Expert Insights on Choosing Window Furnishings

At Lahood Window Furnishings, we understand that window treatments are more than just a functional necessity. They have a huge impact on the light, functionality and aesthetics of a space so are a critical component of your home’s overall design. We chatted with three of our in-house experts, Sharlene Thompson, Design Consultant, Tricia Dunlop, Interior Designer and Clayton Sceats, Commercial Director plus an independent interior stylist, The Design Chaser, Michelle Halford to gain their insights on what they considered important when choosing window furnishings:

1. Functionality is Key

When it comes to selecting window furnishings, functionality is key. Sharlene Thompson, a residential consultant at Lahood, emphasizes the importance of considering how each room will be used.

“In bedrooms, where privacy and light control are crucial, blackout curtains—such as those lined with Lahood's Protection Plus range—offer optimal sleep quality. For high-traffic areas like living rooms, durable materials like polyester blends provide both longevity and style,” says Sharlene.

In moisture-prone areas such as bathrooms, Thompson recommends PVC venetian blinds or shutters for their easy care and resistance to mildew. “An in-home consultation is essential for perfect window treatments. We take care of everything—from precise measurements to selecting the right operating mechanism—to create a functional and beautiful solution for your space,” she adds.

2. Maximise Design Potential

Custom curtains and blinds do more than just cover windows—they can completely transform a room. Tricia Dunlop, an award-winning interior designer at Lahood, underscores the importance of integrating window furnishings into your design scheme.

"Custom window treatments are the finishing touch that ties a room together," explains Tricia. “They can be tailored to accentuate or diffuse light, depending on the desired ambiance. For example, shutters complement traditional and coastal designs that favour light-filled interiors, while gunmetal grey block-out blinds suit moody, contemporary spaces.”

Tricia also highlights how custom options can accentuate architectural features, maintain scale and proportion, and harmonise with other design elements such as wallpaper and upholstery. “Selecting custom window furnishings allows for curtains and blinds that perfectly fit the window size and room dimensions, creating a balanced and visually pleasing aesthetic,” she says.

3. Create the Right Ambiance

Beyond functionality and design, custom window furnishings play a crucial role in setting the mood of a space. Independent Interior Stylist Michelle Halford, also known as The Design Chaser, discusses the transformative power of fabrics, textures, and colours.

“Through a considered selection of fabrics, textures, and colours used in the right way, custom window furnishings can lift the mood of your room," says Halford. “Lahood's diverse fabric collections allow endless possibilities to enhance the space and reflect personal style”.

When choosing window treatments, Halford advises thinking about the overall look and feel you want to create. “Be it a sleek, contemporary aesthetic with roller blinds or a softer, more natural and organic feel with textured linen curtains and soft sheers, think about the bigger picture. And always consider the overall palette when choosing colours.”” she suggests.

4. The Importance of Early Planning

Clayton Sceats, Lahood's Commercial Director, stresses the importance of integrating window treatments into your design plan from the outset.

“Flush or recessed tracks provide a discreet look for curtains and blinds, but they need to be incorporated into the plans while building or renovating to include the necessary cavities in the ceiling,” says Clayton. “Similarly, hard wiring for motorised curtains and blinds should be planned early, though battery options are available for retrofitting automation.”

Clayton emphasises that collaboration with architects and building professionals is key to achieving exceptional outcomes. “By working together from the design stage onwards, we can ensure your custom window treatments perfectly complement your architectural vision, contributing to a truly cohesive and aesthetically pleasing space,” he says.

Elevate Spaces to their Fullest Potential

Whether you’re choosing window furnishings for functionality, matching architectural styles, or curating ambiance with colour and texture, Lahood Window Furnishings has the perfect solution and expertise. From residential sanctuaries to commercial showcases, the impact of custom curtains and blinds extends far beyond mere window dressing - they elevate spaces to their fullest potential.

We work directly with homeowners and collaborate with architects, designers, builders, and developers on larger residential and commercial projects. Chat to one of our expert consultants in  our showroom at 104 Mount Eden Road, Auckland or for a complimentary in-home / on-site consultation  call 0800 LAHOOD  or click below.