Transform Your South West London Home with UK-Crafted Bespoke Window Shutters

Looking for premium plantation shutters in Kingston upon Thames, Richmond, Wimbledon or across South West London? Shutters Design specialises in handcrafted, UK-manufactured window shutters that combine timeless elegance with superior functionality. As your trusted local family-run shutter company, we serve homeowners throughout KT1, KT2, SW19, SW20, TW9, TW10 and neighbouring postcodes with expert installation, honest advice, and a market-leading 10-year guarantee.

Whether you’re renovating a Victorian terrace in Richmond Hill, updating a contemporary apartment overlooking the Thames in Kingston, or enhancing a family home near Wimbledon Common, our bespoke plantation shutters are precision-crafted to complement your property’s unique character whilst delivering exceptional light control, privacy, and energy efficiency.

With swift 4-week UK delivery times and 5-star Google reviews from satisfied customers across Surrey and South West London, Shutters Design has become the go-to choice for discerning homeowners seeking quality craftsmanship at competitive prices.

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Why Choose Plantation Shutters for Your Kingston, Richmond or Wimbledon Home?

Increase Property Value with Timeless Design

Plantation shutters are a permanent architectural feature that significantly enhances kerb appeal and home valuation. Unlike curtains or blinds that require replacement every few years, quality shutters are a long-term investment that delivers dividends in style, functionality, and resale value, significant in South West London’s competitive property market.

Precise Light Control & Enhanced Privacy

Adjustable louvres provide complete control over natural light and privacy levels throughout the day. Tilt the slats to flood your Kingston breakfast room with morning sunlight, then adjust for afternoon privacy without sacrificing brightness, ideal for ground-floor properties near busy Richmond roads, Wimbledon High Street, or overlooking communal gardens.

Superior Energy Efficiency & Insulation

Our shutters create an insulating barrier comparable to double glazing, keeping homes warmer in winter and cooler in summer whilst reducing energy bills. This proves particularly beneficial in period properties across Richmond and Kingston, where original single-glazed sash windows are protected features that cannot be replaced.

Minimal Maintenance & Long-Lasting Durability

Plantation shutters require virtually no upkeep—just a quick wipe with a damp cloth keeps them pristine for decades. No washing, dry cleaning, or professional maintenance required, making them perfect for busy families in Wimbledon, working professionals in Kingston, and retirees in Richmond who want stylish, hassle-free window treatments.

Child-Safe & Allergy-Friendly

With no dangling cords or fabric trapping dust, pollen and allergens, shutters represent the safest, healthiest window covering option for families with young children or household members suffering from asthma and allergies, a growing concern for many South West London families.

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Our Plantation Shutter Styles for South West London Homes

Full-Height Plantation Shutters

The most popular choice for living rooms, bedrooms and dining rooms throughout Kingston, Richmond and Wimbledon. Full-height shutters cover the entire window in a single elegant panel system, offering maximum flexibility for light and privacy control. Perfect for:

• Period properties on Richmond Hill and Petersham Road
• Modern riverside apartments in Kingston town centre
• Family homes throughout Wimbledon Village and Raynes Park
• Georgian and Victorian townhouses in Twickenham and Teddington
• Edwardian semis across East Sheen and Mortlake

Tier-on-Tier Shutters

The ultimate flexible solution for homes requiring street-level privacy without losing natural light. Top and bottom sections operate independently, allowing you to keep lower panels closed for privacy whilst opening upper panels for brightness. Exceptionally popular in:

• Ground-floor flats along Kingston High Street and Richmond town centre
• Victorian terraces throughout East Sheen and Barnes
• Family homes overlooking Wimbledon Common and Richmond Park
• Properties along the Richmond riverside and towpath
• Homes near busy roads (Upper Richmond Road, Kingston Hill, Wimbledon Parkside)

Café-Style Shutters

Covering only the lower portion of windows, café-style shutters deliver privacy whilst maintaining an open, airy atmosphere with unobstructed upper window views. Particularly suited to:

• Kitchen windows overlooking neighbouring gardens in Kingston, Richmond and Wimbledon
• Period properties in conservation areas (Richmond Green, Petersham, Ham)
• Homes wanting to showcase decorative upper window features or original glazing
• Properties requiring street privacy without blocking precious natural light
• Ground-floor rooms on tree-lined residential streets

Bay Window Shutters

South West London is renowned for stunning bay windows—from Victorian three-sided bays to Edwardian sweeping curves and modern angular designs. Our bespoke bay window shutters are precision-engineered to fit the exact angles, curves and depths of your bay, creating a seamless architectural statement. We specialise in:

