WFV Sept/Oct 2013

WF-VISION.COM

9/10 13 COLOR & DESIGN TRENDS

9/10.13 VOLUME 34 / NO. 5 Lelievre showcases an autumnal assortment of patterns from Jean Paul Gaultier’s Ca C’est Paris collection in a palette of slate grey, pumpkin and golden yellow.

THIS ISSUE / COLOR & TREND TRENDS • CORD SAFETY UPDATE EVERY ISSUE

THIS ISSUE 12 What’s Your Business Worth?

Rating the intangible values

of a custom window fashion business.

By Steve Bursten

24 InView: Decorative Hardware

& Trims

Details make the difference.

4 Viewpoint:

What We’re Loving Now

Comments from contributors.

28 InView: Fabrics

For shades, draperies and more.

6

Viewpoint: Our View President/CEO Grace McNamara

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Improving Your ‘Close’ Ratio Three tips on how to be a better closer.

By Maria Bayer

30 The Benefits of Integration

Wilson Fabrics prepares to

enter the U.S. market.

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Viewpoint: InfoBar 50 years of color trends, courtesy of Pantone.

16

Is Your Business Safe?

Improve the skills you didn’t learn in design school.

By Gail Doby

32 So Emotional: Trends

from MoOD

The importance of eMotion.

10 Viewpoint:

I’m Officially Obsessed With

Claudia Buchanan on sharing.

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Safety Standards FAQs A Q&A with Derick Marsh, member of the Board of Directors for the WCMA.

20 Support Safety

An update on the new standards that went into effect June 1.

By Ralph Vasemi 22 InView: Shade Safety

Cord-safe solutions for

window treatments.

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36

Fluid, Forward Color The 2014 Sherwin-Williams color palette.

By Jacki Jordan

46 Escape Valves

Colors for our futures.

By Hilde Francq 48 Irrepressible Optimism

Why color is coming back.

By Donovan Freedman 50 Envision Design Competition

Our final wrap up of the winning

projects from the 2013 event.

30 Featured Design

From the apartment

of Pierre Frey.

62 Product Showcase

On the cover:

The Impasto collection from Harlequin, a British textile company, includes the mid-scale floral Giverny, shown here in a charcoal/lime color combination on the right window, over a shade of the linen-look Anoushka. The left window features semi-sheer Lisanne.

VISIT US AT BOOTH #801

WF-VISION.COM WHAT WE’RE LOVING NOW …

Margret (Living Color) I love color! But not just blue, red and yellow—I love the unusual colors, the combinations and shades created by nature. I often mix paint myself to find just the right color for that special place.

I painted my garden shed purple to match my Mexican sage bush (salvia leucantha). Choosing the right colors is one of my favorite parts of the job—my clients love ’their‘ colors for a

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 DesRochers • gaby@wf-vision.com SALES Advertising & Trade Show Director • Shannon Leclair • shannonl@wf-vision.com Senior Account Executive • Karen Griffiths • karen@wf-vision.com Account Executive • Susanne Nutzel-Young • susanne@wf-vision.com

long time and that makes me happy.

Lynne (Paper Tiger) I’ve had a career-long

IN THIS ISSUE Contributing Writers: Maria Bayer, Claudia Buchanan, Steve Bursten, Gail Doby, Hilde Francq, Donovan Freedman, Jacki Jordan, Derick Marsh, Ralph Vasemi

love affair with wall covering, and I am thrilled with its resurgence in current design. I love the

DESIGNERS & WORKROOMS FEATURED IN THIS ISSUE Barbara Elliot, Yelena Gerts, Margret Inauen, Lynne Lawson, Heather McManus, Hideki Nishigaki, Michi Nishigaki, Heather Rabold, Leslie Saul, Ginger Thoerner, Jennifer Ward-Woods

metallics in grays, platinums, shimmery taupes and golds. The bold graphics and huge scale florals in unusual materials are so inspiring. I’m using them on tray ceilings and architecturally interesting accent walls. I’m creating works of art from wallpaper itself.

Heather (Visionist) I love the look in my client’s eyes when a project comes together. One of the best feelings in the world is the heartfelt

2013 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

thank you I hear after they can see my vision come to life. My slogan is “Love Where You Live” because your home is your sanctuary. I truly love what I do!

Ginger (Band Wagon) I am totally obsessed with a new banding technique for window treatments.

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 IWCE: VISION ’14 New Orleans tweets @IWCEVISION

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

by AIM Communicaations LLC. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission prohibited. Canadian Publications Agreement Number: #40036514. Canadian Return Address: Station A, PO Box 54, Windsor, ONT N9A 6J5

I am always presenting my workroom with difficult banding projects and on one project a few months ago, the question was: “could the banding fabric be applied first with the main part of the treatment as an ‘overlay’”? We ran with this idea and it turns out the process is actually easier, and less time consuming, than the traditional approach. It adds a really unique dimension to our designs,and now I am now banding almost everything!

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Check out our Pinterest Boards Follow us and re-pin pinterest.com/wfvision/

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RE A # SON RE

A SO

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12

12 Reasons to buy soft shades only from

See them all at horizonshades.com/12 Horizons Window Fashions www.horizonshades.com

Cordless ONE Controls at No Extra Charge See all 12 reasons at horizonshades.com/12

VIEWPOINT

Color & Cord Safety Two important themes featured in this issue

t’s unbelievable that we’re in the last stretch of 2013 already! For many, it has been a much improved year, business-wise, yet many of us are still challenged as the economy improves. Let’s face it, window coverings are still on the bottom of the food chain for consumer spending, even in the interior design realm.

We’ve battled for years to try to make window coverings a more important element but it’s so much easier to pick a color to paint a wall or select a sofa or dining room table.

Well it is what it is, but there is still a lot of business to be developed in the market and the savvy dealer will find a way to get it. Hopefully, you’re not doing business the same way you were five years ago unless you found some incredible niche that is economyproof. If you did, please let the rest of us know! Today’s dealer needs all the help, education and credibility you can get to distinguish yourself as the window covering professional in your market. We’ve got some new educational programs to help you stay on the competitive edge. Check out our updated certification programs through WFCP: Design and Workroom Certi-

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fication and brand new Color Certification. We know you’re busy, so many of our programs are “On Demand”— you select the seminars you need and view them on your schedule. Visit wf/vision.com/education for more details.

This issue is one of one of our favorites—covering both the most enjoyable and the most serious aspects of our business—Color and Safety. This issue gives you the latest trends and perspectives of what we will be seeing in the designs of the near future. See pages 32-48 for some different viewpoints of where color is headed.

The corded safety issue isn’t going away and each one of us in the industry needs to be aware of any dangers and liability involved in what we sell.

We bring you the latest opinions and information on pages 18 and 20. Be sure to stay on top of developments by visiting the WCMA website at wcmanet.org.

Another congratulations to our Design and Competition winners featured in this issue. We had so many winners from New Orleans we’ve had to spread them out over three issues! And, we’re

already looking ahead to 2014—if you have not already done so, please enter your best work in next year’s competition which will be recognized at IWCE: Vision ’14 in Las Vegas, February 5th!

A final reminder that if you are considering attending IWCE February 4-6, 2014, DO NOT WAIT UNTIL THE LAST MINUTE! Due to our co-location with KBIS and the International Builder’s Show, our entrance fees will be steeper than in the past, however your badge will get you into three fabulous events all under one roof.

We are offering you FREE exhibit hall registration during the month of October. Don’t put it off—registration opens October 1st.

Visit wf-vision/shows and get your complimentary pass. This FREE offer expires October 31st!

Wishing you a busy and profitable fall decorating season! V

Grace McNamara President and CEO

V

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InfoBar

A Brief Color History

This issue’s infoBar is courtesy of Pantone. This full version of this graphic, which includes the missing ’00s decade and more, is available at pantone.com

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WF-VISION.COM | SEPT/OCT 13 | 9

VIEWPOINT

Claudia Buchanan on Sharing

I’m Officially Obsessed With When I was asked what I was obsessed with, it was a very hard question to answer. But in thinking it over, I realized I’m obsessed with sharing and helping others become successful in their interior design endeavors whether it’s a business or a hobby. ¶ As a retired workroom owner, I have spent the last five years sharing how to create home furnishings, from slipcovers to window treatments, and how to successfully start a workroom business. I love it! ¶ And I realized that if others hadn’t shared their skills with me, I would have never become part of the home furnishing industry and be in the position to pass these skills onto others. My favorite class to share is fabricating slipcovers. I love it when the light comes on and the students have an ‘Ah Ha’ moment! It’s a great feeling to watch others become successful and contribute to the growth of our industry. V

CLOSER LOOK Claudia Buchanan, Home Fashions U HomeFashionsU.com HomeSewingDepot.com Pinterest: pinterest.com/claudiabuchanan Facebook: facebook.com/ HomeFashionsUniversity Twitter: twitter.com/SewUniversity YouTube: youtube.com/user/HomeFahionsU

Claudia Buchanan and Francine Parrett discuss custom home sewing on one of Buchanan’s local TV stations.

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TOP: A custom bedding ensemble by Buchanan for a client, including the upholstered headboard. CENTER: he attendees and instructors at the 2013 Slipcover Summit.. ABOVE: Some of the 900 pieces cut for 144 chair slipcovers and the finished slip covers at the Pebble Beach County Club.

WF-VISION.COM | SEPT/OCT 13 | 11

VIEWPOINT

The intrinsic value of selling window fashions

What is Your Business

by Steve Bursten

y belief is heresy to many accountants but I stand by this statement: The value of a home-based business is not based on net profit. But I can tell you from vast experience this is true. Here’s my reasoning: Consider how much a window coverings franchise is worth—the value may be from $30,000 to over $75,000. Yet, it has no net profit at all.

