MONDAY NOVEMBER 7, 2022
A passion for handweaving, design exploration and a love of nature continues to fuel the evolution and growth of our H&F Studio Collections.
Handwoven of lustrous banana fiber, and almost too perfect for this world, ETHEREAL is added to the Grassweave Woven-to-Size Collection for Fall’22 – striking just the right balance of texture and sheen for any modern setting.
MONDAY SEPTEMBER 19, 2022
REIMAGINED natural forms layered with rich organic materials to create unique textures and visual interest is the vision behind our latest collaboration with designer Lisa Kanning for Fall/Winter22. Her collection of natural window and wall coverings is detailed with intricate patterns that mimic those found in nature while maintaining a sophisticated sensibility that suits a range of settings.
We sat down with Kanning to discuss her process, inspiration, and what it was like designing this collection with Hartmann&Forbes.
H&F: Why did you decide to do a collaboration with H&F?
LK: Because they asked! More seriously, I’ve always followed designer/manufacturer collabs in general and appreciate how the marriage of designer innovations and production capabilities can lead to such a unique product. I have specified H&F window and wall coverings since their inception and have created beautiful interiors in conjunction with their designs. Nothing was more appealing than partnering with the talented team behind creating the products I had admired for so long.
H&F: How did this collection come about?
LK: I’ve always been more of a big-picture designer – as LKID specializes in new construction projects, the vision begins early and continues to build, allowing for the subtle layering of textural richness that LKID interiors are known for. Even in designing a custom one-off piece specifically for a project, it has always been a part of the whole vision. So, the collaboration with H&F involved a more specific focus than was my usual scope. Driven by my love of texture and how it can subtly change with the light, transforming from part of the symphony to the star of the show, the collection aspired to encapsulate that vision. The designs demanded the same layering impact of a broader scope in a much more compact form. This was achieved by utilizing multiple materials and techniques in each pattern, mimicking the complex organic forms of nature, and creating designs that transcend a specific aesthetic and can harmonize in many different environments.
H&F: What was your initial inspiration, and where did the ideas come from?
LK: I have often used natural materials in unique ways to create textural focal points in my designs. We’ve installed different barks, twigs, trunks, and branches in various forms in many projects but specifically, in working with natural materials there can be limitations. One of the goals of this endeavor was to create products that reflected the beauty of these natural materials while also allowing for larger scale, continuous pattern repeats, and seamless installation.
H&F: How would you describe this collection?
LK: Nature-driven patterns, expressing textural qualities in a more sophisticated manner. The variety of materials utilized overcomes the traditional rustic nature of the original inspirations, allowing them to adapt seamlessly to any environment.
H&F: Tell us about growing up in rural Montana and how it has influenced your work today.
LK: Honestly, I didn’t grow up in what is perceived as the typical majestic Big Sky Country of Montana. Situated close to the Canadian border, with bitter wind-driven cold on the plains in the winter, our ranch was close to a small river that could bring wind chills to arctic temperatures. We did have a small mountain range nearby that we regularly visited – though nothing compared to the grand scale of the major mountain ranges nearby. The school bus took us through an area of ‘badlands’ nearby, interesting geological formations rich with fossils, which at the time I had no appreciation for as it veered from my direct route home. I endeavored to get out of small-town Montana and into more urban environments, and my inherent love for fashion (shoes!) eventually led me into interior design. It wasn’t until my design work brought me back to Montana, the ‘pretty parts’ this time, that I began to truly appreciate the patterns and textures that I had been exposed to and incorporate them into my interiors.
H&F: What inspires you?
LK: Travel provides my biggest source of inspiration. Experiencing how different locales influence design is invaluable. As our work involves projects in many different environments, I feel it is important to see how different cultures, materials, climates, etc. affect the design outcome.
H&F: During the design process were there any unexpected surprises?
LK: The only surprise was how fabulous the designs turned out! Having worked with H&F I knew their designs, materials, and quality were impeccable but as high as my expectations were, I was blown away with the pattern interpretations, intricate techniques, and sophisticated materials of the end results. The translations, whether literal or abstract, were spot on.
H&F: How would you describe your design style?
LK: I like to think that my designs are characterized by modern comfort and timeless durability. Our clients are seeking high-end luxury design with no compromise on performance and comfort. And they look to us to provide the latest trends and innovations utilized in a timeless fashion.
H&F: Are there particular colors or patterns that you find yourself returning to often in your designs?
LK: I tend to build the base of interiors, including architectural elements, with textural earthy tones and add contrast colors in with the placement of accent fabrics, art, and accessories. Though the boldness of a pallet is often client-driven, the outcome typically reflects my sensibilities combined with clients’ preferences.
H&F: What role do window coverings and wall coverings play in your designs?
LK: Not only are they a functional aspect of the design in providing sun control, privacy features, or acoustic properties, but with H&F products they play an integral part in the textural layering process of the overall design. Beautiful and practical.
The Lisa Kanning Collection by Hartmann&Forbes features three Woven-to-Size Grassweave Windowcovering series and four Natural Wallcovering series.
