Absolute Journal
Traditional Shutters or Plantation Shutters?
Choosing between traditional and plantation shutters comes down to your home's style and window size, with traditional shutters suited for classic or rustic aesthetics and smaller windows, while plantation shutters offer a modern look and better light control for larger windows in contemporary settings. Ultimately, the choice depends on your personal preferences for both style and functionality. Read to explore further.
When considering window treatments for your home, the choice between traditional shutters and plantation shutters often arises. This can be difficult, as each style offers distinct advantages and brings a unique aesthetic to your living space. This article is designed to help you understand the differences between these two popular types of shutters, to make sure that you can make an informed decision that aligns with your home’s architecture, your personal style, and your practical needs.
Traditional shutters, with their historic charm and smaller louvres, have been a staple in homes for centuries. Originating in Europe then gaining popularity in 18th century America, these shutters are often associated with early American and country décor. On the other hand, plantation shutters, known for their wide louvres and modern appeal, trace their roots back to the grand plantation homes of the American Old South. These shutters have evolved to become a versatile and stylish choice for contemporary homes.
Throughout this article, we’ll delve into the nuances of each shutter style. From the louvre sizes and design aesthetics to their practical benefits in light control and privacy, we aim to provide you with all the information you need to decide whether traditional shutters or plantation shutters are the right fit for your home. Whether you’re renovating a classic residence or decorating a newly built house, understanding the unique characteristics of these shutters is important in creating a space that is beautiful, functional, and an expression of your personal style and tastes.
Plantation Shutters vs. Traditional Shutters
When choosing between plantation and traditional shutters, it’s important to understand the key differences that set them apart. Plantation shutters have wider louvres that typically range from two to five inches in width. This design allows for greater control over the amount of light entering a room, making them a preferred choice for modern homes. Their larger louvres offer a clean, contemporary look and are especially suited for larger windows, providing an expansive new and ample sunlight.
Traditional shutters can either be solid or feature louvres. These smaller louvres, about one to two inches wide, make for a more classic, timeless aesthetic. They are ideal for smaller windows and provide a more intimate feel to the space. Traditional shutters are typically either fully open or completely closed, offering a straightforward approach to light control.
What Are Traditional Shutters?
Traditional shutters, also know as colonial shutters, have a significant place in architectural history. Originating from European designs, they became widely used in America’s Northeast during the pre-revolutionary period. Constructed from natural wood or durable faux woods, these shutters can sometimes be solid, or are also available with small, narrow louvres, reflecting the window styles of that era. The solid traditional shutters are useful in completely blocking outside light, while the style with small louvres allows for a combination of privacy and light control, adding character to any room with their elegant and understated appearance.
What Are Plantation Shutters?
Plantation shutters, a modern adaptation with historical roots in the plantation homes of the Old South in America, are renowned for their distinctive style and functionality. Initially designed as exterior window coverings for protection against the heat and sun, they have since evolved into popular interior window treatments. Characterized by their wider louvres, which range from less than two inches wide to as much as 5 inches wide, plantation shutters allow for enhanced control over sunlight and privacy.
Plantation shutters are available in various materials, including natural wood, MDF, vinyl, and hybrid versions. Their versatility extends to their installation and colour options, enabling customisation to fit diverse interior designs. Plantation shutters are especially suited for larger windows in living rooms, dining rooms, and offices, offering expansive views and maximum light. The wider louvres not only provide a modern aesthetic, but also contribute to the efficiency of heating and cooling by offering improved insulation. This combination of functionality, aesthetic appeal, and versatility makes plantation shutters a favoured choice for contemporary home design.
Louvre Size in Plantation Shutters and Traditional Shutters
The louvre size is the defining characteristic that differentiates plantation shutters from traditional shutters. This difference significantly impacts the aesthetic and functional appeal of both types of shutters. Plantation shutters are recognized for their larger louvres, ranging from two inches to five inches in width, with the most popular choices being 2 ½, 3, and 3 ½ inches. The wider design allows for more light and air to pass through when open, and provides betters insulation and darkness when closed, making them ideal for larger windows in contemporary settings.
Traditional shutters, in contrast, feature narrower louvres or are completely solid. For the louvred shutters, the louvres are usually around 1 ¼ inches wide. This smaller size suits the aesthetic of more classic and historic homes, particularly fitting for smaller windows found in kitchens and bathrooms. While they offer less flexibility in light control when compared to plantation shutters, their design is perfect for maintaining a traditional charm and providing a subtle, elegant window treatment.
The choice between traditional shutters and plantation shutters is more than just a matter of taste; it’s about finding the right fit for your home’s style, window size, and your personal preferences for light and privacy control. Traditional shutters, with their smaller louvres and classic design, are ideally suited for smaller windows and homes with a more historic or rustic aesthetic. Plantation shutters, on the other hand, with their larger louvres, offer a modern look and greater flexibility in light and air flow, making them perfect for larger windows in contemporary settings. Both styles offer unique benefits and will contribute to the overall look of your home. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the specific needs of your space, and your personal style preferences. Both varieties of shutters can enhance the beauty of your home while also fulfilling your practical requirements for privacy and light control.
Absolute Blinds, established in 1998, specialises in a wide range of made-to-measure blinds, offering expertise and various styles for both domestic and commercial clients in Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire, and North London. Known for quality and innovation, we provide personalised consultations and solutions including motorised options. Our expansion in 2008 enhanced our manufacturing capabilities, improving quality and service efficiency, and allowed us to manufacture roller blinds and vertical blinds. This change not only ensured better quality control but also reduced lead times for our trade and residential customers. Whether you’re interested in updating your existing window shutters, adding privacy with blackout blinds, or enhancing your living space with new conservatory blinds, we can offer over 20 years of experience and guidance, no matter the size or nature of the project.
For more information about the products and services we provide, contact us via our website or give us a call at 01707 394141. We look forward to meeting you!