Inside a Grand Designs NZ Home: Luxury Window Furnishings for Architectural Living

Every element of an architecturally designed home should contribute to the overall vision—and window furnishings are no exception. Beyond providing privacy and light control, the right curtains and blinds can soften a space, frame the outlook and elevate the experience of living in it.

Featured on Grand Designs NZ, The Three Chimneys is a remarkable home in Martinborough where every design decision has been carefully considered. We spoke with homeowners Sally and Tim Roach about the inspiration behind their custom window furnishings, the benefits of layering curtains and roller blinds, and their experience working with Curtain Studio to create a solution that feels as considered as the home itself.

What considerations were most important when choosing window furnishings from both a design and practical perspective?

We wanted the window furnishings to complement the architecture rather than compete with it. They needed to frame the beautiful rural views while still providing privacy, light control and insulation. It was also important that the curtains and blinds were both beautiful and highly functional in a home designed for year-round use.

In some rooms, you've layered curtains and roller blinds. What do the curtains and blinds together allow you to achieve?

Layering gives us the best of both worlds. During the day we can use the roller blinds to provide privacy while still enjoying the views, and in the evening the curtains create a much warmer, more intimate atmosphere. Together they provide excellent privacy, improve insulation and allow each room to be adapted depending on the time of day, the season or simply the mood we want to create.

How did the surrounding landscape influence the fabrics, colours and materials you selected for the curtains and blinds?

The surrounding landscape was one of our biggest sources of inspiration. We chose soft natural tones and textured fabrics that reflect the colours of the vineyards, hills and changing seasons around Martinborough. Rather than drawing attention to themselves, the fabrics quietly complement the environment.

How do the curtains and blinds help you adapt the spaces throughout the day and across the seasons?

The window furnishings make a noticeable difference to how the house feels. In summer they help manage the strong afternoon sun while still allowing natural light to fill the rooms. During winter they add another layer of warmth and insulation, making the spaces feel cosy and comfortable. They also allow us to change the atmosphere throughout the day, from bright and open in the morning to relaxed and intimate in the evening.

Can you share your experience working with Curtain Studio?

Working with Curtain Studio was great. Their team really listened to what we wanted to achieve and offered thoughtful advice on fabrics, colours and functionality. We had some non-standard windows, and Vanessa Morgan from Curtain Studio Masterton helped design solutions that work perfectly. She took great care with the measuring to ensure the blinds align with the mullions, so they don’t distract from the views.

There was also considerable discussion around the window coverings for the sunken lounge, and Vanessa helped design a practical solution that enhances the ambiance of the space. She also provided an elegant solution for the wide windows, ensuring the scale was balanced while maintaining functionality and visual flow. The result exceeded our expectations. The curtains and blinds have become an integral part of the overall design, adding both beauty and practicality to the home.