The Appeal Of Shutters
Shutters can be a wonderful, dramatic décor statement, useful in blocking light and sound as well as in the creation of an atmosphere unlike any other. Depending upon the room and the color of your décor, shutters can warm the space with the glow of wood or, if painted white, can add spaciousness and privacy with the airy feel of the tropics. The choices are limitless.
Structure, Beauty and Elegance Along With Practicality
Unlike curtains or drapes, shutters are very definitive in their appearance, structured and fitted. Yet, with all of the structure, there is understated elegance and simplicity which blends with the room rather than stealing the show. With the wide variety of materials used in the construction of shutters today, the job of choosing the perfect fit for your project is easier than ever.
The Original Wooden Shutter-A Thing Of Beauty
A wooden window shutter is similar to a wooden blind and, like other wooden window treatments, offers an enhanced appeal for warm, rich room décor. They filter out harmful UV rays which can damage furniture and carpeting, shut out noise and also provide temperature insulation. Real wooden shutters are an investment, so you'll want to choose those made from high quality selected hardwood which has been properly seasoned for your particular climate. This will help resist warping and splintering of the wood.
There Are Only Three Basic Styles Of Shutters - But Many Options Within These Confines
There are many materials produced today which look like wood but are more durable. Vinyl is a popular material for shutters and is not only durable, but also easy to clean. Although window shutters come in a wide variety of colors and materials, there are only three basic styles to choose from, each with its own particular characteristics.
Plantation shutters have slats or louvers which rotate open and closed to control the amount of light which enters through the window. Slat sizes can vary greatly, so you are able to choose the size that best suits your space and your own personal taste.
Solid shutters are more traditional in appearance and compliment any room. They are very popular and can be found in offices and homes everywhere. They are designed to be folded back through the day and pulled closed at night.
The café style shutters are found, appropriately, in restaurants and cafes, hence the name. Café shutters are designed to cover only half the window allowing for light and privacy without covering the entire window. They can be stacked one on top of the other for more coverage with the option of opening only one section at a time. This style is called tier-on-tier and is particularly useful if you have very large bay windows or want to control light more specifically.
Shutters are a very chic and stylish alternative to conventional window coverings like blinds and curtains. They are cost-effective and can totally change the feel of a room, updating it and enhancing the ambience.