WEDNESDAY SEPTEMBER 7, 2022
From her base in New York City, where she operates her firm, acclaimed interior designer LISA KANNING serves clients across the country. Her high-profile projects are marked by clean lines, textural contrast, and a sense of proportion. Named a Luxe Gold List 2021 Honoree, her work is frequently featured in prominent shelter magazines. Influenced by a rural Montana upbringing, Kanning’s love of organic shapes and materials informs her collection for Hartmann&Forbes. Layered window and wall coverings are detailed with intricate patterns that mimic those found in nature while maintaining a sophisticated sensibility that suits a range of settings.
“Nature has always been an integral part of my life and has long served as an inspiration for my work. My designs are typically driven by a layering of rich organic materials to create unique textures with visual interest. It seemed like a logical progression to reimagine these natural forms and materials in my collection for Hartmann&Forbes, creating designs that are both modern and timeless.” ~Lisa Kanning
The Lisa Kanning Collection by Hartmann&Forbes features three Woven-to-Size Grassweave Windowcovering and four Natural Wallcovering designs.
MONDAY AUGUST 22, 2022
Grassweave Essence™ is a foundational design offered in a broad range of sophisticated colorways. Handwoven to the size of the window, a custom warp edge is woven into the design based on your custom specifications of color, edge style, and placement. Bringing your vision to life with infinite possibilities. As easy as 1-2-3!
SELECT COLOR - Select from 25 Essence colors to create the perfect combination – tone-on-tone or contrasting edge design.
SELECT EDGE - The custom edge can be solid or striped with widths from ¼" to 5."
SELECT PLACEMENT - Custom edge can be positioned directly on the edge or inset 2," 4," 6" or custom.
The Grassweave Essence Custom Warp Edge Order Form walks you through the above steps and makes it easy for you to place your order. We are happy to help you with any questions about your custom order. Contact H&F at 888.582.8780 or hfcr@hartmannforbes.com or visit your local showroom.
MONDAY JULY 11, 2022
Specification errors can be costly and lead to product delays and unhappy clients. We’ve assembled our 7 most common window shade specification errors and suggestions for how to avoid them in the future.
This is the most common error made when ordering shades. The majority of natural weaves are open or sheer, which makes them beautiful. However, an open weave doesn’t offer privacy or room darkening.
SUGGESTION: If shades are being used in bedrooms or other areas where light control or privacy is required, consider this factor upfront when specifying. We offer three options for privacy and sun control: add a privacy liner, specify a dual-shade, or extra density weaving.
The Legacy Clutch is a time-tested system that works extremely well in most applications, however, it is a delicate spear system. The most common breakage is when shades are pulled too hard in the top position as users try to pull the roman folds all the way underneath the valance of a traditional style shade, which is impossible since the folds are longer than the valance.
SUGGESTION: If shades are being used in a high-use area or in rooms where people are not familiar with operating a clutch-controlled shade, consider the new Ultra Clutch system which is a more durable tube system, or upgrade to the Newton motor system, which is slightly more in cost but delivers a significantly improved user experience.
Unfortunately, many shades are returned for cut-downs or have to be rewoven in larger sizes due to improper measuring. This can add a significant time delay to a project’s timeline since Woven-to-Size shades are custom handwoven.
SUGGESTION: Although you can find a measuring guide at hartmannforbes.com/measure, we suggest only using self-measurement as a guide to receive a quote estimate or for self-estimating a project cost. ALWAYS use a professional installer to provide more accurate measurements for final order placement.
The user experience with motorized shades is much better than with manual shades. Users find the simplification, sophistication, and overall ease of use to be greatly enhanced. Often when shades get partially ordered in manual and motorized, the customer sends back the manual shades to be motorized once compared in the home.
SUGGESTION: Consider reviewing the budgets carefully with the client and help them understand that the initial cost of a motorized system will be worth the investment over time since the user experience is greatly improved and shades are generally operated multiple times per day. Learn more about H&F Shade Automation.
Side returns on outside mount shades help to conceal componentry when viewing shades from the side.
As methods of operation get more sophisticated they get larger and require deeper headrails, which exacerbates the need for side returns and makes them a much larger design feature of the shade.
SUGGESTION: In general we always suggest the shortest side return possible. When specifying, be aware that the larger the method of operation, the more the side return needs to be studied and reviewed prior to ordering. Ordering a structured valance, removing the valance from the shade, and installing the shade inside the structured valance is a great option when using motors or full automation.
An Old Style roman shade is aesthetically more modern and clean, however, the control mechanism is located behind the shade fabric, making using the shade with manual Methods of Operation more challenging.
SUGGESTION: Consider a motorized or automated Method of Operation when specifying an Old Style shade, or specify a Traditional Style.
Often shades are sent back to be changed to a Top-Down/Bottom-Up or a Top-Down only Splitview configuration to give greater privacy in homes that have windows with privacy concerns.
SUGGESTION: In bathrooms, bedrooms, and locations where privacy is critical consider a Splitview upfront when initially specifying.
