Shutters and window treatments come in a range of shapes and sizes but, in recent years, they have been moving away from traditional country-style designs towards a more modern continental style.
• Shutters come in many different forms including café-style shutters (which cover the lower half of the window), tier-on-tier shutters (two separate layer of shutters), full height (covering the whole window), and shaped shutters (to fit difficult, or unusual windows).
• Shutters can be painted, but those with exposed wood add texture and warm natural colour to an interior space.
• For those with dust allergies, shutters are a great option; they don't harbour dust and dirt in the same way that curtains and blinds can.
If the normal shutter is not for you see our guide on how to buy alternative window dressings If you don't fancy the conventional window dressing options, there are some alternatives available to you.
If the idea of blinds and curtains leaves you bored, you needn't worry. There are a number of other ways to maintain privacy in your home without blocking out light. Try giving windows an acid-etched glass look with plain or patterned designs, Brume do these. Alison White manufactures magnetic window coverings that can be cut to fit, and come in plain or perforated finishes. Beaded curtains can make an unusual statement and, if you want to be creative, you can make them yourself. Screens and panels can be adapted, or custom made, to fit window areas. Try Draks' Canto range for this.