You can run down to the next big-box store and try to buy blinds that might fit all the windows, but why not get customized shutters for that complete, fully furnished look?

Danielle Paul, interior designer with Designers Edge in Calgary says this timeless window treat­ment need not be textbook. “Shutters provide character to any room especially when stained as they look and feel like furniture.”

To start, what can you choose from? Most retailers will offer vinyl, wood and at times, alum­inium. Stylistically each offers a unique look, according to Karen Saunders, showroom manager at Sheila’s Drapery in Calgary. While vinyl shutters only come in white and off-white colours and aluminium only in stainless or white, wood can be stained any colour possible such as espresso or the ever-popular ebony. Each composition can then be tailored to fit the buyer’s décor.

“Framing around the shutters softens the look and is more traditional,” says Saunders. “For a contemporary feel, go without the framing and more modern still would be stainless steel.” Tilt bars can be located behind the shutters or not at all, rather than in front as they were conventionally. And now that louvres are avail­able in various sizes, the wider options offer noticeably cleaner lines.

Shutters require minimal attention, so generally a simple dust will do. And if that’s too much, try aluminium shutters, which are not electrostatic so they won’t attract dust. Paul cautions to keep in mind the darker the stain, though, the more dust will show.

Durability, is an important factor to consider. Kris Migos, design consultant with Classic Window Fashions in Edmonton, suggests vinyl for areas associated with moisture, like bathrooms, as it is the most resilient of the three materials. Vinyl can also take the most abuse whereas wood is prone to warping and cracking in extreme heat and humidity. Although most manufacturers warranty wood products, it is best to research before committing to this very permanent window treatment.

If all that versatility hasn’t sold you on shutters, then the divider rail just might. This option is specific to shutters and allows separate movements from top to bottom as the divider rail sits horizontally. “In an ensuite, you can open the top louvres for light,” says Migos. “But keep the bottom closed for privacy.”

Window shapes and sizes are sometimes difficult to accommodate, as they can have arches or other unconventional shapes, but not to worry because shutters can be custom fit. “Great big, long windows can use shutters that swing open like the café style instead of wood blinds that bulk up and are too heavy to stack at the top of the window,” Saunders says. “The downside [of shutters] is that each panel is typically 18-inches-wide and requires enough room to swing open,” she adds. Shutters also offer a bi-fold operation for those challenging patio doors.

Tricky windows aside, Saunders says probably the toughest windows to deal with reside in the bedroom. Ever lie awake during those hot summer nights because the sound of flapping blinds in the wind won’t let up? Not anymore, since some shutters now have magnet catches holding them in place. And if you’re one of those daytime snoozers, you’ll love the amount of light control shutters can provide. You decide if you want “black-out” conditions just by opening or closing the louvres.

The light control might also help your budget. “Shutters are energy-efficient,” says Migos, adding the quality comes keeping the summer sun out during the day and preventing heat loss in the winter. “Vinyl can increase the R-value of windows up to 3.4,” she says, noting that even though shutters are often deemed higher-end (at about twice the cost of shades), they may be worth the upgrade. However, don’t skimp out by trying to do-it-yourself—installation and measurements are best left to professionals.

Professionals can also offer advice on where to mount the shutters as this can be done within the windowsill or not. Even though shutters can be customized, it is important to keep the size limitations in mind. “Wood shutters can reach up to ten-feet by ten-feet,” says Migos, adding she would not recommend shutters in anything smaller than a 24-inch-by-24-inch window because of the framework.

So now you no longer need to worry about naked windows. Whether you’re after the bold design or just looking to shut out some light, shutters can be custom fit to suit your needs.  NL