Hunter Douglas is an industry leader making big energy saving differences at the window. Did you know as much as 50% of a home’s heating and cooling energy can be lost through its windows? When you live someplace hot, like South Florida, who wouldn’t want to save on their energy bill? Hunter Douglas products think about the impact all their window fashions can make to help conserve energy. Here are some of our top picks of energy-efficient window coverings great for residents in South Florida.

Hunter Douglas Duette® Honeycomb Shades
In response to the energy crisis of the late 1970s, Hunter Douglas invented the highly energy-efficient Duette® Honeycomb Shades. The latest innovation is the Duette Architella® Honeycomb Shade which features a honeycomb-within-a-honeycomb design for even greater energy efficiency. The Architella collection is a great option for South Florida because it reduces unwanted solar heat in the summer time by up to 80% and cut heat loss in the winter by up to 40%, all while maintaining the benefits of natural daylight.

In addition, the Hunter Douglas Duette® Shades offer a wealth of choices for nature-inspired energy efficiency. The original single and double honeycomb Duette® shades come in multiple cell sizes, a horizontal or Vertiglide™ vertical orientation, and a range of light-control options from sheer to opaque. While normal shades go bottom up, there is a shade option that goes top down. A practical alternative for bathrooms if you want light and privacy. Allowing for better temperature control across seasons, the honeycomb shades are a smart, energy-efficient choice.

Hunter Douglas Roller Shades
Many of our southern customers are fond of the Hunter Douglas Designer Roller Shades. They combine the ease and simplicity of a roller shade with a wide selection of fabric choices—sheers to opaques, patterns to textures, and traditional solid colors. The roller shades are simple, energy-efficient, UV Ray efficient and come in different percentages: 14%, 10%, 5%, 3%, 1% 0% (black out). The various designer fabric percentages keep harmful UV rays at bay, protecting your furnishings from the sun. In this case, 1% fabrics block 99% of the UV ray and heat. Invest in unsurpassed quality and set a new standard for you home.

Hunter Douglas Shutters
Our final suggestion for window coverings in South Florida are shutters. Hunter Douglas has 3 big sellers: Classic Heritance® hardwood shutters, the value-priced NewStyle® hybrid shutters, and the Palm Beach™​ Polysatin™ shutters. Made to take the heat, the Palm Beach™​ Polysatin™ shutters are our best sellers in South Florida. Constructed with UV resistant Polysatin™ compound, they’re guaranteed never to warp, crack, fade, chip, peel or discolor, regardless of extreme heat or moisture—making them a great option if you have windows in your shower. It’s worth noting, all the shutters are GREENGUARD Certified meaning they meet some of the world’s most rigorous and comprehensive standards for low emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into indoor air.

Their longstanding commitment to quality and innovation means you’ll enjoy choices at Hunter Douglas that you won’t find anywhere else. Discover which energy-efficient window covering is best for your home today.

In 1987, designers Michele de Lucchi and Giancarlo Fassina from Artemide Lighting introduced the Tolomeo desk lamp to the world. 30 years later, the light has become an icon of modern design and changed the way we experience light.

The lamps design was born from de Lucchi’s personal need for a desk lamp that would work over his drawing board; the place where he spent most of his time. Designed by a designer for a designer, it’s not wonder the lamp is a popular choice amongst architects and design aficionados across industries today.

The classic design was initially inspired by the movement of rods used to support and maneuver fishing nets. It features a 360 degree rotating shade and arm structure held together by steel tension cables. The original Tolomeo design, engineering and performance have since been incorporated into a vast collection of products ranging from LED task lights to adjustable wall and suspension lamps. Even after 30 years, the lamps infinite varieties continue to illuminate the future with smart, functional and contemporary innovations.

To celebrate Tolomeo’s 30th anniversary, select models of the Tolomeo will be available at Sklar Furnishings for a special price. Ask one of our interior designers for details. Whether it’s your first classic Tolomeo or a new addition to the Tolomeo family, we’re confident you’ll enjoy the unique technology, creativity and contemporary elements this lamp has to offer.