Determining Your Business Value The person who tries to sell a window fashions business based on net profit is making a mistake—for both the buyer and the seller. Why? Because window coverings is a wonderful business with advantages that no other business possesses. It is something people love to do. They can run it, and succeed, based on passion. Or they can make a lot of money as serious business based on profit. Only the owner can decide their personal motivation.

Then how do you value the business?

Part of the value is based on a business model and some have more value than others. For example, a home-based business selling less than $50,000 a year is usually a workroom business.

That means the buyer has to be willing to learn how to sew draperies, and want to sell them—a relatively difficult buyer to find—so that business is worth less than other business models.

A pure design business, where the owner does not own their samples and does not buy from prime suppliers at a low wholesale price, is also inherently 12

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less valuable. If the income is mainly through a showroom or furniture store, then sales may be $100,000 a year, but income before expenses is only $10,000-$15,000. After expenses, profit may be as little as $5,000 yearly.

Analyzing a high value business A high-value business is one that has residential homeowner customers. A new person can quickly learn to sell to homeowners if they have a talent for color and fashion. They cannot quickly learn to sell to commercial customers. That is too specialized and too risky for a beginner. Therefore, the most salable business model is a specialty window coverings business with homeowner customers.

If window coverings is the lead product, and customers are residential homeowners, the buyer can learn the basic business in a matter of weeks. This business model will throw off dollars to pay expenses and give the business owner some level of net profit. This business model will likely have yearly sales of $75,000 to $200,000 a year, and typically at least 40% gross margin. That yields $30,000 to $80,000 for expenses and income.

This can be an excellent part-time supplement, and potentially a high profit bread-winner business if the new owner has the drive to boost sales to $250,000– $300,000 a year.

A home-based window coverings business selling $300,000 can earn from $80,000 to over $100,000 a year

after paying all expenses. Only a few business owners achieve this level of success because they are often afraid to invest in growth. And they may fear to charge higher prices because they don’t have the right selling system.

However, a new owner with a drive for business may run things differently.

A window fashion business that sells from $75,000 to $200,000 in yearly sales, and has a customer base of residential homeowners typically has a value from 15% to 30% of sales.

How do you extract that value? The main thing is to not talk about selling price or business profit until you first get the buyer to prove they have a serious interest to own a business, and they have the money to buy it.

Remember, you are selling terrific values that other businesses don’t have. You are selling flexibility, wonderful customers, creative, satisfying work, a professional career without going back to college, and other values that have nothing to do with net profit in the business. V Steven C. Bursten has more than a half century of experience in window covering shop-athome sales, marketing and management. He founded the world’s largest interior decorating franchise, cofounded the International Window Coverings Exchange of major industry retailers, and co-founded the Exciting Windows! national network.

VIEWPOINT

Applying ‘Ideal Client’ lessons to build income

Improving Your Ratio

by Maria Bayer

et me ask you a question: What are your revenues from the last six months? If you subject your expenses, is the figure what you'd thought it would be? Is it enough to take that vacation? If not, let’s look at how you can increase that number significantly.

Which clients do you think will be most likely to tell others about you— the ones you took just because you wanted their business? Or the ones who you love working with as much as they love working with you?

Improve Your Close Ratio The higher your close ratio the more money you’ll make—and this part is important—without having to spend any extra time or money.

For example, if you close three out of every ten prospects, then your close ratio is 30%—not bad in today's economy.

But there are only so many hours in the day to interview prospective clients while serving your current clients, so the more effective you are at qualifying and closing your existing prospects, the more clients you’ll win and the more money you'll make.

Let’s do the math: If you learn how to close one more client out of every ten, your close ratio increases to 40%.

If you learn how to close two more clients out of every ten, your ratio jumps to 50%. So by learning how to win even 2 more clients on average, you’ll be nearly doubling your annual 14

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earnings…without having to spend any more time or money! Following are three tips to winning more of the prospective clients with whom you meet, without having to spend a cent on advertising.

Tip #1: Qualify The first tip is effectively qualifying your prospects—quickly determining whether they are a serious buyer and your Ideal Client. In the May/June issue, I shared three questions to ask to separate the buyers from the lookers.

If you find that they’re your Ideal Client but not a serious buyer, then you need to move on. Smart business owners don’t meet with prospects who aren’t serious, or try to convince them. If you find that they are serious and your Ideal Client, then move on to Tip #2.

Tip #2: BuildValue The second step is to build value in every interaction with your prospect.

Why? Because the more value you build, the more your client will pay— period. That’s how you win bigger clients who spend more and haggle less.

In the March/April issue, I shared how you can use client stories to show prospects that you ‘get’ them and that you’ve helped other clients with similar problems before. The more you show that you ‘get’ your prospect—who they are, what they want to achieve and why—the more value you’ll build, the faster they’ll hire you, and the more money they’ll pay.

Tip #3: Confidence This last tip is so important that it cannot be overstated. The level of confidence you have in yourself and your ability to help your client is directly proportionate to the level of confidence they’ll have in you!

If a prospect isn’t confident in you, they won’t hire you. So memorize this: Confidence = Clients!

I promise if you do these three things, you’ll win more clients for more money than you ever have before. So start packing … you have a vacation in your near future! V Maria Bayer, the Authentic Sales Coach for Design Success University, teaches interior designers how to win ideal clients quickly and make more money without being ‘sales-y’ using her Six-Figure Success Formula. This formula, which helped Maria close over $25M in business, recently helped a designer win a $400K remodel project.

To learn more, register for a complimentary three-part series at dsu-id. us/idgethired. When you register for this free three-part series, you’ll receive an invitation to my upcoming webinar where you’ll learn my Value Formula so you can build value with your very next prospect. You’ll also receive a complimentary copy of DSU’s Ideal Client Profile, valued at $79.

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VIEWPOINT

Beating the business failure rate

Is Your

Safe?

by Gail Doby, ASID

any designers start their firms with enthusiasm and passion for design…and then they find out that 90% of their design success depends on their ability to run a profitable business. If you worked for someone else first, you probably watched them suffer through the normal ups and downs of business.

But here’s what they didn’t tell you in design school or when you worked for someone else: Marketing and Selling You have to get clients to have a successful design business. That means that you have to know how to market to attract prospects, and then close them. In the last issue, we talked about the number one skill set you need and that is the ability to bring in business. If you haven’t been successful at this #1 skill in the past, then you need to get training. If you’re good at selling, but you don’t close 100% of your Ideal Clients, then you have room for improvement.

Project Management Once you get the clients, you must understand how to pull a complete project together. Yes, design school teaches lots of great design skills, but your timelines are unrealistic compared to what it takes once you get into the real world of meeting tight deadlines.

Know Your Numbers If you want to build a business instead of a job, it is critical to understand 16

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your numbers. It’s not what you bring in on the top line that matters. It is what you keep after you pay your bills. Cash flow is also important, so making sure you get paid promptly is part of managing a successful business. I see a lot of designers struggle with getting paid on a timely basis, and I also see them fight to get paid their final fees. Some consumers are brutal with their negotiating skills. It pays to be tough from the beginning.

Don’t trust that someone will pay you. Set up your billing structure so you get paid well in advance of the project completion.

Team-building If you’re in good shape for these first three skills, the next thing to tackle is building your team. Many designers struggle to find the right people to work for them, and instead resort to doing things themselves because they don’t have/take the time, or don’t have the patience to properly train their team members. This leads to burnout, frustration, dissatisfaction with the field of design, and unhappiness with the career choice.

Documentation One way to help you train employees and to maintain a quality work environment is to have documented processes and systems to make sure you can leverage your time and ensure that your service is top notch. Few design firms have a clearly defined business operations manual. You’re more likely to succeed and thrive if you do.

Business Plan You need a written plan for your business including a budget. Few designers have a plan. Only a handful of businesses ever develop a written plan, and it’s one of the key reasons for many business failures.

Will your firm survive and thrive for more than 10 years? Building a successful long-term business is more than just picking a name, ordering business cards, registering for your sales tax number, opening a checking account, etc. Be sure you know the skills you need to survive, or make it a priority to get the training necessary for your business success. V Gail Doby is Chief Vision Officer and Co-Founder of Design Success University.

Get the 2013 Interior Design Fee & Salary Survey eBook at www. interiordesignfees.com and receive an invitation to the popular complimentary webinar “How to Avoid Interior Design Fee Fiascos…and Attract Your Ideal Client” after you download your free book.

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VIEWPOINT

Clarifying some cord safety concerns

Standards FAQs here continues to be some confusion regarding the current status of window treatment cord safety standards. Vision asked Derick Marsh, president of RollEase, Inc., one of the largest suppliers of clutch-operated lift systems, to address some of the most common questions regarding the most recent update to the cord safety standards. As he is also on the Executive Committee of the Board of Directors for the Window Covering Manufacturers Association, he is in a prime position to offer answers and insight into this ongoing issue.

Vision: What is the most current information regarding the standards?

Derick Marsh: There has been a lot of activity and effort surrounding the issue of making our industry’s products safer for children for well over a decade, and we certainly have made progress during that period, but the combination of increased government and consumer advocacy efforts, including highly publicized product recalls, as well as significantly ramped up education and public awareness efforts by industry participants and organizations, such as the Window Covering Manufacturing Association and the Window Covering Safety Council, have finally resonated across manufacturers and retailers large and small. The latest milestone most folks are talking about relates to the comprehensive new standards developed by the WCMA and approved by the American National Standards Institute. This new standard, which requires compliance by all industry participants at all levels 18

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effective June 1, puts in place more stringent requirements than any such standards or laws around the world.

Vision: So, regardless of whether you are a retailer, fabricator or workroom, every business will have to comply with these new standards?

