The Sunshine Coast boasts a pretty special lifestyle – laid-back yet sophisticated, often embracing the beauty of nature while enjoying modern comforts. When it comes to window treatments, striking the right balance between functionality and style is key. Here's a guide to the best windows, shutters, and blinds for your Sunny Coast home.
Maximising Views: Fortunate to have stunning ocean vistas or lush hinterland views? Floor-to-ceiling windows are a must-have for framing the best that the Sunshine Coast has to offer. Aluminium framed windows are a popular choice due to their durability in the coastal environment.
Stacking Doors and Bi-Folds: Blur the lines between indoor and outdoor living with expansive stacking doors or bi-fold doors. These allow for seamless access to patios, decks, and balconies, creating a sense of spaciousness and connection with the outdoors.
Plantation Shutters: Timber shutters add a touch of timeless elegance and sophistication to any Sunshine Coast home. They offer excellent heat and sound insulation, making them ideal for regulating the indoor temperature year-round. Choose lighter coloured timber shutters like white to create a bright sense of openness and complement the clean coastal aesthetic.
Polyresin Shutters: For a more budget-friendly option that offers great durability and weather resistance, consider polyresin shutters. They are available in a wide range of colours and styles, allowing you to find a perfect match for your home. Opt for light, neutral colours in a plantation shutter style for a classic look.
Aluminium Shutters: Aluminium shutters are another excellent choice for coastal areas due to their exceptional resistance to rust and corrosion. They offer a sleek, modern aesthetic and are perfect for creating a contemporary beach vibe. Consider a powder-coated finish in a light colour like white or a soft grey for a clean and airy look.
Venetian Blinds: Venetian blinds offer exceptional light control and privacy, making them a versatile choice for any room. Choosing a light, reflective colour like white or cream can help bounce light around the room and create a sense of spaciousness.
Panel Glide Blinds: Panel glide blinds are ideal for large windows and sliding doors. They offer a chic and easy to operate option for light control and privacy. Panel Glide blinds come in a huge range of fabrics and colours to complement your own individual style and décor, and are available in block-out, privacy and sunscreen opacity to give your room the perfect ambience and protection.
Awnings and Outdoor Blinds: Extend your living space and create a protected outdoor area with outdoor blinds. Extend your poolside living with easy-to-operate, stylish folding arm awnings. Choose Zipscreens to create an amazing indoor-outdoor vibe and seamlessly connect your living spaces. While balcony blinds offer both privacy and weather protection, often beneficial in our coastal environment.
Sun Protection: The Queensland sun can be harsh. Look for window treatments that offer UV protection to safeguard your furniture and flooring from fading. Consider installing awnings or shade sails over particularly sun-exposed windows for added protection.
Insect Control: Living on the Sunshine Coast means co-existing with nature, including insects. Opt for window treatments that allow for ventilation while still deterring unwanted visitors. Look for blinds with fine mesh inserts or consider installing insect screens on your windows and doors.
Moisture Resistance: The Sunshine Coast experiences high humidity levels, particularly during summer. Choose window treatments made from moisture-resistant materials like aluminium, vinyl, or certain types of fabric. Opt for blinds with a smooth finish that is easy to wipe clean and maintain.
From breathtaking views to a relaxed coastal vibe, your Sunshine Coast home deserves window treatments that enhance its style and functionality. Let us help you create that cohesive coastal look, with an interior that reflects our beautiful Queensland coastline.
If you’re looking for assistance while selecting the best window treatments for your home, our team of specialists at Factory Direct Shutters Awnings and Blinds are here to support you.
We bring our mobile showroom to you to select the best solutions for your home or workspace.
What are you waiting for? Contact us online or call now on 1300 077 125 for an obligation-free measure and quote, or free advice on the right product for your space.
Let's face it, our free time is precious and nobody loves spending time on cleaning chores. But keeping your blinds and shutters spick and span doesn't have to be a nightmare! With a little regular maintenance, they'll be looking as fresh as those crispy autumn leaves swirling outside. In this blog we’ll offer a few tips to ensure you head into autumn with a clean and cosy home.
The fabric or material of your shutters and blinds is key to how best you treat and clean them:
PVC heroes: These shutters are typically a dream to maintain. They're tough as nails, unaffected by moisture and humidity and are unlikely to crack, warp, or change colour. Simply give them a wipe down with a microfibre cloth, just like you would a cabinet – to keep dust at bay.
