Shutters are absolutely worth it if you plan to stay in your home long-term, desire a premium aesthetic, and want superior light control. While they come with a higher upfront cost than standard blinds or shades, they act as permanent home fixtures that boost property value and rarely need replacement.
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.
Shutters are a beautiful and permanent window treatment, but they come with notable drawbacks. The biggest disadvantages include their high upfront cost (often ranging from $200 to over $1,000 per window), limited light flexibility compared to blinds, and difficult, time-consuming maintenance.
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?
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.
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.
Trending Window Treatment Ideas for Every Room
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 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.
The 3-5-7 rule is a design principle that dictates grouping decorative objects, furniture, or art in odd numbers (specifically 3, 5, or 7). It breaks rigid, perfectly symmetrical pairings to create natural, eye-catching visual movement.
Keep in mind that not all windows are suitable for shutters. For instance, windows that are wider than they are tall generally shouldn't have shutters. Similarly, casement windows that open out or bay windows typically do not accommodate shutters well.
Ditching shades has a lot of upsides regardless of who you are. Uncovered windows bring in natural light, boost well-being, and offer a view of the world outside. The trade-off, of course, is that they also put those inside on display to passersby, and in the summer, they channel heat.
Cost per Square Foot: Starting at $26/sq.
$45+ for Pro-Install). Cost per Window: A standard DIY window typically ranges from $200 to $450, while professional retail installations often exceed $600+ per window. Cost per House: An average-sized, single-family U.S. home (1,500–2,500 sq.
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)
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.
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.
Here's what can make a home look cheap, according to designers:
In interior design, the three foundational elements of any successful space are often referred to as the Three F's: Floor Plan, Finishes, and Fixtures. These elements work together to ensure a space is functional, visually cohesive, and beautifully tailored to its purpose.
If your living room is small, placing the couch against the wall might be the best way to maximize space. If you have a larger or open-concept space, floating the couch can help define different areas and make the space feel more cohesive.
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.
Yes. While most participants are thrilled, some former clients and HGTV experts have expressed major regrets about their renovation projects.
Yes, curtains are incredibly stylish. Moving past bare minimalism, modern window treatments have evolved into major, mood-setting statement pieces. The 2026 design landscape focuses on warmth, "quiet luxury," and architectural integration.
To achieve a "see out, but not in" effect, you can apply specialty window films or explore other specific treatments. Keep in mind that how these products work depends heavily on lighting.
Appraisers and inspectors note overall condition and presentation, and buyers may flag issues during final walkthroughs. Replacing broken blinds or updating outdated coverings before listing can help reduce small objections that sometimes turn into negotiation points.