Derick Marsh: Yes. The standards were developed on a voluntary basis by the industry but adherence to them is mandatory. As standards, they may not have the legal effect of statutes or regulations but, noncompliance can have much the same outcome for the manufacturer, retailer or installer.

Not only is meeting or exceeding the standard the right thing to do as a good corporate citizen, as it is a set of mostly logical and sensible guidelines designed to minimize child injuries, but I can tell you from personal experience that plaintiff’s counsel will spend a lot of time determining whether the various defendants complied with the standard in effect at the time of the incident.

Vision: Many companies in our industry are small, independents without an internal legal or compliance team.

Are the decks stacked against them?

Derick Marsh: There has no doubt been some grousing that these standards are onerous and that compliance is complicated, but I belief that is mostly a reflexive response, usually from those who have not taken the time to understand the new standard.

We are not a regulated industry like banking or health care where compliance with regulations can be a crushing requirement. In this case, we

are talking about a 68 page document (compared to the more than 10,000 pages of the IRS code) that attempts to improve our products’ safety and better warn installers and users about their potential dangers. It is amazing how effective the education process has been in reducing injuries associated with corded window coverings.

Most people outside our industry (and until recently, a surprising number of participants inside our industry) just do not appreciate the potential dangers a corded window covering presents and how some fairly basic measures will dramatically reduce the likelihood of injury.

Vision: How well do you think many of the smaller companies are doing regarding compliance with the new standards?

Derick Marsh: RollEase is fortunate to have over 1,500 customers who manufacture finished products, so we get a pretty good view on general compliance efforts. There will always be exceptions, but there is no doubt a substantially larger group of manufacturers than before is taking this new standard seriously. Since the warning label requirements changed from the prior provisional standard, we are seeing a broad interest in using the new labels, as well as the use of tension devices when continuous loop products are involved. There have been cordless options available for many years, but various considerations ranging from aesthetics to functionality to window location or size make it impossible to move exclusively to cordless window coverings.

Vision: How well do you think many of the smaller companies are doing regarding compliance with the new standards?

Derick Marsh: We have dedicated an enormous amount of engineering time to the development of new products to make cords inaccessible or provide alternatives to those window covering manufacturers looking to increase their offerings of safer products. Our customers have told us that they prefer to use a tension device for continuous loop products. This is a relatively inexpensive device, which is easy to install and has more aesthetic appeal than a free-hanging loop, and has proven to be extremely effective over the years. Even the Consumer Product Safety Council has done its own research, showing that there has never been a child fatality if a tension device has been properly installed.

At RollEase we have a number of concepts that offer other safety advantages and we are always working with our customers to determine which ones they believe make sense with their offerings. I do not see the day where we, as an industry, can say we are “done� with safety-related inventions; this will remain a permanent and important part of our business. V Derick Marsh is the president of RollEase, Inc., one of the largest suppliers of clutch-operated lift systems for the window coverings industry. He has served as president since May 2005, after having been a board member since 1998. While responsible for overall day-to-day management of the company, he focuses

particularly on direct management of the sales force and substantial direct interaction with customers, establishment of strategic supply arrangements for new products lines, such as fabric, and the design direction of internal new product development. In addition to his role with the Window Covering Manufacturers Association, he is also on the Board of Directors of the Window Coverings Association of America.

WF-VISION.COM | SEPT/OCT 13 | 19

VIEWPOINT

Cord safety standards update

Support

by Ralph Vasami

ince 1996, the window covering industry has published a safety standard for corded window coverings.

The latest revision of the standard (ANSI/WCMA A 100.1-2012) went into effect for manufacturers on June 1, 2013. As professional members of the window covering industry, we all have an obligation to support this critically important initiative. There are two different ways to participate in window covering safety: Production Responsibility If your company produces window coverings, it is your responsibility to make sure that the products you are shipping are in full compliance with the current standard. The standard applies to all window coverings manufactured, distributed or produced in the United States. It does not matter if you make one unit a week or a thousand units a week. The standard applies to all custom- and ready-made window coverings that have cords, including blinds, shades and drapery hardware.

This new standard has moved from a ‘prescriptive” standard, which describes how to build a product, to a “performance” standard, which describes how a product must perform in order to be compliant.

The standard does not formally require third party testing to demonstrate compliance, however each producer of window covering products must be able to demonstrate that their products are compliant. If you are purchasing components from another company, it would be wise to ask them if those parts are in compliance with the standard.

A full understanding of the standard itself is necessary if you produce win20

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dow coverings. The standard is referred to as a voluntary standard because the industry voluntarily works with the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and other experts to create a consensus standard. However, the CPSC enforces the standard and expects mandatory compliance from all producers. The ANSI/WCMA A-100.12012 Standard is currently available on the WCMA’s web site. Click on: www. wcmanet.org/wcmastandard.html

which is a coalition of major US manufacturers, importers, and retailers of window coverings, provides free retro fit kits to consumers for five different groups of products. You can order them by going to their web site: www. windowcoverings.org or by calling toll free 800-506-4636. In addition to the retrofit kits, this web site provides a great deal of information in the form of videos, newsletters, FAQ’s, helpful tips and links to other web sites.

Sales Responsibility If your company sells window coverings to end users, it is your responsibility as a window covering professional to have a meaningful discussion about child safety with each and every client prior to a sale. The goal is to increase their awareness, as many consumers are not familiar with the potential hazards to young children associated with corded window coverings. Providing the client with an overview of the issue and introducing them to the products that are best suited for their specific lifestyle, will insure they make the proper and well informed decision.

Necessary Steps We strongly request that you produce and sell products that are in full compliance with the current standard. If possible, use cordless products in homes with young children. Have a safety conversation with all clients. Encourage them to replace older products with today’s safer products or have them order a free retrofit kit. Alert them to move all cribs, beds, and furniture away from windows, eliminate all dangling cords, insure all tension devices are properly installed and anchored to the wall or floor and be sure that all tasseled pull cords are as short as possible.

Today there is an abundance of product choices that can be considered, including, but not limited to, cordless operating systems on many product types, retractable operating systems, motorized product options, and a wide variety of products with inaccessible cords, or no cords, such as shutters, spring roller shades and curtains.

We have made great strides as an industry, but we still have more work to do. There is nothing more important than the safety of our children.

We thank you in advance for joining our cause and making a difference in your world. V

In addition to addressing the safety issue on the sale of new products, you have the ability to help your clients make older products safer if they choose not to purchase a replacement.

The Window Covering Safety Council,

Ralph Vasami is the executive director of the Window Covering Manufacturers Association and has been involved in the development and the evolution of cord safety standards for more than 20 years.

Editor’s Note: We encourage you to regularly check the following list of websites for additional information on this important issue.

Window Covering Manufacturers Association http://www.wcmanet.org/ Parents for Window Blind Safety and related sites http://parentsforwindowblindsafety.org/ http://www.youtube.com/user/pfwbs?feature=guide http://windowcoveringtesting.org/ The Consumer Products Safety Commission http://www.cpsc.gov/

SafetyHold3

TM

Eliminate dangling bead chain and cord loops to help keep children safer.

Safer Products This is the CPSC site for reporting incidents with consumer products and searching the database for reports and recalls on products. http://www.saferproducts.gov/Default.aspx Window Coverings Safety Council http://www.windowcoverings.org/ https://www.facebook.com/windowcoverings Window Pro Digest http://www.window-pro.org/winpro/ Culture of Safety A general safety blog with some posts on the cord safety issue. http://www.cultureofsafety.com/childcare/window-blind-suffocation/ Consumer Federation of America A consumer advocacy organization. http://www.consumerfed.org/component/content/article/9-productsafety/544-consumer-groups-urge-promulgation-of-mandatory-standardfor-window-coverings http://www.consumerfed.org/component/content/article/9-productsafety/525-the-real-myths-and-facts-about-window-covering-safety Child Safety Blog A blog dedicated to updated news and information on general child safety issues. Search for "window blind safety" or start at the following post and review related links. http://www.childsafetyblog.org/2012/09/blind-xpress-window-blinds-recalled-due-to-childs-death.html Weslea’s Wall A blog dedicated to updated news and information on the cord safety issue. http://wesleaswall.tumblr.com/ A web search using the term “window blind safety” will produce a long list videos, pages, articles, and blogs commenting on and reacting to recent developments, recalls, and the standard.

A tension device compliant with the WCMA 2013 Safety Standards SafetyHold3 is a clear solution for safety, durability, and innovation in tension devices. Stylish product matches any decor while keeping children safer.

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WF-VISION.COM | SEPT/OCT 13 | 21

INSOLROLL, INC. Insolroll provides cord-free, single cord pull, continuous bead chain pull shades and motorized window shades that meet and exceed the new American National Standard for Safety of Corded Window Covering Products (ANSI/WCMA A100.1-2012).

Its proprietary metal select locking chain guide provides smooth durable operation of continuous bead chain clutch shades. insolroll.com

SMARTROLL Smartroll™ technology provides a safe, smooth and silent cordless solution for roller shades. The smartroll mechanism operates through the company’s patented automatic rolling spring system which guarantees trouble-free and secure use, eliminating all cords and hazardous chains. smartroll.com

In View:

Cord-safe solutions for window treatments

SOMFY

HORIZON WINDOW FASHIONS Cordless ONE Controls™ is Horizons Window Fashions' exclusive, patented (U.S. Patent #8505607 B2) cordless lift system available on all of their fabric and natural Roman shades. Operated by a simple control ring hidden behind the bottom hem, shades with Cordless ONE Controls are reliable and easy-to-operate. horizonshades.com/cordless

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Motorized window coverings powered

by Somfy create a safer environment for children and provide peace of mind for clients by eliminating dangerous cords.