Many would associate minimalism as an enduring style – able to stand the test of trends time and time again. This is because of its simple, clean appeal. For those interested in adopting this style for interior designs but are worried you may lose your unique and fun personality, we’ve got some tips and ideas for getting the minimalist look without being lifeless and cold.

Simple décor pieces with shapes and geometry instantly lift a space adding points of intrigue. The Erin Armchair is a great example. The clear variety of shapes in its design along with its serged seams, hidden zippers and unsurpassed tailoring make this chair a minimal yet alluring geometric piece in a living room or office.

Little accents with fresh finishes makes all the difference. The upholstered cylindrical light source like the Andromeda Lamp is an added touch that enlivens its minimalist design. Though sleek and minimal in proportions, the element as a whole adds a fun dimension that will instantly lift your space with warming lighting. Consider making a minimal statement in a grand way with the Karma Dining Table. It stands out for its bold simplicity and sophisticated elegance. Minimalists believe less is more, but this table gives more in space – possibly for guests – while staying less in design.

Getting down to the bare minimum allows you to discover a whole new world of serenity and harmony. With the right minimalist lines, it’s easy to bring an inviting warmth and lively presence to a space. If you fear you’re not finding the right balance, our expert interior design team can help you discover the value in being minimal and the right pieces that work for your minimalist style.

At Sklar Furnishings, we have a commitment in creating an environment in which you feel welcome. When selling a house, realtors are looking to do the same. They want prospective buyers to feel as though they can see themselves in the space. However, when beds are unmade and garages are overstuffed, it’s difficult for buyers to see themselves in the space.

To avoid a house or condo from lingering on the market, very often realtors will stage a home. A well-staged home is aesthetically pleasing, looks inviting and allows buyers to see the potential of the space. While staging a home for resale can be a large undertaking, with the right support it can be done quickly without fight.

This is why Sklar Furnishings has a special program especially for real-estate agents. While we don’t rent furniture, we can help stage a property for resale. When Sklar stages a home, we don’t lend the furniture; instead, we sell the client furniture, window treatments, lights and rugs.

The most important thing you can do to prepare your home for a sale is to get rid of clutter. A few of the major contributors to a cluttered look is having too much furniture in a room, furniture that doesn’t fit the space, poor lighting and a lack of context. The right furniture pieces, window treatments, lights and area rugs can dramatically alter a room’s overall effect and are therefore, worth the investment.

Once the agent sells the home, we have a special promotion for the new buyer. They will receive a $250 gift card from Sklar Furnishings to put toward furniture for their new condo or home. Contact Sklar to learn how you can get access to this exclusive realtor benefit.

The best way to keep fabric looking like new for years to come is to start by buying performance fabrics. Performance fabrics are fabrics engineered so that the performance of the fabric is the major parameter. Because of performance fabrics the old shout, “Not in the living room!” has been replaced with “Oh, go ahead.” Places in the home where kids and pets were formerly banned are now open for exploration thanks to durable upholstery.

Some popular fabrics in the performance collection include Crypton , Sunbrella , Microban, Ultrasuede and Sensuede. Not only do they have an enduring aesthetic appeal but a high performing durability that will look good for years to come. This is why we recommend using them for your furniture upholstery from the beginning. But in case that’s not an option, here are 3 tips to help keep your fabric looking like new.

Clean Up Spills
When spills happen, it’s best to clean them up right away. Rinse a sponge with water and blot out the stain—never rub. Then, press dry with a cloth or paper towels. If your furniture cannot be cleaned with water, use vinegar or vodka on a cloth to blot the stains. Don’t worry, the smell of both vinegar and vodka will disappear when the area is dry.

Cushion Care
To preserve the life of your cushions, rotate and flip them over on a regular basis. Also, if your sofa has cushions that are all the same size and shape, the center one needs to be changed frequently. Doing this not only maintains their form, but keeps them from being in the same sun pattern, helping them to preserve their color.

Bad Smells
Over time, it’s very likely your upholstery will acquire some unusual smells. The best way to deal with this is by sprinkling baking soda on your upholstery, letting it sit for 20-30 minutes, then vacuum it off.

