Shutters beautifully accent windows on their own but also coordinate with other treatments. Blending shutters with curtains, shades or blinds layers your window decor and functions. Here are tips for pairing shutters with complementary accents.

Combine Shutters and Drapes for Softness

Hang curtains over shutters to add softness and texture. Flowing drapes contrast crisply lined shutters in a striking blend.

Use sheer curtains to filter light when shutters are open. Draw opaque drapes over shutters for total blackout at night.

Add Roller Shades for Light Filtering

Roller shades let in diffused light when layered above open shutters. Rolling the sheer shade down reduces glare while preserving the view.

Shades also provide sun protection without totally blocking light when shutters are open on sunny windows.

Use Shutters and Blinds for Versatility

Shutters for architecture and blinds for adjustable light control combine strengths. Keep blinds up to highlight shutters during the day. Lower blinds at night for privacy.

Blinds layered behind shutters allow you to fine-tune brightness as outdoor light conditions shift.

Try Cafe-Style Treatments for Privacy and Light Control

Café-style shutters cover only the lower half of windows. Combine with shades or blinds above for adjustable privacy and light management.

This achieves privacy while still allowing light into the room’s upper portion.

Add Side Panels or Drapes for Increased Privacy

Install side panels or drapes over shutters to further enhance privacy. Shutters control front views, while side treatments prevent angular sight lines into windows.

Opt for opaque side panels or blackout drapery to prevent light and prying eyes from the sides.

Incorporate Valances for Stylish Coordination

Beautiful valances over shutters add decorative allure. Match the valance color and pattern to your shutters and room decor.

Valances also conceal hardware systems for hanging blinds or shades over shutters for a streamlined look.

Layer Arch Overlays for Dimension

Arch overlays mounted above window frames create a decorative archway framing the window. Combine with shutters for striking architectural detail.

Use arch treatments in the same finish as shutters for cohesion. Contrasting finishes can also add interest.

Add Curtain Holdbacks for an Upscale Look

Back tie curtains or hold them elegantly to the side with ornate holdbacks over shutters. This achieves a polished, upscale aesthetic.

Metallic holdbacks in bronze, pewter or nickel complement various shutter colors.

Incorporate Architectural Molding with Shutters

Work custom molding into the window area above shutters for a seamless built-in impression. Architectural trim marries beautifully with shutter style.

Use moldings in harmonizing stains or paints to the shutters. Craftsman style moldings suit board-and-batten shutters.

Creatively Blend Shutter Types for Interest

Combine stationary panel shutters flanking windows with movable louvred shutters. Or blend full-size shutters with petite cafe-style shutters.

Mixing shutter types adds appealing visual interest while optimizing privacy and light control.

Conclusion

Layering window treatments creates captivating interiors brimming with light control, privacy and style possibilities. With careful coordination, combining shutters with various other accents results in windows that work beautifully and reflect your personal taste.