Which Shutters Will Complement the Era of My House?
27th May 2019
5 min read
27th May 2019
5 min read

With countless design combinations available, it can be hard to settle on which shutters will look best in your home. One important thing to keep in mind is the era and architectural style of your home. Shutters can be customised to stay consistent with the interior and exterior aesthetics of any property.
Here our shutter experts advise on which shutters look best with which architectural styles.

Home Style | Slat Size | Tilt Rod | Frame Style | Shutter Style |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Colonial | 2½" | Central | Z-Frame | Full Height or Tier on Tier |
Modern | 4½ | Hidden | L-Frame | Full Height |
Ranch | Any | Central | L or Deco | Full Height |
Spanish | 2½" | Central | z or Deco | Cafe or Tier on Tier |
Colonial style has many variations due to the diversity of American settlers in the 1600s when this style originated. An identifying element common to Colonial style is evenly spaced, shuttered windows.
Recommended choices for Colonial homes:
Slat size — smaller slats such as our 2½" option
Tilt rod — a visible central tilt rod, fitting with the traditional style
Frame — intricate trim work such as our wider Z-Frames, which complement more traditional architecture
Architecture inspired by the modern era features open spaces and clean lines, channeling contemporary living. If you are opting for plantation shutters in a modern home, it makes sense they look contemporary rather than traditional.
Recommended choices for Modern homes:
Slat size — larger slats such as our 4½" option, letting in more light and minimising the number of lines visible
Tilt rod — hidden tilt rod to further minimise lines and create an open, modern feel
Shutter style — full height shutters for clean, uninterrupted coverage
Material finish — smooth rather than grained material for a truly contemporary feel. Our faux wood or Classic Poplar Hardwood ranges work well

Ranch style homes are modelled after rural Western ranches. The interior open floor plans are similar to the modern style, but the exteriors are more eclectic and personalised.
Recommended choices for Ranch homes:
Full-height shutters create a simple, consistent finish that works well with the clean lines and generous windows often found in ranch-style properties.
Tier-on-tier shutters are another option if you want independent control over the top and bottom sections.
The secret with period properties like ranch style homes is to fit shutters that look like they were made for the property.
Inspired by early 20th century Spanish churches, Spanish architecture homes are known for elaborate covered entryways surrounded by arches and arched windows inside the home.
Recommended choices for Spanish homes:
Full-height shutters with 2½" slats and a central tilt rod complement traditional architecture. Alternatively, café shutters provide privacy across the lower part of the window while allowing light through the top.