shopping for Professional customers only. Our wholesale pricing is restricted with access exclusively for our trade customers.

Visit RowleyCompany.com today to experience our new and improved website.

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WF-VISION.COM | JULY/AUG 12 | 11

VIEWPOINT

WFCP launches paperless office coaching program

Control the tacks of files and folders on the floor; piles of paper, no desk top to be found in sight—sound familiar? Most of us can relate to mounds of paper that working in this industry generates., but there is hope. With the emergence of mobile technology and the explosion of an ‘app for anything’, design professionals are starting to venture into the paperless world. We had a sneak peek into it last fall when the WFCP series of iPad training webinars set attendee records. And given the response to the seminars at VISION’12 in Chicago on topics such as building out your iPad for business, marketing on social media platforms and other new technology topics, we knew you were eager to know how to fit these new developments into your window coverings business model.

With the help of our resident digital diva, Sandy Cruz, helped the WFCP team develop the Create Your Own Paperless Office coaching program. We’ve always known that the WFCP community are early adopters—but the response to this new training series was overwhelming. Fortunately Cruz is the perfect choice for an instructor and kept everyone in the program focused and encouraged about their progress. Her own to-thetrade workroom, Everything Custom in Nashville, TN, has been paperless for two years, and she often consults with other designers and workrooms in all matters digital. In the beginning of her path toward paperless, she spent hours and hours trying out different apps and options. Her combined undersanding of both technology and how our industry works was invaluable in navigating our group through this process.

The inaugural participants are now four months into making their businesses paperless and we thought we’d check in andsee how they are doing.

Jeanine Lynn of Jeanine’s Draperies and Interiors, Nashville, TN, and Debbie Di Francesco of Creative Hands, Rochester, NY, were thinking about streamlining their design and sales, but weren’t sure where to start. Lynn was growing tired of the tons of paperwork piling up, especially since her focus had moved to commercial work which required an even more extensive paper trail. Di Francesco is a workroom and Hunter Douglas Gallery dealer who was also looking for options to integrate with the HD ICM system.

12

| VISION

“One thing that you don’t realize coming into this is that there is a certain amount of backend work—scanning, creating folders, organizing photos and syncing files,” said Lynn. Her advice is to continue to do what you do best and make the investment in hiring help for the part of the paperless transition. She hired a part time assistant with knowledge of computer filing systems, while Di Francesco decided to do it herself because she wanted to feel fully comfortable in the system in order to train her employees.

Both agree that you have to consciously focus on breaking old habits and train yourself to use your digital tools. They admit to sometimes catching themselves reaching for a Post-it™ note instead of their desktop’s sticky note. “There is definitely a steep learning curve,” said Di Francesco, “but the more you use the systems and tools, the more comfortable you become.”

Four months in and Lynn has become an evangelist for going paperless, telling her designers and peers how it has changed her business and freed up her time. “Clients are amazed when they see you walk in to a job with only a measuring tape and an iPad,” shd said. “I once heard someone say that to look like a professional in this business, you have to have the right tools.

That quote has stuck with me and I now know how true it is.”

“It has removed stress in so many little ways,” said Di Francesco, “from wasting time trying to find a scrap of paper; to revisits because you left something at the office. Not to mention the time it has freed up which allows me to pursue other things both professionally and personally.”As part of her transition to paperless, Di Francesco cleaned out over 3000 emails from her system and now has a complete clean desk surface and PC desktop.

“Going paperless has definitely enhanced my professional reputation,” said Lynn. “I can’t imagine working any other way.”

If you’re interested in learning how mobile devices and tablets can streamline your business, go to wf-vision.com/Paperless Office. The fall session, with Cruz back as the instructor, starts September 27, 2012. Watch your inbox for our free chat coming in August detailing more about how to go paperless. Sign up now and we’ll send you a year’s worth of digital day planner sheets for your iPad in a design of your choice. V

Before you go paperless

Favorite Apps

The three must haves are: • WiFi-enabled iPad or tablet with 4G+ WiFi. It’s an imposition to ask your clients for their password and hot spots and toggling to a phone are unreliable or too slow. If you’re going to make this transition, you need to have the right equipment to start with.

Our app list grows every day, but here are few that are always at our fingertips.

• A good scanner that allows you to scan to PDF format and import/export across multiple devices. Lynn invested in a portable scanner that allows her to scan paint, tile and fabrics while at the client’s location or at showrooms.

Note Taker HD Stickies Evernote Quick Office Azul Hours Tracker Square Pocket Informant HD

• A good stylus if you draw and sketch and/or a Bluetooth keyboard for typing.

During the course of the program you’ll learn how to integrate all these and at least 50 more into your business.

Di Francesco also suggests Free One Hand, an accessory that works as a holder, stand and easel, claiming it’s perfect for balancing tape measure, tablet and stylus.

WF-VISION.COM | JULY/AUG 12 | 13

VIEWPOINT

Carol Collins on precision

I’m Officially Obsessed With When it comes to draperies, I guess you would have to label me a perfectionist. At the beginning of my design career, I not only designed the draperies, but I also fabricated and installed them.

This experience taught me that being precise about the types of fabrics I use and about every little detail of the fabrication ultimately affects the presentation of the final masterpiece. My objective with each job is to deliver the quality that I would expect if I were the client. ¶ I am motivated by these two little words: precision and perfection. I wouldn’t have it any other way—just ask my workroom.V

The combination of coordinating silks and beaded trim with the swag treatment style of this treatment are the perfect frame for the pastoral view from this master bedroom. Chosen for their earthy look, the copper and amethyst colors help carry the eye through to the view outside. The beaded fringe trim add sparkle to the room when the sunlight streams through the windows.

14

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Serving Hotels Worldwide From Las Vegas to Bangkok to New York, BTX motorization systems have been installed in luxury hotels the world over. Some of the most notable properties include: Al Faisaliah Hotel Riyadh, Saudi Arabia The Peninsula Bangkok Bangkok, Thailand Both bedroom and bath of this master suite features slightly arched windows. To keep the integrity of this architectural feature Collins followed the precise curve of the windows with oil-rubbed bronze finish hardware that perfectly matches the claw feet and faucet of the tub. The beaded silk fabric for the arched Roman shade, flanked by panels of embroidered linen, were selected for their Old World charm

CLOSER LOOK Carol Collins, WFCP Expert Carolscustomdraperies.hdwfg.com Blog: carolscustomdraperies.blogspot.com Facebook: carol’s custom draperies & interiors

St. Regis Hotel Bal Harbour, FL Trump International New York, NY Contact one of our customer service experts today to learn how BTX can add value to your next luxury project!

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Pinterest: pinterest.com/carol_tcollins Twitter: twitter.com/carolsdraperies

WF-VISION.COM | JULY/AUG 12 | 15

VIEWPOINT

Understanding our future customers

The Millennial

by Deb Barrett ne of the seminars I presented last April at IWCE in Chicago was an in-depth look at the custom window treatment market—who we are as window treatment providers, who our customers are and what they're buying. Those who attended that seminar were bombarded with facts and figures, but the one thing that really seemed to stick was that we’re ooold.

What I mean is that as pracitioners, the vast majority of us (74.8%) are over 50 years old. And, considering that the majority of our clients are also aging, (73.4% fall in the 35-54 age range) it’s clear that any of us want to be in business even a decade from now, we need to start addressing the needs and desires of a new generation of clients.

For a long time our businesses, and many others in the U.S., have depended on the purchasing habits of the Baby Boomers, those of us born between 1946-1964. As the older boomers have begun to age into retirement, Gen X took their place as prime consumers, but, critically, not as custom window treatment clients.This is an entire demongraphic group, 39.9 million of them in 2010, aged 35-44, that we lost to ready made tab top panels and similar no-commitment-necessary options.

Now is the time to capture the next group of consumers, called the Millennials (or Gen Y), a group born after 1980 and, as of 2010, there are 41.1 million of them, aged 25-34 just ready to come into their prime earning years.

What Does The New Consumer Want It doesn’t matter much what age group your current clientele fall in, you’ve surely noticed something different about your projects in the past 5-7 years vs. those completed prior to that.

