An up and down favourite

BM BLINDS
Michelle Macready, Sales Manager at BM Blinds says “There is no doubt that vertical blinds offer the perfect solution for blinds on sliding windows and doors as you can move the slats away from the opening allowing easy access to the outside world in terms of accessibility and breeze.

“The ability to adjust the light within a room at the tilt of a wand or the turn of a chain make the vertical blind the ideal choice for many interiors.

The design of the vertical blind had changed very little over the years however the addition of new and more modern colours and textures helped keep the vertical blind relevant.”

“Up until recently, there really wasn’t any other product that could offer the versatility of the vertical blind,” she says. “Now that the segmented curtain has arrived, suddenly the options for this style of product combined with the softer nature of the segments have added a new and exciting development that combines both vertical blinds and curtains.”

“Segmented curtains offer the functionality of a vertical blind with the opulent look of a sheer S fold curtain and with home interiors preferring the softer look of diffused light as their preferred window covering,
the segmented curtain is the perfect solution.”

“The wide range of fabric colours, textures and designs available in the segmented curtain product range has continued to expand over the last couple of years and this has been accelerated in the past few months.

“These options make the segmented curtain the perfect alternative for clients that would like a more opulent look. These segmented curtains in a light colour can give the feel of openness and light or you can change the mood by adding a darker colour. “

“Segmented curtains are the perfect option as a recess, face, or wall to wall installation and with tracks that offer either a square or more rounded profile, it is the perfect match to any home décor.”

SILENT GLISS
“When it comes to window treatments, Silent Gliss by Peter Meyer stands at the forefront of artistic ingenuity and functional excellence,” says Managing Director Simon Meyer. “Offering a range of motorised, cord-operated, and crank-operated vertical blinds systems, Silent Gliss presents a world of possibilities for those seeking to elevate their living spaces with unparalleled beauty and precision.

“What sets Silent Gliss apart is its unwavering commitment to simplicity and ease of use, regardless of the chosen operating mechanism. Whether you opt for the seamless convenience of motorised blinds or the tactile engagement of manual control, Silent Gliss guarantees effortless operation and precise adjustments, ensuring an unrivalled user experience.”

Meyer says that one standout feature of the Silent Gliss collection is the chain-operated vertical blinds system.

“Its remarkable flexibility allows for horizontal bending with a small bending radius of 74cm, making it an ideal choice for spaces with unconventional architectural elements. This system operates effortlessly with a simple mono-operation using a ball chain, enabling smooth opening, closing, and tilting of the blinds. Moreover, the inclusion of a chain override feature provides an extra layer of protection, preventing any potential damage.”

He says that recently Silent Gliss by Peter Meyer fitted out over 300 vertical blinds at Parliament House in Canberra via a local dealer. The high quality Silent Gliss mono- control system utilised Silent Gliss’ impressive Colorama 2 light filtering fabric.

“For those faced with the challenge of sloping roofs, the crank-operated vertical blind system emerges as a reliable solution. Designed with a robust and bendable profile, this system can accommodate roofs with angles of up to 53 degrees. With a slender bending radius of 50cm and a hand crank mechanism, it offers continuous control over the opening, closing, and tilting of the blinds. To ensure smooth functionality, a gear drive with override protection is incorporated, prioritising durability and reliability.”

Embracing technological sophistication, the motorised vertical blinds system takes convenience to new heights. Suitable for sloped roofs, this system allows for effortless control with just a simple push of a button. By integrating motorisation, opening, closing, and tilting of the blinds becomes a seamless and effortless experience. Furthermore, the motorised vertical blind system features a gear override mechanism, safeguarding against potential damage and ensuring longevity. In addition to their functionality, all three systems can be recessed into the ceiling, seamlessly integrating with the surrounding architecture.”

“Silent Gliss goes beyond functionality to embrace artistic expression, and its collaboration with European textile designers has birthed a stunning evolution in laser- cut blind systems. Through innovative printing methods and a thoughtful selection of colour palettes, Silent Gliss has crafted a remarkable range of blinds with a breathtaking 3D appearance. Prepare to be captivated by Vertical Waves, the pinnacle of ambitious design. With three distinct designs—Andrea, Annika, and Maria—these blinds can truly transform a space.”

“The Andrea wave design stands out with its opposing directions, creating a captivating interplay between light and shape. Now, introducing the Andrea design in 3D adds a new dimension, unveiling different effects from every angle. The Annika design, characterised by its grand and jagged wave formation, breaks up the light in a way that produces a distinctive and enchanting lighting experience. Lastly, the Maria design offers a soft, flowing wave that emanates a calm and soothing aesthetic, further enhanced by the choice of blade colour.”

The blinds can be ordered exclusively via indent from Blinds by Peter Meyer, ensuring a personalised experience and exceptional attention to detail.

“Silent Gliss vertical blinds systems have transcended conventional boundaries to become artistic masterpieces that transform living spaces. Combining elegance, innovation, and meticulous craftsmanship, Silent Gliss invites you to reimagine the possibilities of window treatments.”

ROLLEASE ACMEDA
Vertical blinds remain a traditional favourite, offering an economical solution and are particularly suitable for irregularly shaped windows. They are not only easy to clean, but also occupy less space when retracted revealing more of the window area, additionally, with the material overlap, they provide enhanced privacy when closed.

