Choosing the right curtains isn’t just about style — it’s about insulation, privacy, light control, and comfort. In New Zealand homes, where winters can be cold and heating costs are rising, selecting the right curtain type can make a noticeable difference in both comfort and energy efficiency.
Whether you’re looking for ready made curtains NZ, modern curtain styles, or energy-efficient thermal options, this guide covers everything you need to choose the perfect curtains for every room.
Why Choosing the Right Curtains Matters in New Zealand
Curtains affect more than just appearance. They influence:
- Light control
- Privacy
- Temperature insulation
- Energy efficiency
- Noise reduction
- Overall interior style
In NZ homes — especially south-facing rooms or colder regions — blockout and thermal-lined curtains can significantly reduce heat loss during winter.
Choosing the correct type means balancing beauty with practicality.
Types of Curtains Based on Fabric
Sheer Curtains
Best for: Living rooms, dining rooms, sunrooms
Sheer curtains are lightweight and translucent. They allow natural daylight to enter while maintaining daytime privacy.
Benefits:
- Soft, airy aesthetic
- Ideal for layering
- Perfect for coastal and modern interiors
- Helps reduce glare
Most NZ homes pair sheer curtains with blockout curtains for flexibility between day and night.
Blockout Curtains
Best for: Bedrooms, nurseries, media rooms
Blockout curtains are made with tightly woven or coated fabrics that significantly reduce external light.
Benefits:
- Improve sleep quality
- Maximum privacy
- Reduce outside noise
- Better insulation
- Energy savings during winter
Blockout curtains are one of the most popular curtain types in New Zealand due to their insulation benefits.
Thermal Curtains
Best for: South-facing rooms, colder climates
Thermal curtains include an insulated lining that helps regulate indoor temperature.
Benefits:
- Reduce heat loss in winter
- Keep rooms cooler in summer
- Lower heating costs
- Improve energy efficiency
With rising power prices, thermal curtains are becoming a smart long-term investment for NZ homeowners.
Linen Curtains
Best for: Coastal, minimalist, and contemporary homes
Linen curtains create a relaxed, natural aesthetic.
Benefits:
- Breathable fabric
- Beautiful natural texture
- Soft light filtering
- Perfect for organic styling
They work beautifully in living rooms and casual spaces.
Velvet Curtains
Best for: Formal living rooms, master bedrooms
Velvet curtains are heavy and luxurious, adding warmth and depth.
Benefits:
- Excellent insulation
- Superior light blocking
- Dramatic, elegant appearance
- Ideal for large windows
If you want to elevate your interior, velvet is a bold statement choice.
Types of Curtains Based on Header Style
The header determines how curtains hang and fold.
Pencil Pleat Curtains
Best for: Traditional and transitional interiors
Pencil pleat curtains have tightly gathered folds at the top, creating a classic and elegant appearance.
Why people love them:
- Timeless style
- Works with both curtain tracks and rods
- Suitable for almost any room
They are commonly found in both custom and ready made curtains NZ collections.
Eyelet (Grommet) Curtains
Best for: Modern homes, apartments
Eyelet curtains have metal rings at the top that slide directly onto the curtain rod. They create large, even folds.
Advantages:
- Contemporary look
- Easy to install
- Smooth opening and closing
If you’re searching for cheap curtains NZ that still look sleek and modern, eyelet styles are widely available and affordable.
Pinch Pleat Curtains
Best for: Formal living rooms, master bedrooms
Pinch pleat curtains are sewn into permanent pleats at the top, giving a structured and luxurious finish.
Key features:
- Sophisticated appearance
- Hang beautifully
- Ideal for custom-made designs
These curtains add a high-end finish to any interior.
Tab Top Curtains
Best for: Casual or rustic spaces
Tab top curtains have fabric loops at the top that slide over the curtain rod.
Why consider them?
- Relaxed look
- Simple installation
- Great for linen and cotton fabrics
They’re perfect for beach-style or farmhouse interiors.
Types of Curtains Based on Function
Single Panel Curtains
Best for: Small windows, compact rooms, minimalist spaces
Single panel curtains consist of one fabric panel that slides across to cover the entire window.
Why choose single panel curtains?
- Clean and simple look
- Ideal for small or narrow windows
- Works well in modern interiors
- Easy to install and maintain
They’re a practical solution if you prefer minimal styling without too much fabric bulk.
Pair Curtains
Best for: Standard-sized windows, living rooms, bedrooms
Pair curtains feature two separate panels that close together in the centre and draw back neatly to either side when opened.
Benefits of pair curtains:
- Balanced, symmetrical appearance
- Easy light control
- Suitable for most window sizes
- Classic and versatile style
This is one of the most common and functional types of curtains used in homes across New Zealand.
Layered Curtains
Combining sheer curtains with blockout or thermal curtains.
Best for: Living rooms and bedrooms
Benefits:
- Maximum flexibility
- Day and night privacy
- Stylish dimension
Layering is one of the most practical curtain types for modern homes.
Types of Curtains at a Glance
| Curtain Type | Best For | Light Control | Style Level | Budget Friendly |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sheer | Living rooms, sunrooms | Low | Soft & Airy | ✔✔✔ |
| Blockout | Bedrooms, nurseries | Very High | Functional | ✔✔ |
| Thermal | Cold regions, south-facing rooms | High | Practical | ✔✔ |
| Linen | Coastal & modern interiors | Medium | Natural & Relaxed | ✔✔ |
| Velvet | Formal living rooms, master bedrooms | High | Luxurious | ✔ |
| Pencil Pleat | Traditional homes | Medium–High | Classic | ✔✔ |
| Eyelet | Modern spaces | Medium | Contemporary | ✔✔✔ |
| Pinch Pleat | Elegant interiors | Medium–High | Sophisticated | ✔ |
| Tab Top | Casual or rustic rooms | Medium | Relaxed | ✔✔✔ |
| Single Panel | Small windows | Medium | Minimal | ✔✔✔ |
| Pair Curtains | Standard windows | Medium–High | Balanced | ✔✔ |
| Layered Curtains | Living rooms, bedrooms | Adjustable (Low–High) | Stylish & Practical | ✔✔ |
Curtains for Every Room
Let’s make it practical.
Living Room
- Sheer + blockout layered curtains
- Linen or velvet for added elegance
Bedroom
- Blockout or thermal curtains
- Pinch pleat or pencil pleat headers
Kitchen
- Lightweight fabrics
- Easy-to-clean materials
Home Office
- Light-filtering curtains
- Neutral tones to reduce glare
Kids’ Room
- Durable blockout curtains
- Easy-to-operate designs
Ready Made vs Custom Curtains in NZ
Ready Made Curtains NZ
- Budget-friendly
- Quick purchase
- Ideal for standard window sizes
Custom Curtains
- Perfect fit
- Wider fabric selection
- Ideal for large or unique windows
- Premium finish
How to Choose the Right Curtains
Before purchasing, consider:
- How much light do you need?
- Is insulation important?
- Do you need maximum privacy?
- What interior style do you prefer?
- What is your budget?
Balancing these factors ensures you choose curtains that enhance both comfort and design.
Finding the Perfect Curtains for Your Home
The right curtains should combine style, insulation, privacy, and practicality. Whether you’re upgrading your living room or improving bedroom comfort, selecting the correct curtain type makes a noticeable difference in everyday living.
At Gorgeous Curtains, we offer energy-efficient thermal options, stylish ready made curtains NZ, and custom solutions tailored to your home. Contact us today for expert advice or request a personalised quote.
