The inventor behind the popular Luxaflex Softshades range

Softshades are becoming an increasingly popular window furnishing option in Australian households. The soft vanes create a sophisticated and stunning environment for the home. Softshades come in a vast array of colours, fabrics and textures, to suit any home's style.

Wendell Colson is the inventor behind the exclusive Luxaflex Softshades range. It is a story about real people with real homes and real life problems. Over the years, Wendell has continuously developed ways of keeping cool air inside the house in summer, and warm air inside during the warmer months, making the exclusive Luxaflex Duette Shades energy efficient.

Inventor Wendell Colson

Click on the link below and find out how one cold winter night sparked the idea and creation of the honeycomb shade.

http://theinteriorsaddict.com/the-inventor-the-napkin-sketch-behind-popular-aussie-blinds

From Bauhaus to Our House

Written by Lynn Malone, exclusively for Luxaflex

Introduction

When selecting furnishings and window coverings for your home, it is advantageous to have an understanding of their historical significance.  Essentially, what has transpired over decades of design innovation and experimentation; coupled with advanced materials and manufacturing processes that affords state-of the-arts fabrics and technologies.  Innovating for over 60 years, Luxaflex leads the way toward creating the next wave of modern homes.

Mod squad in the making

Considered an icon of modernism, the Bauhaus design school revolutionized architectural and creative thinking that inspired the homes of today.  Founded in Germany, the Bauhaus school operated from 1919 to 1933.  During my travels to Berlin, I visited the Bauhaus Archives, the museum that houses the largest collection of everything Bauhaus – a must-see for interior design enthusiasts.

What is the Bauhaus?  And how does its design philosophy influence Australian home life choices from building construction to decorative fabrics, window coverings, art and tableware?  Let’s begin with a thumbnail description of the Bauhaus philosophy and how it made its way to Australian shores.

Design as art

The essence of Bauhaus theory was to unify design studies with fine art.  Its diverse curriculum covered wall painting, sculpture, metalwork, weaving, photography, graphic design and music.  Cutting-edge industrial technologies of the early 1900s made possible the use of unorthodox materials such as synthetic textiles, metal tubing, and fiberglass to create useful and beautiful objects for a new way of living.  Cabinetry and loose furniture items; and decorative accessories and fabrics were equally considered in the conceptual design of a home. 

Their loss, our gain

Undermining the Bauhaus movement in Germany and greater Europe was political turmoil and World War II, which resulted in the school’s 1933 closure and with many of its students and faculty fleeing to starting anew in Australia and the Americas.

Just our luck

Post Second World War European furniture makers immigrating to Australia brought with them knowledge of the innovative materials and manufacturing processes.  One of the most significant new breed of Australian furniture designers was Grant Featherston, who bent and joined precut pieces of plywood to make his now iconic range of Contour chairs.  In the early 1950s hardly an issue of Australian Home Beautiful or Australian House & Garden did not include an article featuring his design or designs by his peers, Clement Meadmore and Douglas Snelling.  Today their furniture design pieces are highly sought after by collectors.

‘House of Tomorrow’ is today

As part of the 1949 Modern Home Exhibition held in Melbourne, the ‘House of Tomorrow’ offered its aspirational vision of home life.  The exhibition, designed by Robin Boyd, Australian architect and proponent of the International Architectural Movement, was built inside The Royal Exhibition Building and noted for its vibrant interiors.  The furniture was designed by Featherston and featured contemporary textiles by Frances Burke.  The yellow rubber tiles, grey and white striped wallpaper and dark blue ceilings were declared too revolutionary.  With time modern furniture and modern architecture were accepted as a logical combination; hence the furnishing selections by many a contestant on renovation reality televisions programs such as The Block and House Rules.

Your time to innovate

If interior or exterior window coverings are part of your next home or office design project, take a look at what’s new at Luxaflex.  One of the products on my radar is the Luxaflex Duette Architella Shades.  Not only is there an exquisite range of contemporary fabrics but also its honeycomb construction creates an insulation barrier that retains cool inside when it’s hot outside; and warmth when it’s cold.

Luxaflex Duette Architella Shades

To learn more

For more about Australian modern furniture design, Mid-Century Modern written and compiled by Kristy Grant is highly recommended and a fascinating read.  And the National Gallery of Victoria Mid-Century Modern exhibition- now through 14 October 2014

http://www.ngv.vic.gov.au/whats-on/exhibitions/exhibitions/mid-century-modern-australian-furniture-design

For more about Bauhaus:  The Bauhaus Collection, Bauhaus Archive Berlin

http://www.bauhaus.de/en

Interior Design Insights: Afloat in Berlin

Written by Lynn Malone, exclusively for Luxaflex

Traveling through Europe during the western hemisphere spring, I stayed in some fabulously designed hotels and resorts but wanted to find holiday accommodation out of my everyday walk of life. Searching online for Berlin accommodations, I found just the ticket:  a modern houseboat berthed on the Spree River, East Berlin.

