Get it wrong or leave it until after the floor plans have been locked in, and your ‘functional dream home’ could go out the window, so to speak! Get it right, and you’ll not only nail one of the most important practicalities and aesthetics of your home, but you’ll save yourself a whole load of time, money and possibly headaches later on.

Here’s your window-coverings-commandments list.

1. Get logistical

The sooner you start planning your window coverings during the renovation or build process, the better, as this will ensure the right blinds or treatments are used - or can be used - in the proper application. Your budget, electrical and structural requirements, and your window and door styles are all key to getting your window coverings just right. For example, if you are building a room with unusual shape windows, or wall-to-wall glass that has high sun exposure, or installing windows with direct street views and little privacy, both your architectural blueprint and window covering treatments will need to work together harmoniously.

Arched window designs in your dream home plan? No problem – if you plan your window coverings simultaneously. And if you plan on staying in your dream home for a while, check the window coverings warranty. Luxaflex products are covered by a warranty for up to 5 years from the date of purchase.

2. Consider the window coverings function

We know function is not nearly as fun to consider as flair, but nail this, and everything else will fall into place a whole lot easier. There’s a whole load of considerations that will be unique to you, your needs, the room, and the purpose of your window coverings. If it seems overwhelming, the best place to start is with a chat with an expert. A trained professional will guide you through the process, considering factors such as window positioning and the sun exposure of the room, what the room is used for and the best options for each. For example, a movie room may require darkening, whereas a bathroom may require moisture resistance. You may need shade control options for large rooms, light control, privacy, easy maintenance, design and child safety.

And let's not forget use and location! An outdoor awning that’ll take an environmental beating will need to be durable, functional and easily folded away when not in use. Whereas an office window or bedroom treatment will require an entirely different approach.

Open-plan outdoor living in your…plans?! Luxaflex® Te Rā Folding Arm Awnings offer a great range of solutions for every situation.

3. Refine your style

Now, the fun part – style! Think equal parts beauty, innovation and durability. If you’re not sure where to start, visit a showroom, where you’ll find a range of window coverings for inside and outside your home. As well as having the full suite to choose from, look feel and touch, the experts will explain the best options for your needs, whether its blinds or shutters, Venetians, sunscreens or awnings, which come in a huge variety of colours, fabrics, materials and operating systems (both manual and automatic).

If you’re looking for interior shutters that look contemporary, manage sun exposure and privacy, and look super stylish, you’ve come to the right place. Luxaflex® Country Woods® Timber Shutters come in either bi-fold, sliding shutter or conventional hinged solutions.

4. Get fitted professionally

The House Rule's contestants make DIY look easy, but measuring and installing blinds is not something you want to get wrong! Leave window treatments to the experts. They’ll ensure your blinds are fitted correctly and in line with child safety standards, that your awnings function and perform beautifully, and that your shutters are as durable and practical as they are stylish. Not only will you have peace of mind that your treatments fit and operate exactly how they should, but expert installation ensures your warranty is valid.

As featured on homebeautiful.com