Through the optimal mix of look and feel and functionality:

There is no accounting for taste. Or is there? When this question is put to Johan Hol, director-owner of Markiezen Nederland in Culemborg, he has to laugh heartily. "Of course we think the awnings we supply are the most beautiful in the Netherlands. That's a fact, as far as I'm concerned." Then again seriously, "The secret to a suitable awning lies in many different factors, such as the use of quality materials, craftsmanship in construction and assembly, design and aesthetics, functionality and of course maintenance." Quite a list of factors, in other words, that are examined in more detail here. 

In any case it should be clear that Johan Hol and his partner Aart van den Berg know their stuff. Not for nothing have they built up a good position in the Netherlands in recent years and gained a wealth of experience in the many projects they have been privileged to realize. 

"The use of high-quality materials is essential for building a good awning. Incidentally, end users are also increasingly looking at durability these days," Van den Berg begins. "Of course we choose cloth that can withstand a variety of weather conditions. It is also important to know the considerations of a buying consumer and whether they choose wood or aluminum. The wooden awning is still a classic. You are talking about pure nostalgia, which provides a stylish look. Our wooden hoods are made of meranti hardwood. The canopy can be made in a straight model, or with a trim. The side hoods can be in a straight, corrugated or modern version." 

"The aluminum awning combines the classic look of a traditional awning with the comfort of modern materials: after all, aluminum is virtually maintenance-free. Many consumers have an ear for this. After all, convenience serves man. We also have the most extensive range in the Netherlands in terms of models and colors, combined with various filling materials to make everything fit. And another fun fact about our company: we are the only supplier in the Netherlands that also supplies the aluminum side panels with two decorative grooves. They are available in a straight and a corrugated version."

"Needless to say, craftsmanship is of great importance when building and installing an awning," Van den Berg continues. "Not only is measuring is a crucial factor, but a lot of attention must also be paid to the detailed finishing."   

"Of course the design of the awning plays a big role for its appearance. After all, the eye wants something too!" jumps in Johan Hol. "A design must match the style of a home or building. This obviously also applies to the color and pattern of the fabric, making it blend in with the building and its surroundings. The type and color of the canopy, combined with the color of that cloth, determine the awning." 

"In addition to aesthetics, of course, functionality is also important. A good awning should be easy to operate, whether manual or motorized. The consumer chooses which variant is preferred. Don't forget the growing popularity of a solar-powered motor. But the customer gets to say it; they always have the final say." 

"In order to keep an awning beautiful for a long time, maintenance is of course very important," Hol continues. "It is the job of the trade - in consultation with us, of course - to properly inform consumers, who are naturally very proud of their awnings and want to show them off, about how to clean them. We created a comprehensive guide to help customers enjoy their awnings for as long as possible. In it, advice on how to remove stains in good time and to always dry them thoroughly before turning them inside." 

According to Johan Hol and Aart van den Berg, advising customers well and sharing essential knowledge are important to the way they run their business. "Our right to exist is that we are able to optimally combine the look and feel and functionality of awnings. The specialist trade knows that and the end user benefits!"

"A facade has to shine! It's really that simple," Johan Hol concludes. "A customer's wish should never be too crazy, whether it's size, width, shape or color. Many awning specialists know this and therefore gladly join our philosophy." 

"All our products are 'Made In Holland,' produced in our own factory in Culemborg," adds Aart van den Berg. "That also means great convenience for our dealers. We are easily accessible and that's the way it should be. After all, the end user is what we do it all for. He wants an eye-catcher on his facade, nothing more, nothing less. Awnings turn living into residing!"