It was my first visit to Berlin and I was duly impressed by the liveability of the history-rich city, its embrace of cutting-edge design, fashion and food; and the resiliency of its people. Arriving in Germany after spending time in Italy, Spain and France, I was reticent to take on yet another tongue-twister language - at minimum learning to speak the basics in each country such as 'hello', 'please' and 'thank you'. Asking a friendly Berliner how to pronounce ‘hello’, the response was ‘hello’. Great! This is going to be easier than I imagined. Not only are cosmopolitan Berliners fluent English speakers – from taxi cab drivers to merchants and restaurant staff but equally important they delight in assisting foreigners with language translations, directions and to share their respective accounts of Berlin’s history – specifically, fascinating recollections of when 'The Wall' came down in 1989.

Given English is my only fluent language, I tend to play it safe when selecting accommodation in non-English speaking countries. As example, when staying in a hotel there is a concierge or hotel management to assist with directions and general logistics. Visiting Berlin, I felt within my comfort zone to step out and expand my horizons.

That said, from an interior designer perspective, hotel guest room interiors are inspirational for residential design ideas – the attention to detail in the bathrooms; specifically the connectivity between the bathroom and sleeping area.  In this context, the Berlin houseboat literally 'rocked my design boat' with its innovative, practical design solutions and pristine waterfront location.

Other than floating on water, the houseboat shared similarities to a funky inner city studio apartment: compact with space at a premium; innovative selection of materials, finishes and furnishings; and adjacent to neighbouring units. With the exception of the swaying light pendants as a motor boat passed by on the river, the houseboat 'Black', with its next door neighbour houseboat 'White', was no different.

'Black', my home for a three-night stay, was sleekly designed and adeptly named referencing its colour palette. Entering the houseboat through a ceiling to floor warehouse-styled sliding door, the foyer leads alternatively to the living area or bedroom wing thus creating a walkway around the perimeter of the rectangularly shaped interiors. A log fireplace is the centrepiece of the living area backdropped by river views and flock of swans that nest nearby.

There is comfortable lounge seating and area rugs underfoot partially covering the black stained marine grade plywood floors. A well appointed yet compact kitchen came complete with an integrated sink, dishwasher, generously-sized oven, four-burner induction cook top and integrated refrigerator/freezer; plus all the small appliances, kitchen utensils and dinnerware to suit a disconcerting home chef and ideal for entertaining. Customised joinery in the bedroom including night tables and headboard wall, an ample bank of wardrobes and concealed laundry. Graffitied coloured back glass walls in the adjoining bathroom were a stand out complemented by an effective use of clear mirror and discretely positioned towel rails to maximise usable space.

Running the river frontage of the houseboat was a timber deck with more than adequate space for outdoor seating and a barbecue. The glazed exterior window wall gave way to vistas across the river to the city skyline and the Berlin TV Tower, the city's tallest building.

'Black' was an exceptionally comfortable holiday house and exceeded expectations; however, there was one amenity lacking to enhance its indoor and outdoor liveability:  an outdoor folding arm awning.  An awning not only provides protection from the outdoor elements such as harsh sunlight and inclement weather but visually extends the indoor living area outdoors.

If it’s an outdoor awning that will make an indoor-outdoor extension to your home, look no further than the Luxaflex extensive awning range. One of my favourite is the Garda folding arm awning.  Keeping with the theme of 'Black', Luxaflex has a wide array of fabrics to suit its decor and many more colours under the rainbow to suit yours.

Black and White houseboats

Suite 030, the platform for high class apartments

Website:  suite030.com

Three Stunning Modern Living Room Design Inspirations

The living room is one of the most important rooms in the entire house. If you only could choose one space in your home to put your heart and soul into designing, we are sure you would choose the living room to be at the top of your list. It is the first room that your guests see and should set the tone for your entire decorating scheme throughout your home.

There are many decorating styles that you can choose from, and the most popular are traditional, country, contemporary, and transitional. Whichever style you choose, make sure that you create a space stays true to your aesthetic and reflects your own personal style.

Among the four styles, modern or contemporary design is one of the hottest trends these days especially for those people whose main focus is the function of their home. Aside from that, the clean look of modern interiors make home owners love this type of concept which is clutter free and stress free.

Depending on the layout of your house, your contemporary living space can serve a multitude of functions, a formal sitting area, a space for relaxation, or for entertaining guests and spending time with family. Here are three fresh design inspirations to help you modernise your living room interior:

Luminette Privacy Sheers

If what you like to create is a quiet, relaxing and enjoyable living room, white is the colour of choice. White gives a living room a very light appearance, particularly if combined with a good choice of furniture. The huge windows also give natural light to this modern living room, making it look more inviting.

