My husband and I have been taking a look into interior wooden shutters as an alternative to other natural window treatments.
I adore interior wooden shutters because they are versatile and timeless window coverings that have been gracing homes for centuries, providing both functionality and style. I also love that they are not curtains, which my husband despises.
In this blog post, I’m sharing the different styles of interior wooden shutters. I’ll also explore their numerous benefits and explain why they remain a popular and classic choice for homeowners, like ourselves.
Because I’m seriously considering them as a choice for our home, I also include a how-to guide on making a great interior wooden shutter option known as tier-on-tier.
So, let’s dive right in!
Different Styles of Interior Wooden Shutters
When it comes to interior wooden shutters, there’s no shortage of styles to choose from. Whether your home leans towards traditional or contemporary aesthetics, you’ll find a design that perfectly complements your interior. Here are a few popular styles to consider:
Plantation Shutters
These are characterized by their wide louvers or adjustable slats that allow for ample natural light and air circulation. Plantation shutters offer a classic and sophisticated look, making them suitable for various room settings.
I’m not a fan of plantation shutters, as they are bit too stuffy for me, but I do love how they function to let in grades of light. Also, if they are in a room with more modern touches, like the above photo, then I think they could look great. Just my style!
Café Shutters
Perfect for those seeking privacy without sacrificing natural light, café shutters cover only the bottom half of the window. They add a charming touch to kitchens, dining areas, and cafes (of course!).
Solid Panel Shutters
If you desire complete privacy and light blockage, solid panel shutters are an excellent choice. With their solid wood construction, they provide insulation and can effectively darken a room when closed.
I adore this option because of the simplicity of the design and the minimalist aesthetic. I also love the way different paint finishes can play with this style, from matte to super high-gloss.
Tier-on-Tier Shutters
Offering maximum versatility, tier-on-tier shutters consist of two separate sets of shutters, one on top of the other. You can open the top section while keeping the bottom closed for privacy or vice versa. They are ideal for bedrooms and living rooms.
In our quest to find natural window treatments, we’ve also been considering a popular Chicago option, known as top-down/ bottom-up blinds. The best versions of these that offer style and function are such an expense! A tier-on-tier interior wooden shutter would offer the same versatility as top-down/ bottom-up blinds.
Benefits of Interior Wooden Shutters
Now that we’ve explored the various styles of interior wooden shutters, let’s delve into the fantastic benefits they offer:
Timeless Elegance
Interior wooden shutters exude a timeless charm that can effortlessly elevate the aesthetics of any space. Their natural beauty and warmth create a welcoming ambiance that never goes out of style.
Light Control
With adjustable louvers, interior wooden shutters provide precise control over the amount of light entering a room. You can tilt the louvers to filter harsh sunlight, diffuse it to create a soft glow, or fully open them for an unobstructed view.
Privacy and Security
Say goodbye to nosy neighbors and prying eyes! Interior wooden shutters allow you to enjoy privacy without compromising on natural light. By simply adjusting the louvers, you can shield your home from curious glances while still enjoying a bright and airy atmosphere.
Energy Efficiency
Wooden shutters act as natural insulators, helping to regulate the temperature inside your home. They can keep your interiors cool during hot summers and trap warmth during chilly winters, reducing your reliance on heating and cooling systems and potentially lowering energy costs.
Durability and Longevity
Interior wooden shutters are built to last. Crafted from high-quality wood, they can withstand the test of time. Properly maintained, they won’t warp or fade, ensuring your investment pays off for years to come.
Interior Wooden Shutters: A Timeless Style Choice
In a world of ever-changing trends, interior wooden shutters remain a classic and enduring style choice. Here’s why they stand the test of time:
Versatility
The versatility of interior wooden shutters allows them to adapt to different design themes effortlessly. Whether your home boasts a contemporary aesthetic or leans toward a more traditional look, wooden shutters blend in harmoniously.
