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Wooden Shutters: What's In a Name?

Plantation shutters—sturdy, louvered window coverings—have long been prized for their charm. But their name? That carries a history. The term "plantation shutters" traces back to the American South, where these wide-slat shutters were commonly used in large homes to combat heat and humidity. While the style remains popular, the name has taken on a weight that no longer suits modern sensibilities. Recognizing this, the industry is making a shift. Today, "interior shutters" is the preferred name, allowing our clients here at Rico's Window Coverings & Films in Sacramento, CA, to appreciate this classic window treatment for its design and say goodbye to its outdated associations. So, what makes interior wood shutters stand out? Light control, style, and privacy. Let's take a closer look at why these shutters remain a staple in homes nationwide.

A living room with large wood or composite interior shutters at Rico's Window Coverings & Film near Sacramento California (CA)

Optimizing Natural Light with Interior Shutters

Interior shutters take the prize in light control because their adjustable louvers let you fine-tune the angle of incoming light. Imagine sitting down for your morning coffee in your Sacramento dining nook, the scent of fresh jasmine drifting in from the garden. The morning sun streams through your east-facing windows, casting sharp beams across the table. With a quick tilt of your interior shutters, the harsh glare softens into a gentle glow—warming the space without washing it out. And in a city that knows its fair share of sunshine, that kind of light control is everything in a window treatment.

Elevating Home Design with Interior Shutters

Interior shutters have a way like no other window treatment of bringing timeless beauty into a room that feels built-in rather than added on. Unlike treatments that blend into the background, wood shutters become part of the home's character, and as such, they also increase the value of the home. Further, if you love the look of wood shutters but need something low-maintenance or built to withstand humidity, consider faux wood shutters such as Hunter Douglas NewStyle® Composite Shutters, which offer the same look with added durability. These shutters resist warping, fading, and moisture damage, making them a far better fit for kitchens, bathrooms, and high-traffic areas without sacrificing the architectural appeal and value-boosting benefits of traditional wood shutters.

Maximizing Privacy with Interior Shutters

Value privacy the most in window treatments? Interior shutters let you block views without sacrificing light. Their adjustable louvers let you block outside views without shutting out natural light—a rare find in the world of window treatments. Unlike fabrics that rely on opacity, shutters give you precise control so your home feels 100% yours. Picture working in your home office, the afternoon light streaming in through west-facing windows as the neighbors stroll outside. With a simple tilt of your interior shutters, you block curious glances without shutting out the golden glow. No need for heavy curtains—just a private workspace lit with natural light to provide a peaceful retreat for productivity.

The Future of Shutters Starts at Rico's Window Coverings & Films

While the name "plantation shutters" is on its way out, shutters as interior window treatments are certainly not! In fact, they are more popular now than ever, and with all of the benefits and uses, we don't have to wonder why. If you're considering upgrading your home's window treatments to shutters, we welcome you to explore all our team here at Rico's Window Coverings & Films has to offer. From expert design to precise measurements and professional installation, our team has you covered. If you live in Sacramento, Folsom, El Dorado Hills, Roseville, Rocklin, or Granite Bay, CA, give us a call today!