Heritage homes are beloved for their architectural beauty and craftsmanship—from ornate cornices and picture rails to arched window frames and hand-carved timber architraves. These details are not only part of the home’s visual appeal—they’re also part of its value and history.

When it comes to installing modern curtain tracks in heritage properties, there’s a fine balance between upgrading functionality and preserving original features. Whether you’re working on a Victorian terrace, Federation bungalow, Edwardian villa or Georgian homestead, this guide explores the best ways to install curtain tracks without damaging heritage mouldings and frames.

Why It Matters: Protecting Architectural Integrity

Original windows, mouldings, and joinery are often irreplaceable. Drilling into a 130-year-old cedar window frame or cutting into ornate cornices can permanently diminish the home’s authenticity—and in some cases, its resale value. Even worse, incorrect installation can weaken plaster, create visible damage, or cause uneven curtain movement that undermines the entire design.

Preservation is key, especially in heritage-listed homes or homes located in heritage overlay zones. Careful planning, the right hardware, and the expertise of experienced curtain installers are essential.

Step 1: Assess the Window and Its Surroundings

Every installation begins with a thorough inspection of the space. Key things to consider:

• Window frame material: Is it original timber, plaster, rendered masonry, or something more recent?
• Moulding placement: Are there architraves, cornices, pelmets, or picture rails that affect where the track can go?
• Wall strength: Can the wall support a face-fix track, or is ceiling mounting safer?
• Window function: Do the windows open inwards? Are they casement, double-hung, or arched?
• Height and proportions: What are the drop measurements, and is there space above the window for a track?

Professional installers should take detailed notes and photos during the assessment to plan the least invasive installation.

Step 2: Choose the Right Curtain Track System

Not all curtain tracks are suitable for heritage properties. The best systems are minimal, adaptable, and designed for flexibility around trims and decorative elements.

Recommended curtain track types:

• Ceiling-recessed tracks – Ideal for heritage renovations with new plasterboard ceilings or modern extensions. These tracks can be installed in a recess to keep the focus on the curtains, not the hardware.
• Face-fix tracks – Mounted directly to the wall. With heritage homes, choose powder-coated finishes that blend into existing mouldings (e.g., white against white timber).
• Curved or custom-bent tracks – Essential for bay windows, archways or unusually shaped openings common in Edwardian and Federation homes.
• Double tracks – Allow you to hang both sheers and blockouts without requiring extra fixings. Perfect for preserving space around ornate trims.

MAC Window Fashions offers custom curtain tracks specifically designed to accommodate unusual shapes and install cleanly around heritage architecture—whether you’re working with curved bays or high voids.

Step 3: Avoid Drilling into Heritage Mouldings and Frames

This is the golden rule. Where possible, avoid anchoring tracks directly into:

• Window architraves
• Picture rails
• Decorative cornices or ceiling roses
• Leadlight window frames
• Original pelmets or carved trims

Installation alternatives:

• Above the architrave: Secure the track to the plaster wall just above the moulding using high-quality wall plugs and screws. Ensure you hit solid material and not old, flaky plaster.
• Ceiling fix: Fix the track to the ceiling where possible, especially in rooms with ornate window surrounds. Use ceiling anchors rated for the curtain weight.
• Drop brackets: These allow the track to be mounted above or behind cornices while still bringing the curtain forward enough to clear decorative mouldings.
• Pelmet boxes: If the home already has original pelmets, consider installing the track inside them—no need for extra fixings, and it keeps the visual integrity intact.

Where drilling is unavoidable, always patch, seal, and paint with conservation in mind.

Step 4: Use the Right Fixings for Old Walls

Older walls often consist of lath and plaster, brick veneer, or rendered stone—very different from modern plasterboard. Choosing the correct fixings reduces the risk of cracks, instability, or damage during installation.

