Plantation Shutters: What They Are and Why You Need Them

Plantation shutters are one of the most popular window treatments ever—and they are everywhere. But why do people love Plantation shutters so much, and how did they become the household staple they are today? Read more to learn what Plantation shutters are, where they came from, and why they are a fantastic window treatment option for any window. 

Where Did ‘Plantation Shutters’ Come From?

Plantation shutters have a fascinating history that dates back to ancient Greece. People living in the Mediterranean loved Plantation shutters because they easily solved a couple problems. The slant of the shutters would keep the evening rain out while also allowing airflow to come through. They also provided adequate privacy.

Back in ancient times, glass was very expensive and hard to access. Only the wealthy had access to glass—and they only used glass for a portion of their Plantation shutters, not to encase the window itself. Common people used marble as the material for their shutters instead. The marble was heavy and hard to move. It would be many years until shutters were made with wood or composite wood. 

As Europeans migrated to the United States over time, so came with them the popular window fixture. The original design of this timeless window treatment morphed over decades, and became what it is now: a beautiful, elegant, and easy way to manipulate light and privacy. 

The shutter was not called “Plantation shutters' ' in ancient Greece but earned its name here in the South of the United States. The shutter became the staple of Plantation homes, hence the name Plantation shutter.

Why are Plantation Shutters so Popular?
The design of Plantation shutters have come a long way, but the purpose and functionality of them is still relevant today. People love this type of window treatment because you can pair it with almost any style. The thick and bulky look of the wood makes the shutter look strong, elegant, and safe. 

Depending on where you live in the world, Plantation shutters can also double as a stylish safety measure. For those living in tropical climates where hurricanes happen, Plantation shutters can be an excellent option when it comes to protecting your home. Some people install Plantation shutters on the outside of their homes so that they can lock the shutters closed in times of inclement weather. 

Plantation shutters are also popular because they are easy to install, cordless and easy to maintain and keep clean. Since Plantation shutters are made of thick wood (or a similar material), they are excellent at keeping the sun out and making managing energy easy. Coming in a variety of materials, colors, and textures, they’ve easily become one of the most popular window treatments in the world. 

Cordless options are always the right choice for people with young children and pets. Over 270 children have lost their lives to cord strangulation. As window treatments become more modern, manufacturers are doing what they can to make cordless window treatments more accessible for every budget. But Plantation shutters have never had chords. Plantation shutters are opened and closed with a long and thin vertical handle. 

Plantation shutters are also very easy to customize. Choose between slat sizes, material types, colors, and more. 

Plantation Shutters for a Classic Look

Plantation shutters are easy to pair with a classic look, because they look classic already! If you’re pairing Plantation shutters with a more traditional design, consider using different shades of whites and ivories for your space. Neutral colors will only offer softness to your existing decor and design. 

Our Plantation shutters also come with faux wood options that are ideal for high-humidity zones like kitchens and bathrooms. With Budget Blinds, you don’t have to compromise quality for beauty— you can have them both.

Plantation Shutters for the Modern Home

Some might think that Plantation shutters and modern home design don’t go well together, and we’re here to challenge that idea. Plantation shutters are popular because they are easy to customize and remain timeless in their design. If you’re wanting that classic look of Plantation shutters but don’t want to compromise a sleek home design, consider customization options. 

Budget Blind’s Plantation shutters can be made to order however you like them. With options like hidden tilt rods, motorization, and three-panel shutters for sliding glass doors and windows, Plantation shutters have never been a better fit for modern homes until now.