Choosing Window Furnishings for a New Home: Expert Advice from Signature Homes

Designed and built by Signature Homes Botany and Manukau
Curtains are Kyoto Chalk 100% Linen Sheer Curtains

Window furnishings are one of the most important design decisions in a new home, yet they’re often left until the final stages of the build. We spoke with the Signature Homes Botany & Manukau team about why it pays to consider curtains and blinds early in the build planning, how the right choices can complement your home’s architecture and interior design, and what they selected for their gorgeous Clevedon Showhome.

Can you tell us about the inspiration behind the Clevedon Showhome and who it was designed for?

The Clevedon Showhome was inspired by a relaxed coastal-country aesthetic, using natural materials, soft neutral tones and layered textures to create a warm, light-filled home that feels connected to its surroundings.

It was designed to be adaptable rather than suited to only one type of homeowner. The home could be built as it stands or expanded to suit a growing family, changing lifestyle or larger site. Its pavilion-style design would sit equally well in a rural or coastal setting.

What were the key design principles that guided the overall look and feel of the home?

The design was guided by three key principles: light, connection and simplicity. The home was carefully positioned to maximise natural light and create a strong connection between the indoor and outdoor living areas.

Large windows bring natural light deep into the home, while the raking ceilings increase the sense of volume and openness. Working alongside our interiors partner, Yellowfox, we developed a warm coastal-country palette using natural materials, soft colours and layered textures. The Signature Homes Botany & Manukau team then furnished and styled the completed home.

When designing a new build, at what stage should homeowners start thinking about curtains and blinds?

Window furnishings should be considered early, particularly when recessed tracks are being planned. This allows the ceiling system and surrounding details to be designed correctly.

You should also consider where curtains will stack or pool and whether doors, furniture or cabinetry could affect their operation.

What window furnishings did you select for each space, and what made them the right choice?

We selected Kyoto 100% linen sheers in Chalk on recessed tracks throughout the home. They have been a real showstopper and a major talking point with visitors.

Full-width sheers add privacy, softness and depth to the bedrooms. Across the sliding doors in the master bedroom and living areas, they gently filter the light while maintaining the connection to the outdoors.

How did the generous glazing and natural light influence your choice of window furnishings?

We wanted to enhance the natural light rather than block it. The linen sheers soften and filter the daylight while allowing the home to remain bright, open and connected to the surrounding landscape.

What is your advice for someone planning window furnishings for a new home?

Think about them early and speak with the specialists at Curtain Studio. Early planning helps the curtain tracks, ceiling details, glazing and room layouts work together seamlessly.

Are there any window furnishing trends homeowners are loving right now?

Recessed curtain tracks are becoming increasingly popular. They create a clean, architectural finish and allow the curtains to feel integrated into the home rather than added afterwards.

They have been such a talking point in the showhome that we are already incorporating them into several client projects.

What was your experience working with Curtain Studio?

Our experience was fantastic. Their service and project delivery were exceptional, and we now have several more projects underway with the Botany team.

What part of the Clevedon Showhome are you most proud of, and why?

There are so many details throughout the home that we are proud of as a team. The most rewarding part is knowing visitors can walk away with ideas and inspiration they can apply to their own building project.

We often hear how spacious the home feels. At 182m², it is not a small home, but it is not especially large either. The connected deck, raking ceilings and layout of the entrance, kitchen, dining and living areas create an impressive sense of volume, openness and space.

If you're considering building, talk to Signature Homes Botany & Manukau or visit the Clevedon Showhome at 23 Kākano Street, Clevedon Meadows, Auckland.