We are happy to help you avoid any specification errors. Contact H&F at 888.582.8780 or hfcr@hartmannforbes.com.
THURSDAY JUNE 30, 2022
Each time we create a new Reference Kit we consider it a labor of love – we thoroughly review and edit products and specifications to bring you the best nature-inspired, artisanally made products in the marketplace. It took us a while, but the 2022 Reference Kit is printed and ready to ship.
The kit features our complete natural collection and provides design inspiration and a step-by-step system for specification. And of course, being named one of Oregon’s Top 100 Green Workplaces in 2022, rest assured, we printed with only low energy and UV inks on FSC-certified paper.
The kit Contents:
PRODUCT PORTFOLIO
Features inspirational photography, weave images and weave details worthy of showing your best client.
STYLE GUIDE
Provides visual examples of each style, specifications, and design considerations along with available options and upgrades.
PRICE LIST
Provides measuring instructions, complete fabric detail, and pricing.
We would be thrilled to walk you through the new Reference Kit in person or through a zoom call – contact us to set up an appointment, or you can download a complete list of changes. The kit is available in your local showroom or order online. The updated price list is effective July 1, 2022.
THURSDAY JUNE 23, 2022
We are incredibly honored to be recognized for the 10th consecutive year, remaining at the #6 spot, as one of Oregon Business Magazine’s “100 Best Green Workplaces.” Passionately committed to drive change within the industry, we continue to work diligently to reframe the context of responsible design by making products in ways that are environmentally, socially, and economically sustainable.
“Embedding sustainability in strategy is not only essential to a better future, but to one’s well-being. By infusing organic objects into our interior spaces, we can create a restorative human experience,” explains Michael Jones, Hartmann&Forbes Founder. “It’s an honor and a privilege to be leading a company that is so intricately intertwined with our natural world and to be recognized for it.”
Handwoven and crafted with natural fibers including ramie, water hyacinth, and abaca fibers, each Hartmann&Forbes product begins with the careful examination and selection of premium natural fibers. By cultivating unique natural fibers from well-managed ecosystems and weaving near the source, we ensure authentic craftsmanship that leaves a smaller environmental footprint.
Congratulations to all the companies in Oregon who earned this accomplishment.
LEARN MORE ABOUT H&F SUSTAINABILITY
Pictured: President Scott Howes receiving award along with other members of Project Green. Left to right: Kim Leagjeld, Heath Strode, Scott Howes and Menna Mourad.
MONDAY JUNE 13, 2022
One of the most important factors affecting sleep is light, which regulates our internal clock, or circadian rhythms. When light hits the retina, our body uses that information to determine the time of day. Because modern life is filled with artificial light—from streetlamps to smartphones—at all hours, our circadian rhythms are compromised, as is our production of melatonin, the sleep-promoting hormone. The consequences extend beyond adequate sleep to our health and well-being, contributing to stress, seasonal affective disorder, weight gain, and cardiovascular issues.
Research has shown the best way to ensure a good night’s sleep is to make your bedroom as dark as possible. That’s the idea behind blackout shades, which block external light so you can fall—and stay—asleep. In addition, the material muffles noise and keeps sun and UV rays out for an optimal sleeping temperature.
Hartmann&Forbes offers a large selection of performance fabric rollershades designed for light blockage. Featuring refined patterns and rich textures, most are PVC-free and Greenguard Gold certified.
MONDAY MAY 23, 2022
An ancient fabric, linen has long been favored for its many attributes, among them beauty, durability, breathability, and sustainability. One of the highest designations of quality for this material is the Masters of Linen® trademark. It guarantees excellence as well as production entirely in Europe, from field to spinning to finished fabric. The mark also means the linen is sustainably made from European flax fiber with no waste, irrigation, or polluting chemicals.
To gain the coveted designation, a certified artisan must weave the fabric from linen yards that are 100% Masters of Linen-certified, with a final composition of pure linen, majority linen, or linen union (a minimum of 40% linen). All Hartmann&Forbes’ Ertheweave fabrics are 100% linen and carry this prestigious trademark, offered in seamless widths by the yard up to 118" and shades up to 114."
MONDAY MAY 9, 2022
SUSTAINABLE FIBERS | RICH COLORWAYS | REFINED TEXTURES
“We aim to design products that are conscientious and soul-satisfying, delivering a balance of restorative beauty and time-honored craftsmanship – products that are sustainably made in every sense of the word.” ~Rebecca Welch, H&F Design Director
A passion for handweaving, design exploration and a love of nature continues to fuel the evolution and growth of our H&F Studio Collections. New products for Spring/Summer ’22 include Reflection, a zen-inspired Woven-to-Size Papyrusweave series available in two colorways. Additionally, our Soft Natural Fabric Collection gets an update that includes new colorways for the Weathered, Cords, and the Fields series, plus a Brushed series refresh now milled in one of Europe’s most revered linen mills. These linens are all Masters of Linen certified, which guarantees excellence and 100% European traceability at each stage of processing. We’re also re-introducing the high-performance, sustainably made Ecoweave and an update to the Solarweave 5000 series in our Performance Fabric Collections.