Timber treasures: For painted or stained shutters and blinds, your best bet is to try to keep them dry. If they get wet from an open window on a rainy day, dry them off with a towel as soon as you can. Water and wood don't mix! The same applies when you’re cleaning them. Dusting them with a dry microfibre cloth is a simple way to clean them up. Some furniture polishes can work for stained timber or lacquered cedar, but be sure to check the label first.
Vacuum away the dust bunnies: To stop dust from building up, it’s best to give your blinds a weekly once-over with your vacuum cleaner. Use the soft brush attachment on the lowest setting. Close the blinds, hold the bottom slats, and gently run the nozzle across each slat. Don't forget to flip them over to clean the other side! Work your way from top to bottom so the dust falls onto the uncleaned area – simple as that.
A quick alternative to vacuuming - how about a cost-effective DIY dust buster? Grab a pair of cotton gloves or an old sock and wipe each slat carefully to remove dust and grime.
Regular vacuuming: Just like venetian blinds and indoor shutters, use the soft brush attachment on your vacuum cleaner to remove dust regularly.
Battling stains: For stubborn stains or built-up dirt, make a very weak soap solution (1 tablespoon of dishwashing soap to 4 cups of water). Dab the blinds with a clean sponge soaked in the solution, but don't scrub! Wipe away any soap residue with a clean, damp cloth and let them dry completely.
For a more thorough clean, try to do this monthly, depending on the material of your window coverings:
For PVC: Mix some dishwashing liquid with warm water for a sudsy solution. Wipe down each slat with a clean cloth, then dry them with another clean cloth.
For real wood: Remember, no water or soap here! Use a small amount of good quality wood cleaner or furniture polish on a clean cloth and apply it gently to each slat. Be careful not to get it on any cords or non-wood parts.
For aluminium: Use warm water and a slightly damp cloth to wipe across each slat.
Outdoor shutters and awnings are generally designed to withstand the elements, so you can be a bit more heavy-handed when cleaning them. Brush away dirt with a soft broom, then rinse them thoroughly with the garden hose. Make a lukewarm soapy solution in a bucket and use a mop to gently wash away any remaining dirt. Finally, rinse again to remove any soap residue.
By keeping up with a regular cleaning routine and giving your blinds and shutters an occasional deeper clean, they'll be looking their best all autumn long. After all, a clean home is a happy home – and who doesn't love that feeling?
Autumn is a great time to freshen up your space and build a cosy vibe with carefully selected window coverings. Not sure where to begin, or keen to get some in-person advice? Our amazing team of experienced consultants will happily answer any questions and find the right solution for your home.
What are you waiting for? Give us a call today on 1300 077 125 or book now and let our mobile showroom come to you. We cover some territory – from the Sunshine Coast to Brisbane and the Gold Coast, Toowoomba and Northern Rivers. Book your appointment now!
As the sweltering summer temperatures begin to (finally!) cool down and we head into the fresh air of autumn, it's a great opportunity to refresh and rejuvenate your living space to embrace the change of seasons.
One of the most impactful ways to enhance the ambiance and efficiency of your home during our Aussie autumn is by selecting the perfect window treatments. Whether you're looking to add warmth, increase energy efficiency, or simply update your decor, there are a variety of shutter, blind, and curtain solutions that can be tailored to suit your needs. Let's explore a range of opportunities to elevate your living space this autumn.
While summer may be all about adjusting the ample light coming into your home, with the days shortening, autumn sees a shift in focus to creating a cosy living space. Blinds are a practical and stylish window treatment solution that allows you to customise the amount of light and also privacy in your home.
With a wide range of materials, colours, and styles available, indoor blinds are a great, versatile way to complement any autumnal décor scheme.
Roller blinds are typically a popular choice for Australian homes thanks to their sleek design and ease of operation. They’re a modern and highly functional solution to providing privacy, keeping out light and insulating a room. Blackout or thermal fabrics are especially effective if you’re keen to invest in greater insulation during autumn, helping to keep your home cosy and energy efficient.
Shutters are a timeless and versatile window treatment option that adds both style and functionality to your living space. In autumn, where temperatures can fluctuate, shutters offer excellent insulation against the cooler weather while still allowing you to adjust ventilation and filter natural light when the sun is shining.