At Sklar Furnishings, we know that no two people or homes are alike, but there’s no question that everyone could benefit from a little more space. Be it a cozy apartment in the city or an urgent need to maximize every square inch of your office, Sklar Furnishings has luxurious and functional space saving furniture ideas.

Cling Wall Unit
Adorn your entryway with this versatile, contemporary organizer. A stand out piece that can also discreetly blend into any foyer, hallway, bathroom or office. This multi-functional glass shelf optimizes your narrow wall space with function and class.

Portos Bar Cabinet
Short on space doesn’t mean short on fun. Why not entertain your guests from the Portos bar cabinet? Cattelan Italia proves that chic can come in small shapes and sizes. Make your next soiree a success with this dual compartment, modern bar. When not in use, it makes for a stylish table display surface.

Maci Round Nesting Tables
Get double the table space with Maci’s table set. Nesting tables are favorable if your floor space or storage capacity is limited, or if you simply prefer less clutter. Versatile and practical, set the tone of your interior design with these art deco objects.

With the right furnishings, small spaces can be both beautiful and functional. If you’re not sure how to utilize your small space, book an appointment with our interior design experts. They’ll help you maximize your design space potential.

The 1950s and 1960s were a golden age for American architecture, with architects working in a variety of styles to create homes that were very much of the moment. Some have become iconic enough to feature in movies and photo shoots; some are now museums, while others remain low-profile private residences. For fans of mid-century modern design, these houses offer an immersive experience. Read part 1 of this two-part story here.

Fallingwater

Perhaps the most iconic of all modernist homes, Fallingwater is a National Historic Landmark managed by the Western Pennsylvania Conservatory. The legendary Frank Lloyd Wright designed Fallingwater in 1936 as a weekend house for the wealthy and prominent Kaufman family, whose forward-looking tastes complemented Wright’s outré ideas.

Fallingwater is built directly over a 30-foot waterfall, a unique choice that made the sound of the falls an integral feature of life there. Its strong horizontal lines and cantilevered structure make it a quintessential example of modern architecture. Visitors to Fallingwater can choose to join a daily tour of the house, or obtain a ground pass.

Light up the outdoors: Even if your house isn’t on a waterfall, there’s no reason why you can’t set the tone in your backyard oasis with a portable UMA Sound Lantern.

Farnsworth House

Farnsworth House was designed by Mies Van Der Rohe in 1949, for Dr. Edith Farnsworth. A flat roofed, single storey house raised 5’ 3” above the ground, its most striking feature are the glass exterior walls on all sides. The house is devoid of what Mies considered extraneous elements, including most interior walls. It sits parallel to a river and is surrounded by greenery, making the striking white house stand out all the more. Farnsworth House is open for tours between April and November, and can even be rented for events.

Let nature do the work: Greenery will enhance any space, making it feel fresh and light. Consider a vase like the Lingo that brings character. It can house a plant in a compelling way without dominating the flow of the room.

Lovell Health House

Lovell Health House was designed in 1927-1928 by Richard Neutra, and was one of the first steel frame houses built in the USA. Its sprayed concrete exterior was also unusual for its time. The owner was a naturopath who wanted his house to facilitate healthy living, while the architect saw himself as a type of psychologist who could cure his clients’ neuroses. The result was an unusual home that housed a fitness suite and sunbathing rooms, with details that included two Model A Ford headlights in the stairwell. The building can be viewed in the movie L.A. Confidential.

Include “health” in design: Texture can nourish our health and our décor. The Ripplewater area rug breathes new life into your space.

There are different approaches when it comes to designing the interior look and layout of a retail space. Design decisions have a significant impact in telling a brand’s story and creating immersive experiences for a retail space. If your company or business has an appetite for innovation and contemporary ideas, it’s important to ensure the retail space design reflects the same. When it comes to retail space design, the genie’s in the details. 

Muriel Sconce

A show stopping light source, Oly’s Muriel Sconce will bathe any contemporary space in enchanting light. A cluster of bulbous bubbles in varying sizes with a cast resin finish, this sconce has a stunning effect while giving off a soft, cool glow. Set a retro, whimsical tone for any retail space or turn heads in window displays with a high end light feature that grabs attention.

