Where to Shop for Curtains in Australia

Selecting the right curtains can significantly impact the ambiance and functionality of your home. Whether you’re aiming for a cozy living room, a serene bedroom, or a stylish office space, the choice of curtains plays a pivotal role. In Australia, the market offers a plethora of options, from ready-made designs to bespoke luxury curtains tailored to your preferences.

Interestingly, the cost of curtains varies widely based on material, design, and customisation. For instance, custom-made curtains in Australia can range from AUD $100 to $1,000 per panel, depending on factors like fabric quality and design complexity . This blog will guide you through the best places to purchase curtains, helping you make informed decisions that align with your style and budget.

Where to Shop for Curtains in Australia

Australia offers a diverse range of retailers catering to various curtain needs, from ready-made options to bespoke luxury designs. Here’s an overview of some notable places to consider:

Spotlight

Spotlight is a well-known retailer offering a wide selection of ready-made and custom-made curtains. Their custom curtain service allows you to choose from various fabrics, styles, and finishes, ensuring a tailored fit for your windows. With both online and in-store options, Spotlight provides convenience and variety for shoppers across Australia.

CurtainWorld

Based in Perth, CurtainWorld specialises in custom-made curtains crafted locally in Western Australia. They offer free in-home consultations, expert advice, and a range of fabrics to choose from. Their commitment to quality and personalised service makes them a preferred choice for many homeowners seeking bespoke window treatments.

Quickfit Blinds & Curtains

Quickfit provides custom-made curtains delivered Australia-wide within 10 days. Their online platform offers a variety of styles, including blockout and sheer options, catering to different aesthetic and functional preferences. With a focus on affordability and speed, Quickfit is ideal for those seeking custom solutions without long wait times.

Curtain & Blind Co.

Curtain & Blind Co. offers DIY custom curtains and blinds with free Australia-wide delivery. Their user-friendly online system allows you to select fabrics, input measurements, and receive made-to-measure products directly to your door. This approach combines convenience with customisation, suitable for those comfortable with self-installation.

Curtain Elegance

Curtain Elegance provides high-quality, custom-made curtains and blinds, emphasising luxury and style. They offer free measure and quote services, ensuring that each product fits perfectly and meets individual design preferences. Their attention to detail and craftsmanship appeals to those looking for premium window treatments.

How Much Should I Expect to Pay for Curtains?

The cost of curtains in Australia varies widely based on factors such as material, size, design complexity, and whether they are ready-made or custom-made. Here’s a breakdown to help you budget accordingly:

Ready-Made Curtains

Ready-made curtains are pre-manufactured in standard sizes and are generally more affordable. Prices typically range from AUD $30 to $300 per panel, depending on the fabric quality and brand . They are a convenient option for standard window sizes and come in various styles and materials.

Custom-Made Curtains

Custom-made curtains are tailored to fit specific window dimensions and design preferences. These can cost anywhere from AUD $100 to $1,000 per panel, influenced by factors like fabric choice, size, and design complexity . While more expensive, they offer a perfect fit and personalised aesthetic.

Specialty Fabrics

Sheer Curtains: Lightweight and translucent, allowing natural light while providing privacy. Prices range from AUD $20 to $200 per panel .
Blockout Curtains: Designed to block out light and provide insulation. These typically cost between AUD $50 to $500 per panel .
Linen Curtains: Known for their natural texture and durability, linen curtains range from AUD $80 to $600 per panel .
Velvet Curtains: Offering a luxurious look, velvet curtains can cost between AUD $100 to $800 per panel .
Silk Curtains: High-end and elegant, silk curtains are priced from AUD $200 to $1,500 per panel .

Additional Costs

When budgeting for curtains, consider additional expenses such as

Hardware: Curtain rods and brackets can add to the overall cost.
Installation: Professional installation services may charge between AUD $45 to $100 per hour, depending on complexity and location .
Customisation: Features like motorisation or special linings will increase the price.

Understanding these cost factors will help you make informed decisions when purchasing curtains that suit your style and budget.

Tips for Choosing the Right Curtains for Your Space

Selecting the appropriate curtains involves more than just picking a fabric or color; it’s about understanding the specific needs of each room and how curtains can enhance both functionality and aesthetics. Here are some key considerations:

1. Purpose and Functionality

Determine what you want your curtains to achieve in each room:

Privacy: For bedrooms and bathrooms, opt for heavier fabrics or blackout curtains to ensure complete privacy.
Light Control: Living areas may benefit from sheer curtains that allow natural light while reducing glare.
Insulation: Thermal or lined curtains can help regulate indoor temperatures, keeping rooms warmer in winter and cooler in summer.

2. Fabric Selection

The choice of fabric affects both the look and functionality of your curtains:

Linen and Cotton: Lightweight and breathable, ideal for hot Australian climates.
Velvet and Silk: Heavier fabrics that add luxury and provide better insulation, suitable for formal spaces.
Polyester Blends: Durable and low-maintenance, great for high-traffic areas or homes with children.

3. Color and Pattern

Consider how the curtain color and pattern will interact with your existing decor:

Neutral Tones: Versatile and timeless, they blend seamlessly with most color schemes.
Bold Colors and Patterns: Can make a statement or serve as a focal point in a room.

