Plantation Shutter and Curtain Pairings for Complete Window Elegance

Plantation shutters and curtains are two of the most popular window treatment options for creating an elegant, stylish look in any room. Thoughtfully pairing plantation shutters with complementary curtains can take your windows from basic to beautiful. The clean lines of shutters combined with the softness and fullness of curtains results in windows with texture, depth and visual appeal.

But what curtains work best with plantation shutters? How do you choose styles, colors and placements that enhance, rather than compete with, your shutters? Follow this guide for expert tips on selecting and styling curtains to match your shutters for showstopping window designs.

Choose the Right Curtains for Your Shutters

With so many fabrics and curtain styles available, deciding what curtains to pair with your plantation shutters can be overwhelming. Keep these factors in mind when selecting curtains to complement your shutters:

Sheer Curtains

Sheer curtains made from lightweight, semi-transparent fabrics like voile or muslin are an ideal match for plantation shutters. The delicate, breezy look of sheers allows light to filter into the room while still providing some privacy. Sheers soften harsh daylight coming through shutters and give an airier, more spacious feel. Ivory, white or neutral sheers pair attractively with most shutter colors.

Light-Filtering Curtains

For more privacy than sheers provide, consider light-filtering curtains in linen, cotton or poly-cotton blends. These fabrics obscure views and diffuse light while allowing a soft, warm glow into the room. Light-filtering curtains come in varied weights and textures, but lightweight styles harmonize best with plantation shutters.

Blackout Curtains

If your shutters don't fully darken the room, pair them with opaque blackout curtains. Heavyweight fabrics like velvet or woven woods completely block outside light for sleeping or home theater. Hang blackouts on separate rods or tracks to fully cover the shutters when needed. For a stylish look, add a sheer under-curtain.

Curtain Length and Shape

The choices for curtain length and shape are abundant. For dramatic flair, select floor-length curtains that puddle luxuriously on the floor. Cafe-length curtains ending around the sill are casual and breezy. Angular curtain styles complement the strong lines of plantation shutters, while soft rounded curtains provide contrast. The options are endless!

Curtain Styles That Complement Shutters

In addition to fabric and length, the style of your curtains impacts how well they pair with plantation shutters. Consider these popular curtain styles to match seamlessly with your shutters:

Rod-Pocket Curtains

Rod-pocket curtains with a header along the top have a relaxed, informal style. The gathered fabric stacks attractively at the edges when opened. Cottons and linens with a casual, cottage look pair nicely with shutters in laidback spaces.

Pinch-Pleat Curtains

For a more tailored, elegant look, pinch-pleat curtains have stiff interlining in the headers to help pleats stand out crisply. The pleats create dimension and texture when stacked. They complement shutters well in formal spaces.

Grommet Curtains

Grommet-top curtains with rings or eyelets that slide easily along the rod have a clean, modern aesthetic. The grommets come in various metals and finishes to match your shutters and decor. They allow the panels to hang neatly.

Back-Tab Curtains

Forprecision style, back-tab curtains have crisp corners with tabs hanging behind. The smooth, flat panels complement the clean lines of shutters beautifully. They move fluidly along the rod. Back-tabs work with versatile curtain styles and shutter types.

Select Complementary Colors and Patterns

Color and pattern warrant careful consideration when pairing curtains with plantation shutters. Follow these tips:

• Stick with neutral curtain colors like white, ivory or beige to maintain a tranquil, cohesive look.
• Inject color and interest with curtains in muted, complementary hues or subtle patterns.
• Avoid bright or heavily patterned fabrics that compete visually with shutters.
• Match colors in the curtains to accent colors already in the room's decor.

The goal is a harmonious color palette where the curtains enhance but don't distract from the shutters' clean lines. Don't be afraid to introduce some bold patterns or colors in small doses.

Optimal Curtain Placement and Layering

Hanging your curtains in the most flattering position relative to the shutters frames both treatments beautifully. Follow these tips:

• Mount the curtain rod 6-12 inches above the shutter hardware for an unbroken line.
• Extend rod 2-3 inches beyond window frames so curtains can draw fully.
• Layer sheers behind curtains to soften and filter light through shutters.

You can also place stationary side panels around the window to accent the shutters. Allow ample stacking room for openings and closings.

Finishing Touches

To pull your shutter and curtain pairing together, consider these decorative touches:

• Add a graceful valance or swag mounted above the curtains.
• Frame the curtains with elegant cornices for a polished look.
• Tie back drapes with matching holdbacks for a finished style when opened.
• Select curtain rods and finials that coordinate with your shutters' finish.

Avoid cluttering the window with too many ornate accessories. Let the refined pairing of shutters and curtains take center stage for a cohesive, elegant window design.

The possibilities are endless when matching plantation shutters with coordinating curtains. Sheers, draperies, linens or velvets - any style can complement your shutters beautifully. Follow the tips in this guide, from choosing fabrics and patterns to optimal hanging placements. Thoughtfully blending the clean lines of shutters with the soft fullness of curtains will elevate your windows with texture, depth and visual intrigue.

Your plantation shutters and curtains, when creatively paired, can transform any room. With these expert tips, you can confidently combine these classic window treatments to create windows as stylish as your space and unique as your personal style.