Transcendent Appeal
From cozy cottages to modern lofts, interior wooden shutters have an innate ability to transcend time and seamlessly fit into any style of home. Their natural warmth and earthy tones add a touch of organic beauty to your space, creating a welcoming and inviting atmosphere that never goes out of fashion.
Enhanced Value
When it comes to adding value to your home, interior wooden shutters are a smart investment. Potential buyers are often drawn to the timeless elegance and durability that shutters provide, making your property more appealing and potentially increasing its market value.
Easy Maintenance
Unlike flimsy curtains or blinds that require frequent washing or replacement, interior wooden shutters are a breeze to maintain. A simple dusting or wiping down with a damp cloth is usually all it takes to keep them looking fresh and new. Plus, their solid construction means they are less prone to wear and tear compared to other window treatments.
Allergy-Friendly
For those who suffer from allergies, interior wooden shutters are an excellent choice. Unlike fabric window coverings that can trap dust, pet dander, and other allergens, wooden shutters are easy to clean and don’t harbor these irritants. This makes them a healthier option for individuals with respiratory sensitivities.
How to Make Tier-on-Tier Interior Wood Shutters
Because tier-on-tier wood shutters are the top option for me right now, I did a bit of research on how to make them. I was inspired by THIS POST from The Art of Doing Stuff. Here’s a brief how-to guide on making tier-on-tier interior wooden shutters. I’m including general instructions for the slats for plantation shutters, but if that is not your thing, just omit that option.
Materials Needed:
- High-quality wood boards (plywood would be fine, as long as it is excellent quality)
- Measuring tape
- Saw
- Sandpaper
- Wood glue
- Clamps
- Hinges
- Screws
- Drill
- Paint or stain (optional)
- Paintbrush or foam roller
- Screwdriver
Step 1: Start by measuring the dimensions of your windows to determine the size of the shutters you need. Decide on the number of tiers and their respective heights. Sketch out a design plan to visualize the layout of your shutters.
Step 2: Using a saw, carefully cut the wood boards according to your measurements. Make sure to cut enough boards for both the louvers and the frames of the shutters. Sand the edges of the boards to ensure a smooth finish.
Step 3: Lay out the boards for each frame, ensuring they align correctly. Apply wood glue to the joints and use clamps to hold the pieces together firmly. Allow the glue to dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Once dry, reinforce the joints with screws for added stability.
Step 4: Measure and cut the wood boards for the louvers, ensuring they fit within the frames. The number of louvers you’ll need depends on the height and width of each tier. Space them evenly within the frames, leaving enough room for them to open and close smoothly.
Step 5: Apply wood glue along the edges of the louvers and carefully insert them into the pre-drilled holes within the frames. Ensure they are straight and evenly spaced. Allow the glue to dry completely.
Step 6: Position the tiers on top of each other to simulate their placement on the window. Attach hinges to the sides of each frame where the tiers will meet, ensuring they align properly. Use screws and a drill to secure the hinges in place.
Step 7: If desired, you can paint or stain the shutters to match your interior décor. Apply a coat of paint or stain using a brush or foam roller, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Allow the finish to dry completely before proceeding.
Step 8: Using a screwdriver, attach the hinges to the window frame or window jamb according to your specific installation requirements. Ensure the shutters open and close smoothly and adjust the tension of the hinges if necessary.
Share Your Experiences with Interior Wooden Shutters
Interior wooden shutters offer a myriad of benefits and are undeniably a timeless style choice for your home. Their versatility, light control, privacy, energy efficiency, durability, and ability to seamlessly blend with any design aesthetic make them a valuable addition to any space. Whether you’re aiming for a traditional, modern, or eclectic look, interior wooden shutters bring an air of elegance and warmth that transcends passing trends.
Remember, interior wooden shutters are not just a window treatment; they are a statement of style, comfort, and longevity. So, go ahead and embrace their timeless charm and create a beautiful and inviting space that will stand the test of time.
Have you created, installed or considered interior wooden shutters? Let me know about it in the comments!