Plantation shutters are one of the most popular window treatments in modern homes. They are stylish, durable, and versatile, offering many benefits for homeowners. Plantation shutters can provide privacy, light control, insulation, and a custom look for any window. However, plantation shutters are only one of the options for cleaning your windows. You can combine them with curtains for a more layered and cozy feel. This article will give tips and examples of pairing plantation shutters and curtains for a beautiful and functional window design.
Why Use Curtains With Plantation Shutters?
When considering using plantation shutters with curtains, it is essential to understand how these elements work together and how you can complement them rather than compete with one another. You can use curtains with plantation shutters for many reasons, including:
Appearance and Design
Pairing plantation shutters with curtains can create a stunning layered look that improves the appearance of your home and emphasizes a beautiful focal point in the room. Long, flowing curtains can make a dramatic room statement alongside contemporary and traditional design look plantation shutters.
Performance in Natural Light
Plantation shutters contribute to function in the control of the flow of sunlight and privacy. They offer privacy from the outside while allowing you to let in natural light, Pairing shutters with curtains to create another level of privacy and darkness.
Performance at Night
There’s nothing quite like the expansive coolness of plantation shutters during the summer months. Adding curtains to the mix further improves insulation, and with thick lining, they can provide a blackout effect. The combination of shutters and curtains also helps protect your home from noise pollution and ensures a good night’s sleep.
How to Pair Plantation Shutters with Curtains?
By understanding how to pair plantation shutters with curtains, you can create a unique look within your home that will enhance its appearance. You can also save money by choosing less expensive options for your curtains when paired with plantation shutters. When pairing plantation shutters with curtains, a few things come into play.
Use Hanging Panel Curtains with Plantation Shutters
One of the easiest ways to pair plantation shutters and curtains is to use hanging panel curtains. These curtains hang from a rod above the window and can be easily pushed to the side to access the shutters and let in more or less light. Hanging panel curtains can add some softness and texture to the crisp and clean look of the shutters. Depending on the fabric, color, and pattern you choose, they can also create a contrast or harmony with the shutters. For example, you can use white or light-colored curtains to match the shutters and create a bright and airy feel. Or, you can use dark or bold-colored curtains to create a dramatic and cozy feel. You can also use patterned curtains to add interest and personality to the window.
Mount the Curtains Upward and Outward on The Window Frame
Another way to pair plantation shutters and curtains is to mount the curtains upward and outward of the window frame. This means that you should install the curtain rod higher and wider than the window frame, leaving some space between the curtains and the shutters. This technique can create an illusion of taller and larger windows, making the room look more spacious and inviting. It can also make the shutters stand out more, highlighting their beauty and craftsmanship.
You need to measure and install the curtains properly to mount the curtains upward and outward of the window frame. Generally, hang the curtain rod about 6 to 12 inches above the window frame and extend it about 6 to 12 inches beyond the window frame on each side. You should also ensure that the curtains are long enough to touch the floor or slightly puddle on the floor, depending on your preference.
When choosing the curtain styles and lengths, you should consider the shape and size of the window and the shutters. You can use full-length curtains to cover the entire window and create a more formal and elegant look. Or, you can use shorter curtains to expose some windows and create a more casual and relaxed look. You can also use different curtain styles, such as pleated, grommet, tab top, or rod pocket, to suit your taste and the room decor.
Choose the Right Style and Material of Plantation Shutters for Curtains
The last tip for pairing plantation shutters and curtains is to choose the right style and material for your curtains. Plantation shutters come in different types and materials, such as natural wood, faux wood, vinyl, and composite. Each style and material has advantages and disadvantages and can suit different types of curtains and rooms.
Natural wood shutters are the most classic and luxurious option, offering your windows a warm and natural look. They are also durable and customizable, allowing you to choose the color, stain, and finish that match your curtains and the room decor. However, natural wood shutters are also the most expensive and high-maintenance option, requiring regular cleaning and refinishing to prevent warping, cracking, and fading.
Faux wood shutters are more affordable and practical, offering a similar look and feel to natural wood shutters but more durable and resistant to moisture, heat, and UV rays. They are also easy to clean and maintain, requiring only a damp cloth or a vacuum cleaner. However, faux wood shutters are also heavier and less customizable than natural ones, limiting color, stain, and finish choices.
Vinyl shutters are the most budget-friendly and low-maintenance option, offering your windows a smooth and sleek look. They are also lightweight and waterproof, ideal for humid and wet areas, such as bathrooms and kitchens. However, vinyl shutters are also the least attractive and durable option, prone to sagging, yellowing, and fading.
Composite shutters are a middle-ground option, offering a balance of quality and price for your windows. They are made of wood and synthetic materials, giving them a realistic and sturdy look. They are also resistant to moisture, heat, and UV rays, making them suitable for any room. However, composite shutters are also less customizable and heavier than natural wood shutters, requiring more hardware and support to install.
Factors to Consider When Choosing the Shutter Style and Material
When choosing the shutter style and material, you should consider the following factors:
The window shape
Plantation shutters can fit any window shape, such as square, rectangle, arch, circle, or octagon. However, some shapes may require more customization and cost than others. For example, arch and circle windows may need special frames and louvers to fit the curves and angles of the window.
The room function
Plantation shutters can work well in any room, such as the living room, bedroom, dining room, or office. However, some rooms may have different needs and preferences than others. For example, living rooms and bedrooms may need more privacy and light control, while dining rooms and offices may need more natural light and ventilation.
The climate
Plantation shutters can withstand any weather, such as hot, cold, humid, or dry. However, some climates may affect the performance and appearance of the shutters more than others. For example, hot and humid climates may cause natural wood shutters to warp, crack, and fade, while cold and dry climates may cause vinyl shutters to become brittle and break.
The budget
Plantation shutters can vary in price depending on the style, material, size, and customization. However, some options may be more affordable and cost-effective than others. For example, natural wood shutters may have a higher upfront cost but a longer lifespan and higher resale value. Vinyl shutters may have a lower upfront price but a shorter lifespan and lower resale value.
Plantation shutters and curtains are a great combination for any window, offering a versatile and stylish window treatment. Plantation shutters provide privacy, light control, insulation, and style, while curtains add softness, texture, and contrast. Following the tips and examples in this article, you can create a beautiful and functional window design that suits your taste and needs. Whether you choose hanging panel curtains, mounting the curtains upward and outward of the window frame, or selecting the right style and material of plantation shutters, you can achieve a stunning and cozy look for your windows. So, don’t hesitate to try some of the ideas and see how they transform your windows and home.