In general consumers are more demanding and better informed than ever.

What that means for our business is both positive and negative. On the negative side, it means price shopping, and, because of the paradox of choice, the inability to commit. Who among us hasn’t had a client that wants to see another option, or variation on the design? You’re always one step away from closing the deal…but there’s just one last thing she wants you 16

| VISION

to address. You’ve already invested this much time, you think, what’s one more small revision, or speccing a different fabric?

And every time you think you’re providing excellent customer service, you’re really just providing her with one more reason not to make a decision.

Consumers have a lot of general information at their fingertips due to the Internet, but because custom window treatments are such an infrequent and complex product to purchase, they don’t have the specifics necessary to make an informed decision. This is where the positive side of the equation comes in.

As the professional it is our role to minimize information overwhelm, direct our clients the best possible choices—for their budgets, their needs and their taste—and clarify the long-term value of custom window treatments.

Another piece of good news: Millennials are the driving force behind the “live global, shop local” movement. According to a recent study by the Pew Research Center, 37% of Millennials distrust big business and 40% prefer buying local, even when good or services were more expensive than mass market alternatives.

A recent article in Forbes described how Millennials look for “sensory, sharable shopping experiences” and seek out “niche retailers that are able to create unique buying environments.”

Those niche businesses need to be us—the indepedent custom window treatment creators.

What Are The New Consumers Expectations According to a Nielson survey conducted earlier this year, and as shown in the InfoBar in May/June issue, there will be more first time homeowners in 2013-2018 than ever before. For an industry largely dependent on home purchases and renovations this is amazing news. However, unless we find a way to connect with these new consumers and clearly convey the many benefits—both product-based and the design intangibles—of custom window treatments, this new market will slip through our fingers much as Gen X did.

Consider all the marketing positives already mentioned—they prefer to shop local, they prefer small businesses, they want

»Custom Fabric Treatments

enjoyable, engaging purchasing experiences. What else? If you follow marketing news, you’ll recognize that another aspect of Millennials is that they crave authenticity and uniqueNote: WE WANT THE ness, they want customizationFRAME and value personal expression.

IN THE AD. We can do all of that for them—but we need to get custom The live area is 3.6” x 9.75”.

Crop/trim marks are an window treatments on their radar.

»Natural Woven Shades »Custom Roll Shades »Solar Shades »C.O.M.

additional 0.125” from the sides of the live area.

Where Millennials Look for Information We’re learning to deal with clients who now THE often co-creTHIS AD TO are gO INTO MARCH-ApRIL INDuSTRy ators with us, now we need to learn to reach a clientele that SHOW ISSuE: VIVA LAS of strangthinks email is too slow and that the group opinion VEgAS MAgAzINE. ers is more relevant than any expensive or beautiful marketing piece you can develop. It’s a big shift for an industry where many of us still have only the most minimal of websites. But social media and peer-to-peer reviews are rapidly growing aspects of marketing.

custom window treatments there is no substitute for 40 years experience

A recent Global Trust in Advertising report from Nielsen showed that 92% of respondents say they trust recommendations from friends and family, via social networking comments, above all other forms of marketing. And perhaps more significant, this is an 18% increase since the previous report in 2007.

Online consumer reviews, such as the comments on TripAdvisor.com, Yelp.com and others are the second most trusted form of information regarding a business.

As new forms of social networking explode on the scene (Pinterest anyone?) look for how they can be used in your marketing efforts. A recent Pricegrabber.com survey found that 21% of Pinterest users purchased a product after seeing it on the content sharing site, and 30% of those purchases were home decor items.

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According to Packaged Facts, an organization that tracks conumer demongraphic patterns for the financial services catgeory, 43% of Millennials between ages 25-29 believe they will be better off financially in the next 12 months. That’s more than twice the rate of Baby Boomers and Gen Xer's in the 45+ age bracket. And of those Millennials age 22-29 with a college degree, the positive financial outlook goes up to 50% expecting an improved financial situation.

So while it may seem like these consumers may not have the finances now to purchase custom window treatments, that will change. As an industry and in our own individual businesses we need to start cultivating a relationship with these potential clients now … because none of us are getting any younger! V For those interested in the full report, containing proprietary research into the custom window treatment market conducted

by Barrett, combined with additional demographic information such as the examples in this article, email deb@debbarrett.com.

Barrett will also be speaking on this topic at the WFCP live event, October 9, 2012 in Secaucus, NJ. For more information go to wf-vision.com/regionals. crop/trim marks

EST. 1973

Castec Sales Company 7531 Coldwater Canyon Ave., North Hollywood, CA 91605 Tel: 800 828 2500 Fax: 818 503 8360 Email: sales@castec.com www.castec.com © 2011 Fabritec, LLC. All rights reserved.

WF-VISION.COM | JULY/AUG 12 | 17

SHOW REVIEW

ICFF and New York Design Week

A New Wave of hen the International Contemporary Furnishings Fair (ICFF) first debuted 23 years ago, it was in direct response to the lack of any consolidated event that focused on current residential design developments. There was NeoCon for contract furnishings, and High Point, which had some contemporary showrooms scattered among the hundreds of traditionalists, but to really get an overview for what was new, it meant a trip to Italy. And to see what was new from American companies? That was nearly impossible.

Like any long-running event, ICFF has had good years and bad years. For a while the show seemed overwhelmed by European companies, but in time domestic brands became predominate. Then came the modernist revival—sleek and slick gave way to retro-cool as almost every stand showed variations on the classics from the ’50s, ’60s and eventually even the ’70s. Over the past three years the stranglehold of modernism seems to have faded and in its place, at ICFF

and at the many off-site events that now make up New York Design Week, a new wave of nostalgia seems poised to take over. Craft, with an emphasis on pre-industrial and early industrial forms and techniques, was a theme evident in many of the designs seen across the city. This was not limited to just furniture designs—many lighting, textile and wallpaper introductions reference the themes of authenticty, hand-worked and artisinal.

This included several companies who built products on site, including carving pieces of furniture, assembling lighting, sewing, 3D rendering from concept drawings and more.

There is a merging of craft and technology that helps make sense of a digitally printed quilt, or a knitted slipcover for a classic Eames chair. While there was an emphasis on craftsmanship, this sense of nostalgia does not mean contemporary tools are neglected. Computers, digital printers, 3D printers and much more are put into service to help bring crafted works into the 21st century, and make them affordable for a wider range of potential consumers.

TRENDS ON THE FLOOR: LEFT: The Hellman Chang stand at ICFF was one of several at ICFF that incorporated the actual production and assembly of its products into its presentation.

ABOVE: The Scamp table from Blu Dot comes in three sizes, three finishes and with either a marble or smoked glass top. It manages to exemplify three trends seen at New York design week in one piece—the wire frame, the fact that one of the color choices is copper, and the marble top.

Marble turned out to be the surprise material of choice for many new introductions.

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In addition to ‘craft’ there were several other strong trends to be seen: Wall to Wall Wallpaper The growth of wallpaper as a design element has been several years in the making, but this May it seemed like everywhere you turned at the Javits center (where ICFF is held) was wallpaper. The off-site events too had plenty of wallpaper reprentation resulting in an amazing range of styles and looks.

Wire is the New Wood Plywood and wood veneers were a strong part of the neomodernist movement, but at this year's event, wire and tubes were the look of the moment. Could this be the need to see something lighter and airier than all that wood? Could it be the fact that rendering software is so second nature to many designers that wire frame looks seem the most natural? Is it that you get shape and volume without the weight? Whatever issues are behind the growth of this trend, it will be interesting to see how long it lasts.

TRENDS ON THE FLOOR: ABOVE: Lindsey Adleman and her team assembled custom lighting orders on the show floor.

TOP: The Confetti collection of lighting by Avram Rusu Studio in almost limitless in its variations. Clients can specify brass or stainless steel, a wide range of cystal or other semi-precious stone embellshments, the addition of hand-blown glass discs and many other options.

RIGHT: The Kelly chandelier from Gabriel Scott in available in brass or ‘blackened gold’ It’s made from hundreds of chains in different weights and designs linked into flat panels. The crates below the chandelier showed aspects of the design and assembly process.

