Following the success of their Alustra Woven Textures collaboration, Hunter Douglas and designer Lori Weitzner have teamed up once again. This year, Lori rejoined the Hunter Douglas team to work on the finials for the PowerView® Motorized Drapery Hardware. Subtle and timeless, each piece of the collection is offered in jewel-like finishes, inspired by the rich, luminous tones of metals such as satin nickel, dark brass, matte white, and matte black, adding a touch of refined elegance to any setting.
Lori joins us this week to discuss how to collection came together.
Raymond Paul Schneider: When did you first start to develop this new collection?
Lori Weitzner: My journey with Hunter Douglas began as a consultant, and it has been an incredible evolution ever since. Having previously collaborated on the elegant Alustra Woven Textures Lori Weitzner Collection, I was truly thrilled when they reached out with an exciting new opportunity. This time, I was invited to support their PowerView Motorized Drapery Hardware line by curating the finials assortment that would be offered. These designs, a few years in the making, reflect a deep passion and meticulous craftsmanship.
RPS: What was the overall timeline from conception to achieving the final design?
LW: We began the creative process with detailed sketches in our studio, then moved to the manufacturer to develop prototypes. Initially crafted from resin, these prototypes allowed us to perfect the forms and proportions through careful refinement and adjustments. After achieving the ideal design, we advanced to creating prototypes in various metals and finishes to determine the most striking and polished final look.
RPS: What was your initial inspiration, and where did the idea(s) come from?
LW: Sometimes, the simplest and most iconic silhouettes are the most impactful. Guided by the elegance of elemental shapes and inspired by fundamental architectural forms, we focused on transforming basic geometry into exquisite, jewel-like designs. Our goal was to enhance a room’s décor without overshadowing it, imbuing the collection with the refined allure of fine jewelry. The result is a collection that beautifully enhances any drapery, subtly elevating it without competing or distracting from the overall decor.
RPS: Did you have a specific audience or theme in mind?
LW: These are intentionally universal forms. Simple yet elegant, they can be used in any style of interior. Add in the automation aspect, and one can have all the convenience of modern technology paired with the warmth of a beautiful textile drapery.
RPS: Please describe the methods, tools, and materials you used to develop and prototype this design.
LW: In our studio, we embrace the artistry of traditional methods, often starting with nothing more than pencils and paper to bring our concepts to life. This hands-on approach allows us to explore and refine our designs with a personal touch. Once our sketches are complete, we collaborate with our manufacturing partner, who employs a range of advanced tools and technologies to transform our ideas into tangible prototypes.
RPS: Please describe any challenges that affected the design and perhaps steered you to an entirely new final design?
LW: The most significant challenge was perfecting the proportions of the finials while meeting Hunter Douglas’ rigorous testing standards. Ensuring the product met their exacting criteria was a meticulous process, but it was crucial for achieving the high-quality craftsmanship they are known for.
RPS: Describe your overall brand DNA and Ethos
LW: We take great joy in designing products that are both tactile and beautiful, believing that the right details can transform how we experience a space. Our approach is holistic, considering color, texture, proportion, expression, and comfort with a deep sense of care and passion. This meticulous craftsmanship, combined with Hunter Douglas’ renowned commitment to innovation and quality, created a perfect synergy, resulting in a collection that seamlessly blends artistry with functionality
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