
Northern Quarter Stage 1 | Commercial Window Furnishings by Curtain Studio
Curtain Studio delivered a tailored commercial curtain solution for Northern Quarter Stage 1, using Mecca Gold fabric to bring warmth, texture and movement to the double-height lobby. Designed to complement Autex acoustic panels and feature lighting, the full-height curtains soften the architectural interior while enhancing the scale and character of the space.
Architect is First Principles Architects + Interiors
Curtain fabric is Mecca Gold
Acoustic treatment is Autex acoustic panels
Photography by Quin O’Connell
Northern Quarter Stage 1 is a mixed-use building in the heart of Tauranga CBD. The design was shaped with careful consideration to create striking, engaging spaces that elevate the everyday experience.
We spoke with First Principles Architects + Interiors about the design intent, material selection and installation considerations behind the finished result.
What role did the curtains play in the overall interior concept?
The curtains softened the overall design of layered Autex panels and lighting, it also highlighted the grand double height lobby. The curtain also added a layer of texture and movement.

What fabric and materials were selected?
Mecca Gold, a metallic sheer custom fabric, was selected for the curtains, working alongside the Autex acoustic panels already incorporated into the interior.
Were there any particular design or installation considerations?
The height of the curtains was a key consideration and required careful measuring and planning ahead of installation.
As the new porcelain tiles were already in place, particular care also had to be taken during installation to protect the finished flooring and ensure the curtains were installed cleanly and accurately.
How was the experience working with Curtain Studio?
Great to work with! Annabel was on site several times to check measures before the final install and saw the project through all the way from creation to installation. Communication before installation was amazing.
