Playing It Cool

The innovative window blinds from Durablinds turn outdoor terraces and balconies into cosy spaces made for all weather conditions

- Durablinds

Given Singapore’s hot, humid, and sometimes unpredictable weather, most homeowners prefer to retreat into the air-conditioned confines of their abodes instead of fully utilising their balconies or patios.

Mindful of this issue, former interior designer Ong Shu Hwai and founder of Durablinds decided to help her clients to “reclaim the use of semi-outdoor spaces”. Ong, who helmed her own design practice in the early 2000s, felt much could be done with these underutilized areas; she sourced for quality systems that would shelter homeowners from the elements. “I love helping my clients transform their space through the use of durable and elegant products and smart designs,” says Ong.

In 2013, she introduced Glass Curtains, a frameless glass system from Europe, to the Singapore market. Four years later, she launched Ziptrak, a track-guided blinds system from Australia, in Singapore and Malaysia.

“The usage of a balcony or semi outdoor spaces is often considered as an afterthought. Just a few years ago, the balcony was seen as the best space for drying laundry as it was typically warm and noisy,” says Ong.

It’s a perception that’s now changing. The importance of enhancing our homes has never been more obvious than during the circuit breaker period of the Covid-19 pandemic when many people found themselves in an indefinite telecommuting arrangement.