Roman revolution

Roman Blinds have long been a popular choice for homeowners looking to add style, functionality, and elegance to their living spaces. In recent years, advancements in technology and innovative designs have transformed the world of Roman Blinds, offering a plethora of new features and benefits. 

Here WFA explores the latest offerings from industry leaders Viewscape, Rollease Acmeda, Louvolite, and Blinds by Peter Meyer, who are revolutionising Roman Blind systems with their groundbreaking designs and exceptional attention to detail.

Viewscape’s One-Touch Roman Blinds: a durable, time-saving solution

Viewscape has recently introduced an innovative Roman Blinds system, featuring advanced technology and elegant design. 

Andrew Rundle, General Manager of Viewscape, shares his insights on the unique features and benefits of this new product.

“One-touch technology is a game-changer in the Roman Blinds system,” Rundle explains. “A slight touch automatically drops the blind, saving time and adding convenience for homeowners.” 

This ease of use is coupled with an extremely durable system designed to withstand the test of time.

The built-in braking system ensures smooth and controlled movement of the blind, while the drop adjustability feature allows homeowners to customize the level of privacy and light control. 

“Multiple headboard options add versatility, enabling the blinds to perfectly complement any interior design,” Rundle adds.

In addition to the innovative features, Viewscape’s Roman Blinds system is compatible with the majority of the company’s core range fabrics, including all exclusives. This ensures that the traditional product remains contemporary and can be effortlessly coordinated with roller blinds within the home.

As home automation continues to gain popularity, the demand for motorized window furnishings is also on the rise. 

Rundle notes, “We are now seeing a larger amount of Roman blinds being automated, both AC and DC, and we expect this trend to continue.” The integration of motorization technology in Roman blinds is yet another example of how Viewscape stays ahead of the curve in the window furnishings industry.

Rollease Acmeda’s SS38 Roman Shades: The stylish and flexible solution

Rollease Acmeda offers a stylish and innovative approach to Roman Shades with the SS38 system. 

“Our SS38 Roman Shade system combines a slim line aluminium profile with a minimal aesthetic, providing a modern take on a traditional favourite,” Shaila Figueiredo, Product Manager at Rollease Acmeda says.

“The system offers flexible operation methods, such as chain control or motorised operation, catering to various customer preferences. Furthermore, the SS38 system is available in readymade kits, allowing customers to manufacture shades quickly and efficiently while saving time and equipment costs.”

The chain control operation features an innovative cord spool that reduces user effort by 30%. Installation is made easy with integrated fixing clamps and optional Spline or Touch Tape fabric attachments. 

“Our goal is to create a user-friendly and efficient product that enhances the overall experience for our customers,” Figueiredo adds.

For those interested in motorised operation, the Automate CL Cord Lift Motor provides an easy solution for shades with up to 4m drops. Shades can be operated using an Automate Push remote or via the Pulse 2 App and Hub. 

“This sophisticated and user-friendly interface seamlessly integrates with Automate’s ecosystem, offering a convenient and modern approach to controlling Roman Shades,” Figueiredo explains.

With its sleek design, flexible operation methods, and user-friendly installation process, the SS38 system is an exceptional choice for those looking to enhance their living spaces.

Louvolite’s Romashade programme: Innovating Roman Blinds for safety and efficiency

Louvolite have released a groundbreaking Roman shade system called Romashade, which addresses both manufacturing challenges and child safety concerns according to David Kennedy, Technical Sales Manager at Louvolite.

“Traditionally, Roman Blinds feature cords that pass through guide systems sewn or fixed into the lining or batten at the rear of the blind, which can raise child safety concerns,” explains Kennedy. 

“Our industry has been working diligently to eliminate the need for skilled machinists and comply with child safety requirements outlined in EN13120 and ANSI standards.”

Louvolite’s Romashade programme uses a unique approach to assembling Roman shades, allowing existing staff to utilize familiar assembly methods without the need for new equipment. The company offers full onsite training, as well as manufacturing videos and assembly instructions specific to the Romashade System.

Instead of using hemmed fabrics and cords, the Romashade system features a tubular operating system and fabrics that do not require hemming or blockout lining. These fabrics fall into a soft fold when raised, eliminating the need for operating cords at the rear of the product.

“The rear cords have been replaced by a transparent, UV-stable strip that has been tested in the most extreme climates,” Kennedy says. 

“This strip is virtually invisible from the outside, providing a cleaner aesthetic.”

This strip passes through floating band guides attached to every alternative batten, creating the panel effect commonly seen in Roman Blinds. The final band guide is fixed in place as an anchor, effectively raising and lowering the blind as the strip is gathered or released by the roller system.

Louvolite’s One Touch motor complements the Romashade system, making it completely cordless and ensuring child safety. 

“Our system recently won the Child Safety Award at the UK BBSA exhibition in Coventry, reflecting our commitment to innovation and safety,” Kennedy adds.

Looking ahead, Louvolite plans to release a new collection of Roman fabrics in the second quarter of 2023, further expanding the options available for customers seeking stylish and safe window covering solutions. 

Blinds by Peter Meyer introduces MOTObox motorised headrail for roman blinds

Blinds by Peter Meyer is excited to introduce its latest innovation in Roman Blinds systems – the MOTObox Motorised Headrail for Roman Blinds. 

Simon Meyer, Managing Director of Blinds by Peter Meyer, discusses the unique features and benefits of this groundbreaking technology.

“The MOTObox revolutionises Roman Blinds with its motorised headrail, eliminating the need for cords to spool on a roller blind tube, as was the case with previous motorised Roman Blinds,” explains Meyer. 

In the past, cords could shoot across the spool and become visible on sheer fabrics. The MOTObox addresses this issue with a hidden hexagonal tube within the headrail and unique traversing spools that ensure lift cords maintain a constant vertical position without side-to-side wander or tangling.

Available in widths up to 5500mm, the MOTObox offers quiet operation and easy, efficient installation using standard top or face mount spring brackets. 

“For face fit blinds, we can also upholster the ends if required,” says Meyer. 

“The fabric can be easily fitted to the front face with double-sided tape, and a cover plate can be screwed into place for added security.” 

Optional back profile covering is also available.

The MOTObox features universal motor end caps, allowing the fitting of almost any brand of 40mm motor. Additionally, the track is designed for easy creation of a fabric valance if required. Meyer notes that the classic motorising style will still be used for the company’s Natural Weave Blinds, while the MOTObox will be utilised for Urban Weave blinds.

“The MOTObox Motorised Headrail for Roman Blinds showcases the future of window furnishings, combining cutting-edge technology with timeless design,” Meyer says. 

To witness the innovative MOTObox in action, visit Blinds by Peter Meyer’s stand G54 at the BMAA SuperExpo.