Have you ever wanted to have a chat with an interior designer? Would you love to know what’s up and coming–what they really love when it comes to fashion, style and innovation? Recently, we sat down with interior design expert, Ellen Smith of Metropolitan Window Fashions, to discuss the exciting new features and design elements from Hunter Douglas. It’s a behind-the-scenes look. It’s the details we all wish we knew. You’re getting a sneak peek at the latest design trends and upcoming upgrades in window fashions.
What’s your favorite new fabric?
“I love Duettes in India Silk. It is a beautiful, soft fabric with unique dimension and an almost a woven look that brings in complimentary coloring. I love that it coordinates nicely with the other window shades, in the same fabrics, and you can achieve a total home solution for design and function.”
What colors can we expect to see this year?
“You’re going to see a lot of beautiful, soft colors, combined with textures that bring this exquisite feel to the space. Smoky blue, charcoal gray and a wide range of sophisticated neutrals make this an exciting year to design with fabrics.”
What’s your favorite new design element?
“No question–what they’ve done to Designer Roller Shades and Screen Shades is awesome! These are definitelty a favorite for my clients with a gorgeous collection of new fabrics and superior function. I’m excited that we are finally able to reduce the light gap–these shades provide the smallest in the industry. My favorite feature of these collections is the new top treatment. It’s a square cassette that shows off a clean and contemporary look. And for those clients that prefer a reverse roll, they’ve redesigned the brackets and covers with stylish finishes to coordinate the home. I just love it when I can re-introduce roller shades to a new client, they’re always so impressed with the innovations and crisp modern look of them.”
What are you excited to show your clients?
“Hands down–I can’t wait to show my clients what Hunter Douglas has done with NewStyle shutters. These are already our most popular plantation shutters, but they’ve received some upgraded design elements that are simply fabulous. Urban Gray is the newest addition to the colors–gray adds such on-trend, sleek styling. The other statement-making design upgrade for NewStyle is the handle cutout, in a rectangular shape–it’s such a custom look.”
How is technology playing into Hunter Douglas products this year?
“It’s huuuuge! Clients are really exploring the total automation of their home, and PowerView motorization is now compatible with other home integration systems–like Logitech’s Harmony and The Nest. It makes control of your home a seamless, effortless process. Automated shades transform the home, but now with one single device controlling all aspects–home security, window coverings, media–it goes way beyond what we ever thought was possible.”
Ready for What’s New in Window Fashions?
Let us come to you! Our design experts at Metropolitan Window Fashions would love to show all of the newest features, fabrics and innovative coming from Hunter Douglas this year. And there’s more! We’ve got a huge selection of designer fabrics for your next upholstery project or window treatment plans. We make your shop-at-home appointment fun and inspiring. Contact our team for a free, in-home consultation.