Plantation shutters are most often associated with traditional Southern architecture and decor, and are commonly found in colonial and Greek Revival houses. A popular style for installing this type of shutter is the raised panel.
This style is especially striking in the South, as it often looks beautiful in the large grand windows of plantation homes. The louvered version is another great option for a more contemporary look. These shutters still offer a sophisticated style and are a great choice for homes that may have more modern accents.
Plantation shutters are also popular in craftsman, bungalow, and Victorian homes, as they can tie together an eclectic mix of old and new design elements.
Do you put plantation shutters in bedrooms?
Yes, plantation shutters are a great addition to bedrooms. They provide a touch of elegance while offering privacy and light control. They can be used to block out sunlight during the day to help create a more comfortable sleep environment and limit the light from street lamps at night.
Plantation shutters not only look great, but they can also increase the value of your home, as they are considered a permanent feature. They are easy to maintain and can last for years, even in humid climates.
With their sleek, modern look, plantation shutters also add a timeless style and sophistication to any room.
Do plantation shutters make a room look smaller?
No, plantation shutters do not make a room look smaller. In fact, when used properly, plantation shutters can actually make a room look larger. By allowing natural light to shine through, plantation shutters make small rooms appear bigger, as the sunlight will bring out the colors in the walls and other furnishings.
Additionally, plantation shutters also help create a more open feel, as they cover the windowpanes while still allowing the window to remain open, thus creating more space within a room. Finally, because plantation shutters come in a variety of colors and materials, they can help to draw attention away from the size of the room, allowing it to look larger than it may actually be.
Do shutters look good in a bedroom?
Yes, shutters can be an attractive and functional addition in a bedroom! Shutters are an excellent choice when considering window treatments because they add style and charm to a bedroom, while also providing superior light and privacy control.
Shutters are available in a variety of colors, styles, and materials, which makes it easy to coordinate them with the décor throughout the room. Shutters also give you more control over the amount of light that comes into the room, allowing you to create the perfect lighting condition for any activity in the bedroom.
Additionally, shutters are durable and easy to maintain, so they can last for years and years with minimal effort.
What are the characteristics of a farmhouse?
The classic farmhouse is a simple, two-story structure constructed from natural materials such as stone, timber, and clay. Historically, farmhouses were built to provide shelter for those engaged in farm work, to provide storage for harvested crops, and to be a home for the family.
Modern day farmhouse designs often include features such as wrap-around porches, high ceilings, large windows, hardwood floors, and plenty of wall space for displaying artifacts and memorabilia. The decor is typically simple and uncluttered, allowing the natural beauty of the structure to shine through.
Popular exterior materials include wood clapboard, shingles, stone, brick, and wood shakes.
In addition to the common features mentioned above, a farmhouse can often be customized according to the needs of the owner. For instance, the rear of the house may be designed to include stables and other buildings necessary for healthy agricultural operation.
Furthermore, outdoor living spaces like patios and decks can be integrated into the design for entertaining.
In sum, farmhouse architecture is all about simplicity, efficiency and comfort. These buildings prioritize materials and details that engage the senses and celebrate rural life. With modern understanding of sustainable building practices, farmhouses can also be built to last for many years, passing these beloved designs on to future generations.
What is the siding on modern farmhouses?
Modern farmhouses often feature a variety of exterior siding materials. Popular choices include wood, vinyl, stone, and composite materials. Wood siding gives the farmhouse a classic and timeless look, while also providing excellent insulation.
Vinyl siding is a low-maintenance choice that offers a wide range of colors and textures, while also being resistant to water, fire and pests. Stone siding brings a natural and rustic charm to the home and is capable of withstanding rain and wind.
Composite siding is a great choice for those looking for a low-maintenance and energy-efficient exterior, as it is made up of multiple materials like wood, foam, and resins. Ultimately, the choice of siding largely depends on the desired look and functionality of the farmhouse.
How do you make farmhouse shutters?
