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Insulating Window Furnishings for Energy-Efficient NZ Homes

Written by

Window Treatments NZ Ltd

12 May 2026

 • 

4 min read

A dual “Day Night” Honeycomb system that combines blackout and light-filtering fabrics within one blind.
A dual “Day Night” Honeycomb system that combines blackout and light-filtering fabrics within one blind.
Insulating window furnishings are helping New Zealand homes stay warmer in winter and cooler in summer while adding style and functionality. From Honeycomb blinds to custom curtains and shutters, modern solutions now combine thermal performance, light control and smart design for both renovations and new architectural builds.

As energy efficiency and year-round comfort become increasingly important in New Zealand homes, insulating window furnishings are playing a greater role in residential design. For homeowners, architects and specifiers, well-designed blinds and curtains can significantly improve thermal performance while enhancing interior aesthetics.

According to Consumer NZ testing*, Honeycomb blinds were the highest-performing window furnishing for insulation, retaining nearly 60 per cent more heat than an uncovered window. Well-fitted Roman blinds retained just under 30 per cent, while heavy lined curtains achieved more than 25 per cent.

Honeycomb Blinds Deliver Strong Thermal Performance

Known for their insulating properties, Honeycomb blinds continue to grow in popularity for both renovations and new builds. Their unique cellular structure traps


air within the blind, helping regulate indoor temperatures in winter and summer while also assisting with noise reduction.

Window Treatments NZ Ltd has expanded its Honeycomb Pleated Blind range to include blackout, semi-opaque, transparent, knitted and natural-look hemp fabrics suitable for a variety of interior styles and applications.

Managing Director Graeme Rose says homeowners are increasingly looking for products that combine energy efficiency with a softer, modern aesthetic.

“Today’s Honeycomb blinds offer an attractive combination of energy savings, style, easy installation and convenient operation,” says Rose.

The range includes cordless and motorised options, along with dual “Day Night” systems that combine blackout and light-filtering fabrics within one blind. Top-down, bottom-up functionality also allows natural light while maintaining privacy.

Roman Blinds offer both thermal performance and a refined interior finish.
Roman blinds are effective insulators when fitted closely to the window frame.

Roman Blinds and Lined Curtains Remain Popular

Consumer NZ also identified Roman blinds as effective insulators when fitted closely to the window frame. Their tailored appearance and layered fabric construction make them a popular choice for both traditional and contemporary interiors.

Window Treatments NZ Ltd custom manufactures premium Roman blinds with an extensive range of quality fabrics, textures and linings, allowing designers and homeowners to achieve both thermal performance and a refined interior finish.


Heavy-lined curtains also continue to provide excellent insulation, particularly when floor-length and properly fitted. Layering curtains with any type of blinds can further improve thermal efficiency while adding softness and visual depth to interior spaces.

Window Treatments NZ Ltd also offers custom-made curtains in a wide selection of premium fabrics suitable for modern homes, renovations and architectural projects, enabling cohesive solutions across a variety of interior styles.

Layering curtains with any type of blinds can further improve thermal efficiency while adding softness and visual depth to interior spaces.
In addition to their thermal properties, timber shutters provide excellent light control, privacy and durability.
Shutters' solid timber construction and close fit to the window help create an insulating barrier

Timber Shutters Combine Insulation and Architectural Style

Wood shutters are another effective option for improving thermal comfort within the home. Their solid timber construction and close fit to the window help create an insulating barrier that can reduce heat loss during winter and assist with temperature control year-round.


In addition to their thermal properties, timber shutters provide excellent light control, privacy and durability, making them a popular choice for both contemporary and classic architectural styles. Their clean lines and permanent appearance also add long-term value and visual appeal to interior spaces.

Custom Solutions for Skylights and Challenging Windows

With more than 42 years of experience, Window Treatments NZ Ltd specialises in custom solutions for skylights, angled glazing, oversized windows and difficult-to-access spaces.

Made-to-measure blinds, shutters, fixed screens and motorised systems are available with battery, solar or hard-wired operation. Honeycomb Blocco blinds are particularly effective for skylights, helping reduce heat gain in summer and heat loss in winter while maintaining light control in hard-to-reach areas.

Motorisation can be incorporated across virtually all applications, providing practical operation for high, angled or inaccessible


windows often found in modern architectural homes.

The company also offers discreet fixed-screen solutions with timber or magnetic frames for static heat and light control, providing practical solutions where standard products may not be suitable.

As sustainable design and home comfort continue to influence residential projects, insulating window furnishings are becoming an increasingly valuable investment for New Zealand homes.

*Source: Consumer NZ — Curtains and Blinds Insulation Testing
https://www.consumer.org.nz/articles/curtains