Have you considered plantation shutters? Their winning combination of form and function has made the plantation shutter an enduring style icon in the world’s most stylish residences. These classic shutters feature wide louvres that can be easily adjusted to regulate light and airflow. Opt for the warm tones of timber plantation shutters that show off the natural beauty and luxury of real wood and complement a warm autumnal palette.
For a more sleek and potentially contemporary look that's hard wearing and low maintenance, aluminium shutters are a great option. With the strength of aluminium, these robust and water-resistant plantation shutters offer awesome durability. Both streamlined and modern, these shutters are perfect for Australian autumn, providing that stunning traditional plantation shutter look at a very affordable price.
Curtains are a classic and luxurious window treatment option that can add texture and warmth to any living space. Curtains offer both style and functionality while adding much needed insulation as the seasons change.
With the temperatures cooling, invest in thermal curtains made from heavy-duty fabrics like velvet, suede, or wool to trap heat and keep your home warm and cosy during autumn. You might also consider choosing curtains with a thermal lining for added insulation and energy efficiency.
Triple Weave Curtains can infuse some classic warmth and natural depth to a room. They also offer superior insulation, light control, and noise reduction, enhancing the overall comfort, cosiness and privacy of your living space. Plus, you can choose fabrics in nature-inspired, autumnal colours like copper or deep green to really ramp up those seasonal vibes.
Although you might associate them more with the heat of summer, sheer curtains are another great solution for the Australian autumn, allowing soft, diffused light to filter into your living space while still providing privacy. Layering is a stylish hack too, by placing a sheer curtain over heavier blinds, or even room darkening curtains, to soften them, while still benefitting from their insulation.
Whether you prefer the timeless elegance of shutters, the practicality of blinds, or the luxurious weight and warmth of curtains, there are plenty of options available to suit your needs and enhance your living space as summer fades and winter approaches.
If you’re looking for assistance while selecting the best window treatments for your home, our team of specialists at Factory Direct Shutters Awnings and Blinds are here to support you.
We bring our mobile showroom to you to select the best solutions for your home or workspace. Contact us online or call now on 1300 077 125 for an obligation-free measure and quote, or free advice on the right product for your space.
Your bathroom is more than just a functional space; it can be a sanctuary where you begin and end your day. Upgrading this essential room goes beyond mere aesthetics – it's about creating a tranquil room that caters to both relaxation and functionality. In this feature, we'll explore how you can transform your bathroom through careful selection of window treatments and furnishings.
Since your bathroom is a space you’re unlikely to update frequently, before making any big decisions it’s worth taking some time to assess your needs and personal style for this particular room. Consider practical factors such as the size of your bathroom and the amount of natural light it receives, in addition to your preferred aesthetic – whether it's clean lines and neutral colours or a more vibrant palette of patterns or sage and terracotta.
Windows are often overlooked in bathroom design, but they play a significant role in both aesthetics and functionality. The right window treatments can enhance privacy, control light, and add a touch of elegance to your space.
Maximise the benefits of natural light in your bathroom by opting for window treatments that allow ample sunlight to filter through. Balancing light and privacy is key for a space like a bathroom, so consider window treatments that can offer both privacy and light control.
Window options like translucent or frosted glass can be complemented with coverings like shutters - a great option given the louvres can be opened and closed to create the ideal level of light and privacy.
Venetian blinds are another popular solution that work well in bathroom environments, offering water resistance, airflow control and superb all-round functionality. These blinds offer an ideal blend of style and functionality, making them a perfect choice for bathrooms. Crafted from durable materials like polyresin and faux wood, they withstand high humidity levels without deteriorating. Their adjustable slats provide excellent light control and privacy, allowing you to customize the ambiance according to your preferences. Easy to clean and maintain, venetian blinds add a touch of elegance to any bathroom decor while offering superior ventilation and insulation. With their timeless appeal and practical benefits, venetian blinds can effortlessly elevate the aesthetics and functionality of bathrooms, creating a serene and inviting atmosphere.
Wet areas like bathrooms require extra consideration when it comes to introducing materials to ensure they’re resistant to humidity and moisture and will withstand the test of time. Look for moisture-resistant options like synthetic fabric blinds and polyresin or PVC shutters, that are water resistant and can hold up to frequent exposure to moisture and humidity.