Luxaflex Silhouette Shadings with PowerRise Platinum Technology

The combination of grey, black and white in their correct doses, easily transforms any room into a more modern and elegant environment. It does not need to be loaded with a lot of colours, rather a simple grey matched with perfectly contrasting textiles and sophisticated décor creates a contemporary twist. You also don’t really need to use a single colour for your furniture, choosing a different colour can act as an accent that ties the room together and takes it to a whole new level.  

Luxaflex Roller Blinds with Atmosphere fabric

A monochromatic scheme is another good option for decorating a modern living room. Off-white, earthy tones and some subtle accents are all that is needed to create an elegant, warm and welcoming living room. A unique mixture of materials and the use of fine lines from the combination of roller blinds and curtains creates a clean and cosy ambiance.

Interior Design Insights: It's a Point of View

Written by Lynn Malone, exclusively for Luxaflex

On the outlook
Not every window is situated to provide its viewer with an idealistic perspective looking outward.  In many instances there are detractions that are preferably visually eliminated or at least minimised. No doubt most of us have experienced this dilemma – a less than pleasant outlook from a kitchen, a hotel guest room or an office window.  On the other hand, there are windows with picture perfect postcard views that entice you to capture the vistas as mementos – either stored in your memory bank, or as snap shots loaded and Facebook shared.

Inside and out; good view or bad; or somewhere in between – Luxaflex have window covering solutions to match the situation. Here are a few window-viewing scenarios we’ve probably all encountered at some point! Needless to say, Luxaflex comes to the rescue.

Hello neighbours!

Scenario: With a growing number of Australian families residing in apartments located in densely populated suburbs and apartment buildings that share window walls – privacy between adjacent apartments presents a challenge. As much as you may want to get to know the new neighbours, peering into one another’s apartment is probably not what you had in mind.

To the rescue
Duette Shades in Top Down/Bottom Up design option allows privacy control for select window areas while leaving other areas of the windows unrestricted allowing sunlight and airflow.

Duette Architella Shades - Top-Down-Bottom-Up

Wow

Scenario:  What about when the views from your home are knockout for about 80% of the time?  It is just that 20% exception when a window covering is required for sunlight control, keeping the warmth or cool inside or for privacy, as examples. On the Australian eastern seaboard, northern light is preferable – add an unencumbered water view and it has the making of a dream location. In this situation, the optimal window treatment is off the window and concealed until it is called to action – then easily operable to fulfill its purpose.

To the rescue
Luxaflex Qmotion roller blinds using either a translucent fabric or a blockout fabric does the trick. The internal roller is fitted with an operational mechanism powered by a battery (with a 5-year lifetime) to open and close the blind using the remote or simply controlling it by hand. With addition of the Qsync device and the Qmotion app you can also control the blinds via a smartphone or tablet. For my apartment, I selected Temple in a translucent fabric.

Luxaflex Qmotion Roller Blinds in Temple Translucent Fabric

The windswept look

Scenario:  As a sustainable energy solution to home heating and cooling, cross ventilation is a viable option. Open more doors and windows to maximise the breeze in the summer and vice versa in the winter – it’s simple. But how about the wear and tear on the window coverings as they blow in the wind?

To the rescue
Luxaflex Newstyle Polyresin Shutters – the shutters have multiple configurations from single panel, hinged for smaller windows; multi-panel hinged bi-fold systems for larger windows; or bi-fold track systems for doors with up to eight panels – all have hand-adjustable blades to control airflow and sunlight. Don’t worry if the shutters get wet, they have a 20-year warranty against sunlight and water damage. The shutters are available in three shades of white finishes – my favourite is the whitest of the whites.

Luxaflex Newstyle Polyresin Shutters

Get out

Scenario: With a climate that affords enjoying the outdoors almost year-round, many Australian homes take advantage of indoor/outdoor living and countless weekends are spent with friends and families outside entertaining, cooking on the barbeque and kids playing in the pool.  But along comes an afternoon storm during the middle of a Sunday barbeque – what to do?

To the rescue
Luxaflex Sunrain Awning – here comes the rain, out comes the retractable awning. Sunrain PVC fabrics are rain proof and selected to complement the exterior finish of your home. Optional infrared heaters may be added for increased comfort during the cooler months.

Luxaflex Sunrain Awning with optional heating - Entertain all year-round

Interior Design Insights: Art Attack

... Or a beginner's guide to starting an art collection.

Written by Lynn Malone, exclusively for Luxaflex with expert art adviser, Brenda Colahan of Brenda Colahan Fine Art.

Street walking for art
Entry to many London galleries and museums is free including the Tate Modern. Without question Tate Modern is steeped in history and its collection of modern and contemporary art is extraordinary; however, my interests were in the streets. Finding London street art and commercial galleries was equally intriguing and time well spent visiting... Here are my picks.  Happy trails.

