35 Years of Crafting High Quality Blinds: Discover the A1 Difference

12 February 2024

Welcome to A1 Blinds, the premier window blind company in the North East. Boasting over 35 years of expertise in manufacturing blinds, we take immense pride in delivering the highest quality blinds in the region. Our reputation is underpinned by recommendations from our gratified customers – a testament to our exceptional products, service, and pricing.

The A1 Promise

At A1 Blinds, our commitment to excellence is unwavering. Our promise to you encompasses:

Local Craftsmanship

Our blinds are crafted in Newcastle by skilled local artisans, ensuring a touch of homegrown quality.

Quality Materials

We select only the finest materials for our products, ensuring longevity and style.

Assured Quality

With over three decades in the business, we confidently guarantee top-tier quality in every blind.

Expert Service

At A1 Blinds, friendly and expert service is not just a promise, it’s a standard.

Price Match Promise

Found our products cheaper elsewhere? We’ll match the price, ensuring you always get the best deal.

12-Month Guarantee

Every product comes with a manufacturer’s guarantee, offering you peace of mind.

Unparalleled Product Range

We present an extensive selection of blinds to suit every taste and need. From Venetians to Verticals, Rollers, Romans, Pleated, Panel, Perfect Fit, Wooden, Motorised blinds, Intu, Velux®, or Roof blinds, our range is comprehensive. Our collection spans from affordable luxury to cost-effective solutions, all customisable to your specific requirements.

Expert Craftsmanship

Our highly trained technicians ensure that each blind is crafted to perfection, complementing your home’s aesthetic. We guarantee that every product is rigorously tested and reaches you in pristine condition.

Visit our Showrooms

Explore our contemporary showrooms in Blaydon and Forest Hall. Experience a relaxed shopping atmosphere with our extensive product range. Our Blaydon showroom boasts a voice-controlled motorised blinds display. Can’t make it to the showroom? Embark on a virtual tour online!

Customer-Centric Services

Home Consultation

Our home visit service brings a variety of collections right to your doorstep.

Free Samples

Choose up to 5 free sample swatches to aid in your decision-making.

Free Measuring and Quote

Benefit from a no-pressure quote with our complimentary measuring service.

Free Fitting

Expert installation at no additional cost.

Flexible Payment

We accept a variety of payment methods, including credit/debit cards and cash.

Uncompromised Product Quality and Safety

We adhere to the highest standards of product safety and quality, aligning with European Standard BS EN 13120. As part of the “Make it Safe” campaign, we ensure all our blinds are child-safe and offer additional safety devices for existing blinds.

Why Our Customers Love Us

Our customers regularly express satisfaction with our product quality, style, and professional service. They are our most significant advocates. Visit us at A1 Blinds for all your window blind needs and experience the quality and service that has made us a trusted name in the industry for over 35 years.

FAQs

What types of blinds do you offer at A1 Blinds?

We offer a wide range of blinds including Venetians, Verticals, Rollers, Romans, Pleated, Panel, Perfect Fit, Wooden, Motorised blinds, Velux®, and Roof blinds. Each category has a variety of styles and materials to suit your specific needs and preferences.

Do you provide a warranty on your blinds?

Yes, we offer a 12-month manufacturer’s guarantee on all our blinds, ensuring peace of mind and confidence in your purchase.

Can I get a custom size blind for my windows?

Absolutely! We provide a free measuring service to ensure your blinds are tailor-made to fit your windows perfectly.

Is there an option for a home consultation?

Yes, we offer a home consultation service. Our experts will visit your home with a variety of collections, allowing you to choose the perfect blinds in the comfort of your own space.

Are your blinds child-safe?

Safety is a top priority at A1 Blinds. All our blinds comply with the European Standard BS EN 13120 and are part of the “Make it Safe” campaign, ensuring they are child-safe. We also provide additional safety devices for existing blinds.

Do you offer installation services?

Yes, we provide expert installation services at no extra cost. Our experienced technicians will ensure your new blinds are fitted perfectly.

Colour Your Space, Colour Your Mood: How a Splash of Colour Can Boost Your Happiness

Is your home lifting your mood, or dragging it down? We often think of colour as a style choice, but research shows it goes much deeper. Colour can impact everything from energy levels to emotional wellbeing — so if your interiors are looking a little grey (and so are your spirits), it might be time to refresh your space.

The Psychology of Colour: What the Research Says

Psychologists have long studied how colour affects mood and behaviour. According to a study published in Frontiers in Psychology, certain colours can evoke emotional responses based on cultural associations and personal experiences. While interpretations vary, some patterns are widely accepted:

Yellow is associated with happiness, warmth, and mental clarity. It’s an energising shade that works wonders in kitchens or creative spaces.
Blue is calming and stabilising, making it ideal for bedrooms, bathrooms, or anywhere you want to unwind.
Green represents nature, growth, and balance. It’s shown to reduce stress and promote a sense of harmony — great for lounges or home offices.
Red stimulates energy and passion. A little goes a long way — perfect for accents in dining rooms or hallways.
Purple has long been linked to creativity and imagination, making it a great feature colour for bedrooms or reading nooks.

