Venetians live on

Somfy

Somfy’s Product Marketing Executive Nicki Beggs tells WFA that innovations are driving uptake in the sector. One example is the combination of motorisation with internal and external venetian blinds, which provides users with the freedom and flexibility to precisely control light, shade and privacy. 

She adds that venetians’ popularity continues, because “the sleek look continues to remain a popular choice, particularly in office or home office environments, as the slats can be tilted to allow for glare reduction without entirely blocking out the light filtering into the room. 

“And when fitted externally, venetians are a natural solution for keeping homes cool in summer and warm in winter, by blocking the external elements before they hit the windowpane.”

In addition to Somfy’s popular silent motor, Sonesse 40 RTS, for internal venetian blinds, Somfy offers the Tilt & Lift 25 RTS Central and the Sonesse 40 RTS WireFree motor, featuring tilt and lift functionality for venetian blinds.

“The Tilt & Lift motor is well-known for its compact design, vast range of ingenious features and overall simplicity,” says Beggs. “The compact Wirefree motor offers discreet integration and is quick and easy to install without the need for an electrician or wiring.”

The Tilt & Lift 25 RTS Central can be powered by a fixed power supply plug, with Lithium-ion technology via an external battery pack or using a renewable energy option thanks to Somfy’s WireFree solar panel kit.

“The Sonesse 40 RTS gives diversity for larger venetians to use either with 230V (3, 6 and 9Nm) or the WireFree Li-ion (3Nm – with a 12-month battery life).

“With its ultra-quiet (<45dBa) manoeuvring, the Sonesse 40 WireFree RTS motor has an elegant soft start and stop operation with various adjustable speed limit options (10 > 28 Rpm).

“We are proud to give our customers complete flexibility when it comes to motorising venetian blinds, with various powering options to suit any application.”

“For external options, Somfy’s J4 WT motor remains its most popular solution, designed to drive all types of external venetian blinds. The universal external motor is a compact solution that fits either side of a headrail, through the use of a bi-directional (2D) mushroom. The mushroom works both in the up and down direction, which ensures the blind is protected in the event of false installation of the motor, where the up and down directions are reversed.”

To enable RTS control, users can pair a J4 WT motor with the Soliris Mod/Var Slim Receiver RTS and a Hirschmann Plug. 

Somfy’s Situo Variation RTS range of 1 and 5 channel remote controls is designed specifically for the precise adjustment of tilting venetian blinds.

“Our Situo Variation RTS is more than just a remote control,” says Beggs. “The innovative scroll wheel allows for easy and precise adjustment of tilting on venetian blinds, giving users the power to adjust and control the amount of light entering the room with precision and convenience.

“The ergonomic and sleek design also complements the rest of our Situo control range, created to fit with the most elegant of lifestyles.”

Beggs adds that Somfy’s convenience is elevated with the addition of app control integration with TaHoma switch, allowing users to boost the simplicity, security and energy savings that motorisation offers.

Blinds by Peter Meyer

Blinds by Peter Meyer Managing Director Simon Meyer says the company’s Habitus Plus range stands as a unique collection of Timber and “Poly” Venetians, harmoniously merging sustainable Basswood Habitus Timber colours with contemporary Poly shades.  Available in 50mm and 63mm slats, the Venetians extend up to 3000mm wide for Timber and 2400mm for Poly, offering versatility for various window dimensions. The addition of an 80mm Valance provides a sophisticated finish for a modern aesthetic.

“A carefully curated colour spectrum, chosen by expert colour specialists, enhances the visual appeal of the collection. Recent updates include the discontinuation of the Pure and Ivory colours in the Poly range, making way for an entirely revamped palette. The introduction of new whites in the Poly range, along with three new Timber effect colours, breathes fresh life into the collection. The range now boasts five captivating Basswood Timber options in 50mm and 63mm slats, along with five chic Poly colours in 50mm and two in 63mm.”

The Simply Cedar range, sourced from Canadian government-regulated forests, embodies sustainability, says Meyer. For every tree removed, three new trees are planted, ensuring a commitment to eco-friendly practices. With full PEFC certification, the Cedar exhibits old-growth sustainability, featuring a fine grain and consistent finish.

Meyer says that another factor that sets the Simply Cedar range apart is Blinds by Peter Meyer’s ability and expertise in custom staining and painting in-house. 

“This results in the finest custom-made natural Cedar Venetian Blinds available in Australia. The most recent additions to the range include light/medium and medium/dark oiled finishes, catering to diverse design preferences. With slat widths of 46mm, 60mm, and 85mm, each slat is hand-selected with meticulous care. The 4.2mm thick blades are assembled by hand, undergoing thorough checks throughout the entire process.”

Meyer notes that the past few years have witnessed an upward surge in raw material pricing, a challenge not unique to Blinds by Peter Meyer. 

“The market has grappled with these increases post-Covid, and the company has managed to navigate these challenges transparently, passing on only the pure cost without additional margins.

“In the realm of Venetian Blinds, the timeless allure of white and off-white remains a trend. Blinds by Peter Meyer has thoughtfully curated the Habitus Plus range, selecting the latest on-trend colours, including the perennial favourites of white and grey tones. We have also responded to a robust demand for integrating a Timber-grained effect into our competitively priced Habitus Plus Poly range with our most recent update to the collection. 

“Despite the changing landscape, marked by increased remote work and reduced travel, Blinds by Peter Meyer remains proactive in releasing new products and adopting inventive approaches to reach trade professionals and end consumers,” says Meyer. 

“The Virtual Showroom has emerged as a vital tool, enabling a showcase of the product range without the need for in-person visits, adapting seamlessly to the current financial climate. As the brand continues to redefine the narrative of Venetian Blinds, the allure of elegance and sustainability remains at the forefront of our mission.”

Norman

Norman has released the Ultimate Cordless range along with New Fascia/Valance Clips, says Norman Product Development Manager, Peter Boyle.

“Ultimate Cordless offers better closure and an improved ergonomic base rail which makes it easier to grasp and operate, and no punch holes for better light and privacy control which makes it suitable for bedrooms. Meanwhile the New Fascia/Valance Clips feature a new design which allows for easier installation and adjustment without removing the top treatment. This improves and speeds up a quality installation for the retail partner.  

“This makes Norman’s Ultimate Cordless the best in the market for child safety and bedrooms. Not only does it look better than any other Venetian but it has been awarded Best for Kids. Top treatments are notoriously fiddly and can sometimes accentuate an imperfect reveal in a home. The new clips make the installation for our retail partners easier and the finished product for our end users more beautiful.” 

Peter says the current market for this category is experiencing steady but growing resurgence for natural timber stains, Osmo oil being the premium and healthiest option for these. Due to the competitive pricing of the SmartPrivacy range and the unique features and benefits, our retail partners are taking up this superior product with little additional cost. 

He adds that timber blinds with stained and Osmo options are growing for niche jobs. 

“Our lift systems offer viable and attractive alternatives for a traditional blind that offers a real point of difference,” he says. 

“The SmartPrivacy range is unique, fresh, full of features and benefits, with our Norman quality, and offers value for money. We offer a perfect colour match across our range of blinds and shutters, eliminating the risk of missing the mark.”