Hebru Brantley Six, 2014. Courtesy of Mead Carney Fine Art, London

Mead Carney
meadcarney.com
Representing megastar artists Tracey Emin and Damien Hirst, Mead Carney are on top of their game when it comes to identifying artists who have potential to be highly collectible and purchase prices to soar. Hebru Brantley is one of those handpicked by Mead Carney and the Gallery hosted his first international exhibition. Brantley’s work first came to attention at Art Basel in Miami when hip-hopping zillionaire, Jay Z acquired several pieces.

David Zwirner Contemporary
davidzwirner.com
Fostering the careers of some of the most influential working artists today and estates of internationally acclaimed artists, David Zwirner Contemporary Gallery is one not to miss. While the Gallery represents a wealth of talent, my selection as an emerging artist to watch comes closer to home and is Matt Glenn, a London-based, Australian-born visual artist and coincidently the David Zwirner gallery assistant manager. Glenn is represented in Sydney and Berlin by Michael Reid Gallery.

Matt Glenn, Green screen for an action film, 2011. With permission of the artist.

Street Art London
streetartlondon.co.uk
Here today and gone tomorrow literally describes London’s street art scene with the city council removing artworks often before the paint dries or artists painting over redundant works and viewing the works becomes a moveable visual feast – if you know where to look. East London is the most prolific precinct with Street Art London operating private and group walkabouts. Their guides know where to find the best pieces and in many instances, is one of the artists whose work is viewed.

_____

Your art starts now

When it comes to starting an art collection – there are seemingly endless choices of galleries, artists, genres and media and the process may prove daunting. Brenda Colahan of Brenda Colahan Fine Art and a Sydney-based professional art consultant, shares her expertise on how to start an art collection:

1. Visit leading galleries
By extensively viewing new and emerging talent at leading galleries way before you purchase you will understand the genres of contemporary art that appeal to you and what you can expect to pay for artworks.

2. Seek professional advice
The ever-changing art world is a confusing place for many, particularly the novice collector. More than ever I recommend that professional advice or second opinions be sought, from gallerists, consultants and art dealers. Ask a lot of questions!

3. Buy what you like
The idea of art as investment has been around for a long time, but with markets changing rapidly it’s hard to pick, even for the experts. It’s important to choose what you relate to and will enjoy having on your walls.

4. Subscribe
Knowing the trends, featured artists, prizewinners and whose works are included in leading public galleries are essential reading for the collector. There are fantastic fine art journals to subscribe to and art books galore at gallery bookshops.

5. A personal journey
Make your collection a personal one by choosing art which you love and which speaks to you. Your collection will become your own self-portrait as you look back on how it has formed, expanded and matured.

Timeless inspiration from Antonio Gaudí, Barcelona

Written by Lynn Malone, exclusively for Luxaflex

Next stop Barcelona

In the shop front window of my neighbourhood travel agency, a sign reads, “Travel is one thing that you buy, that makes you richer”. Reflecting upon my tour through European cities at their best, I agree.  Please join me: next stop, Barcelona.

Time does not stand still
Exploring the cobbled streets of Barcelona, it’s difficult not to be gobsmacked by turn-of-the-20th century Spanish architect Antonio Gaudí’s building masterpieces. Saying his buildings, renowned for undulating and vibrantly coloured facades; expansive stained glass and oddly shaped windows; and exotic materials and craftsmanship, are unique is an understatement. One of the most prominent inner-city buildings and examples of Gaudí‘s genius is Casa Batlló, a private residence constructed in the early-1900s and now a public museum. As a keen enthusiast of art and decoration, touring the Casa Batlló topped my Barcelona to-do list.

Early bird
Gaudí was a pioneer in many areas including environmental sustainability. An obvious example of this are the recycled broken tiles that clad the building facades. Casa Batlló windows are fitted with translucent glass purposed to control sunlight and in some instances, for privacy. Wooden framed windows were inventively opened and closed by the raising and lowering of counter weights. Using materials that were the newest and latest of the day - iron, concrete, glass and ceramic tiles, Gaudí was a design visionary and trailblazer. Coupled with the advent of electricity and indoor plumbing, his buildings were cutting edge. With electricity, motorised elevators were invented, and gave way to the concept of high-rise apartment living.

Attention to detail
Every detail was considered down to the minute. Gaudí designed a custom font for the entry doors; curved furniture that conformed to the contour of the interior walls.  The interior and exterior spaces were connected and equally considered with an adjoining courtyard adorned with sculptures and artwork incorporated into the design. Engineered to give consistent lighting to each level of the building, the windows of the centre light well were increasingly smaller from the ground level to the top level; and conversely the wall tiles were darker coloured at the top level rooms and decreasingly intense on the levels below.  How clever!

Lighting the way

The investment made in Gaudí’s leading edge design still delivers returns today with Casa Batlló interiors inspiring many home renovators and design enthusiasts around the world. 

