Royal Retreat.

The Royal Queenscliff blends 1850s heritage with modern luxury in their stunning refurbishment. We enhanced the refined, coastal design with our custom made Double Curtains and Roman Blinds.

Words by

dc+b editor

Topic	Featured Homes
Photography	Chris McConville
Artwork in photos	Joan Blond Art + Aliki K Art
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Nestled in the heart of Queenscliff Victoria, The Royal Queenscliff has long stood as a cherished landmark, with its history woven into the fabric of the coastal town since the 1850s.

With its commanding presence and timeless charm, The Royal Queenscliff has welcomed generations of guests through its grand doors. In 2023, it embarked on a new journey — one that honours its rich past while reimagining its future for the modern traveller.

Motivated by a desire to preserve the hotel’s historic soul and elevate it with modern elegance, the owners undertook a meticulous refurbishment. The result is a luxurious, art-filled escape where coastal calm meets curated sophistication. We were proud to collaborate with their team to provide custom made Double Curtains and Roman Blinds that seamlessly complimented their design vision.

“When undertaking a renovation project, don’t underestimate the power of window furnishings to define your interiors. Work with a team that understands your vision and values both beauty and practicality. Most of all, create a design that aligns with how you want your guests to feel, not just how you want it to look. ”

— Katalin Blond, Owner of The Royal Queenscliff

Every corner tells a story.

“We envisioned The Royal Queenscliff to feel like a transportive experience for our guests. The kind of place that evokes the elegance of European salons, the warmth of coastal hospitality, and the intimacy of a private gallery. Our goal was to create a space that was not only beautiful but meaningful, where guests could feel enveloped in charm and creativity from the moment they stepped through the doors”, said Katalin.

The overarching design concept was to evoke a sense of discovery — to make guests feel as though they’d stumbled upon a hidden jewel, where every room offers a new aesthetic delight and every corner tells a story.

Our team at the dc+b Geelong store worked closely with The Royal Queenscliff team to help bring this vision to life, ensuring the window furnishings enhanced the character and charm of each space.

“We had a vision for texture, elegance and softness, but relied heavily on the wonderful Kellie of dollar curtains + blinds in Geelong to bring that to life. Your team offered invaluable advice on materials, function and light control. It was a true collaboration!”

— Katalin

European apartment meets seaside manor.

The owners of The Royal Queenscliff were inspired by a blend of the British Colonial Aesthetic, late 19th-century European romance and contemporary sophistication, with velvet, timber, art, and light all playing starring roles. “It was about balancing historical reverence with modern indulgence”, said Katalin.

The design and selection process was deeply personal, curating each element with intention — from the art on the walls to the light fittings and fabrics.

“We scoured for unique antique pieces, worked with artisans, local trades, and experts like our local dollar curtains + blinds Geelong store to ensure everything felt cohesive and elevated, while still allowing each room to have its own character”, said Katalin.

“The Sheer Curtains diffuse the light beautifully, adding a sense of romance and tranquillity, while the Blockout Curtains ensure guests enjoy a restful sleep and thermal comfort. Together, they complete the visual story of the rooms.”

— Katalin

Which parts of the hotel undertook the transformation?

Virtually every part of the hotel was touched with the refurbishment of all the accommodation suites. Being an historic hotel with shared bathrooms, we had to create each suite from two rooms so that every suite has its own ensuite. We revitalised the public spaces, reimagined the cocktail lounge, and introduced curated gallery elements throughout. Even the stairwells and hallways were transformed into aesthetic experiences.

Which space is your favourite, and why?

Without a doubt, the Kipling Suite! There’s something truly transporting about it — from the silent glide of ships through The Rip to the veranda that invites slow mornings and reflective evenings. Floor-to-ceiling Sheer Curtains billow softly in the coastal breeze, creating a sanctuary of calm and indulgence.

What were the ‘must haves’ in the transformation?

Natural light, beautiful textiles, incredible artwork, luxurious bathrooms, and a sense of flow throughout. And of course, window furnishings from dollar curtains + blinds that elevated the overall timeless aesthetic.

What has the feedback been from hotel guests and the local community since the refurbishment?

The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Guests comment on the attention to detail, the feeling of warmth and creativity, and the sense that they’ve discovered something truly special. Locals have embraced the transformation too. It’s been wonderful to see them take pride in this beloved hotel’s new chapter!

When did you turn to dollar curtains + blinds during the process?

We engaged with your team during the early phases of selecting finishes, as the importance of window furnishings was clear from the outset. We knew they would define the mood and softness of each room.

When it came to the window coverings, did you have a clear idea in mind, or did you turn to us for guidance and advice?

We had a vision for texture, elegance and softness, but relied heavily on the wonderful Kellie of dollar curtains + blinds in Geelong to bring that to life. Your team offered invaluable advice on materials, function and light control. It was a true collaboration!

What benefits did dollar curtains + blinds bring to the overall renovation process?

Beyond product excellence, your team brought a calm professionalism that made the process seamless. The team understood the style we were going for and offered solutions that were both functional and beautiful.

How did you find the measure, quote and installation process?

Efficient, professional, and reassuring. Kellie was meticulous in her measurements and the team was respectful of the heritage space during installation.

Was it beneficial visiting in-store?

Absolutely. Being able to see and feel the materials in person, and speak with the Interior Consultants face-to-face, made all the difference in shaping our decisions with confidence.

“The team at dc+b Geelong offered valuable insights on layering Sheer and Blockout Curtains, selecting subtle fabrics, and complimenting heritage windows without overpowering them. It was all part of the process that helped us make confident, cohesive decisions in the end.”

— Katalin

What products did you select from us, and what made you choose these?

We selected a mix of Sheer Curtains with custom made lining behind to assist with noise and light, depending on the room. The Sheer Curtains brought in softness and elegance, while the living provides essential privacy and insulation. The textures and tones felt luxurious without being overbearing. For the bathrooms and glass paneled doors, we chose Roman Blinds, with a Sheer Roller Blind to add privacy whilst allow natural light to fill the room.

What benefits have each product provided to the hotel’s look look and feel?

The Sheer Curtains diffuse the light beautifully, adding a sense of romance and tranquillity, while the Blockout Curtains ensure guests enjoy a restful sleep and thermal comfort. Together, they complete the visual story of the rooms.

What lessons have you learnt during the whole process?

1. Take your time
2. Listen to the building
3. Surround yourself with skilled collaborators
4. Remember that good design doesn’t shout — it whispers, invites, and lingers in memory

What advice would you give to other hospitality businesses considering a refurbishment and new window coverings?

Don’t underestimate the power of window furnishings to define your interiors. Work with a team that understands your vision and values both beauty and practicality. Most of all, create a design that aligns with how you want your guests to feel, not just how you want it to look.