Many homeowners wonder if shutters can be customised with different finishes on the interior and exterior faces to suit their home’s design.

While this seems like a good way to tailor your shutters to both the inside and outside of your home, it’s important to know that no shutter manufacturer offers this kind of customisation.

In this article, we’ll explain why this isn’t possible and how plantation shutters are designed to function effectively while maintaining a uniform polished look.

Why shutters can’t have different finishes for interior and exterior faces

The simple answer is that shutters are designed with functionality and aesthetics in mind, making it impossible to apply different finishes to their interior and exterior sides.

The main reason lies in how louvres (the horizontal slats) work.

Louvres can be tilted to control light and privacy, meaning that the same side of a louvre might face the interior or exterior of the home, depending on the angle.

For example, if you tilt the louvres to allow sunlight in, one face of the slats will point toward the exterior, while the other side faces inside your home.

Tilt them the other way to block light or outside views, and the same face that was previously exterior-facing will now be visible from the inside.

Because louvres rotate fully, having different finishes on each side would be visually confusing and impractical.

This same logic applies to the stiles, rails, and frames of the shutters.

While these components are mostly visible from the interior, they are not typically seen from the outside.

Therefore, different finishes on these parts would not make sense aesthetically, nor would they add any functional value.

How shutters are designed for both aesthetics and functionality

Shutters are crafted with a uniform finish on all sides to ensure that they look polished and balanced no matter which way the louvres are tilted.

At Shutters Factory, we ensure our shutters maintain a timeless and elegant appearance from every angle, while still being highly functional.

We offer high-quality finishes that are durable and versatile enough to complement any room style or exterior look.

Instead of needing separate finishes for inside and outside, our shutters are designed to match both interior and exterior décors seamlessly, creating an all-around attractive solution.

Why different finishes aren’t practical for shutters

While the idea of separate interior and exterior finishes may seem appealing, there are practical reasons why shutters need a single, unified finish:

  • Functionality: The louvres rotate, meaning that both sides of the slats are visible at different times. A dual finish would disrupt the consistency of the look.
  • Durability: A uniform finish ensures that the shutters are coated evenly, providing protection from wear and tear. This results in a long-lasting product that looks good from any perspective.

Alternatives to customising shutters for different interior and exterior looks

Although separate finishes aren’t an option, there are plenty of ways to customize your shutters to suit both your interior and exterior preferences.

Here are some creative ideas:

  • Wall coordination: Instead of focusing on different finishes for the shutters, consider matching or contrasting the wall colour with your shutters. This creates a more cohesive look for both your interior and exterior design.
  • Window treatments: Another great option is to pair your shutters with complementary curtains or drapes. This can add depth to your window design and allow for a more dynamic look without the need for dual finishes on the shutters.

While having different finishes for the interior and exterior faces of shutters isn’t possible, the good news is that high-quality shutters are designed to look fantastic from all angles.

A uniform finish ensures a consistent, stylish appearance while providing durability and ease of use.

If you’re interested in finding out more about how shutters can enhance your home, book a free survey or request an estimate today, and let us help you find the perfect shutters to match your unique style.