Interior designers also back this up: “The colours we surround ourselves with can have a profound effect on how we feel,” says interiors expert Karen Haller, author of The Little Book of Colour.

Room-by-Room Colour Inspiration

Want to boost your home’s feel-good factor? Here’s how to bring colour into every corner of your home:

Bedroom – Choose muted tones like dusty blue, soft lavender or sage green to promote rest and relaxation. Roman or roller blinds in these shades can soften morning light and set a calm tone for your day.
Living Room – This is your social hub, so introduce warm, welcoming tones like ochre, terracotta, or moss green. Vertical blinds or curtains in textured fabrics can add depth while introducing colour.
Kitchen – Uplift your energy with fresh colours like lemon yellow, mint green or vibrant coral. Try a bold roller blind to add instant personality without a full renovation.
Bathroom – Create a calming, spa-like atmosphere with soft blues, greens, or gentle greys. These soothing tones help you unwind and bring a fresh, airy feel to smaller spaces. Moisture-resistant roller blinds in these hues offer both privacy and serenity while standing up to humidity.
Commercial Spaces – Colour isn’t just for the home. We can help you bring the same energy and mood-boosting benefits into your commercial setting too. Whether it’s calming tones for a clinic, uplifting colours for a classroom, or modern hues for an office, our made-to-measure blinds can enhance productivity, atmosphere, and brand personality in any workspace.

Decorating With Colour – Without the Overwhelm

You don’t need to redecorate your whole home to feel the benefits of colour. Start small:

Swap neutral blinds for colourful alternatives.
Add cushions, artwork or rugs in your chosen palette.
Try a statement blind in a bold pattern as a design feature.

The key is to choose colours that make you feel good — not just what’s trending.

A1 Blinds: Designed to Lift Your Mood

At A1 Blinds, we know the right blind does more than just control light. It adds personality, softness, and a sense of style — all while helping create a home that supports your wellbeing.

From peaceful pastel rollers to bold patterned verticals, our wide range of fabrics and colours gives you the freedom to reflect your personality and create a space you love to live in.

💡 Feeling inspired? Our experts can help you find the perfect blinds to brighten up your space. Book a free home consultation today and see samples in your own home!

Delivering Sustainable Shading Solutions for Starbucks

Starbucks is making significant strides towards sustainability by incorporating eco-friendly solutions into their cafés. A key part of this initiative is the installation of solar-powered, motorised roller blinds—a smart shading solution that enhances energy efficiency and customer comfort. Unlike traditional blinds, these are completely cordless and require no external wiring or power supply, eliminating trip hazards and ensuring a sleek, clutter-free look.

At A1 Blinds, we specialise in installing these innovative roller blinds, powered by independent Solar Panels. These high-performance panels utilise amorphous silicon technology, allowing them to efficiently absorb solar rays even in reduced light conditions. As a result, the blinds remain fully functional throughout the day without the need for frequent recharging from a power socket—perfectly aligning with Starbucks’ sustainability goals.

Solution: Solar-Charged, Motorised Roller Blinds

Each installation features a 1.2Nm DC Tubular Motor (with the first installation using a 1.8Nm motor), equipped with a built-in rechargeable Lithium-ion battery for seamless, energy-efficient operation. Designed to support up to 6kg, these motors offer simple programming, multiple limit settings, and automatic adjustments to control light and heat levels.

By reducing glare and helping to regulate indoor temperatures, our blinds create a comfortable café environment while cutting energy consumption. With our expertise and flawless execution, Starbucks continues to trust us to enhance more locations with our sustainable shading solutions.

Trusted by Starbucks: A Growing Nationwide Project

Following our initial installation in Newcastle, Starbucks has continued to invest in our solar-powered roller blinds, expanding to Sheffield, Bradford, Hartlepool, and most recently, Wakefield. Each project has reinforced the benefits of our sustainable shading solutions, offering both environmental and practical advantages to Starbucks and their customers.

Below is a look at the Starbucks locations where we have successfully completed installations:

Newcastle: The First Step Towards Sustainability

The journey began in Newcastle, where we first implemented our solar-powered roller blinds. This installation set the foundation for Starbucks’ commitment to integrating sustainable shading solutions across their cafés.

Sheffield: Expanding the Vision

Following the success of our Newcastle installation, Starbucks brought us on board to implement the same high-quality shading solutions at their Sheffield location. The positive impact on customer comfort and energy efficiency reinforced the value of our blinds.

Bradford: Strengthening the Partnership

In Bradford, we continued our work with Starbucks, demonstrating the adaptability of our blinds to different store layouts while maintaining their effectiveness in reducing glare and improving ambiance.

Hartlepool: Sustainable Shading in Action

Our fourth installation took place in Hartlepool, further solidifying Starbucks’ confidence in our expertise. By integrating our solar-powered blinds, this location benefitted from improved light control, reduced energy consumption, and an overall enhanced café experience.