Making farmhouse shutters is an easy and rewarding do-it-yourself project. The process can be broken down into three parts: building, sanding, and finishing. The first part involves cutting, sanding, and assembling the wood components of the shutters.
First, determine the size, shape, and style you desire for your window shutters, and purchase the necessary lumber for construction. Cut the components for the frames of the shutters, size and shape the tall posts, and cut and glue the panels and louvered blades.
Pre-drill and countersink any necessary hardware holes, such as those for the butt hing backs, and attach the hardware. Once the frames are glued and clamped square and tight, sand all the surfaces with a fine-grit sandpaper, then clean the pieces with a soft cloth and apply a coat of primer.
The second part of the process focuses on the finish. If you are using a painted finish, paint the shutters with a brush or a sprayer. If you choose a stained finish, apply a generous coat of wood conditioner and allow it to dry for two hours, then stain the surface and let it dry for two hours.
Once dry, apply a top coat of protective sealer.
Finally, install the shutters on the window frames. Measure and mark the positioning and mounting holes of the hinges, then drill and mount the shutters onto the window frames using the specified screws and fasteners.
Open and close the shutters several times to ensure that they are properly balanced.
Creating farmhouse shutters is a great DIY project that can provide many years of beauty and function to your home’s windows. As long as the necessary preparation and attention-to-detail are taken, the end result can be extremely rewarding.
How do I make my shutters look rustic?
Adding a rustic look to your shutters is a great way to give your home an updated, shabby chic vibe. Depending on the materials and look you desire.
If you want to keep the original color of the shutters but give them a slightly aged look, you can use a medium-grade sandpaper to lightly sand the edges and corners of the shutters. This will give them a smoother, sanded look and bring out the natural color of the shutters.
If you’re looking for a more thorough distressed look, you can use several techniques such as using paint and sandpaper, or using an electric sander to further distress the shutters. To do this, start with an electric sander and round the edges and corners of the shutters.
Then, use a smaller sandpaper to make sure you get any areas you may have missed. Once that is done, take a lighter color paint such as white and apply it over the shutters. After the paint has dried, use the sandpaper to lightly sand the shutters.
This will create a mottled, worn look that will give the shutters great rustic appeal.
Finally, you can also use wood stain or paint to give your shutters a rustic look. Depending on the level of distress you want to achieve, you can either use lighter or darker woods stains and paints to add a range of rustic tones to your shutters.
Start by painting or staining the shutters with the color of your choice, then use sandpaper to lighten or distress certain areas as desired.
With a few creative techniques, you can easily give your shutters a rustic, shabby chic look.
Do exterior shutters add value to your home?
Exterior shutters can add significant value to a home. Shutters increase the curb appeal and make a home look more attractive. This in turn can lead to a higher resale value if and when it’s time to sell the home.
Shutters also offer energy savings, as they can provide insulation from the hot summer sun and prevent cold drafts from entering through the windows during winter. They can help lower monthly energy costs and increase the overall efficiency of the home.
Furthermore, shutters provide added security. Shutters that can be shut tight can act as a deterrent to potential criminals and prevent them from gaining access to the home. By providing a physical barrier, they can help make a home safer and lessen the chances of theft or break-ins.
In conclusion, exterior shutters can add significant value to a home by increasing curb appeal, offering energy savings, and adding an extra layer of security.
Are shutters on a house out of style?
When used appropriately, shutters can be a stylish and practical addition to a home. They come in a variety of materials and sizes, and can be tailored to match the overall look and feel of the structure.
Depending on the material, budget, and architecture, shutters can provide an attractive and complementary window dressing for the exterior of a home.
When choosing shutters for a house, it is important to take into account the size and architecture of the structure, as well as the climate in the home’s area. If the home has a classic, traditional look, shutters may be an appropriate and attractive choice.
Alternatively, if the home has an eclectic or modern feel, shutters may not be a good fit.
The specific style of the shutters can also affect their overall impact. Wooden plantation shutters are often used in traditional homes, and provide an eye-catching window dressing. On the other hand, louvered shutters or combination shutters provide versatility and may be better suited for modern homes.
