WHY GEORGIAN SHUTTERS STILL WORK TODAY
It’s no surprise we try to incorporate beautiful millwork in every room we design, built-ins, paneling, custom trim there’s something about those thoughtful details that instantly elevate a space. But when it came time to design my primary bedroom last year, there was one detail I knew I had to have: Georgian shutters.
Photo by Bathbespoke
If you’re not familiar with them, we’re diving deep into the details below. But in short, Georgian shutters also known as solid panel shutters are a traditional window covering that dates back to the Georgian period (1714–1830). They’re known for their simple, solid panels (no louvers here) and the way they fit seamlessly into the window’s architecture.I first fell in love with them while touring manors and castles in England a few years ago. Every room had these beautiful, understated shutters that felt like part of the walls themselves. Elegant and quite yet intentional. I couldn’t stop thinking about them and I knew I had to bring that same feeling home.
4 Key Features of Georgian Shutters:
• Solid Panels: No slats, no louvers just smooth, solid wood for full privacy and light control. (We added a substantial inner trim for added depth) • Internal Fit: Installed within the window recess, they sit flush with the frame and look like part of the wall when closed. • Folding Design: They typically fold into shallow pockets built into the wall. Out of sight when open, delightfully discreet. • Natural Materials: Originally crafted from woods like pine, oak, or mahogany materials that age beautifully over time.Tips for Designing Georgian Shutters in a Modern Home:
If you’re considering bringing these timeless shutters into your own space, here are a few things to keep in mind: 1 Plan for Sill Depth: You’ll need enough depth to allow the shutters to fold away. In our case, we created a 10” sill, which feels generous and useful. 2 Find a Skilled Carpenter: This is not your average trim job. Precision is everything here. 3 Use H-Hinges: Traditional H-hinges allow the shutters to fold and sit flat when opened. Both functional and beautiful. 4 Plan for Hardware: We used tiny Amazon-sourced knobs for when the shutters are open, and flush pulls for when they’re closed so they recess seamlessly. It’s the little things that make a big difference.
Why They Still Work Today:
Georgian shutters have this remarkable ability to elevate a space without shouting for attention. They blend architecture and function in a way that feels both historical and fresh. In a world of fast trends, these shutters remind us of the beauty of craftsmanship, proportion, and restraint. That’s what great design is all about creating rooms that feel like they’ve always been there.Sources + Shop The Look:
Here are a few resources or recommendations we used if you’re dreaming about adding Georgian shutters into your home.