When researching new products for your home – whether as a professional practitioner or if working on a do-it-yourself project, give consideration to innovative companies that invest in research and development bringing to market products that incorporate the newest and latest. Case in point:  Luxaflex Qmotion Roller Blinds, which are battery operated to raise and lower the blinds with programmable settings. Four years ago, this technology was unavailable for residential window roller blinds – the alternative was electrical wiring for motorisation, which often proves an expensive proposition; particularly when renovating.  

Taking new technology one step further, Luxaflex Qmotion Technology Roller Blinds with Q Sync has an app available that allows the roller blinds to be operated with a simple touch of a screen – on either IPad, iPhone or Android device.  From an aesthetic and safety perspective, this is a great alternative to a chain cord roller blind.

Think like Gaudí

When designing your home, borrow a page or two from the design philosophy of Antonio Gaudí

1. Be an innovator – search for products, materials and finishes that incorporate new technology

2. Consider light control and ventilation – both are conducive to healthy living 

3. Custom design furniture to suit the space – don’t use a piece of furniture just because you have it 

4. Don’t settle for status quo – be inventive and lead the pack

5. Don’t be afraid to use colour – it worked for Gaudí, in his timeless design

Celebrate world environment day with Luxaflex

DUETTE® Architella offers superior insulation which reduce average heating costs by up to 49%

World Environment Day is held each year on June 5. It is one of the key vehicles through which the United Nations (UN) stimulates worldwide awareness of the environment.

Luxaflex Window Fashions Supports WED with the most energy-efficient window covering - DUETTE® Architella Ménage Shades.



The Ménage name is inspired by the three honeycomb cells, nestled inside each other, which create five pockets of air, crafting a chic window covering that provides more insulation than any other window covering on the market.


Luxaflex is cementing its position in the market as a leader in energy efficient window coverings and an innovator in the product category. We already had the most energy-efficient window covering on the market, but we have found a way to improve it. Consumers will notice real savings with this product year-round. Maintain the internal temperature of your home at a constant and comfortable temperature, greatly reducing the load and power consumption of air conditioning in summer.

Alternatively, for the most energy efficient window solution, place an external Awning over large expanses of window that attract direct sun. This can be likened to putting a hat on - with metal awnings reflecting up to 90% [3] and fabric awnings up to 75%.

The investment in good quality awnings and blinds can be offset over time by the energy savings they can help achieve.

 [3] Results based on CSIRO Information Service Sheet No. 10-38, 8 June, 1978

Interior Design Insights: Top 5 Reasons to Love Paris

Written by Lynn Malone, exclusively for Luxaflex.

From Frank Sinatra’s rendition to Lana Del Ray late last year, generations have crooned the 1953 Cole Porter hit tune, I Love Paris, expressing a year-round love affair with the French capital. With over 32 million visitors last year to to Paris (hint: drop the ‘s’ if you want to speak Parisian) it attracts visitors like bees to honey. What are the magical ingredients that result in Paris to consistently rank as the number one holiday destination?

A trip to Paris is on most of our travel wish lists.  Here is your chance to win a dream come true! Enter the competition before 30th May 2014, and you and a friend could win the Ultimate Paris Fashion Experience, courtesy of Luxaflex Window Fashions. Visit www.luxaflex60.com.au for all the details.

Eiffel Tower view from The Peninsula Palace

After spending 5 days in Paris, I have an inkling of enlightenment that makes me want to go back for more. Here are my top five reasons that I Love Paris and why I believe you will too!

Food and Wine:  Another glass of champagne, s'il vous plaît (if you please)
Locally sourced ingredients, freshly baked baguettes, bagels and croissants; and handmade everything – all terms of endearment for food and wine lovers. One observation:  I did not see one person in the streets carrying a take-away coffee. What I did see was café after café packed with patrons engrossed in conversation over a morning cuppa. How civilized!

Keeping Paris well stocked in fine champagne are the ancient villages surrounding Reims, a scenic 129 kilometre drive from the city centre and home to Grandes Marques of Champagne and the world’s crème de la crème champagne houses.

From small bistros to Michelin star restaurants, the French take their food seriously. One of my most memorable meals was at Mamie Gateaux tearoom.  It's best to arrive when the doors open at 11:30am, as it only takes fifteen minutes for the locals to fill the tables. The daily chalkboard menu offers a section of savouries such as seasonal quiches and soups; and sweets for the sweets – pastries and cakes – until sold out.

Parisians are the best

So you don’t speak fluent French, simply learning key phrases such as please and thank you; good morning and good evening; is advantageous in navigating the language barrier. Attempting to communicate in French goes a long way and I They are gracious hosts who cordially welcome visitors to the City of Light.

