Do Plantation Shutters Take Up Too Much Space? Size Considerations

One of the most common concerns homeowners have about plantation shutters is whether they’ll make their rooms feel smaller or cramped. In this blog, we’ll break down the space requirements, compare shutters to other window treatments, and explore practical considerations to help you decide if they’re the right choice for your home.

Plantation Shutters Have a Reputation for Being Bulky

Traditional window shutters are sometimes perceived as space-consuming, and it’s easy to see why homeowners might be concerned. Here’s what contributes to this perception:

Solid appearance: Unlike sheer curtains or slim blinds, shutters have a more substantial look that can seem bulkier at first glance. Frame depth: The shutter frame does protrude from the wall or window, which raises questions about lost space. Small room concerns: In compact spaces, every centimetre counts, and homeowners worry shutters might overwhelm the room. Furniture placement: There’s concern about whether shutters will interfere with beds, sofas, or desks positioned near windows.

The Space-Saving Reality

Here’s the good news: plantation shutters are actually one of the most space-efficient window treatments available. The amount of space they occupy depends entirely on your mounting choice and installation type.

Inside Mount Installation

When installed inside the window recess, shutters sit completely flush with the wall and take up zero additional room space. The frames are typically only 50-70mm deep, fitting entirely within your existing window opening. This means your walls remain flat, your windowsills stay accessible, and nothing protrudes into your living area.

Outside Mount Installation

Outside mount shutters attach to the wall surface around your window. While they do extend into the room slightly, we’re talking about a minimal 70-100mm depth—roughly the width of your palm. To put this in perspective, curtain rods often protrude 100-150mm or more from the wall, and roller blinds with pelmets can extend 80-120mm.

By comparison, shutters are remarkably space-efficient, especially since they fold back flat against the window opening when open, unlike curtains that stack at the sides or blinds that bunch up at the top.

What Affects How Much Space Shutters Take Up?

Several factors influence the space requirements of plantation shutters:

Mounting Type: Inside mount shutters sit flush with the wall (0mm intrusion), while outside mount shutters extend 70-100mm into the room. Panel Configuration: How your shutters fold or stack when opened affects the space they occupy. Louvre Size: Larger louvres (89mm-114mm) create a more open feel, while smaller louvres (63mm) can appear busier. Window Size: Larger windows require wider panels, which stack differently when opened.

Space Considerations for Different Rooms

Living Rooms and Bedrooms

In larger living spaces, plantation shutters work beautifully without compromising floor space. When open, they stack neatly to the sides, maximizing your view and natural light. Just ensure furniture is positioned at least 100-150mm from outside-mounted shutters for easy operation.

For very wide windows, consider whether bi-fold or sliding options work best for your space. Shutters won’t impede movement since they’re fixed to the window area and don’t require floor clearance like curtains.

Small Bathrooms and Kitchens

These compact spaces actually benefit greatly from shutters. PVC shutters are moisture-resistant and perfect for humid bathrooms without adding bulk. They’re easier to clean than fabric curtains and don’t require the clearance that curtain rods need.

Shutters won’t blow around or get in the way, and you can adjust louvres for privacy while maintaining an open, airy feel—ideal for smaller spaces where every detail counts.

Narrow Hallways and Tight Corners

Windows in hallways or awkward spaces work perfectly with inside mounting, which keeps everything flush with zero room intrusion. Café-style shutters (covering just the lower portion of windows) require even less space, and bypass track systems allow shutters to slide rather than fold in extremely tight areas.

Choosing the Right Louvre Size

The size of your shutter louvres affects both the visual space and actual functionality. Larger louvres (89mm-114mm) create a more open, contemporary feel with fewer slats to obstruct views, making them ideal for maximizing light and the sense of space. Smaller louvres (63mm) offer a traditional look but can feel busier, making them better suited for smaller windows or period homes.

Colour and Finish Impact

Your colour selection has a surprising impact on perceived space. White shutters reflect maximum light and make rooms feel larger and brighter. Light neutrals like cream, soft grey, or beige maintain an open feeling, while dark colours can work in large rooms with plenty of natural light but may make small spaces feel smaller. Shutters that match your existing trim create a seamless, spacious look.

Panel Configuration Options

How your shutters are divided affects both function and space perception. Full-height panels create uninterrupted vertical lines for height and elegance. Tier-on-tier (two sets of panels) offers flexibility but adds a horizontal division that can shorten visual height. Café style covers only the lower portion, leaving the top open for an airy, spacious feel.

Measuring and Planning for Space

To ensure your shutters work perfectly with your space, here’s what to consider:

Check your window depth: For inside mounts, you’ll need at least 60-70mm of depth in your window recess. Measure furniture clearance: Leave 100-150mm between furniture and where outside-mounted shutters will sit. Consider door and window interactions: Ensure shutters won’t interfere with doors swinging open or other windows. Account for handles and locks: Make sure shutter panels can open fully without hitting window hardware.

How Shutters Compare to Other Window Coverings

Understanding how plantation shutters stack up against alternatives can help you make an informed decision.

Curtains and Drapes

• Curtain rods extend 100-200mm from the wall
• Fabric when open stacks at sides, taking up 200-400mm of window width
• Floor-length curtains can puddle on the floor, requiring clearance

Roller Blinds

• Pelmet boxes protrude 80-120mm
• When raised, they take up 200-300mm of window height
• Side channels (if used) add 40-60mm on each side

Venetian Blinds

• Headrail extends 60-100mm
• When raised, they stack up to 150-250mm depending on length
• Mounting brackets protrude slightly from the wall

Plantation Shutters

• Inside mount: 0mm room intrusion (flush with wall)
• Outside mount: 70-100mm depth
• Open position: Panels fold back flat to window sides
• No floor or ceiling requirements: Self-contained at the window

When you compare the actual dimensions, plantation shutters are one of the most space-efficient window treatments available.

Beyond the Basics: Additional Space Benefits

Beyond the physical dimensions, shutters offer space advantages that other window coverings simply can’t match. Unlike curtains that blow in the breeze or require tie-backs, shutters stay put. The solid panels help dampen noise, making even small spaces feel more peaceful. They also provide insulation by creating an air pocket, helping regulate temperature and making spaces more comfortable year-round.

In open-plan homes, shutters can even work as dual-purpose room dividers, sectioning off areas without permanent walls.

The DIY Advantage

With DIY plantation shutters, you have complete control over measurements and installation, ensuring they fit perfectly without wasting space. Take your time to measure accurately for a flush, space-saving fit. Inside mount installation is recommended when possible for maximum space efficiency and the cleanest look.

Choose the right panel configuration based on how the shutters will operate in your specific space, and follow installation guides carefully to ensure smooth operation and optimal space usage.

Are They Worth It for Your Space?

Plantation shutters don’t take up too much space—in fact, they’re remarkably space-efficient when compared to other window treatments. With smart choices in mounting style, louvre size, colour, and configuration, shutters can actually make your rooms feel larger, brighter, and more organized.

While some window coverings may seem less bulky at first glance, shutters offer the best combination of space efficiency, functionality, and long-term value. They don’t require floor clearance, they don’t stack up valuable window height, and when installed inside the recess, they take up zero room space.

So when you factor in their durability, versatility, and the clean, streamlined look they provide, plantation shutters are one of the smartest, most space-savvy choices you can make for your windows—regardless of room size.

Ready to see how plantation shutters can work in your space? We’d love to hear about your installation or answer any questions in the comments!

Experience the difference of working with a trusted provider for all your plantation shutter needs. Visit our website to explore our offerings and take the first step toward transforming your home today.

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