Oscar Chair

Adorn a space with feelings of comfort by incorporating convenient seating. Benches, or comfortable chairs like the Oscar, will encourage customers to spend more time in a store or office. Inspired by the club chairs of the 1930’s, the American Leather design is made from high-density and high-resiliency foam. Available in a variety of colors and finishes to suit your space’s style, these chairs can endure the high sitting frequency of people in active retail spaces.

Ava Console

The Ava Console is a contemporary console that can be used in a variety of ways in a retail space design. Merchandise outposts, aisles or for a display in a hallway, this elegant yet sophisticated piece is available in acrylic or glass to complement any transitional environment.

Turn on the furniture and explore the latest developments in smart home technology lighting. Explore the latest innovations from worldwide leaders in lighting design who have unparalleled commitment in creating products that satisfy the most requested smart home lighting needs.

Artemide established its company in 1959 in Milan, Italy, on a 3-word design philosophy, “the human light”. The goal is to innovate not for the sake of innovation, but to create a piece that fulfills a use. Working with talented designers and architects, Artemide lighting has been able to innovate with high tech materials, organic forms and advanced LED technology for nearly 60 years. With award-winning collaborations with some of the world’s most talented contemporary interior designers, Artemide’s extensive product lines are not only modern in Italian design, but iconic in cutting-edge smart home technology.

Eco-friendly and energy efficient, the Sisifo Table Lamp is revolutionary in design. It features an aluminum base, a methacrylate diffuser and an arm that rotates over 360° on the vertical axis. Technological innovation combined with research on human interaction led to the diffuser being free to move in all directions. Restriction-free lighting means endless possibilities and a bright future in smart home technology innovation.

Kartell knows how to blend functionality, style, durability and modern appeal. The Italian brand’s dedication to technical and aesthetic innovation has earned Kartell its global recognition as a leader in modern lighting and a pioneer of modern day polyurethane.

Utilizing Kartell’s industry-leading technological expertise, Ferruccio Laviani has created a simple form table lamp that serves the intended purpose and functionality. The Taj Table Lamp abandons the typical articulated, jointed and mechanical stereotype and is instead an intelligent, luminous, three‐dimensional sculpture. Choose which finish best suits your style.

Let’s play “What’s inside your house?” featuring the homes of the most esteemed contemporary interior designers. The best way to understand an interior designer’s style, or at least try and grasp it, is to explore where he or she lives. At home, interior designers have no boundaries; they’re not capped by budgets or limited with restraints. Let’s explore what happens when imagination runs wild in a designer’s house.

Victoria Hagan is an award-winning interior designer whose work reflects elegance and versatility. At her getaway luxury residence, Victoria filled the living space with a soft palette of neutrals and pale blues. Sound a little bland? Neutrals don’t mean tasteless. Consider a neutral space provides the opportunity for iconic, stand out features like chandeliers. A stunning lighting piece like the Bulles Chandelier will attract attention ­with a muted backdrop.

Rose Tarlow used her home in California as a case study to prove to herself that she could create an ageless space. Designing a room that not only stands the test of time, but also maintains a modern sense, is the ultimate interior designer test. “But the key”, she reveals, “is to include signature design elements.” A leather sofa in timeless décor is the equivalent of canned goods in the pantry: a staple. Though unlike the can of garbanzo beans that expire, leather—such as the American Leather Luxe—is enduring. A classic, durable textile, leather is an ageless essential.

And to those who are committed to their beloved antiques, consider the castle of Axel Vervoordt. Like wine, Axel believes design is better with age and specializes in creating warm, layered spaces using priceless, relic goods.Rugs, such as the captivating Zion, are essential for bringing rooms together; giving the space context and purpose. Even if the space is new and modern, consider adding pieces that are appear distressed and mature. This gives the space depth and antiquity.

Every home is unique with different spaces and tastes. This is why our design team is committed in helping you modernize your home into a space that speaks to your character and interior design.