Window displays spare no expense trying to entice... ...But window shopping is still free!
Many of the world's best know luxury brands have their headquarters in Paris – the Louis Vuitton, Chanel and Christian Dior stores are fabulous, with the latest trends as expected. The stand out for me were the extravagantly dressed display windows, particularly the Louis Vuitton flagship store. Paris has something for one and all. There are emerging designers’ basement shops with wares fresh from the cutting tables at pre-famous prices, through to pre-loved and vintage luxury brands as well as fashion-forward couture.

Louis Vuitton flagship store ceiling and a shop window in Paris

Tight quarters inspire design creativity
In Paris each square metre is at a premium and the lack of space is often the impetus for cleverly designed interiors, particularly when it comes to hotel guest rooms, from boutique hotels with 10 guest rooms through to re-purposed palaces with 200, conceptual design is inspirational.

Introducing Atmosphere Translucent - The latest innovation in contemporary fabrics

This year the LUXAFLEX^® brand celebrates 6o years in Australia. Over the last 60 years, the LUXAFLEX fabric range offer has brought a number of iconic fabrics to the window furnishing market and continues to be a market leader in fabric innovation.

Atmosphere Blockout was one of the first soft and luxurious feeling foam back products that the market had seen which also offered an array of stylish and sophisticated colours. 60 years on and LUXAFLEX is still the market leader with a very enticing fabric range that continues to add that needed edge to the Window furnishing market.

To celebrate LUXAFLEX’s 60^th Birthday, we are excited to announce the launch of the highly anticipated Atmosphere Translucent fabric range.

Atmosphere Translucent is inspired by subtle mist of colours. A more subdued and neutral colour pallet injects calm to your surroundings. The range complements 8 of the most popular Atmosphere blockout fabrics, allowing a great dual ship solution for your window coverings. Developed locally and supporting local textiles, the introduction of Atmosphere Translucent is just another example of how the Luxaflex brand re-invents sophisticated quality finishes.

Atmosphere Translucent is available across Roller, Roman, Panel and Vertical applications.     

Luxaflex: Australian Made Blinds, Quality and Passion.

Luxaflex Window Fashions has been in Australia for 60 years and plan to be here for 60 more.

Sometimes Luxaflex window coverings cost a little more. We stand behind the quality of Luxaflex Blinds, Shades, Shutters and Awnings and you might find that little extra goes a long way and you’ll be able to enjoy Luxaflex in your home for years to come.

Why? Because we have a great team of passionate people throughout the business who genuinely are committed to making the best window coverings.




There isn’t just an investment in large machinery, such as our new “stenter” machine that, among other things controls the quality and coats fabrics… Fabrics that we also manufacture. We invest in jobs. Some of the passionate people behind Luxaflex have been here for 30 years – it’s experience you can trust.

We decided to give you a small insight into the factory and people who make Luxaflex and in the future, we’ll be bringing you stories about the people and the processes behind the Luxaflex brand as we celebrate 60 years in Australia.

Interior Design Insights; Fabrics, Colours and Textures - A Mixture for Success

Written by Lynn Malone, exclusively for Luxaflex

Hotels comes home

Fortune telling is not my forte but I predict lipstick-pinked red, opulent indigo blue and cranberry-infused purple winging toward Australian shores.  Evidence at Milan Design Week 2014 and resounded as I travelled five European cosmopolitan cities seeking interior design inspirations for Luxaflex and its valued customers, these were the prevailing colours.  Not only were the colours on parade, they were presented in an array of textures and patterns.  Is this the start of something new or is it history repeating itself?

Ham Yard Hotel, London; Firmdale Hotels

Ham Yard Hotel, London; Firmdale Hotels’

I believe design trends for the homes are often debuted in edgy hotel guest room interiors.  Cases in point are the boutique hotels created by the likes of Karl Lagerfeld, iconic German fashion designer; and prolific French designer Phillipe Starck whose name-dropping moniker adorns luxury products from furniture, vehicles, lighting to homeware.  Then there is newcomer and ‘it-girl’ in the interior fashion arena, Milan-based architect Patricia Urquiola, best known for her signature collection designed for B&B Italia, leading Italian modern furniture manufacturer.

Dressed for success

Fabrics and window treatments in particular; bring softness and a semblance of comfort to a home.  Keep an eye (or two) open to observe and consider the significance that window dressings play in a home’s schematic. One of my favourite ways to bring vibrancy and intimacy to your home is with window treatments:  soft drapery fabric panels that are complimented by the functionality of window coverings that filter UV light and provide privacy. Luxaflex Duette Architella Shades using a fabric from the Elan range is my choice.  The Elan fabrics have a refined shimmer-like effect contrasted by a textural linen.  The colour spectrum goes from vibrant and bold to warm and subtle - a favourite being Frosted Mulberry.  Duette Shades enhance the aesthetics of a home; and of equally importance, serve as an efficient insulator that reduces energy costs.  

