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ROMANS RULE
Advice from the Experts
 In October’s issue of Window Fashions, we asked the experts what styles of Roman shades are best suited for certain situations. We discovered that while there are some basic guidelines, the multitude of options available to designers today really allows a great deal of creative freedom. And, with advancements in the Roman shades category (such as new lifting systems, motorization, eco-friendly fabrics and advancements in insulation), designers have even more alternatives to offer their clients.
So, what are those words of advice that can help along the way? Roman shades authorities share their thoughts:
- “Manage your customer’s expectations. Consider immediately what shade style in what fabric you are selling to who. Recommend only synthetic fabrics for customers who will not be satisfied with any wrinkling in natural fibers. Suggest natural fibers for those who are more casual. When choosing a shade style, consider what kind of function the customer needs the shade to serve—infrequent, decorative usage or everyday usage.”
—Lee Hunt, director of product development and merchandising, Phase II Window Products
- “Remember all the fabric options that are now available, from the soft colors and intricate designs perfect for the classic tear drop shade, to the trendy colors and bold patterns perfect for the clean modern lines of the flat panel.”
—Corina McRee, senior product manager, Comfortex Window Fashions
 - “I always recommend patterned materials on flat Roman shades. Only use solid color fabrics on a flat Roman shade when you want it to disappear as an under-treatment.”
—Tom Perkowitz, director of marketing, B&W Window Fashions
- “Examine the fabrics carefully—see if they are suitable for a roman shade. Some fabrics are very thin and should be ‘backed’ for stability before fabrication.”
—Scot Robbins, owner, Scot Robbins and Company
- “If the fabric is railroaded, major concerns must be factored in relation to the size of the shade. Most of the time a seam will have to be placed somewhere if a RR fabric is used; this can be hidden with bandings or tucks or trims. The style of the shade will be affected on a RR fabric.”
—Scot Robbins, Scot Robbins and Company
- “Always line a Roman shade made from a drapery fabric. Not only will the lining add the body necessary to give the shade a full look, it will also protect the face material from the sun.”
—Tom Perkowitz, B&W Window Fashions
 - “Fabric roman shades, whether tailored or billowy, must be fluffed and adjusted each time they are raised or lowered to keep them looking nicely dressed.”
—Denise Schenck, marketing manager, Lafayette Interior Fashions
- “Think beyond fabric when it comes to Roman shades. Natural woven Roman shades are one of today’s fastest grow¬ing and popular design trends.”
—Tom Perkowitz, B&W Window Fashions
- “The sleek contours of Roman shades lend soft sophistication to the window. With their inherent versatility, Roman shades are easily layered with panels and cornices for rich luxurious looks, or alone in a solar screen fabric to create a no-fuss modern look.”
—Anna Mullen, marketing manager, Hunter Douglas Designer Shades
 - “Relaxed shades look better on smaller shades.”
—Scot Robbins, Scot Robbins and Company
- “Relaxed and London styles are best for outside mount applications.” Their natural toe-in at the bottom can be objectionable on an inside mount.”
—Tom Perkowitz, B&W Window Fashions
- “Always consider using a ‘Continuous Lift System’ for Roman shades.”
—Scot Robbins, Scot Robbins and Company
- “Don't rule out motorization! The client may just want to spend the money!”
—Scot Robbins, Scot Robbins and Company
- “Don’t forget the embellishments! A single line of bead trim at the bottom of the shade or edge accents banding at the sides can double the perceived value of the shade.”
—Tom Perkowitz, B&W Window Fashions
For more on Roman shades, read “Roman Shades: Flirting with Function” in October’s edition of Window Fashions.
Learn More
B&W Window Fashions
www.horizonshades.com
Comfortex Window Fashions
www.comfortex.com
Hunter Douglas Window Fashions
www.hunterdouglas.com
ITA Inc.
www.itainc.net
Lafayette Interior Fashions
www.lafvb.com
Phase II Window Products
www.phaseii.com
Window Fashions Inc.
www.windowfashionsinc.com
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