Plantation shutters may conjure up images of mansions on sprawling Southern farms, but they are actually very versatile and work well with a variety of decorating styles.
Before we get into all of the fun ways you can decorate with plantation shutters, let’s talk about their benefits. There is a lot of sunshine in Texas, which is great for your vitamin D levels and mood, but it can be hard on your home. When closed, plantation shutters effectively shut out the sun’s UV rays that can damage your flooring and discolor your furniture. They also help to keep the cool air inside and the heat outside, increasing energy efficiency. And when the slats are open, shutters allow fresh air into your home while still providing some privacy.
Combine plantation shutters with other window treatments – While plantation shutters work great as standalone window treatments, they can also easily be paired with fabrics, as seen in the above picture. Long curtain panels can be placed on either side of a window to soften the edges without necessarily having to work as a window covering. Or shutters can be installed on the bottom half of the window for light control and privacy and a valance can be placed above to add interest with a color or pattern.
Don’t shy away from color – Most people select plantation shutters that match their windows, but that doesn’t mean you have to. Pick shutters in a contrasting color or finish to make them stand out on a wall. If you have white trim, use a wood shutter with stain to bring a natural wood tone into the room. Find a faux wood shutter in a fun color to liven things up, or make the slats of your shutters different colors. What little girl wouldn’t love to have rainbow shutters on her windows?
Plantation shutters aren’t just for windows anymore – Shutters can be used throughout your house, not just on windows. Hang them on French doors instead of blinds or curtains that inevitably swing when you move the door. Or replace the tired vertical blinds on your sliding glass doors with multiple shutters on a track that easily slide out of the way when you want to open the door.
Use them throughout your home – Plantation shutters can be used as closet doors, which gives a very uniform look to a room with shutters on the windows. They can be installed on sliding tracks or multiple panels can be hinged together. Use them to create a room divider in a bedroom occupied by two children or to break up a room that serves multiple purposes. If you TV has outgrown its niche in your family room, install plantation shutters like doors on the niche and use it for out-of-sight storage.
If you are interested in trying any of these fun decorating ideas, Window Magic Blinds & Drapery can help you find the perfect plantation shutters in Houston, Texas.