Inside the studio with Maurice Kain.

Ever sat on a sofa, looked at the curtains and wondered how long that fabric took to design and make? Well wonder no more. The Maurice Kain design studio spills the beans…

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Maurice Kain
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Photography Maurice Kain
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Inside the studio.

Michelle West, Associate Director at Basford Brands, home to Maurice Kain Fabrics, has spent fifteen years developing fabrics for the Australian lifestyle. So you could say she has great insight into what is popular and what is not.

Nothing quite beats a good night’s sleep, but in world that never stops we know sometimes just how difficult that can be. Noise, light pollution and even the weather are all factors that can throw off our sleeping patterns.

Blockout fabric is specifically designed to block out light coming into your home, creating darkness when you need it most. What’s more, blockout fabric can provide better privacy, reduce noise from outside your windows and even help to insulate your home. We’ve broken down six of the biggest benefits of having blockout fabric in your home in a simple and handy list below!

Could you benefit from blockout fabrics?

So, who benefits? Restless sleepers, young children, shift-workers and migraine sufferers are just some of the people that will really feel the difference. For those living in bustling urban areas, close to a main road or even beneath a flight path, blockout fabric provides that much needed barrier so that you can rest easy when it matters most.

So, what are the benefits?

Describe a typical day at work in the studio.

As leading innovators of window covering hardware solutions in Australia, Rollease Acmeda are our preferred hardware supply partner for good reason. Rollease Acmeda is at the cutting edge of window covering trends because their superior systems have evolved over time. Their continuous improvements in product development have been enhanced from extensive research and development by a team of over 25 engineers in their Innovation and Design Centre based in Melbourne.

Dollar Curtains & Blinds Pty Ltd ACN 068 338 787 and its related entities (we, us, our) is collecting your personal information to assess your suitability for a contractor role with us and, if successful, to administer and manage your engagement with us.

In addition to the information you provide to us directly, we may also collect information about you from third parties, such as referees (e.g. your previous customers or employers), from government agencies and background screening providers (e.g. criminal and credit history checks) and academic and professional bodies (e.g. to validate details and currency of qualifications).

If you are successful and we engage you as a contractor, we may:

  • collect further details regarding any health issues or requirements relevant to your role (e.g. pre-existing injuries, allergies, disabilities), so that we (and our franchisees) can comply with OH&S laws, accommodate any specific health requirements and provide a safe working environment for you;
  • collect your banking details;
  • collect feedback about your performance, including from supervisors and customers;
  • collect camera/video footage of you while on our premises (via CCTV) and record conversations via call recording technologies we implement in our business (for staff training, quality assurance and record-keeping purposes); and
  • collect logs of your usage of our equipment (e.g. phones, computers and vehicles) and access to our premises and systems, including monitoring internet and network use and the location of our vehicles and equipment via GPS.

If you do not provide any of the information requested, we may not be able to properly consider your application or make an offer for a contractor role with us.

To assess and progress your application and administer your ongoing engagement with us, we may disclose the personal information it collects to:

  • our related entities and our franchisees who we authorise to operate a ‘dollar curtains + blinds’ franchise;
  • your emergency contacts, referees and agents;
  • third parties who provide us with administrative, IT and other support services (including data hosting and background screening services);
  • our professional advisors;
  • government and law enforcement agencies; and
  • other recipients if required or permitted to do so by law.

Some of the service providers and suppliers we utilise are located outside of Australia (including in China), and so your personal information may be disclosed to recipients outside Australia.

Our privacy policy available at https://www.dollarcurtainsandblinds.com.au/more-from-us/privacy-policy/ states how you can seek to access or correct any personal information we hold about you, how to complain about a privacy breach and how we will deal with a privacy complaint.

We can be contacted by email at customerservice@dollarcurtains.com.au, by mail to Building 8, 97-107 Canterbury Rd, Kilsyth VIC 3137 or via phone on 03 9237 1200.

 

Blockout Curtains

Can you share what is special in your role as Associate Director?

Cushions are an inexpensive way to give your home a style update. Add a finishing touch to a room through a visually appealing mix of different colours and textures.

