Premium protection

Somfy

According to Somfy, consumer interest in external blinds in Australia remains high despite cost-of-living pressures, and it’s no surprise why; with extreme temperatures becoming more unpredictable and cooling costs rising, homeowners are seeking smarter ways to keep their homes cool while enhancing their outdoor spaces.

“Since mid-last year, we’ve seen seasonal interest in external blinds grow, reflected in search trends, website visits, and the leads we’re sharing with our Somfy Retail Expert Partners,” says Kim Henretty, Marketing Manager for Somfy Oceania. “This trend has continued through to the end of summer, highlighting increasing consumer awareness of the benefits external blinds offer.”

She adds that, more than just a stylish addition, external blinds deliver practical advantages by expanding outdoor entertaining areas, increasing property value, and creating comfortable, enclosed alfresco spaces. Most importantly, they provide energy-saving benefits by blocking heat before it reaches windows, reducing reliance on air conditioning and helping to lower energy bills; something top of mind for many Australians.

Nicki Beggs, Product Marketing Executive for Somfy Oceania, adds, “External blinds are increasingly being incorporated into both retrofit and new construction projects across residential and commercial settings. We’re also seeing demand for larger screens, some spanning up to eight metres wide, which correlates with the growing motorisation rate in this category.”

To support this demand, Somfy’s Maestria 50 RTS motor offers a versatile solution for the expanding external blinds market. Featuring obstacle detection technology and torque options starting from 6Nm, it provides a reliable and adaptable solution for various external screen applications, including zip systems. The motor seamlessly integrates with Somfy’s RTS automation controls, such as sun and wind sensors, as well as the TaHoma switch for smart home connectivity.

The TaHoma switch connected solution gives users complete control over their outdoor space, delivering year-round comfort with smart automation. The recently released Izymo Motor Receiver from Somfy, featuring Zigbee 3.0 technology, easily upgrades existing Somfy WT motors (with mechanical limit switches), allowing them to connect with the Somfy ecosystem. This cost-effective upgrade provides bi-directional feedback and control via the TaHoma by Somfy app, transforming traditional motorised external blinds into a fully connected smart home experience, compatible with other Zigbee 3.0 products. Somfy’s focus on comfort and convenience also enables users to create personalised ambiances with users empowered to easily adjust lighting, music, and control their Somfy products with a simple tap on their smartphone, enhancing their outdoor entertaining experience.

Another key offering from Somfy in this category is the Ø40mm ABS wheel, available in both Left-Hand and Right-Hand configurations for seamless compatibility with Sonesse 40 Zigbee, RTS, and RS485 motors.

“This system enhances RTS and RS485 Ø40mm motors with advanced obstacle detection, giving consumers peace of mind while safeguarding fabric zip systems from potential damage,” explains Nicki Beggs, Product Marketing Executive for Somfy Oceania.

When an obstacle is detected during the downward motion, the Ø40mm ABS wheel stops the motor, disengaging the electronic limit switch to prevent strain on the system.The ABS wheel is specifically designed for smaller external zip screens when installed with side channels and a headbox, ensuring smooth and reliable operation.

Ricky Richards

Ricky’s Outlook collection continues to attract strong market interest with style, performance, and durability for every space

“When it comes to designing outdoor spaces that balance comfort, style, and protection, external blinds play a vital role. The Outlook range from Ricky stands out as the ultimate solution, offering a sophisticated combination of design flexibility, superior functionality, and market-leading durability. Engineered for both residential and commercial applications, Outlook transforms outdoor areas into comfortable, stylish retreats while providing essential sun protection and privacy.

A standout feature of the Outlook collection is its variety of openness options, allowing you to choose the perfect level of light control, privacy, and ventilation for your space:

• 0% Openness (Outlook Zero & Zero Stripes) – Nothing gets past, stay uninterrupted from anything.
• 1% Openness (Outlook Privacy) – For maximum privacy and UV protection, reducing glare and heat.
• 5% Openness (Outlook Mode, Textures) – Balances light and visibility, providing excellent sun protection with a clear view.
• 12% Openness (Outlook Designs) – Featuring traditional stripes for visual appeal while providing general weather protection.

These options give homeowners and designers the freedom to tailor their outdoor environments without compromising on functionality or aesthetic appeal.

For those seeking uninterrupted privacy and modern aesthetics, the Outlook Zero collection offers a visual blockout solution that combines sleek design with exceptional performance. Perfect for external blinds, pergolas, and balcony enclosures, Zero Stripes not only enhances privacy but also adds a contemporary look to any outdoor space. The blockout design is particularly ideal for urban living, where privacy is essential.

Colour plays a crucial role in outdoor design. The Outlook range boasts one of the largest selections of colours on the market, including popular Colorbond-matched options such as Monument – Bold and contemporary, perfect for modern homes; Basalt – Sleek and versatile, adding a touch of sophistication; Surfmist – Light and airy, ideal for coastal or minimalist designs.

“These colours allow for seamless integration with roofing, guttering, and architectural features, ensuring a cohesive look that enhances property value and aesthetic appeal.”

Outlook is engineered to provide unmatched durability, safety, and sustainability with features that set them apart:

• 15-Year Warranty – Market-leading protection, offering peace of mind and long-term value.
• Greenguard Certification – Ensures low chemical emissions, making Outlook a healthier choice for indoor and outdoor applications.
• Microban Protection – Provides antimicrobial defense, helping prevent the growth of mould, mildew, and bacteria, reducing odours and staining.
• Dow Ecolibrium – A bio-based plasticiser that reduces greenhouse gas emissions by up to 40%, offering an eco-friendly solution without compromising durability.
• Fire Retardant Options – Meeting safety standards for commercial applications, providing added protection in high-risk areas.
• Lead-Free Composition – Ensures that all Outlook fabrics are safe, non-toxic, and environmentally responsible.
• Printable Surface – Customise your external blinds with branding, designs, or patterns, making them ideal for commercial spaces and boutique designs.

“Choosing Outlook means investing in a product that offers durability backed by a 15-year warranty; customisation with a wide range of colours and openness levels; sustainability through eco-friendly materials and low emissions; health and safety benefits, including antimicrobial protection and fire retardancy; design flexibility with Colorbond-matched colours and printable surfaces.

“Outlook is more than just a shading solution; it is an investment in comfort, style, and sustainability. With a comprehensive range of openness options, visual blockout designs, and Colorbond colour compatibility, Outlook offers the perfect balance between functionality and aesthetics.

“Backed by a 15-year warranty and featuring eco-friendly technologies like Dow Ecolibrium and Microban, Outlook external blinds deliver long-lasting performance while reducing environmental impact.”