Renovations change the way a home feels long before the final fittings are in. Fresh flooring, new layouts and updated colours help reset a space, but it’s the softer elements that influence how each room is experienced throughout the day.
At Mr Blinds, homeowners often say that adding curtains in New Zealand homes completely changes the atmosphere. The light softens, warmth holds better and the room becomes noticeably more inviting.
As a local curtain provider, we see how the right fabrics support insulation, privacy and comfort across our varied climate. In this blog, we share practical tips to help you choose curtains that fit both your renovation plans and the way you use each space.
1. start with what each room needs
A quick look at how each room behaves helps you choose curtains that genuinely support daily living.
- Bedrooms: If early light or cooler mornings are an issue, bedroom curtains with thermal or blackout linings usually make sleep routines easier and keep warmth in.
- Living areas: These rooms benefit from softer daylight. Sheer curtains take the edge off strong sun without darkening the space.
- Street-facing spaces: Layering gives you flexible privacy during the day and full coverage at night.
2. layer curtains for better flexibility
Layering has become a practical choice in many Kiwi homes, especially when sunlight, warmth and privacy shift across the day. Pairing sheer curtains with blackout roller blinds, lined or blackout curtains gives you adaptable light control and insulation.
Sheers soften harsh daylight, while a lined or thicker curtain supports warmth and privacy in the evenings. If layering is part of your plan, our sheer curtain collection includes fabrics suited to modern, neutral interiors. For stronger coverage, our blackout curtains support better sleep and insulation.
3. consider insulation from the start
A surprising amount of heat is lost through windows in winter, so curtain linings matter more than most people expect. Thermal and heavier-lined curtains reduce heat loss and balance indoor temperatures.
For coastal or humid areas, breathable or moisture-resistant fabrics are often more practical. In cooler regions, lined curtains help manage draughts and complement other insulation upgrades.
4. custom vs ready-made curtains in NZ
Renovations naturally spark the question: will ready-made curtains be “good enough” or is a custom fit worth the step up? A quick comparison tends to help:
ready-made curtains
- Suitable for standard windows
- Limited linings and fabric types
- Fit can look uneven, especially with taller ceilings
custom curtains
- Tailored to your exact height and width
- More lining, heading and fabric options
- Better long-term fit and insulation performance
- Designed to work with your home’s proportions, not the other way around
5. match curtain style to your renovation direction
When you already have a style direction in mind, curtain decisions become much easier. A simple step-by-step approach works well:
step 1: set your colour palette
Soft neutrals and nature-inspired tones work well with timber, stone and linen finishes found in many NZ homes.
step 2: pick a length
Floor-to-ceiling curtains create height, polish and a sense of balance in modern spaces.
step 3: pick the fold or heading style
Structured folds suit modern renovations; softer headings work nicely in relaxed family spaces.
Because curtains take up a lot of visual space, these choices shape how the room feels once everything else is in place.
6. practical tips for installing curtains during renovations
measure early in the process
Accurate measurements mean your curtains fall cleanly once installed. Our in-home measurement and quote service helps lock this in before the final finishes go up.
choose hardware that supports the look
Sleek, modern tracks can be wall- or ceiling-mounted, with the option to use a wand or simply hand-draw your curtains.
DIY or professional installation?
We offer a self measure and self install option supported by comprehensive instructions and a customer service team to answer any questions. Alternatively, if you prefer a more personalised professional touch, we offer in-home consultations with our expert consultants in Auckland and Waikato regions.
7. think about longevity and maintenance
Curtains need to withstand daily use, sunshine and humidity. When comparing fabrics, consider:
- How much sunlight enters the room
- How often the space is used
- How simple the curtain is to clean and maintain
Lighter sheers suit rooms that benefit from gentle daylight, while heavier fabrics work well in high-use areas or spaces with strong sun exposure.
plan your curtain upgrade with us
Renovations are a chance to create a space that feels comfortable year-round. The right curtains support insulation, privacy and style, helping each room settle naturally once the work is done. If you’d like help comparing fabrics, linings or layered options, our team can guide you through choices suited to Kiwi homes. Get a spark of inspiration with our guide to top curtain design trends of 2025 to get you started.
You can browse our full range of curtains in New Zealand or book a consultation to start planning your upgrade.