The company offers products to motorize various window covering types, including roller shades, which offers the safest cordless option. Somfy also provides a wide variety of controls and accessories to enhance the customer’s experience with motorization. somfypro.com

ORION Orion introduces 3D drapery hardware—new designs that bring the finial in front of the rod. These designs are ideal for tight fits where conventional rods and finials just will not work. Finials can be adjusted to be above or below the rod simply by changing their position and tightening the set screws. Available in 35 Iron Art™ finishes, five Italian finishes or custom orders. ironartbyorion.com

In View:

GABY’S Gaby’s Shoppe proudly manufacturers in-house, allowing the company to create custom hardware solutions such as those for bay and arch windows. Its extensive line of rods, finials and brackets can also be customized to fit specific needs and are offered in a range of finishes from traditional antique bronze to contemporary stainless steel. gabys.com

The details that make the difference FOREST DRAPERY HARDWARE The current trend toward Ripplefold* draperies pairs perfectly with Forest motorized and corded decorative poles. Beautiful and functional, the collection offers six finials in three finishes—satin nickel, chrome and black finishes. Mix styles and finishes to create unique designs. *Ripplefold is a trademark of Kirsch. forestgroup.com

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BELAGIO ENTERPRISES Everything you love about a classic braid—enhanced with a decorative edge. Belagio’s 1 ½" braid from the Mulberry 11 collection is available in fashionable colors such as black pepper, espresso, citrine, pistachio, crimson, sea glass, surf, passion, grey, gold, rose, porcini and spice. Cords, tassel fringe, brush fringe, key tassel and ball fringe with matching tiebacks and chair ties are all part of the collection. belagioenterprises.com

XENTRIC Xentric recently released the Urban collection, complete with the same quality brackets the company is known for, but with a new twist—the Urban collection offers the option of invisible screws, a detail demanded by the company’s high-end clientele. The collection comes in all Xentric colors, with the addition of eight new paint colors and two new plated finishes, all finished to order at the South California plant. xentric.com

SPINA DESGIN ABO WINDOW FASHION CORP. ABO Window Fashions caters to the highest standards in quality and design. Its range of curtain rods and finials are splendidly detailed and offer a richness of color, timeless design and effortless functionality. abowindow.com

The Mercury tieback is a supremely elegant design composed of rich metallic gunmetal spheres, hematite beads and fine silk bobbles. Part of the Ethnic Chic collection, variations are also available in tiger’s eye and moonstone. spinadesign.co.uk

In View: The details that make the difference SAMUEL & SONS The Lumiere Collection is inspired by the interaction of light, metal and fiber and the influence they have on each other. The collection is composed of 10 colors in contemporary patterns. The reversible ribbed border features a satin rib diamond on the face, highlighted by the metallic ground. On the reverse, the emphasis is on the shimmering metallic abstract pattern. There is a coordinating glass beaded fringe, gimp and cord. samuelandsons.com

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Protect what’s most precious with motorized window coverings powered by Somfy Provide your clients a safer alternative with motorized window coverings powered by Somfy. More than just convenient, motorized shades offer peace of mind by creating a safe and comfortable environment for children of all ages.

Somfy offers products to motorize various types of window coverings such as blinds, shades and draperies and also offers a wide variety of control options such as hand-held remotes, wireless wall switches, table top controls, sensors and timers.

To learn more about Somfy’s motorized solutions, please visit www.somfypro.com/vision or call us at 1-877-43SOMFY.

Telis 4 RTS Pure

HOME MOTION BY © Copyright Somfy Systems, Inc. 9/2013

COULISSE Coulisse will launch several new collections of double roller blind fabrics this fall. Plans include a range of colorful plains, as well as nature-inspired fabrics, high-quality jacquards and a new stripe. coulisse.com

MAXWELL FABRICS Sky’s The Limit is a new 118 inch wide sheer collection from Maxwell Fabrics. The bold patterns are balanced with a neutral palette of grays, ivories and whites with a touch of sheen. Choose from over twenty patterns and more than 70 color SKUs in poly, poly-linen or poly-cotton blends. Many selections from Sky's The Limit pass the NFPA 701 tests making them the ideal choice for commercial design projects. maxwellfabrics.com

QMOTION ADVANCED SHADING SYSTEMS QMotion Advanced Shading Systems recently announced the release of a new line of automated window shades that incorporate KoolBlack technology. The innovative fabrics, developed by Mermet, are a breakthrough for designers and architects, because they increase the heat-reflectivity of dark colored materials. qmotionshades.com

In View:

For shades, draperies and more TREND FABRICS Jaclyn Smith Home, Vol. III is a fresh take on new traditional, blending classic and modern design elements with a twist. Pair an ethnic ikat with a traditional floral embroidery and a simple tape for a refreshing take on traditional design. The collection features calming palettes like gray and yellow with pops of pool blue. Trend and Jaclyn Smith Home continue their mission to provide high-end looks at affordable prices. trend-fabrics.com

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CATANIA Besides silks, Catania offers cottons, linens, poly, blended fabrics, trims and tie backs. Its fabric collection includes solids, stripes, checks, prints and embroideries. cataniasilk.com

COMFORTEX WINDOW FASHIONS The Comfortex collection of Disneythemed roller and cellular shades features over 200 designs, including iconic characters such as Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Winnie the Pooh, Disney Princesses and Disney Fairies, as well as new classic characters from Disney•Pixar movies such as Toy Story, Cars, and Monsters, Inc. All Comfortex shades in the Disney collection are manufactured with child safety in mind, featuring cordless or radio frequency motorized operating systems. comfortex.com

More Colors More Textures More Patterns

BEACON HILL The design team at Beacon Hill drew inspiration from classic architectural features for its latest line: Embroideries & Appliques.They captured the intricate detail and complex shapes of elegant wrought iron ornamentation found in Beaux-Arts, Art Nouveau and Art Deco architecture in Paris and New York to create looks that range from a a bold panel stripe to a full floral motif. beaconhilldesign.com

With over 500 unique items make RollEase your fabric source

Alkenz solar, Almedahls decorative and SierraSol WILSON FABRICS Wilson Fabrics coordinating ranges give customers the option to have the energy saving benefits of the company’s quality blockout drapery coupled with the privacy benefits of the translucent blinds, which can be easily rolled up and away if required. There are more more than 50 coordinating blinds and draperies combinations to choose from. wilsonfabrics.com.au

blackout fabrics- all exclusively from RollEase® .

Call us today or visit us at www.rollease.com

SUNSHADOW® Solar Screen Fabrics 800.552.5100 203.964.1573 ORDER FAX: 203.358.5865

WF-VISION.COM | SEPT/OCT 13 | 29

MARKET PREVIEW

The Benefits of Wilson Fabrics prepares for the U.S. market or a company that is nearly 100 years old, Wilson Fabrics has managed to retain the best of the past while always keeping an eye on the future. For example, this Australian-based company is one of the few vertically integrated companies left in the world completely devoted to window treatment business.

What this ‘old-fashioned’ arrangement means is that Wilson Fabrics has total control over every aspect of the drapery and shades fabrics its sells—from the design to the mill to the marketing.

“Having quality controlled manufacturing ensures we can do quite technical weaves and designs that can’t easily be duplicated by cheaper overseas mills,” said General Manager Chris Sencek. “Our product development team enjoys the challenge of moving Wilson’s fashion forward faster.”

Vision magazine had the opportunity to talk with some of the Wilson Fabrics team about the company’s approach to design.

Vision: What do you think are some of your key selling points coming into the U.S. market?

Jennifer Donnelly, Marketing Manager: We pride ourselves on the quality and designs of our blind fabrics which are unique not only in the Australian market, but worldwide. We are renowned for quality blockout coating and our Pitch Black blockout coating is full blockout that surpasses the standards

form Oeko-Tex, the internationally recognized label for ‘confidence in textiles.’This logo signifies that the product has passed rigorous testing implemented by independent testing institutes. It confirms that no harmful substances are present and that the fabric poses no risk whatsoever to the client’s health.

Vision: What are some of the advantages you bring to the U.S. by virtue of being a vertically integrated company?

Chris Sencek: One of our greatest manufacturing advantages is that we can produce short runs of colors

Vision magazine first spotted Wilson Fabrics at the 2012 R+T in Stuttgart, where the company’s colorful fabrics and the promotion for its “Pitch Black™” line caught our eye. “R+T was quite the wakeup call for us,” said Sencek, “the booth was non-stop with international inquiries. We have always had aspirations to do well in the U.S. and it became evident our approach to business The Studio range of fabrics has been designed to meet consumer demand for color; including vibrant cherry red, vivid moss green and bold eggplant as well as the ever- popular natural tones such as white, could be successfully mirrored in mink and taupe. the U.S.” In January 2014 nearly which enables us to trial and test colors two years of research and planning will for blockout. The superior blockout outside the ‘safe zone’ of neutrals. This pay off, when Wilson Fabrics launches properties block out the heat in summer means we can provide a color spectrum its U.S. business with a warehouse— and keep the heat in during winter, savof products that allows our customers a fully stocked with all of its best-selling ing on heating and cooling bills. wider range of choices. We can effidraperies and blind fabrics available for We have also taken the proactive ciently produce minimums of 300 yards, immediate delivery. approach to obtaining certification 30

| VISION

“The colors for Flinders were selected to create a versatile range consisting of a neutral palette with the addition of fashionable ‘highlight colors’ we see trending in the near future,” said Jess Fitzgerald.

giving us great flexibility in terms of color and pattern tests, and the ability to produce short-run exclusives for clients.

Vision: What are some of the color trends you’ve seen and be able to market to with this built-in ability?

Jess Fitzgerald, Head Designer & Weave Specialist: For example, take the recent trend for grey. Over the past two years there has been much more varied grey spectrum and within no time we were able to take our grey to where the market was moving to with our top patterns. Since we can run small batches we can get immediate feedback on whether we hit the mark.

