Creating a Stylish Look with Cafe Style Shutters in Australia

What are Cafe Style Shutters?

Cafe style shutters feature full-length slats that can be opened and closed like blinds. This popular shutter style is ideal for living spaces, kitchens, and anywhere you want to control light and privacy while creating a chic, modern aesthetic.

When opened fully, the slats on cafe style shutters stack attractively to the side allowing light in through the top half of the window. When closed, the shutters provide complete privacy and block light as needed. This ability to customize light intake and visibility makes cafe style an excellent choice.

Benefits of Cafe Style Shutters

There are many advantages to choosing cafe style shutters for your home:

A Sophisticated, Stylish Look

The clean lines and customizable light control of cafe style shutters create an airy, refined appearance perfect for contemporary homes. When opened, the shutters have an open, minimalist aesthetic that feels modern and sleek. The stacked slats give the impression of “barely being there” while still providing privacy and light filtration when needed.

Ideal for Living Spaces and Kitchens

With their chic style, cafe shutters are the perfect addition to living rooms, kitchens, dining rooms and other spaces where you want an inviting, contemporary look. The ability to adjust the slats enables you to filter natural light in throughout the day.

Light Control

The adjustable slats allow you to control light and privacy as needed. Open the slats to let light in from the top half of the window, or close them completely to block light and views. This flexibility enables you to dim rooms during the day or at night.

Increased Privacy

When the slats are fully closed, cafe style shutters provide complete privacy. This makes them ideal for bathrooms, bedrooms, and other private spaces.

Visually Appealing

In addition to their functional benefits, cafe shutters simply look beautiful. Their clean, minimalist look enhances any space. Compared to curtains or blinds, shutters have a more polished, elegant aesthetic.

Enhanced Air Flow

The spaces between the slats allow air to flow even when the shutters are closed. This contributes to cooling and ventilation. In summer, you can open the shutters fully to let fresh breezes in.

Popular Places to Install Cafe Style Shutters

Some of the best places to install cafe shutters are:

• Living Rooms – An inviting area to entertain guests. Cafe shutters enable you to adjust natural light and views.
• Kitchens – Let light in during meal prep and close the shutters for privacy. Their style suits modern designs.
• Dining Rooms – Create an intimate dining ambiance by controlling light and visibility.
• Bathrooms – Provide privacy while allowing light and air flow.
• Bedrooms – Customize privacy and sleep better by darkening the room.
• Home Offices – Focus better by adjusting light levels as needed. Maintain privacy on video calls.
• Media Rooms – Control light and visibility to create the ideal viewing experience.

Cafe Style vs. Other Shutter Styles

If you’re debating between cafe style and other shutter types, here’s how they compare:

Tiered Shutters

Tiered shutters feature two sections of adjustable slats. The bottom section extends halfway up the window. Tiered shutters provide good privacy and light control. They work well in formal spaces. However, some may find their traditional, layered look too ornate.

Raised Panel Shutters

These feature wide panels that don’t tilt or open. While they look elegant and substantial, the lack of adjustability limits light control. Raised panel shutters suit traditional style homes and formal spaces well.

Plantation Shutters

Plantation shutters consist of louvered slats in frames that tilt open and closed. They allow great light control and privacy. Plantation shutters work with many home designs from traditional to modern. However, they may appear too ornate for contemporary rooms.

Overall, cafe style strikes an ideal balance of form and function. The clean, minimalist look suits contemporary spaces while still providing custom light intake and privacy.

Considerations For Your Home

When choosing cafe style shutters, consider your home’s architecture, decor, window placement and lighting needs.

Home Design Style

If your home leans modern and minimalist, the sleek cafe style will likely complement the aesthetic beautifully. More traditional homes may want to opt for alternatives like raised panel or tiered shutters.

Interior Decor

Match the shutters to your interior decor. Cool, neutral cafe style shutters suit modern spaces with creamy palettes. For colorful or eclectic rooms, make a statement with vibrant shutter colors that pop.

Window Sizes

Make sure the slat size suits your window dimensions. Louvers that are too wide or narrow look disproportionate. Follow size guidelines based on window height.

Lighting Needs

Rooms that need heavy light blocking like media rooms may benefit from tiered or plantation styles. South facing windows that get intense direct sun often do well with adjustable cafe style.

Consulting with a professional can help ensure you select the right style and size shutters for your space.

Cost of Cafe Style Shutters in Australia

The cost of cafe style shutters depends on factors like:

• Material – Basswood is economical starting around $250 per m2 installed. Cedar and mahogany cost more but provide durability.
• Brand – Major brands like Verosol and Australian Shutters have premium products from $350/m2.
• Size – Larger shutters require more materials and labor. Simple designs are more affordable.
• Location – Prices vary regionally based on labor and material costs. Metropolitan areas are generally more expensive.
• Extras – Motorization, insulation, and custom shapes add cost.

On average, installed cafe style shutter prices in Australia fall within these ranges:

• Basswood: $250 to $400 per m2
• Cedar: $400 to $550 per m2
• Mahogany: $550 to $750+ per m2

Be sure to get several quotes to compare quality and pricing.

Finding the Right Shutter Installer

Choosing the right installer ensures your shutters are fitted properly and have maximum visual appeal. Look for:

• An experienced company that has been in business for many years. This indicates craftsmanship and satisfied customers.
• Staff that provide excellent customer service and patience in answering all your questions.
• Options to visit showrooms to view product samples and finishes.
• Caveats that guarantee their installation work.
• Extensive portfolio images of past shutter projects.
• Positive reviews and testimonials from past clients.

Referrals from family and friends who have used shutter installers are very valuable. Search local interior design sites and forums for recommendations in your area.

Reputable national brands like Verosol Shutters, Australian Shutters, and Desmond Windsor offer consistently high quality products and service.

5 Cafe Style Shutter FAQs

1. Do cafe style shutters provide good insulation?

Yes, shutters contain air pockets that increase insulation. Those made from basswood, red cedar, poplar and meranti provide very good thermal insulation and noise reduction.

2. Can I get motorized cafe style shutters?

Yes, you can opt for motorized operation to conveniently open and close the shutters via remote control, smartphone app or home automation system.

3. How durable are cafe style shutters?

With proper maintenance, basswood and cedar shutters will last 15-20 years. Mahogany, teak and cypress can last 50+ years. Durability depends on climate and usage.

4. How do I clean cafe style shutters?

Use a soft brush or dry cloth for regular dusting. For thorough cleaning, wipe with a damp microfiber cloth and mild detergent. Never use abrasive cleaners or soak the wood.

5. Do I need planning permission for external cafe shutters in Australia?

Usually not. However, check your local council planning laws for specifications on allowable external shutter size and placement. Heritage listed homes may require approvals.

Conclusion

Cafe style shutters offer an excellent way to control privacy, light, and aesthetics in your home. Their minimalist look enhances modern spaces beautifully while still being functional. Follow the tips provided on style considerations, costs, and finding a quality installer to ensure your project is a success. For personalized guidance and quotes, contact our team of experts today.