Wakefield: Our Latest Successful Installation

The latest addition to our growing list of Starbucks projects is in Wakefield. Once again, our solar-powered blinds were chosen for their ability to regulate heat gain and loss through large glass facades, ensuring a comfortable atmosphere for customers.

A huge well done to Adam and Nick for another seamless installation!

But it’s not just Starbucks that can benefit from our innovative shading solutions. Whether you own a café, restaurant, office, or retail space, our solar-powered, motorised blinds can help you create a comfortable, energy-efficient environment for your customers and employees. With no wiring required, no trip hazards, and automatic light control, our blinds are a practical and stylish upgrade for any business looking to reduce energy costs and enhance interior spaces.

Get in touch with A1 Blinds today to find out how we can bring sustainable shading to your business!

Starbucks: Innovating for Sustainability and Comfort

Our partnership with Starbucks highlights how sustainable technology can enhance both customer experience and operational efficiency. The installation of solar-charged, motorised roller blinds has proven highly effective in reducing heat and glare while seamlessly integrating into each store’s design.

Key Benefits of Our Solar-Powered Blinds:

✅ Energy Efficiency – Harnessing solar power to reduce electricity consumption.
✅ Minimal Maintenance – Independent solar panels ensure hassle-free operation.
✅ Cordless & Safe – No external wiring or cords, eliminating trip hazards and maintaining a sleek aesthetic.
✅ Improved Comfort – Reducing glare and regulating temperatures for an optimal café experience.

Each of these projects highlights our ability to adapt to different environments, from retail spaces to corporate and heritage sites, ensuring that every installation is both practical and visually cohesive.

A1 Blinds: Expertise, Innovation, and Sustainability

Our dedication to problem-solving, aesthetic integration, and sustainable innovation continues to drive our success. As we expand our installations across the UK, we look forward to partnering with more businesses to create comfortable, energy-efficient spaces.

No Cords, No Wires, No Hassle – Just Smart Blinds

In the era of sustainable living, solar-powered blinds are not just a trend; they are revolutionising the way we think about window treatments. Combined with the advancements in motorised blinds, they represent a significant leap forward in home automation and energy efficiency.

Motorised Blinds: A Blend of Efficiency and Convenience

Motorised blinds, known for their convenience and ease of use, are opened and closed by a small, motorised unit that turns the bar to which the blind is attached. These motors are highly efficient, using minimal power to operate. They offer flexibility in power sources, with options to connect to the mains supply or use rechargeable batteries. This versatility makes them suitable for various settings, from new builds to retrofitting in existing homes.

Control Options for Motorised Blinds

The modern consumer demands choice and motorised blinds deliver just that with multiple control options:

Wall switches for simple, button-press operation.
Remote controls for convenience.
Integration with smart home hubs like Google Home or Alexa for voice control.
Smartphone app controls, allow operation from anywhere in the world.

The Practical Application: A Case Study in Innovation

A real-life example of the effectiveness of solar-powered blinds can be seen in a project we undertook at a Starbucks outlet. The challenge was to address excessive sunlight without compromising the café’s aesthetic appeal. The solution came in the form of solar-charged, motorised roller blinds.

These innovative blinds, powered by advanced solar panels, required no traditional electrical wiring, preserving the café’s modern and clean look. The installation of solar panels meant that the blinds could operate independently of the café’s electrical system, reducing clutter and maintaining the establishment’s stylish design. This approach not only aligned with Starbucks’ commitment to sustainability but also enhanced customer comfort, making the space more inviting.

This case study demonstrates the seamless integration of solar-powered blinds in a commercial setting, highlighting their efficiency, aesthetic appeal, and contribution to sustainability goals.

Sustainable Innovation in Window Treatments

The sustainability of solar-powered blinds is a testament to modern eco-conscious living. Harnessing solar energy, an abundant and clean resource, these blinds significantly reduce our dependence on non-renewable energy sources and carbon emissions. Beyond their energy-efficient operation, these blinds can often incorporate eco-friendly materials, highlighting a commitment to reducing environmental impact.

Additionally, their role in enhancing home energy efficiency, by controlling light and heat entry, leads to decreased use of heating and cooling systems. This not only benefits the planet but also offers long-term cost savings for homeowners. In embracing solar-powered blinds, we are not just adopting advanced technology but also making a conscious choice towards a more sustainable and responsible way of living.

The Future of Blinds: Solar Power and Beyond

The next step in window treatment innovation is the integration of solar-powered blinds with home energy systems. Imagine blinds that not only power themselves but also contribute to your home’s electricity supply. As technology advances, we anticipate even greater efficiency, automation, and sustainability in window coverings.

Solar-powered and motorised blinds are at the forefront of smart home solutions—blending convenience, style, and sustainability. As we move towards a greener future, these innovative blinds will continue to play a vital role in energy-efficient living.

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