There are so many ways to add layers of warmth and comfort to your home each fall, but one of the simplest and most effective changes is to dress your windows. In older or drafty houses, window treatments can reduce heat loss, cut energy costs and instantly make a room feel cozier. Fall is the perfect season to make that update so your home is snug for the cooler months ahead.
We recently installed white plantation shutters and I’m already so pleased with the difference. Beyond improving light control, temperature and privacy, shutters add character and a finished look to the rooms they frame.
From the moment we first toured this house I wanted it to feel like it had a bit more personality. The home had charm as an older structure, but a few thoughtful updates could enhance and define that character in a meaningful way.
Deciding what kind of “extra character” would fit best took time. I debated options for the bedroom windows, especially given their 1950s proportions and placement. We couldn’t change the window shapes or replace the frames, so our plan had to work within the existing structure.
If you’re new here or need a refresher, this is how the bedroom looked when we moved in. Since new windows weren’t an option, improving what we already had was the practical path forward.
Designing everything from scratch would be a dream, but the challenge of taking existing details and making them better is part of the fun of home improvement.
After living with these windows for a couple of years and considering the options, I landed on plantation-style shutters for the bedrooms. They felt like the right solution to elevate the room without altering the original window openings.
I had briefly considered bamboo or woven shades—styles I love and have used elsewhere—but the idea of plantation shutters won out. The wide louvers and substantial profiles added architectural interest and a crisp, tailored appearance that suits the house.
These particular windows don’t offer a dramatic view compared with the back of the house, so privacy wasn’t a major concern. With plantation shutters, though, you can easily adjust the louvers to control sightlines and light—so the room stays bright while remaining private.
Shutters also help minimize distractions for pets since they block the view of passersby. If you have a dog that barks at every passerby, this is a practical perk. I prefer natural light during the day, so having adjustable louvers lets us keep the room light and airy while maintaining a calm, cozy atmosphere.
You can combine shutters with curtains for a layered look. Curtain panels soften the room and help frame the window, especially above a bed. In other rooms, I sometimes opt for shutters or shades alone—each space benefits from a different treatment.
Striped Curtains
Repeating shutters across multiple rooms on the main and lower floors creates visual consistency inside and even impacts the exterior appearance. From outside you can glimpse some of the basement shutters—they help give the home a cohesive, finished look.
It’s surprising how much shutters influence a home’s character both indoors and out. I’ll share more photos and ideas about that in future posts.
Our shutters are from Select Blinds. They arrived ready to install after we provided measurements, which saved us significant labor costs.
I worried about the DIY route at first because we’re not especially handy and I didn’t want the project to drag on. In practice measuring was straightforward, Select Blinds provides guidance, and the installation was quicker than I expected. If we managed it, most people can too.
HOW TO ORDER DISCOUNT SHUTTERS AND BLINDS
When ordering, use any available referral codes or promotions the vendor provides to get the best price. Measure carefully and consult customer support if you’re unsure—many companies provide helpful resources and step-by-step instructions.
Use the manufacturer’s sizing and style guides to select the right shutter material and finish for your room. Painted wood shutters in a crisp white are a versatile choice that works with many decor styles.
Do you have any rooms and windows that need to be cozied up for fall?
Not every window or room requires shutters or shades, but if you want the snuggest room on a cold, dark night, window treatments are an effective and attractive solution.
Happy Fall-ifying! See you tomorrow!
Fall Nesting Series:
Happy Fall Nesting!
A Round up of Fall Doormats
Day One: An Autumn Mindset
Day Two: 20 Little Things to Love About Fall
Day Three: Cozying Up the House with Shutters
Day Four: How to Decorate Your Coffee Table in Any Season
Day Five: Fall House Tour
Day Six: Embrace Your Style (and adapt as needed)
Day Seven: Cozy Fall Morning Rituals
Visit the following pages for fall and home inspiration and sources available from this blog.
Cozy Fall Shop
Fall Doormats
Shop My House
Find my Homemaking & Decorating Books