The bottom line is, with the right choice of material, size, and style, shutters can be a perfect, timeless addition to a house. As long as they are chosen thoughtfully, shutters can offer a stylish and practical solution to dress up a home’s exteriors.
Can plantation shutters be contemporary?
Yes, plantation shutters can be very contemporary. Plantation shutters have been around for centuries but have been popularized more recently in a more modern style. Modern plantation shutters come in various materials such as wood, vinyl, aluminum, and other composite materials.
They are designed to give your home a contemporary look that is both stylish and functional. Many modern plantation shutters feature clean lines and a minimalist aesthetic, which creates a contemporary feel.
They can be customized with different colors and materials to fit your individual needs and desires, which makes them a great option for contemporary home design.
Do all windows need shutters?
No, not all windows need shutters. Shutters are a type of window covering that is often chosen for style, insulation, privacy, ventilation, or protection from the elements, such as strong winds, snow and rain.
While shutters can be a great addition to any home, and for some windows, such as those on the exterior of the home in windy climates or facing direct sunlight, shutters may be necessary for protection, for most windows, shutters are not necessary.
There are, however, many other window covering options available that offer a range of benefits and styles. These include blinds, curtains, drapes, and shades, among many others. Choosing the right window covering depends on the style, environment, and desired benefits, such as increased privacy, light control, energy efficiency, and more.
What can I use instead of shutters?
One alternative to shutters is window blinds. Blinds come in a variety of materials and colors, making them a versatile and attractive choice for many homes. They are easy to install and maintain, and can be used for both light and privacy control.
Cellular shades are a great energy efficient choice for keeping your home insulated. These blinds have a honeycomb structure that trap air to regulate the temperature of your home. Additionally, roller shades are simple and elegant.
They allow for total light and privacy control with the pull of a string. Finally, faux wood blinds are an attractive, cost-effective alternative that look like real wood. They are moisture-resistant and provide good light control.
Why do houses have fake shutters?
Houses have fake shutters for both aesthetic and functional reasons. From a decorative perspective, fake shutters can add a unique texture to the exterior of the home by providing depth and a visual appeal.
They can be used to draw the eye away from certain architectural flaws and can be painted to create a certain color scheme or mimic traditional styles such as colonial or cottage.
In terms of practicality, fake shutters improve the home’s insulation and ability to absorb natural light. Also known as “honeycomb” or “louvered” shutters, they are designed to provide an air pocket between the shutter and the window, insulating and reducing noise pollution, cooling costs and protecting against UV ray damage and theft.
Fake shutters also offer more privacy than clear windows, creating the feeling of privacy even when inside the home. Finally, since they are made of synthetic materials such as vinyl and plastic, they are much easier to clean and maintain than their wood counterparts.
How do you make your windows look nice on the outside?
Making your windows look nice on the outside can be done by giving them a good clean, getting rid of any dirt or dust that has accumulated. If you have wooden frames, regularly painting them in a color that goes with the exterior of your home can help to make them look even nicer.
Additionally, adding window boxes or planters to the area around the window or frames can be a great way to add a bit of visual interest to the exterior of your home. These can be planted with flowers or other foliage to add some color to the area.
Should shutters be on all sides of house?
The answer to this question is ultimately up to the homeowner and their preferences. Shutters can give a nice added touch to the exterior of a home, and can make a home look more finished and polished.
Practically speaking, shutters can also provide insulation when closed and protect the windows from potential damage from harsh weather conditions. They can also be used for mounting a hurricane strap to protect a home from high winds.
Shutters can also provide a measure of security from a crime prevention standpoint.
When deciding whether or not to install shutters, it is important to consider the style of the home, the climate and the purpose of the shutters. Generally speaking, many homeowners will opt to install them on all four sides of the home in order to maintain a consistent look.
However, if windows are located in a place where they are not as exposed to the elements or potential intruders, then you may opt to only install shutters in certain places. Ultimately, the decision lies with the homeowner.