Our color batches are as short as 300 yards, so if we hit one winner out of six tested colors we still make money, but more importantly that one winner could be 20,000 yards.

Jennifer Donnelly: We feel we have a distinct point of difference by being able to offer quality, jacquard blind fabrics that cover both the traditional market with plain textures that we offer under Wilson and also the more contemporary

designer market with stylish designer jacquard ranges we have on offer in our Studio collection.

These Studio looks—Arizona, Lava, Spencer, Blizzard and Moma—cater specifically to the color and design enthusiast. We believe they fill a gap in the U.S. market.

Vision: Any other color trends you’ve noticed and integrated into your product offerings?

Chris Sencek: We have started to see more color coming into blockout drapery and blind fabrics, which was traditionally only seen in uncoated fabrics and upholstery. We have been offering bold color, particularly in our Studio blind ranges for some time now, but it’s exciting to see new shades coming through and customers much more willing to embrace some color in their homes.

Vision: What is one of your current best-sellers?

Jess Fitzgerald: Flinders is a new coordinating blockout drapery and blind

range that was just released in August and is already on its way to one of our top sellers. Both the drapery and blinds feature Wilson’s renowned quality Pitch Black blockout coating.

Flinders is a basket weave, creating a contemporary two-toned look. The drapery is available in 16 colors ranging from naturals right through to mulberry, pesto and ebony. The coordinating blackout blind fabric is available 12 colors including silver and slate, making this a very comprehensive collection.

Jennifer Donnelly: We are extremely passionate about fabrics and we have some very exciting developments and ranges planned for 2014 that we can’t wait to release to the market! V

IWCE: Vision’14 Sneak Peek!

Did you know?

Wilson Fabrics is one of several new companies that will be exhibiting in Las Vegas. Find out more at wf-vision.com/ shows and wilsonfabrics.com.au.

WF-VISION.COM | SEPT/OCT 13 | 31

COLOR & TRENDS 2014

So Emotional Inspirations from MoOD for 2014-2015 MoOD is a textile design show held annually in Brussels, where mills show new lines for their clients— jobbers,

fabricators,

furniture

companies and other large-volume customers. Because the lead time of MoOD’s clientele is long-term, (it can take up to 18 months for a fabric to go from concept, through production, to being viewed by the end consumer) the trends featured tend to be more future focused as well. For 2014-2015, the trend theme was eMOTION. V TERRE NATALE TOP, A form of resistance against the relentlessness of modern life, Terre Natale emphasizes the need to switch off and enjoy simplicity and tranquility. There is a need for freedom, even from the ownership of objects, “Just like nationalism and identity connects us to our Terre Natale, but we do not need to live there to be a part of it,” said Patrick Geysels, the show’s general manager. “We can admire the beauty of objects and materials without possessing them.” The materials and colors in Terre Natale are connected to the earth, water and nature.

COLORFOOLS BELOW, More architects and designers are approaching architectural space from the emotional experience they want to provoke. “The fact that we are so crazy about color indicates that we are fed up with the crisis. The colors in this scene are rebelling against the so called ‘designer’s colors’ of the last decade. They are pure, honest and are featured best on smooth, plain materials,” said Geysels.

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| VISION

WHAT’S

YOUR

TREND?

fabrics. trimmings. hardware. 800.945.3838 www.trend-fabrics.com

SO(U)LARIS “The way we look at the world is changing,” said Geysels.

“Transparency and openness, lightheartedness, love and honesty are core skills, literally and figuratively and these values are almost always associated with light and soft colors.”

So(u)laris embraces the return of the mysticism where magic is poetic but never dramatic.

FOILS Foils are omnipresent in fashion, but according to the MoOD trend team, they are also about to burst into the interior. The arrival of the foils is an extension of the success of the metallics in wall paints and the glitter in accessories. It is the proof of the newfound confidence in the future.

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Advertorial

The Hunter Douglas Federal Tax Credit Opportunity The American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012 reinstated for 2012 -2013 the Federal Tax Credit of up to $500 on select energy-efficient products. Hunter Douglas Duette® Architella® honeycomb shades are among those products. This means that aligned Hunter Douglas dealers can offer a compelling three-way savings opportunity to their customers on Duette Architella shades this fall: 1. Up to $500 U.S. Federal Tax Credit opportunity.

2. ‘Tis the Season for Style Saving Celebration with consumer rebates of $100 for purchases of four Duette Architella shades (plus $25 per additional unit).

3. Reduced energy loss through windows by up to 45%.

All energy-efficient products that qualify for the tax credit must be for existing homes, not new construction, and must be considered the customer’s principal residence. For more information, see the Manufacturer’s Certification Statements at hunterdouglas.com/taxcredit.

Some additional facts: The maximum credit is for 10% of the purchase price with a maximum of $500, excluding sales

tax, measuring and installation.Shades must be purchased and installed between 1/1/12 and 12/31/13. Anyone who received a rebate of $500 or more from the similar tax credit that was in effect during 2010 and 2011 is not eligible for the credit for 20122013. For anyone who received a credit of less than $500 during these prior years, that amount will be deducted from the $500 credit for the 2012-2013 years.

Customers need to be provided with a detailed receipt as proof that they have purchased a product that qualifies for the credit. They should keep a copy of both their receipt and the Manufacturer’s Certification Statement(s) associated with the purchased product(s).

Customers should be advised to consult their tax advisor to determine eligibility. Contact your Hunter Douglas fabricator or visit my.hunterdouglas.com to learn more.

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WF-VISION.COM | SEPT/OCT 13 | 35

COLOR & TRENDS 2014

Fluid, Forward Color The Sherwin-Williams 2014 palettes Annually, Sherwin-Williams unveils its colormix™ palettes, gathering influences from the world around us to explore the evolution of color and serve to inspire design professionals for upcoming home projects. Featuring four palettes influenced by fashion, science, nature, art, photography, and global traditions, colormix 2014 helps design professionals define the moods they want to create. Jackie Jordan, director of color marketing for Sherwin-Williams, introduced the new palettes. V Library Pewter (SW 0038) Relic Bronze (SW 6132) Show Stopper (SW 7588) Quixotic Plum (SW 6265) Antiquarian Brown (SW 0045) Blue Peacock (SW 0064) Anew Gray (SW 7030) Exclusive Plum (SW 6263) Sealskin (SW 7675) Enigma (SW 6018)

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CURIOUSITY “The Curiosity palette is mad science meets fantasy. We see it as avant-garde, experiential, dark and exotic,” explained Jordan. Driven by science and geology, with nature at the most molecular level becoming a resource for patterns, textures and colors; the wonder of the palette is that what one may see as strange and unique, another may see as beautiful. Mined minerals, metals and raw gems also influence this palette.

Ablaze (SW 6870) Ceremonial Gold (SW 6382) Capri (SW 6788) Sawdust (SW 6158) Dynamo (SW 6841) Georgian Bay (SW 6509) Polished Mahogany (SW 2838) Houseplant (SW 6728) Raucous Orange (SW 6883) Ramie (SW 6856)

INTRINSIC “Made up of a little Bohemian and plenty of color, this palette’s focus is embracing and preserving tradition, culture and design, while bringing in new influences,” said Jordan. World events, such as the Winter Olympic Games in Russia, are driving new appreciation of folkloric costumes, patterns and styles of the country. This palette is a celebration of both cultural and individual traditions, embracing family and heritage now more than ever.

WF-VISION.COM | SEPT/OCT 13 | 37

Fleur De Sel (SW 7666) Malted Milk (SW 6057) Balanced Beige (SW 7037) Steamed Milk (SW 7554) Beige (SW 2859) Spun Sugar (SW 6337) Sandbank (SW 6052) Alpaca (SW 7022) Westhighland White (SW 7056) Nonchalant White (SW 6161)

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DIAPHANOUS “With Diaphanous, society’s need for overconsumption has given way to minimalism and a quiet reality,” said Jordan. “It embodies the very essence of balance, simplicity and elegance.” The colors are light and delicate, and the palette evokes serenity and escape. Silk, chiffon, feathers, natural wool, rose gold, barely-there patterns and soft florals are key to this palette. Diaphanous is the blurred duality all around, from menswear influences on feminine clothes to the soft-touch material on electronics. The colors work well in a bedroom, nursery, living room or bathroom.

EXTRA WIDE PLEATS FOR A GRAND LOOK IN THE INTERIOR

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REASONED “Rooted in black, white and tones of gray, this palette represents shadows, negative space and tone-on-tone layering,” said Jordan. Mathematics played a significant role in defining this palette. It celebrates the quantifiable world’s impact on design, illustrated by the use of geometry and 3-D printing, to create patterns and shapes in all forms. Consider this palette for a home office, study or library, or even a bedroom or kitchen.

WFCP COLOR CERTIFICATION

Tricorn Black (SW 6258) Agreeable Gray (SW 7029) Crushed Ice (SW 7647) Classic French Gray (SW 0077) Extra White (SW 7006) Gauntlet Gray (SW 7019) Earl Grey (SW 7660) Peppercorn (SW 7674)

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Did you know?

That WFCP has a new color certification program developed by Kate Smith of Sensational Color and featuring exclusive color tools from Sherwin-Williams?

Find out more about this opportunity at wf-vision.com/color.

Think global.

MeeT us worldwide. www.rt-expo.com

R+T is the number 1 trade fair worldwide. It is an industry meeting place, industry barometer and innovation platform. Successful satellite trade fairs have also established themselves in Moscow, Shanghai and Istanbul. Experts from all over the world meet to enter new cooperation ventures and do business.

All according to the motto of R+T: Think global – meet us worldwide.