Polyresin shutters like the Altoresin shutters are an excellent choice for bathrooms due to their moisture-resistant properties. Crafted from durable synthetic materials, they are designed to withstand high humidity levels without warping or peeling.
Beyond window treatments, thoughtful selection of furnishings can enhance the functionality and style of your bathroom. From storage solutions to accent pieces, consider how each item contributes to the overall aesthetic and usability of the space.
Add texture and colour schemes through incorporating soft furnishings like luxurious towels and waffle bathmats, opting for natural fibres like cotton or bamboo for towels that are soft, absorbent, and eco-friendly.
Infuse your personality into the space with decorative accents that reflect your taste and style. Whether it's artwork, scented candles, decorative mirrors, or statement lighting, choose pieces that add character and charm to your bathroom.
Optimise storage space with floating shelves, mirrored wall mounted cabinets or under-sink organisers to keep toiletries and cleaning essentials neatly stashed away.
Bring the outdoors in by incorporating greenery into your bathroom decor. Choose low-maintenance plants like ferns or succulents that thrive in humid environments and add a pop of colour and leafy freshness to your space. Place plants in rattan basket planters for a twist of texture or white terrazzo pots for clean and minimalist vibes.
Upgrading your bathroom with the right window treatments and furnishings can transform it into a luxurious sanctuary that caters to your comfort and style. If you’re having any trouble deciding on the best window treatments for your bathroom, our team of specialists at Factory Direct Shutters Awnings and Blinds are here to assist you in making the right choice.
We bring our mobile showroom to you to select the best solutions for your home or workspace. Contact us online or call now on 1300 077 125 for an obligation-free measure and quote, or free advice on the right product for your space.
It’s a new year and the perfect time to infuse a breath of fresh air into your living spaces. Have you considered that one of the most effective ways to achieve a stylish and functional transformation is by updating your window coverings?
This year, the shutter and blind trends for the summer of 2024 are all about embracing innovation, exploring new materials, and playing with colours that capture the feel of the season. So let’s dive into the top summer shutter and blind trends that promise to elevate your home's aesthetics and comfort this year.
Summer in Australia is all about beating the heat. Create a breezy and light-filled ambiance by choosing sheer fabrics for your window treatments. Sheer blinds and curtains allow natural light to gently filter into your space, giving it an ethereal and airy feel. Perfect for the Australian summer, these light-filtering fabrics soften the harsh sunlight, creating a cool, comfortable and inviting space. Pair sheer blinds with complementary curtains for a layered and sophisticated look that enhances both style and functionality.
Sustainability is a growing concern, and this trend extends to window treatments. In 2024, eco-friendly materials are in the spotlight. Opt for shutters and blinds made from sustainable resources such as bamboo, reclaimed wood, or recycled fabrics.
Looking for elegance, charm and luxury for your door and window finishes? Consider hand-crafted Adagio Timber Shutters, made from premium, sustainable-grade Basswood timber found in slow-growing, cold and high alpine regions.
Not only do these materials and choices contribute to a greener environment, but they also bring a touch of natural beauty and texture into your home or work environment.
Summer is a time when nature is thriving and it’s those nature-inspired colour palettes that are taking centre stage in 2024. Embrace the serenity of summer with soft greens, calming blues, and earthy tones that mimic the colours of the quintessential Aussie landscape. These hues not only create a connection with nature but also add a satisfying sense of tranquillity to your home. Consider incorporating these shades into wall colourings, cushions and curtains for a refreshing and harmonious look that seamlessly blends with the summer vibes.
Embrace the convenience of modern living by incorporating smart and automated shutter solutions into your home. In 2024, technology meets elegance with motorised shutters, blinds and awnings that can be controlled through your smartphone or smart home systems. Enjoy effortless light control and privacy at the touch of a button, making your home not only stylish but also technologically advanced and energy efficient. Automated options mean you can even choose to operate your blinds, awnings or shutters via voice activation, or with smart sensors that intuitively respond to the weather. It doesn’t get easier than that!
This summer, say goodbye to beige and embrace bold patterns and textures in home. Geometric designs, floral patterns, and textured fabrics add visual interest and personality to your space. Add pops of colour through your outdoor awnings or experiment with patterned blinds or textured shutters to create a focal point in the room. Don't be afraid to mix and match patterns for a playful and eclectic look that reflects your unique style.