• Classic Edwardian bays throughout Raynes Park and Motspur Park
• Victorian triple-aspect bays in Richmond, Kingston and Wimbledon
• Modern angular bays in the new Kingston Riverside developments
• Box bays are common in Wimbledon Park and Southfields
• Curved bays in period conversions across Twickenham and Hampton

Solid Panel Shutters

For traditional aesthetics, complete privacy or total blackout requirements, solid panel shutters offer unmatched light blocking and period authenticity. Often chosen for:

• Bedrooms requiring complete darkness for shift workers or young children
• Listed buildings and properties in Richmond conservation areas
• Georgian townhouses in Kingston and Ham
• Period cottages throughout Wimbledon Village
• Media rooms and home cinemas require absolute light control
• Homes backing onto street lighting or security lights

Tracked Shutters (Bi-Fold & Sliding Design)

Engineered for larger openings such as patio doors, French doors, bi-fold doors and wide picture windows. Panels fold neatly to the side when fully open, maximising views and access. Perfect for:

• Bi-fold doors opening to gardens and patios
• Conservatories and orangeries across Surrey and South West London
• Wide dining room or living room windows with panoramic views
• Properties with modern glass extensions and open-plan living
• Kitchen-diners with doors to outdoor entertaining spaces

Waterproof Bathroom Shutters

Specialist moisture-resistant shutters manufactured from composite FauxWood materials that withstand high humidity, direct water contact and temperature fluctuations without warping, discolouring, or deteriorating. Essential for:

• Family bathrooms in any South West London property
• En-suites in period conversions and Victorian houses
• Wet rooms and shower rooms with high moisture levels
• Ground-floor cloakrooms and powder rooms
• Properties near the Thames where humidity levels are elevated

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Materials Guide: Choosing the Right Plantation Shutters

Premium Hardwood Shutters

Crafted from sustainable hardwoods, these Wooden Shutters offer unmatched authenticity, natural warmth and a substantial feel. The beautiful natural grain patterns and premium weight make them perfect for:

• Period properties in Richmond conservation areas and listed buildings
• Luxury homes in Wimbledon Village and Coombe Hill
• Properties where traditional aesthetics and authenticity are paramount
• Homes with high-quality joinery and architectural detailing
• Discerning homeowners valuing craftsmanship and natural materials

Key Advantages:

• Authentic natural wood beauty with unique grain patterns
• Excellent thermal and acoustic insulation properties
• Strong, rigid and exceptionally durable construction
• Can be stained to enhance grain or painted in any colour
• Increases property value more than synthetic alternatives
• 10-year warranty from Shutters Design

Best Suited For: Reception rooms, master bedrooms, dining rooms, studies, living spaces

Delivery Time: 3-4 weeks from the UK manufacturing facility

FauxWood Composite Shutters

High-performance engineered shutters combining the appearance of natural wood with superior moisture resistance and dimensional stability. Our UK-manufactured FauxWood Shutters maintain their pristine appearance for decades without warping, fading or deteriorating. Ideal for:

• Modern homes and contemporary apartments across Kingston and Wimbledon
• Bathrooms, kitchens and high-moisture environments
• Rental properties requiring durable, low-maintenance solutions
• Budget-conscious homeowners wanting premium aesthetics
• Homes requiring consistently painted finishes in on-trend colours

Key Advantages:

• 100% waterproof and moisture-resistant construction
• Maintains appearance after years of use—no fading or discolouration
• Excellent insulation properties comparable to hardwood
• Smooth, flawless painted finish in an extensive colour range
• Stable material won’t expand, contract or warp
• 10-year warranty included as standard
• Most cost-effective option without compromising quality

Best Suited For: Bathrooms, kitchens, conservatories, bedrooms, any room requiring moisture resistance

Delivery Time: 4 weeks from the UK manufacturing facility

MDF Plantation Shutters

Engineered from premium-grade MDF with impeccable painted finishes, these shutters offer exceptional value whilst maintaining high aesthetic standards. Perfect for:

• Bedrooms throughout South West London homes
• Living rooms and reception rooms in modern properties
• Rental properties in Kingston, Richmond and Wimbledon
• Projects with defined budgets requiring quality results
• Homes preferring painted finishes in contemporary or neutral colours

Key Advantages:

• Cost-effective solution with professional finish
• Smooth surface perfect for paint adhesion
• Stable material with excellent dimensional consistency
• Wide colour palette available
• Professional appearance indistinguishable from premium options

Best Suited For: Bedrooms, living rooms, dining rooms—any room except high-moisture environments

Important Note: Not suitable for bathrooms or kitchens with poor ventilation

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Extensive Colour Options & Complete Customisation

Shutters Design offers an extensive colour palette to complement any interior scheme—from classic whites perfect for period properties to contemporary greys ideal for modern homes, and bold statement colours for creative spaces.

