The hard stuff

Somfy

Somfy’s curtain hardware continues to deliver versatility, performance, and design flexibility across a wide range of solutions suitable for residential and commercial applications, according to Nicki Beggs, Somfy’s Product Marketing Executive. The suite of accessories complements Somfy’s trusted Glydea Ultra and Movelite 35 curtain motors, ensuring a seamless fit for any project.

“At Somfy, our customer centric approach when innovating motors and hardware is important,” says Beggs. “Our silent accessories and black curtain hardware remain popular for this reason as they were developed in response to customer feedback. 

“Somfy black curtain accessories allow our Curtain Partners to deliver a refined, elegant aesthetic, tapping into the timeless appeal of dark tones in interior design,” Beggs adds. 

Additionally, Somfy’s silent accessories elevate acoustic comfort. “When used with the Glydea Ultra, they ensure an exceptionally smooth and whisper-quiet curtain movement, ideal for bedrooms, hospitality venues, and other sound-sensitive environments.”

“All our motors in the Glydea Ultra and Movelite ranges are compatible with Glydea Ultra tracks and accessories,” Beggs adds. “This makes it easier for our partners to streamline inventory and specify with confidence.”

Beggs confirms that Somfy curtain motors and hardware are designed for horizontal mounting and offer compatibility with all curtain applications, styles, track shapes, opening methods, fabrics and fabric attachment methods.

MCP

The latest addition to MCP’s track range is the Recessed Track, says Autumn White, Export Manager of MCP New Zealand Limited 

“Designed for a sleek and unobtrusive appearance, it integrates seamlessly into the ceiling, creating a modern and clean aesthetic for the space,” she says. “MCP’s Recessed Track is available in Pearl White as the standard colour, offering a clean and timeless look. However, for those seeking a more customised aesthetic, the track can be powder coated in a special colour to perfectly match any interior design. The Recessed Track is available with three versatile glider options to suit different curtain styles and operational needs: standard mini glider, roller glider, or wavefold glider.

She notes that Recessed Tracks offer a key point of difference from traditional curtain tracks and rods, which are often visible, which can disrupt the clean lines and minimalist aesthetic favoured in contemporary architecture and interior design.  

“Recessed Tracks, by sitting flush within the ceiling lining, eliminate visible hardware and brackets, creating an uninterrupted, modern ceiling profile that enhances the overall aesthetic of a space. Recessed Tracks are perfect for both residential and commercial applications. With the growing appetite for ceiling to floor glazing, the Recessed Track becomes an imperative to provide soft window furnishing solutions. 

She added that the Recessed Track market is experiencing growth, driven by rising demand for clean interior sight-lines whilst preserving soft curtaining options. 

“Since these solutions are ideally suited for new builds and commercial spaces we have seen increasing interest in retrofit applications,” she says.

”The motorised curtain track market represents a growing segment of the overall curtain track industry, though most residential homes still use manual systems. Growth of battery-operated tracks has seen the highest growth and is readily adopted when refurbishment or redecoration of living areas are completed.   

MCP offers a comprehensive range of curtain tracks and rods, combining functionality, durability, and design versatility for residential and commercial applications. 

She also notes that the retrofitting of motorisation systems for curtains is experiencing significant growth, driven by advancements in DC motor technology and consumer demand for smart home integration.

Silent Gliss

“At Blinds by Peter Meyer, Silent Gliss continues to lead the way in premium Curtain hardware for residential, commercial, healthcare, and high-end retail interiors,” says Simon Meyer – Managing Director, Silent Gliss by Peter Meyer. “With an unwavering focus on smooth operation, flexible installation, and clean architectural styling, Silent Gliss has cemented its position as the go-to solution for designers and specifiers who expect more from their Curtain systems.

He notes that recent updates to the Silent Gliss range have been strategically designed to offer greater installation flexibility, bolder design aesthetics, and better functionality across both manual and motorised systems:

“Hanger Rods (Dropper Rods) are now available for SG5600 (motorised), SG6970 (hand-drawn), SG7605, and SG7610. Made in Australia for faster lead times, these Rods come in black and white as standard, with silver available by indent. Both straight and V-shaped options allow for ceiling-suspended installations across a wide range of interior settings—from hospital cubicles to luxury retail spaces.