Australians love their outdoor living spaces, and the trend for 2024 seamlessly connects the indoors with the outdoors. Invest in shutters that allow for a smooth transition between your indoor and outdoor spaces. Zipscreens or sliding shutters are excellent choices, providing flexibility and enhancing the flow of natural light. This trend not only expands your living area but also creates a cohesive design that celebrates the beauty of your whole home.
As you prepare to embrace the new year, consider these top trends in shutters and blinds to transform your living spaces into stylish havens. Upgrade your space and make a lasting impression with these exciting shutter and blind trends that are set to define the summer of 2024.
Have you been tossing up what to do with your windows and aren’t too sure where to start?
Our amazing team of experienced consultants will happily answer any questions and find the right solution for your home. What are you waiting for? Give us a call today on 1300 077 125 or head to our website link in our bio and start transforming your home today!
As we kick off a brand new year, now is a great time to think about how we can make our living spaces more comfortable and stylish for a fresh year ahead. While new furniture and a fresh coat of paint are a couple of ways to change up a space; let’s not underestimate your choice of window treatments as a key part of your home decor. Shutters and blinds not only add aesthetic value but also serve functional purposes such as privacy, light control, and energy efficiency. In this guide, we'll explore the art of selecting the most suitable shutters and blinds for various rooms in your house, considering the unique needs of each space.
The living room is often the heart of a home. When choosing window treatments for the living room, consider a balance between aesthetics and functionality. Sheer blinds or lightweight fabric curtains can allow natural light to filter through, creating a bright and inviting atmosphere. Opt for adjustable shutters to have control over the amount of sunlight entering the room while maintaining privacy during daytime hours. Choose colours and patterns that complement your existing décor to add a touch of elegance to the living space.
Bedrooms are personal retreats where privacy and light control are paramount. Consider blackout blinds or shutters to create a serene and restful ambiance, blocking out light for a good night's sleep. Additionally, explore different textures and colours that align with the calming atmosphere you want to achieve in your private sanctuary.
Kitchens often require window treatments that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also practical and easy to maintain. Aluminium shutters or blinds are ideal choices as they are resistant to moisture and can be easily cleaned.
Consider options that allow for flexible light management, allowing you to brighten up the space during meal preparation while maintaining privacy and making the space more cosy when needed. Venetian blinds or shutters with adjustable louvres are excellent choices for achieving this balance.
With the increase in remote working styles, many homeowners have dedicated spaces for home offices. When selecting window treatments for a home office, consider prioritising an option that minimises glare on screens and maximises natural light. Choose blinds or shutters that allow for precise control of light angles, reducing glare on monitors and providing a comfortable working environment. Consider automation in addition to neutral colours and clean lines to create a focused and professional atmosphere.
Bathrooms require window treatments that can withstand high humidity levels while ensuring excellent privacy. Moisture-resistant materials such as Alto Polyresin shutters are great choices for bathrooms. Opt for treatments that allow for sufficient natural light while maintaining privacy, perhaps with top-down-bottom-up blinds or shutters that can be adjusted to suit your needs.
When it comes to selecting window treatments for a children's playroom, safety is a top priority. Choose cordless blinds or shutters to eliminate any potential hazards. Embrace vibrant and playful designs that complement the room's décor while providing a fun and stimulating environment for children. Consider blackout options for naptime, creating a cosy atmosphere for snoozing little ones.
Choosing the right window treatments for different rooms in your house involves a thoughtful consideration of both style and functionality. As you prepare your home for the year ahead, keep in mind the unique requirements of each space. Whether it's the elegant living room, the serene bedroom, the practical kitchen, the focused home office, the humidity-prone bathroom, or the playful children's playroom, there are shutters and blinds designed to enhance every corner of your home. By carefully considering factors like privacy, light control, and aesthetic preferences, you can create a comfortable and stylish haven that reflects your personal taste while meeting the practical needs of each living space.
Are you ready to take your home to the next level with customised shutters or blinds to suit your design needs? Get in touch online or give us a call on 1300 077 125. Our experienced, friendly team will be happy to bring the mobile showroom to you and help you select the perfect solutions to enhance your home. We can help you select the best solutions that are stylish, durable and even automated.