Fixing tips for heritage homes:

• Plaster walls: Use toggles or spring toggles to anchor tracks into hollow or crumbling plaster without relying on timber studs.
• Brick or masonry: Drill carefully with a masonry bit and use high-strength wall plugs designed for bricks. Avoid hammering directly into bricks—aim for mortar joints if possible.
• Timber battens: If timber stud locations are known, try to align tracks with them. In older homes, studs may not be evenly spaced or vertical.

Avoid adhesives or “no drill” mounting systems unless specifically designed for curtain weight—they are not a long-term solution and may damage paint or plaster on removal.

Step 5: Choose the Right Bracket and Track Finish

The finish and profile of the curtain track can make or break the final result in a heritage home. Discreet, colour-matched tracks are usually preferred over chrome or ultra-modern styles.

Track and bracket options to consider:

• Low-profile tracks: Sit close to the wall or ceiling and reduce visual clutter.
• Powder-coated finishes: White or cream tracks often disappear against painted plaster or timber trims.
• Matching brackets: Brackets should match the track and, ideally, align with existing architecture to keep everything cohesive.
• Drop brackets or extension brackets: Useful for clearing deep cornices, skirtings or window protrusions without awkward gaps.

Many professional installers order tracks cut to exact length, with the correct bends and pre-finished brackets from Australian suppliers like MAC Window Fashions—minimising on-site work and reducing margin for error.

Step 6: Accommodate Irregular and Complex Window Designs

Heritage homes often feature non-standard window shapes and placements. From bay windows and arched sashes to narrow side lights and double-height voids, custom solutions – including custom Australian made curtains – are essential.

Bay windows:
Use flexible tracks or precision-bent aluminium tracks that follow the angle of the bay. Brackets should be placed at joins to ensure strength and alignment.

Arched or gothic windows:
Avoid trying to curve the track along the arch—this often spoils the view. Instead, mount the track above the arch and use long drops to frame the window while preserving its shape.

Dormer windows or small alcoves:
Consider inside mount tracks where feasible or mount curtains on the ceiling to avoid architrave damage.

Double-height windows in stairwells or voids:
Use ceiling-mounted tracks and ensure the track is securely fixed into ceiling joists or battens. Motorised tracks can be considered for ease of use.

Installers may also want to template irregular windows before ordering curved or bent tracks—this ensures a perfect fit and protects surrounding mouldings.

Step 7: Don’t Forget Finishing Touches

The installation isn’t complete without a perfect finish. How the curtain falls, opens and closes, and integrates into the room depends on these final details.

Styling tips:

• Track placement: Install tracks as high as possible to elongate the room and allow curtains to flow elegantly over heritage trims.
• Curtain stack: Ensure enough width is added to allow the curtain to pull completely off the window—especially important with leadlight or arched frames.
• Padding and steam: After install, steam the curtains in place for a smooth fall. Padding at the stack end helps them hold their shape against the wall.
• Rod alternatives: If using decorative rods, choose simple finials in antique brass, black, or matte white to complement heritage architecture.

Respect, Don’t Replace

Installing curtain tracks in heritage homes isn’t about hiding the past—it’s about highlighting it, respectfully. With a thoughtful approach, made-to-measure curtain tracks can sit harmoniously alongside hundred-year-old timber, ornate plasterwork and original window features—without leaving a mark.

Working with experienced professionals who understand both the technical and aesthetic demands of heritage installations is key. From measurement to product selection and careful installation, every step matters.

Custom Curtain Track Solutions Australia-Wide from MAC Window Fashions

MAC Window Fashions supplies Australian made custom curtains and curtain track systems designed to suit the complexity of heritage homes. From curved and face-fix tracks to minimalist ceiling-recessed solutions, our products are made-to-measure and available exclusively through our national network of curtain retailers and installers. 

We offer expert support, technical resources, free fabric samples, and custom fabrication services to help you deliver flawless, damage-free installations that preserve the architectural integrity of Australia’s most beautiful homes.Contact us today to find out more, explore our Australian made curtains and curtain track range or become a MAC retail partner today.