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Color all Around While ICFF has never been a sea of neutrals, there were frequently certain color themes that could be spotted—the yellowed greens of a decade ago, the blue/ brown combination that started nearly 12 years ago, or more recently the orange/grey/taupe combinations, which shifted slightly from orange to more acid yellow in the past few years. This year it was almost any color, almost anywhere. The only clear trend seemed to be in metallics, which were either blackened or aged, or warm, with copper and brass on more forward-looking designs than stainless or chrome.

See the following pages for more top picks from New York Design Week. And watch for some of our favorite wallpaper and fabric introductions in the Sept./Oct. issue; there were just too many good things to fit here! V

MODERN KNITWEAR: Sinje Ollen is a fashion knitwear designer who, thanks to some friends with a damaged Saarinen chair, discovered a market for custom slipcovers specifically designed for classic modern furnishings. Each is custom made in a palette and texture of the client’s choice and designed to slip off easily for cleaning while staying in place with no slipping while in use.

COLOR MAKES A DIFFERENCE: The chairs, benchs and table O&G Studio creates are based on the belief that good modern design is a synthesis of memory and invention. Their work references classic American furniture and reinvents it for today’s homes.

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RIBBON WORK: Maki Yamamoto studied fashion design in Tokyo before moving to New York to create custom textiles and soft furnishings. Her collection for Bespoke Global is playful yet sophisticated.

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CRAFTING FLEXIBILTY OPPOSITE PAGE: Debra Folz showed at both ICFF and and Wanted, one of the largest of the off-site events during New York Design Week. At her ICFF stand the main piece was Score, a shelving unit that can be ordered in one to four sections. Each section comes with a wool felt wrap, offered in a range of colors, that is attached with metal snaps, so that the color combinations can be rearranged and for ease of cleaning. Bottom row photography by Molly Akin.

At Wanted, Folz showed her collection of storage stools, with pleated slipcovers, as well as the X-Table, a series of aluminum mesh pieces with flamestitch needlework.

MODERN TEXTURE ABOVE: Luisa F Gil Fandindo considers herself a surface architect, creating dimensional knitted, woven and embellished fabrics Having worked and studied in Nantes, France; London; Bogata, Columbia; Minneapolis and New York, Fandindo is now based out of Chicago and launching her own company, Fandindo—Thinking Textiles.

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6/13/12 10:08 AM

SHOW REVIEW

NeoCon 2012

Collaboration and t NeoCon this year, held June 11—June 13 at the Merchandise Mart in Chicago, IL, the overall consensus was that business was looking better than it had since 2008. Companies were investing in new product lines as opposed to updating current best sellers and there were several key themes that seem to be driving the newest design developments.

Multi-functionalism The line between office life and home life continues to blur, so manufacturers look to address the situation with furniture that works well in all locations—from corporate workstations to of-

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fice lounges to home studios. Flexible, modular and customizable were the buzz words for many of the new introductions.

Rainbow Brights Gone, gone, gone are the days of office drab. Showrooms all throughout the Mart showed vivid, vibrant color. There was no particular color theme, such as the orange/grey, yellow/grey combinations that were the trend a few years back. Nor was bold color limited to just corporate red or blue; instead designers happily used hues from all around the color wheel. There seems to be no longer any real distinction between residential and corporate color palettes.

Group Privacy It may seem like a contradiction, but just as business, and therefore manufacturers have embraced the idea of open office plans, collaborative work spaces and flex spaces, they also realize there is growing need for privacy. As meeting spaces evolve to seem more residential, with comfortable sofa and lounge chair seating, coffee-table height surfaces and more, these pieces now integrate more privacy functions as well.

Chairs and sofas with tall backs and surrounding wings, pull up laptop tables, built-in chargers and more turn a single piece of furniture into a micro-office.

Casual Friday All Week Long This is not something new. In fact, it’s an ongoing outcome of many of the other large- and small-scale trends in our society, but a visitor to this year's NeoCon would have been hard pressed to find a traditional, formal corporate environment in any showroom.

Overall our lifestyles have become far more casual (which, unfortunately, is not the same as relaxed) and our work spaces are adapting to fit. V FASHIONABLE FUN: OPPOSITE PAGE, FAR LEFT: The Tulip swivel lounge chair from Haworth is one example of a cocooning look that can work as a private space in a open environment.

OPPOSITE PAGE: The BuzziHub is part of the ever-growing BuzziSpace collection designed for flexible, semi-private meeting spaces.

ABOVE: Shetland, also from Haworth, is a minimalist rocking horse for the office. Available in walnut veneer or gloss white, with optional leather saddle and blanket designs, the lightweight but sturdy bench brought a smile to everyone who saw and tested it in the showroom.

BELOW: The State of Mind modular carpet collection from Mohawk takes it’s cue from the DIY movement, offering a customizable progression of up to 25 colorways and a unique layering of four patterns. This allows design professionals to use color only, pattern only, or a layering of color and pattern together.

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Design Trends 2013 and Beyond Embellishments - Showcase Terrific Solutions to Terrible Situations Window Fashions: Where Inspiration and Technique Meet - Showcase Window Fashion Insider Secrets – Gillian Wendell, Susan Kostelecky and Deb Barrett Intensive Training Business Success Workshops iPad for the Design Pro Workroom Methods Supplier Show Floor To see full program details, visit www.wf-vision.com/regionals

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INCREASED SATURATION: Rich, strong colors were found everywhere at NeoCon. Clockwise from top left: The Roger Thomas collection at Maya Romanoff debuted with two patterns, Tremolo (shown) and Moon Lake. Both are studies in the subtle variations of color, line and texture. In collaboration with Trove, Knoll introduced the Vivid collection, consisting of Swoosh, Sway and Swerve, each pattern bends color in painterly gestures, capturing a range of hues, from orange and persimmon to plum, yellow and aqua. Robert Allen Contract showed Beverly Boulevard in conjunction with Kirk Nix, principal of KNA Design Studio. The collection of 20 fabrics includes Exquisite, a plush cotton velvet, and Sidewinder, a reptile-skin look with metallic accents. The Freehand Collection from Pallas Textiles is an evocation of hand-made techniques in high-tech processing. The five patterns mimic the look of hand-blocking, crochet, lacework, stamping and cross-stich in a coordinated palette of 13 colors.

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Jewelry at the Window TRENDS

Whether it’s a tape, trim or tassel, passementerie of all types is the accessory that completes almost any custom window design. Turn the page to see trimming detail shots from some of the 2012 Envision Design and Ingenuity Workroom winners. V

TEMARI BY SPINA Handcrafted with silk, satin ribbon and faux suede, the Temari collection is offered in black, as shown, or a multi-colored Carnival version. A corresponding tasseled tieback is available as well. spinadesign.co.uk

FILAGREE BY SAMUEL & SONS A modern interpretation of Belgian lacework, Filagree is a 2 1/2" wide border that works beautifully on its own or when layered with other trims. Shown in Black, Navy and Pearl, it is also available in Snow, Buff, Putty, Steel and Chartreuse. samuelandsons.com

HAMPTON BY BRIMAR Modern tapes by Brimar are chic and on trend. These jacquard tapes are fabulous accents with a hip vibe, not to mention perfectly flat and easy to apply. brimar.com

POMPEII BY BELAGIO ENTERPRISES The new pleated border tapes from the Pompeii collection is a stylish alternative to more opulent trims.

The collection includes matching cords, braids and tassel and brush fringes with coordinating tiebacks. belagioenterprises.com

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Leading Asian Trade Fair for Roller Shutters, Doors/Gates, Windows and Sun Protection Systems

March 26-28, 2013

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Over 300 exhibitors from all over the world will be presenting their innovative sun protection technologies and products. Professional visitors out of the industry, real estate agents and architects can look forward to three days of innovation, brand new products and services.

www.rtasia.org Email: rtasia@vnuexhibitions.com.com manuela.keller@messe-stuttgart.de

TRENDS GILLIAN WENDEL

ANNA DAVIS

Duralee trim with Kravet and Greenhouse fabrics. For the complete design, see page 46.