WF-VISION.COM | SEPT/OCT 13 | 41

THREE EXPOS for ONE BADGE! Design and Construction Week brings together the International Window Coverings Expo along with Kitchen & Bath Industry’s main event and the International Builders Show. Nothing compares to this combined venue for bringing you the resources you need for current and future design projects.

Design and Construction Week is brimming with the freshest designs, products and technology–plus CEU Seminars and special events! Make sure to take advantage of FREE Exhibit Hall registration for the month of October!

wf-vision.com/aboutshows

SPECIAL EVENTS: Window Fashions Vision magazine Envision Design & Ingenuity Workroom Competitions Awards Ceremony Wednesday, February 5, 2014; 5:15 pm - 7:00 pm, Renaissance Hotel Ballroom Join other industry professionals to applaud the winners as they reveal the Big Ideas behind their trophy-winning creations. The annual Award Ceremony celebrates the best in design and workroom. FREE event with hors d’oeuvres and cash bar.

Opening Keynote: General Stanley McChrystal, Top Commander in Afghanistan, Retired Tuesday, February 4, 2014; 8:30 am, Hall S4 Free for WFCP Members/$25 for Non-Members Attend one of our FREE informational seminars on certification: Become the “Go To” Color Expert in Your Area with WFCP Color Certification.

Kate Smith, Color Expert, President & Chief Color Maven, Sensational Color Tuesday, February 4, 2014; 1:00 pm, room S1-102 What WFCP Design Certification Can Mean to You and Your Business Deb Barrett, WFCP Expert, Principal of Window Dressings, Co-founder, DBRx Wednesday, February 5, 2014; 1:00 pm, room S1-101 WFCP Workroom Certification A-Z - Awnings to Z-brackets Jill Ragan Scully, Impressive Windows & Interiors, WFCP Workroom Certification Director Wednesday, February 5, 2014; 1:00 pm, room S1-102 IBS Spike Concert Pat Benatar & Neil Giraldo Thursday, February 6, 2014 Hall S4, Las Vegas Convention Center 5:00 – 7:30 PM - $35.00 per ticket Tease your hair, break out the black leather pants and torn fishnets and enjoy a private concert with four-time Grammy winner Pat Benatar. Rock out to hits like Hit Me with Your Best Shot, Love Is a Battlefield and Heartbreaker. Benatar and Neil Giraldo will take the stage at 6 pm but doors open at 5:00 pm, so come early and grab a drink!

CONSTRUCTION ZONE: FEBRUARY 4-6, 2014 – BOOTH #460 Year after year, the Construction Zone continues to be a bustling hub for sharing, learning and inspiring, as top workroom experts share their techniques, passions and talents. This year will be no exception, but will offer a few extra bonuses. The Construction Zone coordinator, Terri Booser, has some variations planned for both the demonstration format and the vignette displays to shake it up a bit! She comments, “This year’s Construction Zone will be set up with two interactive classroom style areas where attendees will have the opportunity to sit, learn, and construct many small projects relative to the demonstrations taught by the WFCP™ instructors and/or members. And as for the vignettes, they are being constructed by the WFCP instructors to highlight concepts and principles included in the WFCP workroom certification program with “Drapery and Fabrication Art” as a theme. They are sure to be innovative, inspiring and as always, over the top!”

HIGHLIGHTED DEMONSTRATIONS:

Leading Edge Pleating 20-minute Bolster Pillow Rouched Round Pillow Hand Sewing Techniques Ripplefold Rod Assembly Slipcover Skirts High-End Embellishments

Hinged Cornices Soft Cornices All About Linings Proportional Scale Shroud Tape Using Magnets

Construction Zone sponsored by WFCP and coordinated by Terri Booser, WFCP Expert and Workroom Certification Senior Advisor and owner of Studio of Drapery and Fabrication Arts, a workroom and private training facility.

FREE REGISTRATION DURING THE ENTIRE MONTH OF OCTOBER!* REGISTER TODAY! *Registration fees after October 30, 2014: $50 online; $200 onsite

SEMINARS AT A GLANCE The Keys To Creating Color Harmony at Home K. Smith The New Custom Window Coverings Safety Standards Bays, Bows and Corners…Oh my!

T. Booser Paperless Office S. Cruz

Fifty Ways to Make Your Client Say WOW! J. Lenart-Weary The Little Black Dress T. Horton

Stealth Marketing Secrets G. Doby

High End Details: A Step Above the Rest T. Paradoski

The “Not So Simple Cornice” C. Ballman Become the ‘Go To’ Color Expert in Your Area with WFCP Color Certification K. Smith

The Commercial Workroom A-Z J. Ragan Scully Window Fashion Design Lab D. Barrett

Designer’s Guide to Window Treatments A. Johnson

Up Next: Interior Design Trends for 2015 S. Schultz Fifty Shades of Fabulous J. Lenart-Weary

Wine and Design

Discover the Secret Formula to Stand Out, Get Noticed and Get Hired M. Bayer

For a complete listing of seminars, visit wf-vision.com/seminars

preview, © Cyril Lagel. SAFI organisation, a subsidiary of Ateliers d’Art de France and Reed Expositions France

Home collections 24-28 JAN. 2014 PARIS NORD VILLEPINTE www.maison-objet.com The show for home-fashion Trade only

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COLOR & TRENDS 2014

Escape Valves New behaviors to influence future palettes “Consumers choose 85 percent of their purchases on the basis of color,” said Hilde Francq, the chief forecaster for Belgian trend company Box3. Francq, who is the only Belgium member of the Color Marketing Group, gains insight on trends from the other color professionals in CMG, as well as the research she and her team do by traveling to a wide range of international trade shows and events. The results of their research are the twice-a-year Box3 color trend reports that are produced approximately 24 months in advance of the season. For example, they are putting the final touches on the spring/summer 2015 trends right now. “Colors are influenced by sociological and economic trends,” explained Francq, as she and her team shared some of their fall/winter 20142015 trends. They categorized some of the top news stories—the volatility of the euro and the dollar, uncertainity across Europe, a still shaky international economy, etc. and came up with two key influences—hyper transparency and system breakdowns—that resulted in their Escapism trend. “We are through with everything ‘as is’ and are

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looking for new ways to think, behave and live,” explained Francq, who broke the Escapism trend into spacial, temporal and personal categories. Go to the Box3 website for details on the “personal" category. V

Frozen ocean

Ruby

Cool aqua

Pink wool

Breadsticks

Inca orange

Caramel

Carotene

Camel

Veiled pink

Ice blue

Soft cheek

Boulder gery

Fleece grey

Silk grey

Almost black VISION beelden.indd 3

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SPACIAL ESCAPISM What drives this aspect of the palette is the overwhelming pressure of constant work and constant connection. These stressors drive us to create a space that allows us to relax and release the stress, a welcoming place in the midst of everything we have to deal with.

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So, for the spacial escapist, the phrase ‘home is where the heart is’ takes on special meaning. The Aurora Borealis palette, left, is for those who seek relaxation through exploration. The Cosy Corner palette, above, is for those who escape to the comfort of their own home.

Lavender white

Intense marine

Ice cream

Modular grey

Camel

Innocence

Freshness

Gingerbread

Beauty pink

Warm clay

Twig brown

Bijou VISION beelden2.indd 1

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TEMPORAL ESCAPISM This is based on the perception of ‘systems failure’ such as trouble in the euro zone, the breakdown of governments and diminishing natural resources. First, escapism in the future through Industrial, a palette of cool greys and construction yellows. Then, escapism in history. Heritage is a traditional palette of almost medieval colors, while Queen Elizabeth features mint green and pastels based on the costumes of the English queen with grey to highten the dramatic effect.

Misty green

Charcoal grey

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CLOSER LOOK Hilde Francq, Box3 Facebook: Pinterest: en.box3.be facebook.com/Box3ColorWorks pinterest.com/box3colorworks

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4/09/13 14:30

COLOR & TRENDS 2014

Irrepressible Optimism New behaviors to influence future palettes

by Donovan Freeland

Each year forecasters and professional associations like the Color Marketing Group parse through the landscape to identify emerging themes in culture, society and the geo-political landscape. These influences are interpreted in color, pattern and design. The process is equal parts anthropology, psychology, and inspiration. In this way, color trending is a unique barometer of our collective psyche. at this time of year we at Colwell, (a leading manufacturer of color merchandising) sit notso-patiently for paint and décor companies reveal to their color forecasts. Though thousands of colors pass through our manufacturing locations every week in paint companies’ fan decks and color cards, there is something magical when a hue rises to the surface, selected by many companies independently as the ‘color of the moment.’ Only then, perhaps, do we see the wondrous possibilities that shade has to offer.

The recession brought a dose of reality to which many of us had not previously been exposed. As we slogged through quarter after quarter of bad economic news, we began to reexamine our lifestyles and something kind of miraculous happened—we found a new, and arguably better version of ourselves.

Lavish steakhouse dinners gave way to gathering family and friends together in our homes to prepare meals together with vegetables picked fresh from our gardens. Lacquered and shiny moved toward rustic, elemental and repurposed. Our obsession with the emerging technoculture has rebounded to an infatuation with both indigenous and old-world cultures and nostalgia for simpler times.

According to the Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Economic Analysis, we have seen 48 months of economic expansion as of the end of July 2013. The American Coatings Association’s Paint Consumer Research Program showed consumer paint sales rebounding mightily in 2012 after sales hit record lows in 2009. Now four years in to the recovery, we see that abiding American optimism creeping back into consumers’ use of color in their homes.

Best-selling author Seth Godin, expresses our resiliency perfectly: “Optimism is the most important human trait, 48

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because it allows us to evolve our ideas, to improve our situation, and to hope for a better tomorrow.” Emerging from this crisis that has certainly taken its toll and yet has given so much. We are once again hopeful. Perhaps, it is a more knowing optimism. More honest. But in some ways more joyful. And finally more colorful!