Using our extensive range of fabrics, we custom make Cushions to all shapes and sizes, with or without piping, to co-ordinate with your Curtains, Roman Blinds or Bonded Roller Blinds.

We also offer exclusive ranges of decorative trims and fabric buttons to give your Cushions that designer look. Cushion sizes and shapes vary from the typical square or bolster to window seat cushions or Cushions custom made to fit your furniture.

Dollar Curtains & Blinds Pty Ltd ACN 068 338 787 and its related entities (we, us, our) is collecting your personal information to assess your application and suitability for employment with us and, if you accept a position with us, to administer and manage your ongoing employment.

In addition to the information you provide to us directly (including via any application and pre-employment forms), we may also collect information about you from third parties, such as referees (e.g. previous employers), from government agencies and background screening providers (e.g. criminal and credit history checks) and academic and professional bodies (e.g. to validate details and currency of qualifications).

If you are successful and join us as an employee, we may:

  • collect further details regarding any health issues or requirements relevant to your role (e.g. pre-existing injuries, allergies, disabilities), so that we (and our franchisees) can comply with OH&S laws, accommodate any specific health requirements and provide a safe working environment for you;
  • collect your banking and superannuation fund details;
  • ask you to provide us with your tax file number (TFN). If you choose to provide it, we will collect and use it in accordance with our authorised functions as your employer under the Taxation Administration Act 1953 (Cth) and other applicable laws (including taxation and superannuation laws).  It is not an offence if you choose not to provide your TFN.  However, providing your TFN reduces the risk of administrative errors and having extra tax withheld.  We are required to withhold the top rate of tax from all payments made to you if you do not provide your TFN or claim an exemption from quoting your TFN;
  • collect feedback about your performance, including from supervisors and customers;
  • collect camera/video footage of you while on our premises (via CCTV) and record conversations via call recording technologies we implement in our business (for staff training, quality assurance and record-keeping purposes);
  • collect logs of your usage of our equipment (e.g. phones, computers and vehicles) and access to our premises and systems, including monitoring internet and network use and the location of our vehicles and equipment via GPS; and
  • collect biometric information about you (e.g. fingerprint) if and to the extent required for time sheet and attendance monitoring technologies.

If you do not provide any of the information requested, we may not be able to properly consider your application or make an offer for employment.

To assess and progress your application and administer your ongoing employment, we may disclose the personal information we collect to:

  • our related entities and franchisees who we authorise to operate a ‘dollar curtains + blinds’ franchise;
  • your emergency contacts, referees and agents;
  • third parties that provide us with employment related services (such as providers of background screening services);
  • third parties who provide us with administrative, IT and other support services (including data hosting);
  • our professional advisors;
  • government and law enforcement agencies; and
  • other recipients if required or permitted to do so by law.

Some of the service providers and suppliers we utilise are located outside of Australia (including in China), and so your personal information may be disclosed to recipients outside Australia.

Our privacy policy available at https://www.dollarcurtainsandblinds.com.au/more-from-us/privacy-policy/ states how you can seek to access or correct any personal information we hold about you, how to complain about a privacy breach and how we will deal with a privacy complaint.

We can be contacted by email at customerservice@dollarcurtains.com.au, by mail to Building 8, 97-107 Canterbury Rd, Kilsyth VIC 3137 or via phone on 03 9237 1200.

Blockout Curtains

How do you find inspiration for your collections?

Our Automate® window coverings add more to a home than just convenience by facilitating the advanced control of your interior climate. Regardless of how sophisticated your window glazing or tint may be, they’re rarely a match for the benefits of Automated window coverings.

Wild weather shifts, strong sun rays or cold overcast skies, usually result in excessive use of air-conditioning, heating and lighting. Although it may be second nature to reach for the thermostat it can prove to be detrimental to your yearly energy expenses, not to mention its negative effect on global climate control.

Similarly, switching the lights on in your home is traditionally more convenient than manually raising Blinds or opening Drapes. Unfortunately, this too has a negative impact on your home, your wallet and our planet. Our Automate® window covering systems add a new dimension of control and convenience that can help you break out of conventional and costly habits.