Repurposed fabrics and tiebacks. For complete design, see page 50.

DAVID & YELANA DRAVES

NANCI IIAMS

Michaels Textiles beaded fringe with Fabricut and JF Fabrics.

For the complete design see page 55.

Hand-stiched smocking with buttons and welt from Rothman Associates. For the complete design see page 44.

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TINA FONTANA

DEBBIE KNOX

Kravet beaded trim with Michaels fabric. For complete design, see page 42.

Kasmir Fabrics beaded trim and fabric. For complete design, see page 57.

NANCY HOGAN

NANCY SIBRAVA

Kasmir Fabrics tassel tieback and fabrics. For the complete design see page 49.

JF Fabrics trim with Vervain and Ado fabrics. For the complete design see page 54.

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WORKROOM EDUCATION

Circus theme inspires workroom creativity

Welcome to the The Custom Sewing Institute’s Sixth Annual Creative Camp event was held March 9-11, 2012 at Camp Allen in Navasota, TX. This year’s event had a circus theme and each attendee received a kit which included a temporary tattoo, a red clown nose and funny glasses, which many attendees promptly put on.

Over the three-day period the classes, all of which counted toward WFCP certification, included: • Kenneth D. King: Specialty Details • Ann Johnson: Arched Pleated Panel • Missy Martin: Workroom Tools & Equipment • Lesa Berryhill: Social Marketing for Workrooms • Gillian Wendel: Drapery Panel Headings, Prosperity Knot and Hands-on Headboard • Jimmy Loyd: Photography for Workrooms This year’s Creative Camp also honored Cheryl Strickland’s contributions to the industry, as it marked the 15 year anniversary of Strickland’s first workroom industry conference. In recognition of Cheryl Strickland’s battle with breast cancer, a portion of the profits of the workroom items and books sold at camp were donated to Comfort Stitches, a charitable organization started by Diane Preston that makes fabric accessories such as Bosom Buddy pillows, tube bags and chemo caps for breast cancer patients while undergoing treatment.

A special award was presented at this year’s camp. Dubbed the Crystal Scissors Inspiration award, it was presented to Gillian Wendel, 32

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owner of Wendel Works in Pinehurst, TX. Wendel has taught at all six years of Creative Camp events, as well as at Window Fashions Vision events (20102012), and has won several awards for design and fabrication. Her classes have always been resoundingly popular for her innovation, design style, exacting fabrication instructions and inspiring presentations. (Editor’s Note:

Wendel will be speaking at the WFCP program in Dallas, October 23-24. See page 25 for additional details.)

The three days passed by quickly in a flurry of fun, education and sharing, as attendees were able to experiment with with a variety of workroom products from platinum sponsors Catania, Rowley Company and United Supply during the many hands-on classes.

Susan Kostelecky, who through the Custom Sewing Institute has run and managed the camps for the past six years, announced that she will be taking a break from producing any more Creative Camps for the near future. She will be presenting, with Wendel, at the WFCP program in Dallas this October. V OPPOSITE PAGE, TOP: Circus fun at Creative Camp 2012.

OPPOSITE PAGE, BOTTOM: Attendees working on prosperity notes during one of the sessions led by Wendel.

THIS PAGE, TOP: Gillan Wendel, popular speaker, was given the Crystal Scissors award at this year's camp.

THIS PAGE, LEFT: Marci Pelot working with Catania silk in the Arched Pleated Panels class.

CLOSER LOOK Susan Kostelecky SKdesignscustom.com CSIsews.com Comfort Stitches ComfortStitches.com WFCP Live in Dallas wf-vision.com/Dallas WFCP Live in New Jersey wf-vision.com/NewJersey

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WORKROOM TOOLS

Workroom pros dish on their favorite (and not so favorite) tools

What’s Makes a Workroom Work We asked workroom professionals to answer a few questions about their favorite tools, their dream tool, and much more. Read on to discover what you might need to make the perfect workroom for you. V

What’s your all-time most valuable tool in the workroom?

A calculator—because it’s all about the math!

Jeanne McDermott At Your Service, Belmont, MA

My workroom table, 60" wide by 10' long padded with lines...if I ever retire, I may keep the table!

Vivian C Dibrell Chase Custom Creations, Pittsburgh, PA

Toss up between my wonderful KAI scissors (four pairs!), my Workroom Valets, and my DoFix iron. The scissors need no explanation. I pin swags, tweak cornices, adjust lengths, all with the help of my Workroom Valets, and they are portable enough to take to the install so I don’t have to lay my cornices on the floor. The DoFix presses wrinkles, attaches tapes, and a shot of steam can drop a stinkbug at 6 feet!

Judy Soccio SoccioRodriguez Design, Monongahela, PA

What’s your secret weapon in the workroom?

Coffee ;-) Seriously, though, it’s education because knowing what to do that my competition can’t is an amazing advantage.

Therese Davis Fabrications Studio, Barrington, IL

My personal workroom notebook where I diagram and describe how to do specific treatments, so I don't have to reinvent the technique every time.

Vivian C Dibrell Chase Custom Creations, Pittsburgh, PA

The excellent lighting I had installed in my workroom when it was built—all work areas are shadow-free. Although I have task lighting on all my sewing machines, I really don’t need them. This makes my workspace bright and inviting, a place I love to be.

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If you could magically create the perfect tool for your workroom, what would it be?

A device that brings me the right tool when I need it instead of searching for it under a pile of fabric or on top of my head!

A completely cordless iron.

Emily Pettit Emily Jane Creations, Roebuck, SC

A little mallet that would hit me on the head each time I forget to include the additional time(cost) it takes to hand tack pleats in bulky fabrics, work around a flaw in the middle of the bolt, etc.

Jeanne McDermott At Your Service, Belmont, MA

A wall dedicated to holding finished board mounted valances that wouldn't fall down off peg hooks.

Vivian C Dibrell Chase Custom Creations, Pittsburgh, PA

Judy Soccio SoccioRodriguez Design, Monongahela, PA

I would love to have my own personal machine repair fairy.

Therese Davis Fabrications Studio, Barrington, IL

What’s the one tool you really want to love, but are always disappointed by? Why? My Rowenta iron, but alas it sputters water, leaks and needs repair frequently. A soon-to-be-made purchase of a DoFix D-50 steam iron with ceiling mounted track system will retire my Rowenta to household ironing tasks.

Kathy Wakeman Stylewise, Pittsboro, NC

My blind hemmer, because I always have to adjust it and it still won't sew silks or sheers.

Vivian C Dibrell Chase Custom Creations, Pittsburgh, PA

Blindstich hemmers. I love them because they are fast but am always disappointed because I haven’t found one yet that doesn’t drop stitches or mess up one way or another.

Emily Pettit Emily Jane Creations, Roebuck, SC

My electric cutter. It cuts fine on straight cuts up the grain, but eats fabric on the bias and curves. It should be a time/hand saving tool, but it's just easier to cut my layers manually.

Judy Soccio SoccioRodriguez Design, Monongahela, PA

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My manual rotary cutter because it gets dull in one spot too quickly.

Jeanne McDermott At Your Service, Belmont, MA

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2012 INGENUITY WORKROOM COMPETITON

We’re pleased to feature the top entries from the 2012 Ingenuity Workroom competition on the following pages as these talented professionals share the details of what truly makes a custom window treatment.

OLGA POLYANSKAYA DRAPERY EXPRESSIONS AND BLINDS WORKROOM OF THE YEAR & FIRST PLACE, INGENIOUS INSTALLATIONS

WORKROOM NOTES This triple height room features a floor-to-ceiling fieldstone fireplace and a wall of windows 20 feet wide. The enormous expanse of glass needed a treatment that would complement the fireplace, highlight the dramatic scale of the window wall as well as showcase the center arch.

“The key of the planning was to consider the size of the wall and create the design that was proportional to the scale of the window wall,” said Polyanskaya. “My first step was to create a template of the windows with precise measurements.”

She realized that installing a 20 foot wide cornice three stories up would be incredibly difficult, if not impossible, so she worked on a design that would allow her to create three individual pieces that look as if they are a single unit. The center section is 118" x 54", while the two side sections are each 59" x 75". She then determined where the swags would need to be placed in order to disguise where the sections meet.