For designers and decorators this means the return of clients who are ready and waiting for a punch of brilliant cerulean, cool magenta, flamenco pink or sunny goldenrod in their décor. Citrusy greens and feminine reds infuse vitality and pair perfectly with the grays and ethereal neutrals we have come to love in recent years.

Economic indicators aside, I believe that it is this return to color that is the most clear harbinger of our readiness to reclaim our lives and move forward to our better tomorrow as Godin suggests. From generation to generation, optimism may, indeed, be our most renewable American resource. V Donovan Freeland, CMG is the President of Colwell, Inc., a global manufacturer of color merchandising aids for the paint and window fashions industry. With more than 40 years’ experience, Freeland has helped conceive and implement industry-leading consumer and professional merchandising programs, helping customers to more easily select color with confidence.

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2013 ENVISION DESIGN COMPETITON

BARBARA ELLIOTT & JENNIFER WARD-WOODS, DECORATING DEN INTERIORS SECOND PLACE, TIE CURTAINS & DRAPERIES DESIGN CONCEPT For a client’s first grandchild, the goal was a room that would be bright, fun but also sophisticated—giving the parents all the more reason to bring the baby for a visit! The room has one small window, so the treatment was designed to increase the scale, with the Roman shade mounted above the frame and the panels hung at the ceiling trim.

The panel fabric is an embroidered cotton in a lilac color similar to the wall paint. Goblet pleats were chosen for the heading, adding an element of playfulness, while two types of trim were combined and stitched just below the pleats. The cotton-linen Roman shade, the same print which is used on the dust ruffle (not shown) adds privacy and sun control. The hardware picks up the gleaming accents of the mirrored chest—a satin nickel rod with a square mirrored finial, complete with square rings.

DETAILS

CREDITS: Designers: Barbara Elliott and Jennifer Ward-Woods, Decorating Den Interiors, Stone Mountain, GA. Workrooms: Carole Fabrics, Augusta, GA. and Finest Design, Norcross, GA. Installer: Jon Kemmerer, Tucker, GA. Photographer: Scott Johnson, Atlanta, GA. SOURCES: Fabrics: Carole Fabrics, Georgiana in orchid, Side Fence in blossom. Hardware: JF Fabrics. Trim: Fabricut.

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2013 ENVISION DESIGN COMPETITION

HEATHER RABOLD SHEFFIELD FURNITURE SECOND PLACE, TIE CURTAINS & DRAPERIES

For the two tall skinny windows on either side of the fireplace, Rabold took the panels to the bottom of the crown molding and added a diamond smocked top heading to draw the eye up. The smocking also echos the harlequin pattern on the walls, creating yet another harmonious design association.

DESIGN CONCEPT At the completion of this master bedroom project, the client described the look of the room as the fabric felt to her: “liquid gold.”

There are three arched windows in a bay, which are very low to the ground because the ceiling has two step down sections. From the bottom of the arches to the floor, it is only 55". One goal was to mask the perceived ‘squatness’ of the windows so it was decided to treat each individually, providing more reasons to draw the eye up. This was a bit tricky, given the tight fit between each window, but through careful measuring design suited to both the elegance of the room and the proportion of the windows was achieved. The velvet burn out sheer, which is also used on the bedding, helps tie the windows in with rest of the room.

DETAILS

CREDITS: Designer: Heather Rabold, Sheffield Furniture, Malvern, PA. Workrooms: Yvonne Czekai, Yvonne Czekai Draperies, Spring City, PA and Merrill Y Landis, Ltd., Telford, PA. Installers: Richard Lerch, Richard Lerch Installations, West Chester, PA. Photographer: Jon Friedrich, Sheffield Furniture.

SOURCES: Fabrics: Schumacher, solid-color silks in gold and vanilla; Texture Fabric, velvet cut out for balloon shade. Trims: Houles, balloon shade gimp; Fabricut, tassel bead trim and tassel tiebacks; Stout International, bead trim over bed. Rosettes: The Finial Company. Canopy cornice: Freidman Brothers.

WF-VISION.COM | SEPT/OCT 13 | 51

2013 ENVISION DESIGN COMPETITON HIDEKI & MICHI NISHIGAKI, DECORATORS FIRST PLACE COMMERCIAL TREATMENTS DESIGN CONCEPT For a designer showhouse that took place in an old office building, Hideki and Michi transformed a corridor into an explosion of color and pattern and that plays with perception.

The theme of the showhouse was ‘Change Everything’ and the Nishigaki’s decided to do just that. “I designed the painted walls and floor to have a stereoscopic effect for viewers,” said Hideki, “drawing their eye to the draperies.”

On the opposite side, they hung a deer head on a wall covered with paper they discovered at the Paris boutique Merci. “This deer seems like he’s smiling and saying ‘Welcome’ to visitors,” said Hideki.

For the draperies they layered multiple fabrics, including a flower print with a feathered trim, a large-scale modern check in bright yellow with a black feather trim, a black taffeta with a large pleated frill and a red and white stripe with purple trim.

“The random patterns and unexpected layering is meant to give viewers a sense of discovery and fun, like overturning a toy box to see what spills out.”

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DETAILS

CREDITS: Designers: Hideki and Michi Nishigaki, Decorators, Osaka Japan. Workroom: Hiroaki Gotou, Art-K, Gifuken, Japan. Installer: Hideki Nishigaki, Decorators. Photographer: Jirou Fujiwara, Osaka Japan.

SOURCES: Fabrics: Designers Guild, Fisba, Fujietextil, Sacho, Nys Nordiska, Marimekko. Trim: Decorators. Wallpaper: Merci, Paris, France through Walpa, Japan.

2013 ENVISION DESIGN COMPETITON

YELENA GERTS DECORATING DEN INTERIORS SECOND PLACE, TIE COMMERCIAL TREATMENTS DESIGN CONCEPT The goal was to create a modern window treatments for an upscale hair salon. The design had to be practical and durable, complimenting a newly renovated space. For that, Yelena Gerts chose a stylish, lightweight sheer fabric on traversing rods as the functional part of her design. “The stylists can easily open and close either side as needed, to control light and privacy,” explained Yelena.

Stepped cornices help hide the hardware and coordinate with the height of the doors. The stitched circles pick up some of the colors from the shimmering sheer. As a final decorative touch, luxurious silk panels with a beautiful banding details were tied back with a pair of modern black and steel tiebacks. The overall result is stylish, contemporary and very much in keeping the with salon’s redesign.

DETAILS

CREDITS: Designer: Yelena Gerts, Decorating Den Interiors, Holmdel, NJ. Workrooms: NY Upholstery for cornice, Kasmir for sheers, Carol Fabrics for draperies. Installer: Dennis Sullivano. Photographer: Irene Ginzburg, Irene Ginzburg Photography, Manalapan, NJ. SOURCES: Fabrics: Kasmir for cornice, JF Fabrics for sheers; Carol Fabrics for draperies. Tassel: Madura WF-VISION.COM | SEPT/OCT 13 | 53

2013 ENVISION DESIGN COMPETITON

GINGER THOERNER, INTERIOR WINDOW DESIGN SECOND PLACE, SPECIALTY WINDOW TREATMENTS DESIGN CONCEPT For this living and dining room combination project on the Ohio river overlooking the Cincinnati skyline, the client had only one request: To soften the look of the room without taking away from the gorgeous view. However, the home is located on the sixth floor of a building where the largest elevator has only a nine-foot ceiling, so Ginger Thoerner and her team realized they’d have to create a design that broke down into sections that would fit the elevator and assemble easily on site.

A cornice with a scalloped bottom was designed to add the movement and softness for the wide expanse of glass in the living room bay. The dining room window, though smaller, needed to coordinate, so the proportions were adjusted to make sure the finished design suited both.

To hide where each section joined, rectangular pelmets made of chipboard (using Joanna Braxton’s Pelmet technique) were made with a decorative paste crest on each. To disguise where the bay window cornices met, and to soften the angles, box pleated panels flow to puddle on the floor. The panels are mounted straight across the angles through the use of a wedge-shaped mount board.

The panels are made from a silk fabric embellished with small diamond crystals that coordinated with the crystal chandelier and faux wall finish in the adjoining dining room. A deep red solid silk is used as decorative accent color in the center inverted pleat of each panel. In the dining room, Shangra-la blinds block the view of the adjacent building while still providing filtered light.

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DETAILS

CREDITS: Designer:Ginger Thoerner Interior Window Design, Verona, KY. Workrooom: Donna Skufis DonDar Designs, Walton,KY. Installer: Patrick Kwiatkowski, Cincinnati, OH. Photographer: Ginger Thoerner:.

SOURCES: Fabrics: Novel for Interior Trade Cartel, Maxwell Fabrics Crests: Decorator’s Supply Co. Blind: Shangra-la, by Comfortex Window Fashions.

CALL FOR ENTRIES! Get ready for the 2014 WINDOW FASHION Envision Design & Ingenuity Workroom Competition Show off your designs in Las Vegas at IWCE: Vision’14 where you can personally meet the competition winners and learn their trophy winning BIG IDEAS from design to fabrication and installation.

Who Can Enter?

Individual designers, design firms and decorators who design window fashions are welcome to enter, as are workrooms and individuals who create window fashions.

What Do You Win? Winners are invited to attend the Awards Ceremony, presented by Window Fashion Vision Magazine and hosted by Publisher Grace McNamara.

The Award of Excellence and Workroom of the Year award winners receive a full FREE design pass to attend the 2015 IWCE, along with editorial and photo coverage in WF Vision magazine. Winners of specific categories receive FREE passes toward IWCE show floor and/or seminars and editorial and photo coverage in WF Vision Magazine.

