Yes, plantation shutters (and plantation-style blinds) remain highly stylish and are widely considered a timeless, high-end window treatment. Known for their excellent light control, energy efficiency, and clean lines, they blend well with both traditional and modern aesthetics.
The honest answer is yes, they're still relevant when you choose the right style. For complete peace of mind, plantation shutters work well in modern homes because they're functional first, decorative second. They control light precisely, last for decades, and adapt to nearly any design aesthetic.
From reeded glass to plantation shutters, "Fixer Upper" star Joanna Gaines uses smart design details to add privacy while keeping spaces open and stylish. How is she doing health-wise?
Yes, plantation shutters are still in style. Design experts consider them a timeless, long-term investment rather than a temporary trend. They remain popular for their superior light control, energy efficiency, and ability to add architectural value to your home.
2026's Best Blinds
The most popular blinds right now prioritize clean aesthetics, safety, and convenience, with cordless and smart motorized blinds leading the trend. Homeowners are primarily opting for the following styles:
Joanna Gaines’ window treatments prioritize organic textures, warm neutrals, and maximizing natural light. Her signature modern-farmhouse style focuses on framing views instead of hiding them by hanging curtains high to make ceilings feel taller, utilizing light-filtering materials, and incorporating custom wooden elements.
Homeowners are getting rid of plantation shutters because they block significant amounts of natural light and obstruct outdoor views. Their bulky wooden frames make rooms feel smaller.
Trending Window Treatment Ideas for Every Room
Some of Stewart's homes utilize interior blinds for light regulation and privacy. Others feature windows framed by exterior shutters, operable versions of which can also be used for light control, ventilation and privacy.
Joanna Gaines has not been diagnosed with a life-threatening or terminal illness; her primary health struggles involve a chronic back injury from high school that required two major microdiscectomy surgeries, most recently in December 2022 to treat herniated discs.
Timeless window treatments are defined by their neutral color palettes, natural materials, and clean, functional designs that transcend passing trends. The most enduring options include natural wood blinds, tailored floor-length drapes, interior plantation shutters, and classic fabric Roman shades.
Joanna and Chip Gaines' eldest son, Drake, is now a college junior, balancing life as a baseball player at the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor. Drake has developed a passion for cooking protein-packed meals with his girlfriend.
Interior designers continue to recommend plantation shutters as a functional choice that works across design styles. The reason is simple: they solve a real problem (light and privacy control) while looking intentional rather than temporary. Modern plantation shutters have evolved.
Key Points. Vinyl blinds and honeycomb shades now feel dated in modern interiors. Cafe curtains in lace or florals can make a space look old-fashioned.
Plantation shutters have enduring appeal, but aren't ideal for every space. Avoid installing them in: Narrow or shallow windows. High-humidity rooms (bathrooms, laundry areas)
Window treatment trends in 2026 include energy-efficient shades with insulation, eco-friendly, sustainable window shade fabrics, cordless and motorized blinds. Highly sought-after on-trend window treatments include SoftClose Hunter Douglas shutters and decorative drapery with intricate design patterns.
Even though ornate valances were once a staple in traditional-style homes, they are now considered outdated. "Avoid overly ornate valances, which can feel dated and heavy," says interior designer Danielle Chiprut. "They can feel at odds with today's preference for light, airy interiors."
In the U.S., the uncovered window is perhaps less an expression of communal trust than one of personal protection. Wealthier homeowners, who can also afford state-of- the-art security systems, may not feel that they need shades. These curtainless windows have become one of our subtlest statements of privilege.
Common Materials for Plantation Shutters
Wood shutters provide a classic and elegant look, making them a popular choice for both traditional and modern interior designs. They can be customized in terms of finish, stain, and paint to match your home's decor.
Benefits of Faux Wood Blinds
Affordability – Faux wood blinds are generally less expensive than plantation shutters, making them a budget-friendly option. Moisture Resistance – Unlike real wood blinds, faux wood blinds will not warp, crack, or fade when exposed to moisture.
Plantation shutters are also widely known as interior shutters, louvered shutters, or California shutters. Depending on the region or material, you will also commonly hear them referred to as wood shutters, faux wood shutters, or shutter blinds.
The most popular window treatments combine style and functionality. Current top choices include Roller Shades (sleek, minimalist), Roman Shades (elegant, soft folds), Curtains & Drapes (versatile, dramatic), and Woven Wood Shades (natural texture).
Yes. While most participants are thrilled, some former clients and HGTV experts have expressed major regrets about their renovation projects.
Joanna Gaines’s signature interior design style is called Modern Farmhouse. She essentially pioneered and popularized this aesthetic, which beautifully merges classic, cozy, and rustic country elements with sleek, contemporary, and industrial finishes.