Rollease Acmeda has redesigned components of its vertical blind system which has led to a reduction of inventory per system and simplified assembly, setting a new standard for the industry, says Andrew Robson – National Sales Manager.

“The enhancements include the re-designed universal end cap accommodating a variety of slat sizes and a new carrier anchor securing the last carrier to the track and allowing flexibility whilst in position. In addition, we have released manufacturing aids and new support resources including an eBOM& link chart to streamline the manufacturing process.”

LOUVOLITE
“Vertical blinds have been an important part of window dressing since the mid to late 1980s. Initially used as a stylish and practical way to keep the sun out, vertical blinds soon became popular among both domestic and commercial users due to their versatility. With louvres open, the direct view outside is mostly unaffected, and by adjusting the angle or orientation of the louvres, users are able to control light ingress, view outwards or ensure privacy within. This is just as true for small square windows as it is for long narrow windows,” says David Kennedy from Louvolite.

“However, when larger patio doors and bi-fold doors came onto the scene in more recent times, alternative shading systems had to be developed that could cope with these bigger glazed areas; this meant that heavier tubes and geared or spring assisted systems were needed for roller shades in order for them to operate easily and without strain. Although the old fashioned cedar blinds – With slatting systems – allowed rotation to increase shade or privacy levels in a similar way to vertical blinds, these too were not really suitable for large glazed surfaces due to their weight. Curtains are always an option regardless of window size, however they lack the flexibility that vertical blinds provide; curtains tend to be either open or closed rather than any level of adjustment in between.

“Louvolite’s Slimline Vertical Blind system was a pioneer upon its introduction into Australia: featuring a neat aluminium headrail with robust attachments and a smooth traversing action alongside direct gearing which enabled instant accurate rotation of louvres, it quickly became a go-to product.

“Although Louvolite has made some small but important improvements over time, our vertical system has stayed true to our original design principles. As improved injection moulding materials were developed, Louvolite changed their carrier system to use Nylon 6 as the component that interacts with the headrail. This material is self-lubricating and reduces friction between the carriers and the headrail. This also removes the need for wheels being required on the carrier body and allows the headrail to remain slim and unobtrusive. The louvre rotation system was developed to incorporate a self-alignment mechanism to ensure louvres are able to be brought back into formation easily in the unlikely event they are knocked out of line.”

The Louvolite system also uses stainless steel spacing links for reliable traversing regardless of number or weight of louvres required. Slimline Vogue – which boasts a range of colours – has become increasingly popular over time.

“The beauty of Louvolite Vertical Blinds is that they can furnish any width or drop requirements with just one system; furthermore this system offers a wide variety of fabric options including blockout fabrics through jacquards and laminates – many of which co-ordinate with Louvolite’s extensive roller blind range – so there’s something available for all tastes!”

SCOTT FREE (AUST)
Popularity with vertical blinds in Scott Free’s home state of Queensland has always been a mainstay of the systems and components the company supplies to the marketplace. Due to the category’s continued popularity across this market segment, Scott Free has outstripped its competitors in terms of componentry development.

“Scott Free (Aust) has a range of specialty vertical blind components that increase your production speed, and reduces the number of parts you need to hold, with a few simple innovative parts.

“Our Ezy Caps and Specialty Vertical Components are simple components solutions that will assist your production.

The Ezy Cap combines three parts in one: the Thrust Washer, Spacer Tube and the End Cap are all combined into one component, reducing cost and time. The carriers we offer cover both Low Profile and Standard formats with the added benefit of stainless steel spacers or plastic available, with our pre-linked options continuing to gain popularity year on year.

“We have created niche parts that have seen our vertical blind components increase year on year, supporting our customers and their production requirements in Northern Australian regions and beyond.”

UNILINE
In the past 12 to 18 months, the Slim-Series vertical track has had numerous modifications, some of them simple yet significant, impacting the manufacturer and end-user experience, says Neale Warr – Category Manager for Internal Components.

“Our whisper-quiet carriers have had a facelift with all pieces being refitted. Rethinking the track facade retains the fabric insert whilst the other side presents a contemporary finish. Magnetic runner modifications now have a specified screw, mono wand unit changes among other updates as par ot the rebranding of the Slim-Series Vertical Blind Systems.

“We are very proud to be able to deliver a complete system to the market that is easily assembled and installed with little fuss. Our Slim-Series system whether cord or wand driven allows for the same assembly methods. Magnetic runners complete with screws are complemented with the accuracy of a drilling jig.

“The assembler can now accurately and repeatedly position stopping points for all tilt rod supporting components. The ease with which Slim-Series goes together is surprising and, with a low cost of entry to manufacture this system makes perfect sense to run with Uniline Slim-Series Vertical Blind Systems.”

“We believe that the recently added improvements to our Slim-SeriesVertical Blind Systems, together with the newly released Vertical Blind fabrics will strengthen this category in the marketplace for Uniline in the years to come.

“We have seen a major return to vertical blinds in the marketplace over the last couple of years, not just for the home office but for the entire property. The resurgence of the cost-effective versatile functional window dressing fits all markets and has not surprised us here at Uniline.”