Fanaway® – The Retractable Ceiling Fan That Started It All
Invented by Joe Villella | As Seen on ABC’s The New Inventors
Introduction
Fanaway® is a patented, award-winning retractable blade ceiling fan that revolutionised how ceiling fans look and operate. When turned off, the blades retract and the fan resembles a modern pendant light. When in use, the blades silently extend, circulating air efficiently and stylishly.
Invented by Joe Villella in 2005, Fanaway quickly gained attention, featuring on national television (ABC’s The New Inventors) and eventually entering a global licensing and distribution agreement with Beacon Lighting.
Gallery Sections
1. The Concept – Where It All Began
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“Fanaway began as a hand-drawn concept, built with persistence and a belief in better design.”​​
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Concept drawings
Early Prototypes
Working Prototype for Presentations
2. The Breakthrough – ABC’s The New Inventors
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“Fanaway went national when it was showcased on ABC’s The New Inventors in 2005.”
3. From Prototype to Product – The Beacon Lighting Partnership
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Manufacturing in China
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Commercialisation and Media
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​“Fanaway became a retail success after partnering with Beacon Lighting, who helped take the product global.”
![210898_FANAWAY_56_FAN_2[1].jpg](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/e3c09c_05257d19705443c1af2c01faee7de266~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_278,h_172,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_avif,quality_auto/210898_FANAWAY_56_FAN_2%5B1%5D.jpg)
4. Global Reach – A Worldwide Success Story
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“Fanaway is now sold internationally and continues to be a favourite for its style and smart design.”
5. Recognition & Legacy​
Awards
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Peoples Choice Award for the Episode on the New Inventors - ABC TV 2005
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Interior Design Awards 2008, interior product design finalist;
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Best Homewares & Kitchen Product or Range, Finalist - Home/Lifestyle, The Gift Awards 2008
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Most innovative Product or Service, Finalist - Conscience & Creativity, The Gift Awards 2008
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Best Home wares & Kitchen Product or Range, Finalist – Australian Designed and/or Manufactured,
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The Gift Awards 2008 Next [Big Thing] Award 2008, Environmental category finalist
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Inventor’s Note – Joe Villella
“Fanaway was born from curiosity—a desire to create something functional and beautiful. It took years of hard work, setbacks, and partnership to bring it to life. I'm proud that the product is still loved around the world today. It’s proof that a good idea, pursued with focus and integrity, can change the way we live.”
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The Innovation Lives On
Retractive Consulting continues to innovate with new ideas, including Hydro Spheres, a sustainable stormwater solution for the future. Fanaway remains a foundation success that shaped our mission: To turn great ideas into real-world products.