4. Curtain Length and Width

Proper sizing ensures a polished look:

Length: Floor-length curtains are standard, but for a more dramatic effect, consider curtains that puddle slightly on the floor.
Width: Curtains should be 1.5 to 3 times the width of the window to achieve a full, gathered look when closed.

5. Hardware and Accessories

The right hardware complements your curtains and overall decor:

Rods and Tracks: Choose based on the curtain style and room aesthetic. For example, decorative rods suit traditional settings, while concealed tracks offer a minimalist look.
Tiebacks and Holdbacks: Functional and decorative, they can add a touch of elegance and help control light and privacy.

By carefully considering these factors, you can select curtains that not only meet your practical needs but also enhance the beauty and comfort of your home.

Custom-Made vs. Ready-Made Curtains: Which Is Right for You?

When selecting curtains, the choice between custom-made and ready-made options hinges on factors like budget, window specifications, design preferences, and desired longevity. Here’s a comparative overview:

Custom-Made Curtains

Advantages:

Precise Fit: Tailored to your window’s exact dimensions, ensuring a seamless look without gaps or excess fabric.
Personalised Design: Offers a vast selection of fabrics, patterns, and styles, allowing for a unique match to your interior decor.
Enhanced Quality: Crafted with superior materials and craftsmanship, leading to increased durability and longevity.
Improved Energy Efficiency: Options for thermal or blackout linings can aid in temperature regulation and light control.

Considerations:

Higher Cost: Customisation and quality materials often come at a premium price.
Longer Lead Time: Production and delivery can take several weeks, depending on complexity and demand.

Ready-Made Curtains

Advantages:

Affordability: Mass-produced, making them a budget-friendly option.
Immediate Availability: Can be purchased and installed promptly, ideal for quick updates.
Variety of Styles: Available in numerous designs and colors to suit various tastes.

Considerations:

Standard Sizing: May not fit non-standard window sizes perfectly, potentially requiring alterations.
Limited Customisation: Fewer options for fabric types, linings, and design details.
Variable Quality: Durability and finish can vary, with some options using lower-grade materials.

Summary:

Choose Custom-Made Curtains if you have unique window sizes, specific design visions, or prioritise quality and longevity.
Opt for Ready-Made Curtains if you’re seeking a cost-effective, quick solution for standard-sized windows.

Where Is the Best Place to Buy Curtains?

Australia offers a diverse range of retailers for purchasing curtains, catering to different styles, budgets, and customisation needs. Here’s a curated list of reputable options:

1. The Curtain Lab

The Curtain Lab provides a wide selection of custom made curtains and offers free in-home measure and quote services for custom-made options. Their extensive range ensures that customers can find suitable curtains for various room types and design preferences.

2. Quickfit Blinds & Curtains

Quickfit specialises in custom-made curtains delivered Australia-wide within 10 days. They offer a variety of styles, including blockout and sheer options, catering to different aesthetic and functional preferences. Their focus on affordability and speed makes them ideal for those seeking custom solutions without long wait times.

3. Curtain & Blind Co.

Curtain & Blind Co. offers DIY custom curtains and blinds with free Australia-wide delivery. Their user-friendly online system allows customers to select fabrics, input measurements, and receive made-to-measure products directly to their door. This approach combines convenience with customisation, suitable for those comfortable with self-installation.

4. CurtainWorld

5. Shadey

Shadey provides made-to-measure curtains, blinds, and shutters with a focus on affordability and DIY installation. They offer free fabric samples and free shipping on orders over $499, making them a convenient option for budget-conscious shoppers.

6. Curtains on the Net

Curtains on the Net offers high-quality, low-cost made-to-measure curtains in various styles and colors. They provide free delivery across Australia, catering to customers seeking custom solutions at competitive prices.

7. Half Price Blinds

Half Price Blinds offers a wide range of stylish and affordable curtains suitable for various home décors. They provide free delivery Australia-wide, making them a convenient choice for online shoppers.

8. The Blinds Gallery

With over two decades of experience, The Blinds Gallery in Perth offers affordable made-to-measure curtains in a vast array of colors, fabrics, prints, and styles. They provide free in-home measure and quote services, ensuring a tailored fit for your windows.

9. IKEA Australia

IKEA offers a selection of well-designed, quality curtains at low prices. Their range includes various materials and styles, catering to different tastes and budgets.

10. Lincraft

Lincraft provides a variety of curtains suitable for every room in your home, including eyelet and pleated styles. They also offer curtain fabrics for those who prefer to make their own window furnishings.

When choosing where to buy curtains, consider factors such as customisation needs, budget, delivery times, and whether you prefer in-store consultations or online shopping. Each of the retailers listed above offers unique advantages to cater to diverse customer requirements.

Final Thoughts:

Selecting the appropriate curtain retailer in Australia depends on various factors, including budget, customisation requirements, and preferred shopping experience. For those seeking affordable ready-made options, retailers like IKEA and Lincraft offer a wide range of styles and materials suitable for standard window sizes. If you’re looking for custom-made curtains tailored to specific dimensions and design preferences, companies such as CurtainWorld and Quickfit Blinds & Curtains provide personalised solutions with professional consultations and installations.

Online platforms like Curtain & Blind Co. and Curtains on the Net offer the convenience of ordering custom curtains from the comfort of your home, with user-friendly interfaces and delivery services. Ultimately, the best choice will align with your specific needs, ensuring that your selected curtains enhance both the functionality and aesthetics of your living space.