When it comes to window furnishings, one of the biggest questions we hear is: “Should I choose curtains or blinds?”
Both can completely transform a room adding comfort, style and privacy, but the right choice depends on your space, lifestyle and the look you’re after.
Here’s how to decide what works best for you (and why there’s no wrong answer).
Start with How You Live
Think about how you use your space day to day.
- Curtains create softness, warmth and a touch of luxury. They’re ideal for living rooms and bedrooms, where you want a cosy, layered feel.
- Blinds are all about versatility and function. They’re perfect for kitchens, bathrooms and busy family spaces where practicality matters most.
Both offer great light control, but if you want something you can simply pull up and have completely out of the way, blinds might be your go-to.
Light and Privacy: Find Your Balance
If you love filtered light and a sense of openness, sheer curtains or light-filtering blinds are perfect for daytime privacy without losing natural light.
For bedrooms or media rooms, total blackout blinds or blackout lined curtains are your best bet for keeping light (and the morning sun) at bay.
DIY Tip: You can even layer them. Pair sheer curtains with blackout roller blinds for the best of both worlds: softness and structure, privacy and flexibility.
Style: Soft and Flowing or Sleek and Streamlined?
- Curtains add movement and a relaxed elegance that’s perfect for large windows, sliding doors or spaces that need a little drama.
- Blinds offer a clean, modern look that suits contemporary interiors.
If you prefer a polished finish that blends in, go for roller or day and night blinds. For a statement look or a touch of texture, curtains in linen, velvet or woven fabrics bring instant warmth.
Climate Control: Comfort You Can Feel
New Zealand homes face both chilly winters and bright, sunny summers, so insulation matters.
- Curtains help trap warmth in winter and block heat in summer, especially when made-to-measure and lined.
- Honeycomb and thermal blinds are clever energy savers, with cellular layers that regulate temperature year-round.
Whichever you choose, you’ll enjoy a cosier home and potential energy savings.
Easy DIY or Luxe Layers?
If you love a quick, satisfying project, blinds are the ultimate DIY win. Our made-to-measure blinds are designed to be easy to install, with simple measuring guides and No Drill options like Twist2Fit, Click2Fit and Stick2Fit for instant style.
If you prefer a more layered or designer look, curtains let you play with fullness, fabrics and track styles, ideal for larger or feature windows.
Why Not Both?
Who says you have to choose? Layering blinds and curtains together is one of the easiest ways to create a styled, finished look.
- Pair blackout blinds with sheer curtains for light control and softness.
- Combine venetians with linen curtains for coastal charm.
- Add motorised blinds behind curtains for effortless control and convenience.
The mix not only looks beautiful but adds dimension, insulation and everyday flexibility.
The Takeaway
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, just the right fit for your home.
If you love sleek simplicity, blinds are your best match. If you’re drawn to soft textures and cosiness, curtains are calling your name. And if you want both? Go for it! We make it easy to mix, match and make your home your own.