In this episode of the Trends Property Insight Series, we sit down with Janene Gillon, owner of Weathermaster Auckland, to unpack the choices that make a home comfortable day in and day out.

With three decades of experience spanning manufacturing, training, sales, and installation, Janine brings a clear, practical lens to light control, privacy, and thermal performance. Instead of defaulting to “just put up a blind,” we discuss what really works: when honeycomb shades outperform curtains for insulation, why shutters add value both inside and out, and how fabrics and finishes withstand the New Zealand sun and salt air.

Janene explains day and night layering, safe cordless options for families, and the small placement decisions that keep rooms usable, not just pretty. We also get into timelines and budgets, from wiring early for automation to staging upgrades room by room. Outside, we cover folding arm awnings, drop-down screens, and create weather-ready outdoor rooms that extend living space without council hurdles. Janene shares common misconceptions, how to read specs, and what a thorough measure and install should look like.

Whether you are planning a renovation, fitting out a new build, or finally tackling glare and heat in a single room, this conversation offers straight answers, liveable ideas, and confidence to choose solutions that last.

There’s plenty more where that came from. The Trends Property Insight Series is a video podcast that dives into the real stories, expert advice, and smart solutions behind New Zealand’s renovation, building, and home buying journeys. Hosted by Andrew Johnson, each episode features industry leaders, design professionals, and product innovators sharing practical insights to help you make confident decisions for your home.

To explore the full series of interviews, design stories, and renovation tips, head over to our Podcast Page and watch or listen to every episode on demand.