Mixology at its best
In central London, a household name in the high street design circles is hotelier and designer, Kit Kemp who along with husband Tim owns Firmdale Hotels.  The Kemps are opening their eighth London property, Ham Yard Hotel in June 2014.  Kit beautifully designed the guest rooms and suites, each individually styled, in keeping with her award winning luxurious, modern British style renowned for its innovation; and daring mix of colour, pattern and texture.  As the saying goes, a picture is worth a thousand words so let’s take a sneak preview of the colours, patterns and textures that bring Ham Yard to life.

Ham Yard Hotel, London; Firmdale Hotels

Ham Yard Hotel, London; Firmdale Hotels

Ham Yard Hotel, London; Firmdale Hotels

Mixing at home

Ham Yard Hotel interiors are inspirational and cleverly considered but how does one achieve simpatico when mixing colours, fabrics and textures at home?  Here are my tips for successful mixology:

1. Vary the scale of the patterns
2. Mix textures  – not only colours and patterns
3. Combine fabrics – as example a decorative pillow using one pattern on the pillow front, a second pattern on the pillow back and a third fabric as cording
4. Give consideration to the pattern scale and the item that it will be applied; as example, a small pattern fabric often works well on a small chair.  That said, the contrary works too – a bold stripe wallpaper for a small room can be a winner
5. Know when enough is enough and when to stop adding to the mix

Interior Design Insights; Trend spotting for Luxaflex

Written by Lynn Malone, exclusively for Luxaflex

Each year in April, Salone del Mobile and Milan Design Week showcase the best in interior design fashion for the perusal and scrutiny of design trade professionals – many of who have travelled over more than one continent to attend.  Exhibits range from deep-pocketed international luxury brands with extravagantly dressed showrooms to emerging design talent operating on a shoestring camped out in a pop-up stand.  Despite the budget or showroom amenities, resoundingly there are concurrent threads that prevail.

For three glorious days, I traipsed through the football field-sized exhibition halls of Salone del Mobile and the back streets of Milan’s fashionable districts in search of embryotic trends.  I rediscovered trends that have stood the test of time, being simply reinvented.  As the saying goes, “what’s old is new again”.  Reporting exclusively for Luxaflex, here are my observations to share with you.

More are merrier
Why use one upholstery or window treatment fabric when you can use two or three!  How many times when selecting fabrics or finishes you experience difficulty narrowing your choice to the final one? If Milan 2014 design trends hold true, those days are by gone. With Luxaflex Dual Roller Blinds and Linked Roller Blinds, adding different fabrics to either compliment or contrast the room in your home is easy. From upholstered furniture to kitchen joinery finishes, there are multiple finishes – often three or more to one furniture or joinery item.  Chairs upholstered in multiple fabrics – complimentary or contrasting patterns – there are no rules in this game, it’s in the dealer’s hands.

Nature calls
If you can bring the outdoors inside then, do it!  At Milan 2014, greenery is abounded – from bathrooms with planted green walls to mini-fridges purposed to grow herbs; particularly suited for inner-city apartment dwellers.  Green is in – and its inside.

Unrefined timbers, textural - both visually and to the touch, were a key player for kitchen and bathroom joinery finishes; often counterbalanced by a polyurethane finished surface with a metallic finish thrown in for good measure. Natural earthy tones are a must in this year’s Milan 2014 design trends, if you are looking to apply this trend to your blinds, Luxaflex Verve Fabric for the Duette Architella Shades range features an urban chic with an eco-friendly quality. Made from 25% recycled materials, the irregular texture is enhanced with a subtle reflectivity in natural hues that reveal iridescent shine in natural light, making it the perfect addition to any home wanting to subtly incorporate the natural design trend.

Black out
The prevailing colour palettes were muted yet vibrantly engaged the sense of new:  biting shades of green from olive that creep to evergreen; champagne and mushroom representing the brown family; and warm grey toning from high to low.  Complimenting these palettes were splashes to swells of colour:  cobalt to indigo blues was a stand out; orangey reds and lipstick pink; and a tasting plate of mustards.  Missing in action is black and white.  One finish is a trend in its own right with descriptive to follow.

Copper colours Milan 

The finish and the ‘go to’ colour of the season is bronzed patina.  Versatile in its application, bronzed copper was the toast of the town from tables, chairs, and fabrics; and used for interior finishes from top to toe.  Polished, honed or brushed, bronze is a brilliant companion; and now is its time to shine.

Celebrate in style with Luxaflex

With a focus on innovation and style, Luxaflex Window Fashions have been enhancing the lifestyle of Australian families since 1954. To celebrate 60 years of Luxaflex in Australia, we could be sending you and a friend to Paris for the ultimate fashion experience, including:

2 x return economy flights with Qantas

4 x nights at InterContinental Le Grand Hotel

Exclusive shopping and VIP city tours

$2,000 spending money

How to enter

Spend over $2,000 at your local Luxaflex showroom this May, collect your entry code in-store, enter online by 31 May 2014, and you could find yourself on your way to a once in a lifetime Paris fashion experience.