To make sure there were no surprises during installation, Polyanskaya created a full-scale duplicate in her workroom, testing the positioning, size and drape of the swags and making adjustments where necessary. The swags were positioned on the center piece and overlapped 4" onto the side pieces. The completed drape of the swag was attached to the side pieces using hook-and-loop tape. The cascades were stapled on the side piece and hidden under the swag.

Installation was a two-day affair. On the first day, 24 brackets and seven honeycomb shades were installed. Because of the height of the cornice, two rows of brackets were necessary for an absoWF-VISION.COM | JULY/AUG 12 | 39

2012 INGENUITY WORKROOM COMPETITON

lutely secure support system. One row was located at the top of the ceiling, with a second row positioned 40" down from that.

The second day was all up on the scaffolding—getting the three sections of the cornice in place and mounted securely, and then positioning and dressing the swags and cascades.

DETAILS CREDITS: Workroom and designer: Olga Polyanskaya, Drapery Expressions and Blinds, Colorado Springs, CO. Installer: WinSystems, Inc., Colorado Springs, CO. Carpenter: Grigoriy Polyanskiy, Colorado Springs, CO. Photography: Amy Kachel, Colorado Springs, CO. SOURCES: Cornice and drapery fabrics: Wesco Fabrics. Swags and cascade fabric and tassel trim: Denver Interior Fabrics. Drapery lining and interlining: Angels Distributing Inc.

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SM

SM

2012 INGENUITY WORKROOM COMPETITON

TINA FONTANA FONTANA DESIGNS, LLC SECOND PLACE, INGENIOUS INSTALLATION WORKROOM NOTES For this charming little girl’s room, the ornate decorative molding set certain installation parameters that shaped the window treatment design.

Because Fontana was not allowed to drill into the molding, but knew she didn’t want the design of of the window treatments and canopy to start below the molding, she needed to develop a unique design and installation plan.

“I wanted to bring your eye up to the center of the window, so I created a stationary, arched Austrian shade,” said Fontana. She then repeated that design element in the bed canopy design.

She started with a temple of flexible board that could bend up and over the molding, mounting this on l-brackets installed to the wall below the molding. This piece was designed and put into position before any of the treatments were ever sewn, allowing her to measure every aspect of where to mount all the elements, determine exact finished lengths and all other ncessary fabrication and installation details.

These details were marked on the boards used for the Austrian shade and the canopy. The boards were then brought back to the workroom so that all notations were exactly transcribed for final patterns.

To make sure the bed panels would have the volume she wanted, she installed Velcro™ to the bottom hem of the panel with the other 42

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self-adhesive portion attached to the wall, which allowed her to nicely dress out the panels. At the window, a Hunter Douglas Applause shade is tucked under the arched Austrian shade for light control.

Beaded trim adds a sparkling detail as it catches the bright sunlight that streams into the room.

DETAILS CREDITS: Designer, workroom and installer: Tina Fontana, Fontana Designs, LLC, Crofton, MD. Photographer: Pete Albert Photography, Annapolis, MD. SOURCES: Reversible bedding: Maxwell and Fabricade. Panel trim: Kravet. Bedskirt, lower panel fabric and tiebacks: Trend Fabrics. Upper panels and sheers: Michaels. Hardware: Houseparts. Linings: United Supply. Undertreatment: Hunter Douglas Applause shades with Lightrise.

2012 INGENUITY WORKROOM COMPETITON

MARENA JAMES, ADORN DESIGNS FIRST PLACE, COMBINATION TREATMENTS WORKROOM NOTES “The economy continues to be a driving force with my clients,” said James. “They're not going on the second vacation and some aren't going on any vacation. My clients are nesting and this is a great opportunity for me. Time and time again, I've heard the same thing: ‘We are spending more time in our home, what can you do to help us update our rooms?’

This was the case for clients that wanted to create a “spa-like” feel for their master bedroom. First was a discussion on what this meant for her clients, and soon the words soothing, calm, hotel and clean began to define the space. With that in mind, James began her design concepts and fabric search.

DETAILS CREDITS: Designer and workroom: Marena James, Adorn Design, Louisville, KY. Installer: Steve Keller, Mt. Washington, KY. Photographer: David Snyder, Chasing Color, Louisville, KY. SOURCES: Drapery fabric: Lafayette Interior Fashions. Cornice and bedding fabric: Novel. Soft blackout lining: Angel’s Distributing. Duvet insert: Rowley.

Pillow inserts: Rowley. Traversing hardware: Kirsch. Trim: Lafayette Interior Fashions. Rendering and presentation software: Minutes Matter Studio.

The wood blinds were in good condition and so were left in place, allowing more time and effort to be spent on the stepped cornices, functional drapery panels and the custom bedding.

James said her clients told her that they love coming home from work and going to their redesigned bedroom, as it makes them feel as if they’ve stepped into a fancy hotel. They’re so pleased they are now planning updates for their guest room, office and guest bathroom.

2012 INGENUITY WORKROOM COMPETITON

NANCI IIAMS, NANCI IIAMS DRAPERIES

DETAILS

FIRST PLACE, CURTAINS & DRAPERIES

CREDITS: Designer: Amanda Streeper, Nanci Iiams Draperies, Cedar Rapids, IA. Workroom: Nanci Iiams, Nanci Iiams Draperies.

Installer: Nate Sunblad, S&S Window Treatments, Iowa City, IA. Photographer: Jessica Rilling, Cedar Rapids, IA.

The layering of detail starts with the main fabric, an iridescent crossweave of kelly green with wine that changes color depending on the angle. The lower quarter of each panel is plaid that brings together the rich golds, browns, greens and berry tones in the room, pieced to the main portion of the panel with a raspberry welt.

WORKROOM NOTES Creating beautiful window treatments that enhance but don’t obstruct the view or detract from expensive custom millwork is a common issue for today’s designers. Iiams’ client was also concerned that the treatment not be too formal for the space, while Iiams herself noticed the narrow space to work with on the right side of the window frame.

The finished design, a pair of tab-top stationary panels, sounds simple, but it is the multiple layers of details that create the impact, from the carefully pieced plaid bottom edge to the hand-tied tabs.

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In order to keep the plaid pattern on the bottom as straight as possible, the panels would need to be finished at a sharp angle to account for the holdback. Several mockups were made to determine that a 17" difference from side to side was needed to align the plaid.

Another set of mockups were needed in order to calculate the necessary fullness for 40" of diamond smocking per panel. It was soon determined that no tapes would work and the treatments would need to be hand-smocked.

In order to prevent the smocking from collapsing in on itself, a cord was sewn into each vein, along with a supporting framework of dowels behind the treatment.

Each point of the smocking was embellished with hand sewn buttons—over 500 of them— in raspberry, to bring that color throughout the treatment.

SOURCES: Iridescent drapery fabric: RM CoCo. Plaid drapery fabric: Kasmir. Buttons and welt: Rothman Associates. Drapery harware: Carole Fabrics.

2012 INGENUITY WORKROOM COMPETITON

GILLIAN WENDEL, THE WENDEL WORKS FIRST PLACE, TOP TREATMENTS WORKROOM NOTES For a client’s first custom bathroom, Wendel wanted to create something special. The project was challenging because the shower enclosure was a very tight fit between the door and some cabinetry and that the overall room was relatively small and narrow.

A curved shower rod was installed, both to give more space to the shower area and add some dimension to the space. A curved valance was the perfect answer to disguise the rod, with a classic box pleat design that adds detail without the volume swags or other draped looks would bring to the space.

The inverted box pleat design provided a canvas for custom fun. The large floral print was alternated on the box areas and accented with a contrast check cut upright in the inserts. By cutting the check on the bias for the shaped banding as well as the top band, the effect gave the valance an additional dimension without adding another fabric.The bobble trim on the top of the shaped band area keeps it away from any stray water, while thebottom edge is finished bias micro cording. The stationary panels sport a bias check banding to tie them into the valance and are offset by coordinating twist cord.