“We’ve seen a particularly inspiring example in the flagship showroom of bridal couture designer Leah Da Gloria, where Metropole Tracks with Hanger Rods were used to seamlessly suspend the Curtain system from the ceiling. The addition of Curved Tracks allows even the most voluminous ballgown-style wedding dress to hang freely and elegantly within beautifully designed fitting rooms—proving that function and fashion can indeed coexist.

“The Metroflat 7605 range has expanded to include a satin anodised finish, adding to the existing matte white and matte black options. This offers architects and designers more choice when specifying Curtain hardware for industrial, commercial, or minimal interior schemes.”

Universal Extension Brackets are now offered in all Metroflat and Metropole colours, including anodised, with bracket sizes of 120mm, 150mm, and 200mm. This makes achieving greater projection simple across any mounting scenario.

The full system of black tracks, components, gliders, rollers, and wave tape allows designers to create an entirely black hardware solution. This highly sought-after finish continues to be popular across residential and commercial interiors for its timeless depth, power, and sophistication.

Silent Gliss Smart Fix remains a core strength of the system, offering an installer-friendly solution with unmatched flexibility in both wall and ceiling mounting configurations.

Meyer notes there are “hero” Curtain systems that continue to perform.

The 7605 Metroflat and 7610 Metropole remain industry standouts, combining the elegance of a Curtain Rod with the functionality of a Track system. Featuring whisper-quiet patented 2C Glider and Roller technology, these systems provide near-silent operation and exceptional durability—making them perfect for both luxury homes and sound-sensitive environments like healthcare and hospitality.

Metroflat features a sleek, modern 36mm flat profile, and is increasingly specified in suspended applications using Hanger Rods—ideal for industrial-style spaces or uneven ceilings.

Metropole offers a classic 30mm round profile and a wealth of customisation options, including powdercoated End Caps, decorative Finials, and multiple Bracket styles.

Meanwhile, the 6243 Recessed Profile Curtain Track system continues to gain traction for its ability to create a minimalist, floor-to-ceiling Curtain look. Designed for light to medium-weight Curtains, it combines a slim footprint with powerful support, and integrates beautifully into open-plan residential and commercial spaces.

“Silent Gliss hardware is designed to fill a space where many systems fall short: providing technical precision without sacrificing aesthetic control. The addition of Hanger Rods offers a solution for commercial, medical, and retail applications where ceiling conditions are challenging. Meanwhile, the ability to bend Tracks, suspend systems, or recess profiles gives designers the freedom to respond creatively to their project needs, without compromise.”

Looking at the Curtain hardware sector in 2025, he notes: “Compared to many other internal window furnishings, curtain track systems have grown steadily year-on-year, thanks in part to the continued resurgence of soft window treatments like sheers and wave headings. As more projects prioritise layered, high-end finishes, architects and designers are seeking out Track systems that deliver long-term reliability and seamless aesthetics.”

“Products like Metroflat, Metropole, and the SG6243 Hand Operated Curtain Track are now standard on project specifications, particularly for boutique hospitality venues, healthcare refurbishments, high-end retail fit-outs, and architect-designed homes.”

Meyer adds that Silent Gliss has also seen significant growth in Motorised Track systems, with 35–40% of installations now incorporating automation. The shift is being driven not only by luxury projects but increasingly by smart homes and retrofits. The availability of low-voltage DC motors has opened up motorisation to a broader market, allowing homeowners to upgrade existing systems without rewiring or major construction.

The SG5600 Motorised Curtain Track continues to lead this space, offering smooth, quiet movement, compatibility with leading home automation platforms, and now—thanks to Hanger Rods—the ability to suspend installations for added versatility.

“With a refined aesthetic, exceptional engineering, and unmatched versatility, Silent Gliss by Peter Meyer continues to define what modern Curtain hardware can achieve. Whether it’s black-on-black Wave Curtain solutions, curved systems in couture showrooms, or ceiling-suspended motorised Tracks in commercial settings, Silent Gliss offers solutions that elevate every space.”