Windsor Blinds at the Forefront of Design and Innovation

• Words Liane Morris

For almost 80 years, local manufacturer Windsor Blinds, Awnings and Shutters has been at the forefront of design and technology, delivering window covering solutions to Newcastle and the Hunter. Owner Craig Young has been working in the industry, learning at the knee of his father, industry innovator B.J Young (Bill), since he was just a child, following him around in his factory, learning not just how to craft their products, but how to run a business with a strong focus on customer service.

The family behind Windsor have always been innovators. When Bill returned to Australia after World War II in 1946, after serving in the RAAF, he built his business and, with a patriotic nod to Britain, named it after Windsor Castle and the Royal Family. It didn’t take long for the business to be acknowledged as a leader in the Australian blind industry, a position that was further enhanced when, in 1967, it patented the Steel Curved Venetian Blind Slat design and became the first blind manufacturer to use Terylene cables and tapes. This put Windsor firmly at the forefront of design, innovation and technology in blind manufacturing.

Sadly, Bill passed away in 2013, but from 2011, Craig and his wife Zdenka have been running the company, relocating the premises from Carrington to Cardiff and expanding the product range.

“It’s a family business,” said Zdenka.

“We’re very proud of the history. Craig’s father was the first to do venetian blinds in Australia, so our customers, some of whom have been with us for generations, have come to expect the best. We make sure that we deliver that. With Craig’s extensive experience in the business, and unlike many of our competitors, we have the ability to craft bespoke solutions in terms of window coverings, awnings, and shutters.

“As our population ages and our climate puts energy efficiency, safety and bushfire risk to the forefront of our minds, more people are looking to build smarter and to future-proof their homes against these issues. We work with builders directly to create packages for new builds that address these things, but just as importantly, we work with the individual who may need a bespoke solution for their aging mother, with things such as awnings or shutters with smart automation options to make life easier.”

The range at Windsor is extensive and only of the very highest quality. Current best sellers include the ever-popular custom-made plantation shutters, made from your choice of several timbers, Polymer or T5 grade Aluminium with the best paint coating on the market, providing a silky and luxurious finish. And just like any customer, Zdenka is looking forward to the installation of her own white plantation shutters.

“Of course, we’re the last to get it done,” laughs Zdenka. “I’ve been renovating the living room, and we’re just installing the plantation shutters now. I can’t wait!”

Other best-selling products include the Duo Roller Blinds, which have a screen for the day and a block out for night with a contemporary streamlined look. Ziptrak Blinds are popular for decks to enclose alfresco areas, protect against harsh weather and keep the bugs out. Interior designers love the Veri Shades, which combine the style of curtains with the practicality and versatility of blinds. Made from soft fabric with alternating opaque folds that hang luxuriously, while blind-style folds provide privacy, light filtering and airflow control, this unique product enables you to walk through them freely, whether opened or closed. With stunning fabric choices, including sheer, it’s easy to get the current look without sacrificing practicality.

With a hot summer predicted, the team at Windsor are expecting to be busy. They have all the latest tech options and a long-standing reputation as one of the best in the industry. They offer a free measure and quote and custom-made solutions.