The treatment was designed to be mounted to the ceiling, both because this helps add height to the room and that there is limited space on either side of the shower enclosure. A flat, shaped board was used which enabled Wendel to install the side draperies directly onto the same board with flexible hook strip. The valance was then installed on Velcro™ that was attached to the front curve of the wood.

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DETAILS CREDITS: Designer and workroom: Gillian Wendel, The Wendel Works, Pinhurst, TX. Installer:James Sides, Ribbons and Rods, Conroe, TX. Photographer: Gillian Wendel.

SOURCES: Decorative fabrics: Kravet and Greenhouse Designs. Trim: Duralee. Lining: Angel's Distributing. Shower liner fabric: Rowley Company.

2012 INGENUITY WORKROOM COMPETITON

YELENA DRAVES, YELENA'S DESIGNS INC. FIRST PLACE, SPECIALTY WINDOWS WORKROOM NOTES For this arched window, Draves designed a cornice with a gracefully shaped inside curve. A beautiful damask had already been selected for the drapery panels, but hours of searching for a complementary fabric for the cornice proved fruitless. If the texture was right, the color was off and if the color was right, the pattern competed with the damask panels.

Finally, a brown faux silk with a hint of black was selected, but it seemed too flat on the cornice. That’s when Draves came up with the idea to smock the fabric in a basket weave pattern. To keep the clean lines of the cornice, she only used the smocked fabric on the face and finished the returns with the flat fabric. “I remember upholstering the underside of the face and thinking to myself ‘beauty is in the details,” said Draves. And she included plenty of details in addition to the smocking, such as the black tape with gold medallions that draw the eye down to the elegant tiebacks. “Every seamstress has projects that push them to new levels,” she added. “When you exceed those expectations and you know it, nothing is better.”

DETAILS CREDITS: Designer and workroom: Yelena Draves, Yelena’s Designs Inc., Dekalb, IL. Installer: Dave Draves, Yelena’s Designs Inc. Photographer: Kurt Moncini, South Elgin, IL. SOURCES: Drapery fabric: Decoronova. Cornice fabric: Fabricut. Trim, tiebacks and tape: Robert Allen.

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2012 INGENUITY WORKROOM COMPETITON NANCY HOGAN, GREAT PANES SECOND PLACE, TOP TREATMENTS WORKROOM NOTES The custom cherry wood cabinetry and gleaming black countertops in this spacious eat-in kitchen required equally elegant window treatments. Hogan was inspired by a valance she saw in The Design D≠irectory of Window Treatments by Jackie Von Tobel, one with a slight arch on the lower edge that also featured decorative overlays providing additional detail and dimension.

Once the main fabric was selected, a striking large scaled paisley print, Hogan could begin drafting the patterns—one for the center of the windows, one for the outside ends of the valances and one for the inner angles of the bay window area. The intent was to have each window be different while still complementing each other.

There were existing shades on the windows that the client kept for light control and privacy, which meant that the shortest point of the valances needed to cover these shades. The 48

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valances were designed to mount nine inches above the bay window frame to take advantage of the high ceilings in the room and look proportional to the area being treated.

All the pieces were fabricated with blackout lining to preserve the rich black of the fabrics, including the mini-dot print used for the twoinch banding on all the elements. A narrow gimp braid in gold further defines the shape of each piece.

The bay window valance was fabricated in three separate sections due to the size of the window, while the overlays were designed to be attached separately. This turned out to be a true benefit during installation, because the original placement for the inside angle overlays did not look balanced. They were removed and placed to line up at the center of the wall space instead, which created a better, more balanced look.

DETAILS CREDITS: Designer and workroom: Nancy Hogan, Great Panes, Rochester, NY. Installer: Ralph Gentile, Curtain Call, Rochester, NY. Photographer: Steven Liguori, Liguori Photography, Rochester, NY SOURCES: Valance paisley: Kasmir, Jessup in black. Valance accent fabric: Kasmir, Netherlands in raven. Lining: Angel's Disributing, Belle Notte. Gimp: BTC Trim, The Balmoral Collection #21799.

2012 INGENUITY WORKROOM COMPETITON

NANCY HOGAN, GREAT PANES SECOND PLACE, CURTAINS & DRAPERIES (TIE) WORKROOM NOTES The goal for this living room was a window treatment that complemented the high ceiling without overpowering the natural light from a lovely triple window. The design needed to be understated and airy but still provide a sophisticated ‘pop’ of design and color. Hogan suggested a contemporary fabric embroidered in fuchsia, teal, burgundy, camel, tan, olive and gold to serve as gathered stationary panels. “I felt the gorgeous fabric did not need a lot of detailed construction, because that would actually detract from its beauty,” said Hogan.

A pelmet in rich burgundy was added to help draw the eye upward and complement the color of two niches on the wall opposite the fireplace. Sheer fabric in the self-lined point-to-point swags in the transom windows allows filtered light into the room from above and helps link the treatment across the width of the windows. The short point of the pelmet line up with the long point of the swags and the long point of the pelmet line up with the molding to create a visually unified look. The panels are lined to prevent any shadowing.

The pelmet fabric needed to be interfaced to provide enough stability, while micro cording in the same fabric and self lining completed the understated look. A large tassel with twisted cording in the same burgandy, olive and gold tones found in the embroidered fabric adds another layer of detail. The hardware for the swags was custom designed to mount in the 3 1/2" space, while the decorative hardware with dark crystal finials is the finishing touch.

DETAILS CREDITS: Designer and workroom: Nancy Hogan, Great Panes, Rochester, NY. Installer: Ralph Gentile, Curtain Call, Rochester, NY. Photographer: Steven Liguori, Liguori Photography, Rochester, NY SOURCES: Panel fabric: Kasmir, Enchantment in Multi. Pelmet fabric: Kasmir, Big Sur in Wine. Swag fabric: Carole Fabric, Gentle Breeze in Sand. Lining: United Supply. Hardware: Helser Brothers WF-VISION.COM | JULY/AUG 12 | 49

2012 INGENUITY WORKROOM COMPETITON ANNA DAVIS ANNA’S CUSTOM DESIGN SECOND PLACE, CURTAINS & DRAPERIES (TIE) WORKROOM NOTES For the foyer in this home Davis employed a bit creative repurposing…and then had to do so once more. To start the client wanted to reuse two pairs of velvet draperies to add some warmth to the long foyer that featured three sets of French doors.

The client asked for a design of bishop sleeve panels with large puddles. To achieve this Davis needed to pull the original draperies apart, re-line them and re-cord the leading edges and the returns with a small welt cord. Because the original draperies were not long enough to accomodate the bishop sleeve and the puddle, another of the original draperies needed to be cut in half to add to the new finished length. This 30-inch bottom section was attached with a cord and used to create much of the puddle on the floor.

The concept was to mount the panels directly to the wall, without visible hardware.

Unfortunately, after the install, the look was not what the client envisioned and she asked Davis what could be done.

Davis came up with a new plan that included the bishop sleeves, but no big puddles, and the client agreed that hardware was necessary. Davis came up with a design of inverted box pleats for the velvet panels with pleated silk panels behind to add to the visual volume between the sets of French doors. She worked closely with Iron Art by Orion to customize the hardware needed for this look.

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The back panels were shirred on a sash rod and snapped into place with all brackets staying hidden. Because the client’s walls were plaster and the velvet panels were heavy, Davis placed eyelets in the crown molding behind the silk panels and ran a cord down the wall to the gathered part of the velvet panels.

She attached a cord tensioner and used this to adjust the finished height and volume of the bishop sleeve section. The tiebacks, which are for looks only, were placed last and finally both designer and client were satisfied.

DETAILS CREDITS: Designer and workroom: Anna Davis, Anna’s Custom Design, White House, TN. Installer: John Davis, Anna’s Custom Design.

SOURCES: Silk panels: Ado Fabric, Matisse in Espresso. Silk lining for velvet panels: Galaxy Fabrics in Sage. Tiebacks furnished by the client.

