How to Combine Different Shutter Styles in One Home

Combining different shutter styles in your home can add a unique charm and character to your space. Here are 12 tips for effectively blending various shutter types and designs:

1. Vary Textures and Materials: Mix and match different materials like sleek faux wood shutters with organic woven rattan shutters. For example, you could use faux wood shutters in the bedrooms and woven shutters in the bathrooms. You can also combine wood and metal shutters for contrast, such as mahogany louvers on the main level and aluminum shutters upstairs.
2. Coordinate Shapes and Unique Designs: Repeat circular shutters on accent windows to complement squared-off shutters on main windows. For example, octagonal window shutters can complement square plantation shutters. Custom designs like one-of-a-kind hand-forged iron designs provide artisanal flair.
3. Align Proportions: Use wider shutter louvers on large picture windows and narrower louvers on smaller companion windows for cohesion. For example, use 3-inch louvers on large windows and 2-inch louvers on flanking windows.
4. Repeat Colors: Unify different styles painted in the same hue. For example, navy blue plantation shutters can match navy arched shutters. You can also update the color of your shutters with new paint or stain to refresh their appearance.
5. Tie to Architecture: Match shutters to design elements like arched shutters complementing arched doorways. For example, circular shutters can frame round porthole windows.
6. Transition Styles: Gradually transition shutter styles from the front to back of the home. For example, you could use traditional shutters in the entryway and more modern shutters in the rear addition.
7. Use Consistent Hardware: Matching knobs, hinges, and handles add harmony. For example, aged bronze hardware can be used throughout the home.
8. Apply Different Privacy Levels: Use solid panels on lower floors for privacy and louvers on upper floors for light. For example, you could use cafe-style shutters downstairs and louvered shutters upstairs.
9. Zone by Function: Use formal shutters in the living room and casual woven shutters in the kitchen. For example, you could use classic white plantation shutters in the dining room and natural wood shutters in the family room.
10. Vary Louver Direction: Play with horizontal and vertical slats. For example, you could use vertical louvers flanking horizontal shutters.
11. Frame Distinctively: Outline unique specialty shutters with coordinating traditional shutters. For example, you could accent arched windows with rectangular plantation shutters.
12. Custom Touches: Add your own custom shutter touches like trim or hardware to repaired shutters. This can help breathe new life into tired shutters and skip the shutter replacement costs.

By carefully curating shutter styles, you can create depth and character in your home. Remember, the key is to maintain a balance that complements the overall aesthetic of your home.