7 Classic Yet Chic Styles of Window Shutters

Window Shutters

Popular since eons, one of the finest architectural marvels introduced to the world by the Spanish, window shutters have always been one of the most elegant and functional options to deck up your windows. The origin of shutter windows was initially a functional one, i.e. allowing the window to be opened and closed whenever desired using louvers. The louver was designed to provide precise control over the amount and angle of light coming in. So one can allow the bright early morning sunlight to freshen up ones home, or keep out the harsh afternoon sunlight. Also, a plethora of customization options will definitely help your windows grab attention, be it from the outside, or from within!

Window shutters are primarily of two types – Interior window shutters and exterior window shutters. The indoor ones greatly enhance the décor of your home from the inside. Very durable and aesthetic, they neither fade away unlike drapes or curtains, nor do they need regular washing. And sturdy, dry shutters also help keep allergens at bay!

Exterior window shutters shield your home against heavy rain, strong winds and other harsh climatic factors. And windows bolstered with sturdy shutters definitely build up the house’s security quotient.

Most decorative window shutters can be customized, but they broadly fall into 7 main styles –

1. Louvered – One of the most preferred of the lot, simple design in terms of lines and texture, louvered window shutters can be customized in innumerable ways and add the perfect classic touch to your house.
2. Bahama – The sun, sand, beaches! Bahama styled window shutters definitely pep up any beach resort or homes, perfect to keep the hot coastal breezes and strong sunlight at bay. They are also the perfect solution to tackle the moist coastal air.
3. Flat Panel – Flat panel window shutters perfectly blend into the overall interior design of the structure, and are perfect for offices or spaces adding a subtle flavor. Simple, yet stylist!
4. Raised Panel – Eye-catching in terms of design and contours, yet versatile in terms of positioning and color, their elegance comes out best when installed in solid wood or colors.
5. Open Board and Batten – These open board and batten shutters perfectly blend in with traditional or rustic architecture. Easy to install and paint, they are ageless!
6. Closed Board and Batten – Primarily designed as a means of protection to secure your windows, their functional yet aesthetic design definitely add to your home’s charm.
7. Cutouts – Entirely customizable in terms of design or color. If you are looking for window shutters that you feel only you should have, cutout window shutters offer immaculate exclusivity.

Depending upon geography, unique aesthetics of regions, and functionality, the material used in making the window shutters plays a very vital role. Although almost every material is within reach almost anywhere, compatibility between the window shutters and the overall climatic conditions of the region should be duly considered while choosing between options. Primarily, window shutters are available in the following materials,

1. Vinyl Shutters – Budget-friendly, low maintenance, quick and easy to install, easily customizable in the widest possible range of sizes and colors, no wonder vinyl shutters are the most preferred window shutters worldwide.
2. Wood Shutters – If you want your house and especially your windows to stand a class apart, wooden window shutters are just the things for you. Premium, elegant, classic, timeless.
3. Aluminum Shutters – If strong, impregnable windows is what you want, aluminum window shutters is the perfect solution. The right blend of strength and style, they are also easy to maintain! Ideal for any house or commercial space.
4. Composite Shutters - If you are looking for a perfect mix of durability and elegance in a cost-effective way, composite window shutters offers the best of both worlds. Usually comprises milled and assembled wood or PVC.

Decorative window shutters are the perfect way in which your windows can add to the overall décor and aesthetic mood of your spaces. And the variety of styles and options in which they are available can be mind-boggling! Hence, choosing the right option for you can be a decision requiring some thought. What is the intended duration that you have in mind? Window shutters that are trendy, which you expect to change in time? Or window shutters that you expect to resiliently endure over the years? This should be your primary concern. Another major factor to keep in mind is the geography and climatic conditions where you intend to install these window shutters. From the salty coastlines, to hot and dry areas, from moist and humid areas that receive heavy rainfall, to cold, snow-capped mountains – decorative window shutters are available for all types of spaces. However, their compatibility must be ascertained to ensure maximum durability and effectiveness. But although deciding upon the perfect window shutter demands a bit of a thought, the endless variety in which they can excite your home definitely makes decorative window shutters the best option for your windows!

Source: https://decorativeshutters.wordpress.com/2017/09/21/7-classic-yet-chic-styles-of-window-shutters/