Editors Note: This is a guest post written by Venluree.

Choosing the right window coverings for your home, whether you are in the throes of a new build, undertaking a renovation, or simply wanting an update, can be daunting, and the options in today’s marketplace are endless – do you choose traditional curtains, or go for a more contemporary look with roman shades? Are crisp, white shutters more your style or do you love the warmth of a wooden blind? And what are cellular blinds anyway?!

The good news is, there is always a solution to your needs - you just have to ask the right questions! Window coverings need to be aesthetically pleasing and suit the style of your home and your furnishings, but the suitability of the window coverings to the room and window (think function, not form!) and the capability of the product itself, are just as important.

Here are some points to consider:
1. What level of light is required?
2. Are you concerned about privacy?
3. Is there a view you would like to preserve or, block?
4. Is the window in an area that is high-functioning, such as a kitchen or bathroom?
5. Are you looking to filter the sun and keep the room cool, or create warmth?
6. Do your window coverings need to serve a dual purpose?

Living areas are where most people want to make the biggest impact, but they can be the most demanding when it comes to choosing the right window covering. Living areas need to be light and bright during the day and warm and cosy at night, so it can be a good idea to consider dual purpose window coverings in these areas. A sunfilter roller blind combined with a modern, sheer curtain, or a roman shade with full length drapes will allow greater flexibility in terms of light, temperature and privacy than a single window covering will on its own.

In bedrooms, don’t underestimate the impact window coverings will have on achieving a restful sleep. Noise pollution and the glow from street lights or security lights can be minimised by choosing window coverings with blockout properties. It is also important to keep your bedroom at an optimal night-time temperature – ideally around 15° - 20° Celsius. If you live in an older home, consider choosing window coverings that include thermal properties, or add polycotton linings to your existing drapes to provide extra warmth and comfort.

Bathroom and laundry areas are all about practicality, durability and privacy. In both these areas you need a window covering that can handle moisture and surface splashing conditions, can provide light as well as privacy and last the distance. Venetian blinds are designed to withstand all these conditions, and, these days, come in a wide range of colours to suit your interior. Kingston shutters, manufactured in a water-resistant PVC (synthetic plastic polymer) material, are another popular choice.

Like bathrooms and laundries, kitchens are best suited to a product that can withstand moisture and the odd splash of water and are relatively easy to clean. And, given that many New Zealand homes are open-plan in design, your kitchen window coverings need to complement your dining and living areas. Consider top-down, bottom-up cellular blinds which are made from 100% polyester and are easily hand-washable, combined with a coordinating pelmet; cafe-style shutters combined with roman shades; or a simple and elegant roller blind.

Window coverings can be a major investment for your home. Making the right choice is the trick and it can be rather expensive when you pick the wrong product. To take the stress out of getting it right, Venluree provide free in-home consultations and, should you choose to work with us, a complete measuring and installation service. Better yet, our products are made and designed for New Zealanders, in New Zealand, and carry a 5-year guarantee. We welcome you to visit our stand at Home Ideas or our website, for more information, www.venluree.co.nz

Venluree
venluree.co.nz