By Julie Gedeon
When it comes to window treatments, Shadings covers it all. The Canadian enterprise specializes in customizing drapes, curtains, blinds and shades using the leading brands to add an ample dose of luxury to any home or office setting.
Marc-Olivier Lafleur and Torey Dery launched Shadings in Toronto four years ago to expand their realm from Store Urbain, their flagship Montreal location for more than a decade. “We’ve really wanted to be part of how Toronto is leading interior design in Canada by contributing our expertise and experience,” Dery says. “We offer the best higher-end options with a white-glove service and one-stop convenience.”
Beyond its meticulously crafted design projects, Shadings’ attention to detail is evident as soon as visitors step inside its North York showroom. “Our displays have the proper lighting and space to give a true sense of how each option looks and feels,” Dery says. “We also have a display case inspired by jewelry stores because some of our accessories are like window gems.”
Luxurious sofas invite shoppers to sit and relax as they discuss the various options to establish privacy, eliminate glare, black out sunlight or soften window frames with a set of elegant sheers. “We have a team of expert seamstresses who specialize in ripple fold and French-pleat curtains and drapes,” Dery says. “And, of course, we handle or help with the installation.”
There again, Shadings offers an array of choices. “We can arrange for you to have a single remote control for a wired blind or other window treatment, or we can set up drapes or curtains to open and close with an independent battery-powered motor,” Dery says. “And all our products are made to integrate seamlessly with the leading home automation installers.” Shadings carries Hunter Douglas, Lutron and other top window brands. Within the well-appointed showroom, clients can also experience the first Altex Experience Centre, where they are invited to check out the high-end Canadian line for themselves. Shadings often uses Altex to provide the ideal motorized shades for large, open spaces graced by windows that span more than one storey. “Even if privacy isn’t an issue, the shades protect furnishings against sun-related fading,” Dery advises.
“All our products are made to integrate seamlessly with the leading home automation installers.”
Customers often look to balance the distinct lines of popular mid-century, industrial or minimalist styles with the softness of a well-executed window covering. In one recent project, Shadings recommended curtains to flank the grand arched windows and sliding doors in a suburban Toronto home that lacked backyard privacy and dimension. “The curtains add so much texture,” Dery says.
Shadings’ expertise also extends beyond the windows they adorn. “We install beautiful awnings to protect your patio or pergola from sun or rain so that you can spend more time outside,” Dery says. “We also have retractable motorized screening that provides shade and shields everyone when it’s bug season.”
Each Shadings consultant is up to date with the latest innovations and trends for both indoors and out, thoroughly familiar with longtime favourites and eager to outfit clients’ homes in the highest quality shadings.