2012 INGENUITY WORKROOM COMPETITON

COLLEEN B. PETERSON, SEW STYLISH SECOND PLACE, SPECIALTY TREATMENTS

WORKROOM NOTES For this 132" high arched window treatment, the goal was to accentuate the shape without the requirement of custom-bent hardware. Peterson decided to make a wood mounting board by cutting a rainbow-shaped piece of plywood to which she screwed and glued a 4" bendable board. The treatment was then attached to the bendable board with staples and all the staples were hidden behind pleats with the raw edges concealed behind the plywood.

This gave a very clean look and allowed all for a quick installation. Screws were started in the painted rainbow shaped plywood, and the entire treatment was then attached to the wall at the designated spot and simply screwed straight into the wall by tightening the already started screws­—the entire treatment was hung in under 15 minutes with the assistance of a few extra hands.

DETAILS CREDITS: Designers, workroom and installer: Colleen B. Peterson, Sew Stylish, Pueblo, CO. Photography: Jean Boerner. Special thanks to Kurt S. Peterson, Joshua K. Peterson and Bryndee N. Peterson for their assistance during the installation.

SOURCES: Drapery Fabric: Wesco Fabrics, Twizzler in spa. Trim and tassels: Christopher Lowel Collection carried at JoAnn Fabrics. Bendable Board: Rowley Company, Plywood: Home Depot.

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WF-VISION.COM | JULY/AUG 12 | 53

2012 ENVISION DESIGN COMPETITON NANCY A. SIBRAVA, HONQUEST FURNITURE FOR LIVING SECOND PLACE, COMBINATION TREATMENTS

DESIGN CONCEPT Compared to the other rooms in this 1920’s Lake Shore Drive co-op, the dining room had very little architectural interest. The challenge was to add detail and drama while carrying through the gold-leaf accents already featured throughout the home.

To that end Sibrava designed a swag and cascade treatment using goldleaf hardware featuring a dramatic center medallion—the result is a window treatment with true architectural presence. An almond colored dupioni silk with golden lattice scrollwork combined with neutral sheers embellished with a silver-gold stripe was chosen to add subtle patterns to the room and complement the formality of the furniture without overpowering it. To complete the design, beading with a delicate silver-gold gimp tape was added to the leading edge of the cascades. These catch the sun and add sparkle, another detail to fill the eyes and add to the richness of the room.

The window faces west with an unobstructed view to the horizon. The hot afternoon sun was of great concern to the client—as it was contributing to fading of the furnishings and excessive energy consumption. To answer that concern, light-filtering roller shades were mounted inside the window frames for light and heat control. The overall effect of the treatment in the room raises the eye, allowing the visitor to appreciate the generous size of the cove moulding and the nine-foot ceiling height.

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DETAILS CREDITS: Designer: Nancy A. Sibrava, Honquest Furniture for Living, Barrington, IL. Workroom: Yalcin Oral, Able Drapery, Chicago, IL. Installer: Cemal Oral, Oral Installations, Chicago, IL. Photographer: Joseph DeNatale, Joseph DeNatale Photography.com, Chicago, IL. SOURCES: Swag and cascade fabric: Vervain, Espalier in almond.

Contrast lining for swags and cascade: Trend, 01697-T in straw. Sheer fabric: Ado, 3332-1/46. Roller shades: Lafayette Window Fashions, Genesis Seto 6000. Beaded trim: JF Fabrics, Daisy 13J4721. Drapery hardware: The Finial Company.

2012 ENVISION DESIGN COMPETITON

DAVID & YELENA DRAVES , YELENA’S DESIGNS INC. SECOND PLACE, DECORATIVE HARDWARE & TRIMS DESIGN CONCEPT The need to create a balance between three separate types of windows in this kitchen—patio doors, corner unit and a window above the sink (not shown)—while respecting the combination of styles in furniture, cabinetry and architecture was a lesson in continuity without repetition. This was accomplished by using the same fabrics and hardware throughout, while creating variations on the design theme appropriate for each window.

The nine-foot patio door off the sitting area is treated with damask panels accented with scalloped cuffs in a crushed bronze fabric. This detail draws attention to the elegant reeded pole and carved finials.

Beaded trim in warm amber and gold at the cuffs complements the fabrics and the the tiebacks.

For the dining area all the same elements are repeated, now in the form of a modified Kingston valance, the relaxed draping helps frame and soften the large bank of windows. The deliberate visual break in the hardware at the center of the window further emphasizes the gentle flow of the valance.

Above the kitchen window another version of the Kingston valance is used, this one hung from bronzed rosettes that coordinate with the hardware used on the other two treatments. The result is a unique ensemble where each design works independently as well as supporting all the other elements in the room.

DETAILS CREDITS: Designer: David and Yelena Draves, Yelena’s Designs, Inc., Dekalb, IL. Workroom: Yelena Draves. Installer: David Draves. Photographer: Kurt Moncini, South Elgin IL. SOURCES: Swag fabric: Fabricut. Accent fabric: JF Fabrics. Drapery hardware: JF Fabrics.

Beaded fringe: Michaels Textiles. Beaded tassels: Ado. Tiebacks: EuropaTex.

WF-VISION.COM | JULY/AUG 12 | 55

2012 ENVISION DESIGN COMPETITON

KAREN LEE , TOTAL WINDOW TREATMENTS SECOND PLACE, SPECIALTY WINDOWS

DESIGN CONCEPT Inspired by the rich tones used on the upholstered pieces in the room, the arched cornices deliberately add to the curve of the windows, lengthening them and drawing attention to the canvas mural applied to the cove ceiling.

Dupioni silks in green, blue, merlot, and gold were accented with a narrow tape trim in gold, with a single tassel with a rosette in the center of each jabot. Lee crafted templates of each window and did a trial run fitting before starting on the upholstery and finish work, resulting in a trouble-free installation.

DETAILS

CREDITS: Designer and installer: Karen Lee, Total Window Treatments, Elmhurst, IL. Workroom: Linda Miller, Total Window Treatments.

SOURCES: Fabrics (all except merlot silk): Silk Loom. Merlot silk: Duralee. Trim and tassels: Fabricut.

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2012 ENVISION DESIGN COMPETITON

DEBBIE KNOX, FABRIC ACCENTS DESIGN SECOND PLACE, TOP TREATMENTS DESIGN CONCEPT The design challenge for this kitchen/dining area and adjoining window seat was to treat both spaces with the main fabric, but to make sure each still maintained a distinctive look. For the window seat Knox designed Roman shades with a bottom hem that followed the line of the fabric pattern. Beaded trim was applied at the bottom edge to accent delicated shaped edge.

For the larger expanse of window in the kitchen/dining area, Knox designed a swag valance with a five-inch band of rust faux silk, finished with a welted edge for the the bottom hem. Wrought iron brackets, chosen for their substantial size (4.5" x 9") worked with the chandelier and other hardware already in place in the kitchen. The 30" long swag valance was scaled to add enough impact to the large windows without being overpowering.

Finally, for a windowed door in the kitchen, Knox designed a throw swag, held with smaller versions of the brackets, that played off the look of valance.

DETAILS

CREDITS: Designer and workroom: Debbie Knox, Fabric Accents Design, Dublin, OH. Installer: Mark Ulry, Mark Ulry Installs, Westerville, OH. Photography: Debbie Knox.

SOURCES: Damask fabric: Kasmir Fabrics. Banding and contrast fabric: RM Coco. Roman shade beaded trim: Kasmir Fabrics. Cushion and pillow fabrics: Kasmir, Carole and RM Coco. Pillow trims: D’kei and Carole. Iron hardware: Helsler Brothers.

WF-VISION.COM | JULY/AUG 12 | 57

2012 ENVISION DESIGN COMPETITON

KATHERINE E. WOZNIAK, KATHERINE ELIZABETH DESIGNS SECOND PLACE (TIE), WHOLE ROOM INTEGRATION DESIGN CONCEPT For a client’s dream home on Lake Geneva, the generously sized master suite included a wide range of window shapes and sizes. Wozniak’s goal was to add an understated softness to the windows and furnishings without obstructing the stunning lake views, all while addressing the multiple ceiling heights and other installation challenges.

Because of all the variations, the same treatment would not work on all windows. Instead Wozniak created consistency by using a contemporary print that includes soft greens, blues and a warm gold,

gentler versions of the colors to be found right outside the windows.

