Ricky Richards

Engineered energy savings

Issue 103 July 2025

Sector specialists lift the lid on blind ranges’ energy efficiency.

Ricky Richards

Smart shading isn’t just about comfort – it’s about energy efficiency. Ricky Richards’ Outlook Collection offers a versatile portfolio of external mesh fabrics designed to significantly reduce heat gain and cooling loads, contributing to improved building energy performance.

“Engineered with a combination of style, durability and sustainability, Outlook mesh fabrics are more than just window coverings – they’re a proactive energy-saving solution. With shade cover options from 88% to 100%, including popular 99% and 95% cover, these fabrics enable the tailoring of the balance of light, airflow, and privacy to meet specific needs.”

Featuring six premium ranges, Outlook fabrics are UV stabilised, fire retardant (excluding Designs), and Greenguard certified – ensuring low chemical emissions for healthier living. They’re also made with Dow Ecolibrium, offering a more sustainable alternative to traditional plasticisers, and include Microban antimicrobial technology for peace of mind in all environments.

Backed by a 15-year warranty and with Colorbond colour options available across most ranges, Outlook combines high performance with trusted longevity. Select ranges are also solvent and UV printable, ideal for branded or creative design applications.

“This collection doesn’t just meet standards – it sets them. As consumer awareness of energy efficiency and health-conscious materials continues to grow, Outlook stands out as the trusted choice for specifiers, fabricators and end users alike. It’s where high design meets long-term sustainability.

“Whether you’re designing for a home, business or public space, the Outlook Collection is a smart, stylish way to support better energy outcomes – while delivering the performance and durability you’ve come to expect.”

HUNTER DOUGLAS

Celebrating 40 years since the launch of the original honeycomb blind, Luxaflex Duette Shades, Hunter Douglas continues to be a market leader in energy efficient blinds backed with results. 

“Luxaflex Duette Architella Shades can reduce heating costs by up to 43%* and recent results have tested Luxaflex Duette Architella Shades with double glazed windows which have shown to reduce heating costs by up to 54%**.” 

“When we couple an indoor blind like Duette Shades, with an external awning such as Luxaflex Evo MagnaTrack, the energy savings are amplified. The Luxaflex Evo MagnaTrack Awning with Spectra Fibreglass Sunscreen fabric can help eliminate up to 95%*** of solar heat, reducing the reliance on air conditioning to keep the home cool.”

Hunter Douglas – Luxaflex Duette Shades

* Savings are based on the installation of fully-recessed, reveal-mounted  Luxaflex Duette Architella Shades with 20mm blockout fabric in an average home in Sydney, compared with the House Energy Rating standard of Holland Blinds from AccuRate, in that home. These calculations have been modelled by an independent third party. Savings will vary based on the window type and installation.

** Savings are based on the installation of fully-recessed, reveal-mounted  Luxaflex Duette Architella Shades with 20mm blockout fabric in an average home in Sydney, with double glazed windows, compared with the House Energy Rating standard of Holland Blinds from AccuRate, in that home. These calculations have been modelled by an independent third party. Savings will vary based on the window type and installation.

*** See www.endurisglasscore.com for details.

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