Research has found that windows left uncovered are responsible for up to a 40% loss of heating energy, while conversely also contributing up to 87% of a home’s heat gain*, depending on external weather conditions. Mitigating such high amounts of energy transfer through windows can be as simple as raising or lowering your window coverings at optimal times.

Motorised window coverings seamlessly integrate into modern day living and offer a safer and more efficient solution than their manually operated counterparts. Effortlessly manage your window coverings with dynamic control options, from remotes to sun-sensitive sensors.

*References: https://www.yourhome.gov.au/passive-design/glazing

Dollar Curtains & Blinds Pty Ltd ACN 068 338 787 and its related entities (we, us, our) is collecting your personal information in order to provide you with a free quote and if you elect to proceed with a purchase, to fulfill your purchase, and to contact you in connection with the foregoing. If you do not provide this information to us, we will not be able to provide you with a free quote or fulfill any order requests.

In order to provide you with a quote and, if appliable, fulfill any purchases you wish to make, we may disclose your personal information to third parties such as members of our franchise network and to service providers and suppliers that assist us with providing the free quote and fulfilling orders (such as the third party product manufacturer and delivery partners), some of whom may be located outside Australia. Our plantation shutter manufacturer is located in China, and if a purchase is made, the information disclosed to the manufacturer is generally limited to the customer’s surname only.

Our privacy policy, available at https://www.dollarcurtainsandblinds.com.au/more-from-us/privacy-policy/, states how you can seek to access or correct any personal information we hold about you, how to complain about a privacy breach and how we will deal with a privacy complaint.

We can be contacted by email at customerservice@dollarcurtains.com.au, by mail to Building 8, 97-107 Canterbury Rd, Kilsyth VIC 3137 or via phone on 03 9237 1200.

When considering a new range/theme, what is the research process?

Our Cellular Blind range has a choice of motorised solutions such as wall charger, battery pack, or hardwired connection. Our Cellular Blind Automate® CL 0.8 motors and suite of controllers can be completely integrated to achieve the perfect Automated experience.

Blockout Curtains

“<a href="https://www.dollarcurtainsandblinds.com.au/product-range/blinds/roller-blinds-2/">Roller Blinds</a> <span style="font-weight: 400;">are one of the most popular window treatments for any room of the home. They’re incredibly versatile, can be automated and are cost effective. </span> <span style="font-weight: 400;">While there will be small light gaps when using Roller Blinds in a corner window, they are minimal. For main living areas where you don’t need complete blockout, this can be a streamlined and affordable window covering solution.</span> In this photo, we've designed Blockout Roller Blinds under matching <a href="https://www.dollarcurtainsandblinds.com.au/product-range/blinds/pelmets/">Bonded Pelmets.</a>”

— Michelle West

Just like fashion brands, interior brands also launch collections throughout the year. How often do you launch a new collection and what drives the design theme?

Enjoy your time away from home or office without worrying about the window coverings. If you have multiple locations like a home, office, or holiday home, you can always be in charge of your window coverings, privacy and security. Our exclusive control app allows you to remotely access your window coverings, know their position, and operate them as if you were there.

We have motorised window covering options that operate through home Automation systems as well as those that can be integrated into third party building management systems – control your blinds, lighting, heating and cooling all within the one control. Life made simple.

Automation is the way of the future and our exclusive innovative systems now make it more affordable than ever before.

For a step-by-step guide on choosing what Automation product suits your lifestyle, download the Automation Brochure, call for assistance or visit your nearest store.

How many months or years do you work in advance for each fabric collection?

Ensure the bottom of your Blinds have the right finish to complete your design scheme. For a contemporary and streamlined look choose a stitched pocket or bottom rail. If you prefer a classic style opt for a scallop finish with braid or fringe or choose a pop of pattern with a bonded insert in a drapery fabric.

Our base rails are constructed from premium aluminium for added strength and durability, they also provide weight to control movement of your Blinds during operation or from breezes. Choose from the oval shape, d-shape or fabric wrap base rail for a seamless and stylish finish to compliment any style interior.