Introducing four new categories: Slipcovers • Decorative pillows • Custom bedding ensembles • Upholstery

Enter online until October 4, 2013.

To enter and for complete guidelines and terms, go to wf-vision.com/Shows • 651.330.0574

WF-VISION.COM | SEPT/OCT 13 | 55

2013 ENVISION DESIGN COMPETITON

LYNNE MARVIN LAWSON, DECORATING DEN INTERIORS SECOND PLACE, TOP TREATMENTS DESIGN CONCEPT Old off-white vinyl mini-blinds had to be replaced when this guest bedroom was redesigned to evoke vintage Hollywood glamour. Lynne Marvin Lawson designed a fan fold pleated cornice using warm platinum gray silk and edged the lower lip with a crystal trim. The cornice tops a pair of stationary panels that hide traversing white sheers. The result is a window design that supports the rest of the room, while added its own modern twist on the vintage glam style.

DETAILS

CREDITS: Designer:Lynne Marvin Lawson, Decorating Den Interiors, Columbia, MD. Drapery workroom: Anderson Fabrics. Cornice workroom and installer: Ron Hortie, CWT, LLC., New Market, MD. Photographer: Randy Foulds, D. Randolph Foulds Photography, Yarmouth Port, MA SOURCES: Cornice and drapery fabric: Fabricut. Sheer fabric: Kasmir Fabrics.

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WFCP is proud to introduce

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WF-VISION.COM | SEPT/OCT 13 | 57

2013 ENVISION DESIGN COMPETITON

HEATHER MCMANUS, ARTISTRY INTERIORS, LLC SECOND PLACE, WHOLE ROOM INTEGRATION, TIE DESIGN CONCEPT Heather McManus transformed this bedroom in a showcase home into a sanctuary, filled with creature comforts and sophisticated luxuries. The window treatments add whimsy and splash of color to the room, with some of the same fabrics carried over and used on the custom bedding ensemble.

“I believe details make a successful window treatment,” said Heather, “and it’s the smocked header, contrast banding and leading edge ruffle that really make these draperies special.”

The contrast ruffle and small banding at the top are done in a tone-on-tone diamond weave fabric while the main fabric is a heavy printed cotton with a stylized floral. “It was a challenge for my workroom to do the smocked heading given the weight of the fabric, but they did a beautiful job,” she added, “but the advantage is that it has beautiful body and falls nicely to the floor.”

DETAILS

CREDITS: Designer: Heather McManus, Artistry Interiors, LLC, Kinnelon, NJ. Workroom: Saliha Ahmedi, Elegant Touch, Boonton, NJ. Installer: Kenny Beekman, Wanaque, NJ. Photographer: Bob Skinner, Bob Skinner Photography, Waldwick, NY. SOURCES: Fabrics: Thibaut, Kirkwood in aqua; Michaels Textiles, Hypnotize in Buff. Hardware: Michaels Textiles, Lily finials, fluted pole, and brackets in antique copper 58

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2013 ENVISION DESIGN COMPETITON

LESLIE SAUL, LESLIE SAUL & ASSOCIATES SECOND PLACE, WHOLE ROOM INTEGRATION, TIE DESIGN CONCEPT

DETAILS

CREDITS: Designer: Leslie Saul, Leslie Saul & Associates, Cambridge, MA. Workroom and installer: Bonnie Patrick, Patrick’s Enterprises, Millville, MA. Photographer: Anton Grassl Photography, Boston, MA SOURCES: Fabrics: Sheer and drapery panels, Osborne & Little; Top treatment piping: Makasar.

Top treatment trim: D'Kei Trim.

Cornice structure: Rowley FirmaFlex and DoFix stiffeners.

This little girl’s room has an “Alice in Wonderland” theme, with furniture and wall paintings that have over-scaled details and a cornice treatment that looks like it came right out of the Lewis Carroll storybook. Leslie Saul sketched the curving cornice, showing the multiple fabrics pieced together with a silver cord detail that swings from curve to curve.

It was up to the workroom however to create the cornices that curve not only upward, but outward as well, building them up from a plywood backer with foam and Dacron® fill. The side panels and sheers are layered into the charming mix for an overall effect that is strong and playful.

The armoire with oversized knobs and an overscaled angled shape share the “Alice in Wonderland,” slightly off-kilter design. The large, brightly colored knobs are used on the dollhouse stand and dresser to carry the concept across the room— from the dots on the sheer draperies, to those on the play furniture.

WF-VISION.COM | SEPT/OCT 13 | 59

2013 ENVISION DESIGN COMPETITON

MARGRET INAUEN, DESIGN & DECORATION SECOND PLACE, WONDERFUL WALLS DESIGN CONCEPT A young family had recently moved into a new home and requested that Margret Inauen create a living area to watch TV that was practical for baby girl and small dog, along with being comfortable for the adults.

A shimmering bronze color paint matches the faux leather of the custom ottoman. Margret developed a custom design for 60

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the wall that uses elements from the fabric on the panel track system she designed for the sliding glass doors behind the sofa.

The design was painted white on bronze, with select elements trailing off to the other walls, painted bronze on white.

The window on the focal wall was treated with the same sheer fabric used on the sliding glass doors, but here trimmed in a linen fabric for a more finished look.

DETAILS

CREDITS: Designer: Margret Inauen, Design & Decoration, Torrance, CA. Installer: Oliver Inauen, Design & Decoration. Painter: David Teter, San Pedro, CA. Photographer: Margret Inauen.

SOURCES: Drapery and pillow fabrics: Robert Allen. Side panel fabric: Kravet. Ottoman fabric: Pindler&Pindler. Hardware: Vesta. Paint: Lowe’s.

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WF-VISION.COM | SEPT/OCT 13 | 61

Product CALHOOK CALHOOK has all the right hangers, fixtures and racks for fabric samples. Wall systems and Max-Space™ floor displays make the best use of your available space and help manage samples efficiently. CALHOOK also supplies a full line of pointof-purchase supplies and equipment for retailers.

Call for a free catalog: 800/422-4665 or visit us online at calhook.com.

HT WINDOW FASHIONS HT proudly introduces Fire Retardant Cellular Shade Fabrics.

FR fabrics are newest addition to our broad selection of cellular shade material. FR rated fabrics passed latest NFPA 701 standard.

Building on our “everything cellular...” concept, HT is a leading alternative supplier for all cellular shade needs.

Please contact us for detail information. Call 800/879-9512, fax 626/839-8861 or visit our website www.htwfonline.com.

Take another look at value.

Take another look at HT Window Fashions

HT HT proudly proudly introduces introduces FIRE FIRERETARDANT RETARDANT CELLULAR CELLULAR SHADE SHADE FABRICS. FABRICS.FR FRfabrics fabrics is is newest newest addition addition to to our our broad broadselection selectionofof cellular cellular shade shade material. material. FR FRrated ratedfabrics fabrics passed passed latest latest NFPA NFPA701 701 standard. standard.Building Building on on our our “everything “everything cellular...” cellular...”concept, concept,HT HT is is aa leading leading alternative alternative supplier supplierfor forall allcellular cellular shade shade need. need.

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62 | VISION

FAUX IRON SOLUTIONS Faux Iron Solutions is the prime source of Tableaux® faux iron to complete your window treatments with look of wrought iron. Any shape, size and design in a range of iron finish colors for arches, transoms, sidelights, ceilings, cabinet and door inserts and more.

Now available with solar screen options.

Visit us at www.fauxiron.com or call at 512-928-4693.

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: 800/2314025 or fax a request to 888/231-4026..

Product SUREWIN ENTERPRISES Providing quality products at competitive pricing from our Florida warehouse. Custom sourcing available.

Plastic bead chain in rolls (numerous colors, continuous chain cordloops (in all lengths) and metal bead chain.

Stop balls, connectors, safety devices, C-Clips, alligator clips, tassels, lift cord, vertical components, cord locks, and the easy-to-fabricate low profile Sure Lift Roman Headrail System for shades up to 50 lbs. Contact: surewin@optonline.net, tel: 203/6551102, fax: 203/655-8571.

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.

UNI-SOLEIL

Uni-Soleil, based in Taiwan, designs and manufactures the most advanced blind components in the world. Our talented engineering team aims to design the best products with quiet and smooth operation. We offer a variety of products and motorization options to suit all purposes. We manufacture only in Taiwan.

Call +886-6-5106611 now or visit www.uni-soleil.com.tw

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.

WF-VISION.COM | SEPT/OCT 13 | 63

Discover the NEW WFCP!

THE WINDOW FASHION CERTIFIED PROFESSIONAL PROGRAM IS EXPANDING TO HELP YOU GROW YOUR BUSINESS. NEW CERTIFICATIONS, ONLINE COACHING AND TRAINING SESSIONS AVAILABLE. TAKE YOUR BUSINESS TO THE NEXT LEVEL WITH WFCP!

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Distinguish yourself as a professional:

Coaching programs also offered:

WINDOW FASHION DESIGN CERTIFICATION

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Developed for the designer who wants to master window fashions.

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NEW! WFCP COLOR CERTIFICATION A must for all design professionals who want to increase earning potential.

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A complete step by step guide for setting up and marketing your blog the right way.

• MINUTES MATTER STUDIO Create renderings your clients will love and move your services out of the ordinary and into the extraordinary.

• PAPERLESS OFFICE This online coaching program is for design professionals looking for an organized, paperless approach.

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nsparent fabri ra t h it se of use and a w n e e d v le e s lle e v ra a a p w tylish e for un • Smooth, s on aid adhesiv ti c u d ro p x fi ö h the unique d rless • Coated wit pe and pucke . s ta lt f u o s t n re e t c m e e rf c xact pla stunningly pe n. Results in e -o w e s d n a n on of iron-o e.

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