There's never been a better time to buy Luxaflex.

For full terms and conditions, visit www.luxaflex60.com.au

Selling Houses Australia – Country Pub

The LifeStyle Channel’s Selling Houses Australia season final episode 13 aired last night, and from what we saw, the team did an outstanding job renovating the run down pub in Alexandra.

The Story: Ever dreamed of owning a nice little pub in the country? Think again. Barney and Barb thought their country pub would give them an idyllic lifestyle where they could work and play together; the reality was a 24/7 commitment working 7 days a week, 14 hours a day.

The Problem: The couple purchased the leasehold on the run down pub in Alexandra, Victoria 3 years ago. They worked tirelessly to turn the place from bankrupt to the most popular pub in town. They’re pillars of the community raising thousands of dollars for charity, but their efforts have taken their toll, physically, emotionally and financially. Despite their hard work, the pub is struggling to make a profit and now they just want out.

Kids Play Area

The Solution: The Luxaflex Ventura Folding Arm Awning was installed as it offers the very best in the open style awning market. Available with a wide range of accessories, this model can be customised to suit almost any situation. The 6.5 metre motorised Ventura Awning featured Dickson fabric in colour silver pearl, and fit perfectly in the outside courtyard of the pub.

Luxaflex Dual Roller Blinds in Prague Sunscreen fabric in colour Sheer Crepe and Plaza Plus Blockout fabric in colour White, were installed in the small bedrooms as it kept the room looking very streamlined and stopped it from having a bulky feel. By teaming a sunscreen and blockout fabric, you have the ability to adjust both light levels and night time privacy in the one application.

All Luxaflex Window Coverings were supplied and installed by Luxaflex Window Fashions Gallery, Decorator Curtains and Blinds in Greensborough, New South Wales.

Interior Design Insights; Sleepless in Milan

In part one of Lynn Malone's insights into the world of interior design, she heads to Milan to get the exclusive first look at new trends and designs for Luxaflex.

Described as a city where design never sleeps, Milan is host to the Salone del Mobile, the largest global design exhibition held annually each April.  In 1961, Salone del Mobile was founded by a handful of Italian furniture manufacturers to promote exports and to recognise Italy for its design finesse and manufacturing prowess.  Today over 160 countries are represented exhibiting furniture, fabrics, finishes, flooring, window coverings, lighting, kitchens and bathrooms; everything imaginable for home interiors.  Further boosting the regional economy during the six-day official event term, Milan inner city hotels are sold out 12 months prior; restaurants and nightlife hot spots are a buzz; and airline tickets are at a premium.

Situated in the outskirts of Milan, the Salone del Mobile 200,000 square metre fair grounds are a 40-minute train commute from the CBD.  There are 20 pavilions housing thousands upon thousands of temporary showrooms complimented by countless pop-restaurants, cafes and gelato stands.

Setting an all-time attendance record, this year over 350,000 paid visitors graced the fairgrounds.  Predominately a trade-only event, Salone del Mobile is attended by Italian and international architects; product and interior designers; manufacturers and suppliers; students and the media – all questing for a greater knowledge of the trends in design.

Biennially there are satellite specialty exhibitions – even-numbered years it is EuroCucina, kitchen and bathrooms; and odd-numbered years it is Euroluce focused on light technology.  This year was EuroCucina with six of the 20 pavilions devoted to kitchen and bathroom exhibitors and one pavilion solely focused on new technologies; and kitchen-related appliances and fixtures.  Viewing EuroCucina in its entirety takes two to three days circumnavigating the pavilions – arriving daily as the gates open at 9:30am and leaving at 6:00pm; not accounting for missed turns and retraced steps despite the explicitly informative guide books provided.

Salone del Mobile purposely showcases innovative and cutting-edge design.  That said, not all products exhibited come to fruition as manufacturers use the exhibition as a test market:  the more popular a product, the more likely it is realised.

As humongous as Salone del Mobile is in its geographical footprint and its number of exhibitors, it is the tip of the proverbial design iceberg. For every Salone del Mobile showroom there are two showrooms located in the city that participate under the umbrella of Milan Design Week.  As if 20 pavilions were not enough – top-tier brands fit out palatial inner-city villas to showcase their products in a compelling residential setting to host gala-events, cocktail parties and product launches.  For many a novice visitor to Salon del Mobile and Milan Design Week, the private showrooms are serendipitously discovered to the delight and dismay of the visitor toward the week’s end.

If trending designs tickles your interest, please tune into our next story covering emerging trends gleaned from Salone del Mobile and its world-class brands, manufacturers and top-notch designers.