View Australia’s largest range of Blind finishes in the Roller Blinds Brochure or visit your nearest store to see the options in real life displays.

The production of each new fabric is highly involved and intricate. What is the Maurice Kain production process and, on average, how long does each new fabric design take?

It can be difficult to manage window coverings in commercial buildings. The volume of windows often present in large structures can be easily and quickly managed effectively with our Automate® range and the Pulse Hub. Commercial buildings and businesses can benefit in many ways from a centralised point of control for managing natural light and heat.

Additionally, schedules and triggers can move shades throughout the day based on the position of the sun, creating the perfect interior climate for customers and employees while significantly reducing the time, effort and energy needed to provide a comfortable space.

Floral Curtains

You work with a wide range of designers and craftspeople from around the world. Could you share what it’s like working collaboratively with these artisans and how many you work with?

No matter what window treatment you decide on for your corner window, Pelmets can be a fabulous way to finish off the look. 

Our Pelmets are custom made and for corner or bay windows we create an Angled Pelmet to perfectly fit your space. Available in both Curtain or Blind fabrics, in bonded or padded styles, these are made to match your window covering for a seamless look.

As well as providing a tailored finish, Pelmets are also an excellent way to improve insulation and eliminate light gaps. 

“Elsewhere, <a href="https://www.dollarcurtainsandblinds.com.au/product-range/blinds/double-roller-blinds-2/">Double Roller Blinds</a> were the pick for what David calls the “more difficult windows” where Curtains weren’t suitable. Blockout <a href="https://www.dollarcurtainsandblinds.com.au/product-range/blinds/roller-blinds-2/">Roller Blinds</a> in Evolve fabric in a Light Grey colourway were combined with Sunscreen Roller Blinds in White Grey Sabi fabric. Having the two Blinds on the same bracket offers the ultimate in flexibility, with an easy switch between the Blockout Blind for privacy and darkness and the Sunscreen Blind to let the sun in and filter the view.”

— Michelle West

What do you find challenging when designing a new fabric?

Can you mix Plantation Shutters with other window coverings?

The short answer: Yes. 

Plantation Shutters suit a range of interior styles and can be mixed and matched with almost any other type of window covering in your home, including Roller Blinds, Roman Blinds and Curtains.

Often, Plantation Shutters are used in bathrooms, laundries and kitchens, and then softer window treatment are used in main living areas and bedrooms.

It is also possible to mix window coverings on the one window. For example, you may recess fit a Plantation Shutter and then dress the window or wall with a Curtain in front. This is an especially popular window covering solution for bay windows.

For even more information on Plantation Shutters, download the Shutter Brochure or visit your local dollar curtains + blinds store where a friendly team member will assist you. 

Patterned Fabric Curtains

Some people who are new to window furnishings can get overwhelmed by the large choice of designer fabrics in a dollar curtains + blinds store and find it difficult to decide on a fabric for their windows. Any tips?

A highly affordable Blind for large windows or doors, Vertical Blinds are made with vertical blades of stiff fabric which can be easily adjusted for control light. Suitable for both home and office.

Just like a Vertical Blind only larger – but in a good way. Consisting of wide vertical blades of fabric Panel Blinds offer a slightly more contemporary look. A highly affordable Blind, they are ideal for large windows or doors.

What do you love about working with fabrics? Do you have a favourite?

A highly affordable Blind for large windows or doors, Vertical Blinds are made with vertical blades of stiff fabric which can be easily adjusted for control light. Suitable for both home and office.

Just like a Vertical Blind only larger – but in a good way. Consisting of wide vertical blades of fabric Panel Blinds offer a slightly more contemporary look. A highly affordable Blind, they are ideal for large windows or doors.

Foliage Fabric Curtains

How do beautiful fabrics change a room or home?

Fabrics can change a room in so many ways. It would be impossible to narrow it to just a few. Fabrics have the ability to affect our moods, our emotions, and our feelings. Your home is what you make it and how you feel in it, so choose fabrics from the heart – change your home as you feel, picking the fabric is the fun part!

Landscape Fabric Curtains

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