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Say Hello to Fenna Haakma

Textiles Product Manager pleated and honeycomb

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Fenna Haakma, our Product Manager for Pleated and Honeycomb collections, brings 30 years of experience in textiles. Join us as she shares her valuable insights into the current market landscape, trending color palettes, tips for launching your new collection, sustainability practices, and more.

What do you do at Coulisse?

As Product Manager, Fenna Haakma oversees the development and management of Coulisse’s honeycomb and pleated fabric collections, collaborating closely with the sales, marketing, and quality departments. She explains, “It’s a collaborative process where we ensure our collections meet market demands while maintaining high standards and staying innovative.”

What is your background?

With 30 years of experience in textiles and fashion, Fenna transitioned from fashion design to interior products. She shares, “After studying Fashion Design at the Art Academy, I began my career in fashion but quickly shifted to interior design due to my passion for textiles. At Wehkamp, a leading Dutch online retailer, I spent 12 years focusing on curtains and bed linen, learning about collections and collaborating with suppliers. At Vriesco International Fabrics, a well-established Dutch company specializing in custom-made curtains and textile solutions, I worked for 13 years developing curtain and roman blind collections and introducing a sustainable textile product range that transformed the company’s approach to sustainability. For two years at Lienesch, I explored ‘technical’ textiles and sustainability challenges.”

What's the current market and trends?

The demand for pleated and honeycomb window coverings is rising due to energy efficiency, sustainability, and smart home integration. “People want window decoration that look great, save energy, and work with smart home control,” says Fenna. Honeycomb blinds are valued for their insulation properties, while pleated shades are gaining popularity for their sleek design and light control flexibility. Fenna notes, “Consumers are becoming more design-conscious and increasingly focused on eco-friendly materials, making sustainability a core element of future developments.”

What specific colors are essential for an upcoming collection?

Natural, neutral, and earthy tones are leading the way, bringing a calm, timeless feel to interiors. “These nature-inspired shades create warmth and serenity in spaces,” says Fenna. White and grey remain classic favorites, while soft pastels and chalky tones fit well with the Scandinavian-inspired look. Greens and nature-inspired designs, like leaves and organic shapes, are also gaining popularity. “We’re seeing a growing interest in textures and weaves that offer a tactile, natural feel, complementing the Scandinavian aesthetic,” Fenna adds, noting the importance of texture in creating depth and a cozy atmosphere.

What sets us apart?

Our unique collections are crafted with passion and teamwork, offering fabrics that are both decorative and functional, with options ranging from transparent to darkening. “Our fabrics not only enhance aesthetics but also provide energy-saving benefits, privacy, and improved indoor climate,” says Fenna. “We’re inspired by the latest design trends to ensure our products are both modern and timeless. By pairing our innovative fabrics with smart systems—such as app or voice control—we deliver a complete solution for today’s homes.”

What's the best way to introduce your new collection?

“Always communicate the ‘why’—why should a customer choose your product?” advises Fenna. “Highlight your unique selling points and make it easy for customers to understand. Offering convenience and service is key; customers don’t want complicated solutions. It’s also crucial to listen to feedback and continuously innovate."

How is sustainability making an impact?

Sustainability is significantly influencing the development of pleated and honeycomb products. Fenna explains, “Honeycomb blinds are valued for their insulating properties, which contribute to energy efficiency. This aligns perfectly with the growing sustainability trend.” There is an increasing emphasis on using recycled and biodegradable materials such as organic cotton and bamboo, which not only reduce environmental impact but also provide a natural aesthetic. Honeycomb blinds help maintain indoor temperatures, reducing energy consumption costs. Looking ahead, sustainable production processes—including low-impact dyes and waste reduction strategies—are becoming standard. The integration of smart technologies will further enhance energy efficiency by allowing precise control over light and temperature.

What advice would you give to dealers?

Dealers should prioritize staying informed about market trends and consumer preferences. It’s essential to be distinctive while maintaining a strong presence on platforms like social media or through influencers. Highlight the key advantages of pleated and honeycomb products—such as their energy-saving properties—which make them both environmentally friendly and cost-effective. Ensure that your website is up-to-date and mobile-friendly; consider incorporating interactive tools that help customers visualize how different fabrics will look in their interiors. Fenna advises, “Listening to feedback and offering customization is key; emphasizing these aspects can set dealers apart in a competitive market.”

Why did Modena make the cut for the Fundament Collection?

Modena joins the Fundament Pleated and Honeycomb collection as a stylish and cost-effective complement to our existing Ivrea light filtering and black-out fabrics. This new budget-friendly addition offers exceptional value without compromising on quality. Available in 10 elegant commercial colors, Modena showcases a beautiful duo-tone, non-woven quality in both light filtering and black-out options with a white backing to reflect heat and light. With a generous 280 cm width and a refined D-shape design, Modena seamlessly blends sophistication, functionality, and affordability, making it a valuable addition to our range. Perfectly timed for winter, Modena offers superior insulating properties to meet the growing demand for energy-efficient window coverings. Discover the difference with Modena—designed to elevate any interior.