This print is used as the top treatment the different window treatment styles, always accented with a band of gold. For the drapery panels or lower portion of the treatment, she chose a soft blue.The multiple levels and layers of window treatments enhance the architectural elements and entice the eye to move around the space.

Mounting the panels at the top of the peaked bead board ceiling in the sitting area draws the eye up and around the space, while near the bed, ruched cornices above narrow jabots lend softness to basic windows. The arched window is given volume at the top with a large fabric knot while the subtle blue panels softly frame the stunning view.

DETAILS

CREDITS: Designer: Katherine E. Wozniak and Melissa LeVan, Katherine Elizabeth Designs, North Barrington, IL. Workroom and installer: Lee Frew, Lee Frew Custom Drapery Studio, Arlington Heights, IL. Photographer: Norman Sizemore, Norman Sizemore Photography, Chicago, IL. SOURCES: Fabrics: GP&J Baker and Fabricut.

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2012 ENVISION DESIGN COMPETITON

KATHERINE WOLFE, CUSTOM BY KATHERINE SECOND PLACE (TIE), WHOLE ROOM INTEGRATION DESIGN CONCEPT For a dining room and living room makeover, Wolfe was directed by her client to create an evironment that was timeless, elegant and traditional.

Both rooms were to be treated as one using a palette of blue, gold and off white.

A damask pattern of soft gold against pale blue with gold slubs give the elegant look of silk for the valances and drapery panels. A coordinating stripe of the damask with the addition of a darker blue stripe was used as a contrast pattern in the pleat of the valance.

Completing the valance is a detailed tassel trim of both soft blue and gold. The multiple tray ceiling in the dining area meant that although the client wanted an indentical look for the windows in both rooms, the dining room panels and valances are two inches shorter than those in the living room.

Her current furniture was to remain with the pieces to be reupholstered in multiple fabrics that coordinate with the window treatments and also help tie the two rooms together. Great care was taken in balancing the patterns.The sofa was reupholstered in a honeysuckle-colored velvet with five inch key tassels that match the valance trim placed in the pleats of the sofa skirt. Pillows included two euro size made of the contrasting stripe fabric enhanced with brush fringe of pale blue and pale gold.

The armless dining area chairs were reupholstered in a medium blue shade of velvet the same texture as the sofa. With the colors and patterns being led by the window treatments, the wallpaper selection came easily. The pattern detail and the varying colors of blue and gold in stronger tones offered the perfect backdrop to all the selected fabrics. Panel areas were made of molding in the living room area for wallpaper to be inserted. In the dining area the upper portion of the walls were completely papered. Surfaces in both areas of remaining walls, wood, trim and pillars were painted off white.

DETAILS CREDITS: Designer: Katherine Wolfe, Custom By Katherine, Canfield, OH. Workroom: Lela Mae Hoopes, L & M Country Workroom, Alliance, OH. Upholstery: Marsha Rozeski, Stitch & Staple Upholstery, Salem, OH. Installer: Christopher Tippet, Tippet Installation Services, Akron, OH. Photographer: Chris Stacey Pruitt, Stacey Studio, Canfield, OH. SOURCES: Fabrics: Fabricut. Trim, tassels and linings: United Supply.

Wallpaper: Seabrook. Hardware: Kirsch.

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WF-VISION.COM | JULY/AUG 12 | 61

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“EVERYTHING CELLULAR” HT Cellular Shades “See it work” at www.htwfonline.com/cordlessPlusVideo.html “new” - Cordless Plus Call 800/879-9512 for more information.

HT window fashions® introduces Cordless Plus, a new cordless shade. Building on the success of HT durable cordless system, Cordless Plus offers more options for light control, privacy, ease of PRIMA SATEEN operation and more visibility than regular cordless.DRAPERY LINING It rises like motorized shade, by simply tugging the tassel. You can stop it at the desired location byExclusively from DesignWare, Prima tugging the tassel again. It adds another dimension Sateen is the finest 100% cotton sato a safe and beautiful shade. teen drapery available to the industry today. Its heavyweight density and

“EVERYTHING CELLULAR” high thread-count reduces wrinkles and increases the body of your cus-

“See it work” at tom-made fabric designs. A waterwww.htwfonline.com/cordlessPlusVideo.htmlrepellent and crease-resistant finish Call 1800-879-9512 for more information. also enhances this premium drapery lining. This combination of properties protects fine fabrics against UV-rays, moisture, stains, creases, and also insulates from heat and cold drafts.

Available in White, Ivory, and Cashmere, it is the preferred drapery lining of quality workrooms everywhere.

For a free sample and catalog, call 888/270-2301 or 770/271-9898 or go to www.designwareonline.com.

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ONA DRAPERY Ona Drapery Hardware Company brings exquisite designs and exceptional value together in our Classic Collection of Wrought Iron drapery hardware. All of our hardware is individually handmade and finished exactly to your specifications. We pride ourselves on quality workmanship, timely delivery and customer satisfaction. Select from our Classic Collection and order with confidence.

Website: onadrapery.com. Call for a free catalog: 800/231-4025 or fax a request to 888/231-4026.

WOODMART WoodMart is a fully integrated manufacturer—from rough milling through finishing and packaging. Louver sizes range from 1" to 5". Visit us at Woodmart.com or call 818/785-1528.

Water’s Edge WOODMART Exterior Shutters by WoodMart. Made from Incense Cedar. Available in a quick ship standard design with three louver options and/ or raised panels. We also manufacture custom exterior shutters with a variety of louver sizes, board and batten or Bahama Style. Visit us at Woodmart.com or call 818/785-1528.

Waters Edge Blinds Finalé wood cornices are made in the USA, 100% solid wood, easy to install and ship completely assembled. The new catalog features new styles of modern cornices and 10 new eco-friendly colors including light grey, black and metallic.

Visit WatersEdgeBlinds.com or call toll tree 877/ 202-1568

Wintec Gould NY Drapery Hardware Gould NY proudly celebrates its 140th anniversary of continual manufacturing excellence in the USA. Gould NY offers an extensive line of decorative wood, metal and iron drapery hardware that includes the best wood traverse poles on the market featuring furniture quality finishes applied by hand in New York.

Call or email for a free color catalog and distributor list: wwtgould@aol.com, web site: wwtgould.com, 800/2238990.

Priscilla’s Drapery Hardware At Priscilla’s we’ve been designing and fabricating drapery hardware for over 30 years, manufacturing one of the largest selections of drapery hardware anywhere.

Made in the U.S.A. Call Priscilla 760/7269228 or visit on the web: www.draperyhardwarebypriscilla.com

Viewmax by Wintec Korea; the most versatile, elegant rollershade system available anywhere. Reduce inventory—Viewmax makes six shade types. A quick change of components allows you to fabricate standard roller-shade, unique day-night shades, sheer and dual-shade types.

For more on Viewmax, contact Storch International, Inc. at info@ storchinternational.com or 608/833-8222.

Xentric Drapery Hardware Xentric Drapery Hardware is your one-stop shop for custom, unique drapery hardware, featuring contemporary and traditional collections in wrought iron, wood and glass. From finials, tiebacks and brackets to rods and rings, our quality products speak for themselves. Custom bending rods available for most rod styles. Traversing systems and motorized options available. New customers get an extra 10% off first order. Mention Promo Code: XEN10A Contact: 866/4936874, e-mail: info@myxentric.com, www.myxentric.com.

WF-VISION.COM | JULY/AUG 12 | 63

What’s COLORISIMO: The September/October issue of Vision is our annual color issue, a favorite with both readers and the staff.

We’ll be featuring color forecasts and colorful new products, along with a rundown of some of the many, many new wallpaper and fabric introductions launched in the second half of the year. Shown here is Cubenisimo, a new digitial print wallpaper

by Simon Page, whose philosophy is “Good design excites.”

This is part of his Cuben series for Flavor Paper, is available in wide variety of configurations and colorings, and can be printed at any scale to suit specific installations. FlavorPaper.com.

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Excel @ Cell Quality, Value, Selection HT window fashions Introduces

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Allows ample light to enter the room while blocking excessive glare and blurring the view from outside

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