Our Most Popular Colours in Kingston, Richmond & Wimbledon:

Timeless Classic Collection:

• Pure White – Crisp, timeless elegance for any property style
• Brilliant White – Brighter, contemporary tone for modern interiors
• Cream/Ivory – Softer, warmer alternative perfect for period homes
• Chalk White – Modern off-white with subtle grey undertones

Contemporary Neutral Palette:

• Silk Grey – Sophisticated mid-tone grey, hugely popular across SW London
• Stone/Taupe – Warm neutral beautifully complementing natural materials
• Dove Grey – Soft, elegant grey perfect for peaceful bedrooms
• Charcoal – Bold, dramatic statement for feature windows and modern homes

Heritage & Designer Colours:

• Farrow & Ball colour matching available – Match exactly to your existing paintwork
• Little Greene colour matching – Perfect coordination with heritage palettes
• Custom RAL colour matching – Any specific colour requirement accommodated
• Natural wood stain finishes – Enhance the grain of premium hardwood shutters

Tilt Rod Configuration Options:

• Central tilt rod – Traditional style with visible control bar
• Hidden tilt mechanism – Contemporary, minimalist appearance
• Offset tilt rod – Asymmetric design for architectural interest
• No tilt rod – Individual slat control for ultimate flexibility

Louvre Slat Size Options:

• 47mm louvres – Compact slats ideal for smaller windows and traditional aesthetics
• 64mm louvres – Standard size offering balanced light control and view-through
• 76mm louvres – Larger slats maximise views when open, a popular modern choice
• 89mm louvres – Premium extra-wide louvres for contemporary, minimalist aesthetics

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The Shutters Design Installation Process: What to Expect

Step 1: Free Home Design Consultation

We visit your property anywhere in Kingston, Richmond, Wimbledon or the surrounding areas at a time convenient to you. During this relaxed, no-obligation appointment, we:

• Assess your windows and discuss your specific requirements
• Explore design options, materials, colours and configurations
• Take precise measurements accounting for any irregularities
• Provide expert advice on the optimal shutter style for your property
• Present an instant, transparent quotation with no hidden fees or pressure

Duration: Typically 45-60 minutes Cost: Completely free with no obligation

Step 2: Bespoke UK Manufacturing

Once you approve the design, your shutters are handcrafted in our UK manufacturing facility to your exact specifications. British manufacturing ensures:

• Superior quality control at every production stage
• Faster delivery times (typically 4-6 weeks vs 12+ weeks from overseas)
• Support for British craftsmanship and skilled workers
• Direct communication throughout the manufacturing process
• Environmentally responsible shorter supply chains
• Easy resolution of any queries or adjustments needed

Manufacturing Time: 3-4 weeks, depending on material and complexity. Quality Assurance: Every shutter is inspected before dispatch

Step 3: Professional Expert Installation

Our experienced installation team arrives at your property fully equipped to complete the fitting efficiently, cleanly and professionally. We:

• Protect your floors, furniture and surrounding areas
• Install shutters with precision engineering and attention to detail
• Test all mechanisms thoroughly for smooth, effortless operation
• Clean up completely—leaving absolutely no mess or debris
• Provide comprehensive care instructions and warranty documentation
• Answer all questions about operation and maintenance

Typical Installation Timeframes:

• Single window: 1-2 hours
• Bay window (3-4 panels): 2-3 hours
• Multiple rooms (5-6 windows): Full day
• Whole house projects: Discussed and scheduled during consultation

Step 4: Aftercare & 10-Year Guarantee

Every Shutters Design installation includes our comprehensive 10-year warranty and ongoing support. Should you need adjustments, advice, or additional shutters in the future, we’re always available—just call Colin on 07776 123386.

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Areas We Proudly Serve Across South West London & Surrey

Shutters Design is your local plantation shutter specialist, serving homeowners throughout:

Kingston upon Thames & Surrounding Areas: Kingston town centre (KT1) • Kingston Vale • Kingston Hill • Norbiton • Berrylands • Tolworth • Surbiton (KT5, KT6) • Hook • Chessington • Malden Rushett • New Malden (KT3) • Worcester Park (KT4)

Richmond upon Thames & Surrounding Areas: Richmond town centre (TW9, TW10) • Richmond Hill • Richmond Park area • East Sheen • North Sheen • Kew (TW9) • Petersham • Ham • Twickenham (TW1, TW2) • St Margarets • Whitton • Teddington (TW11) • Hampton (TW12) • Hampton Hill • Hampton Court

Wimbledon & Merton Areas: Wimbledon Village (SW19) • South Wimbledon • Wimbledon Park • Raynes Park (SW20) • Copse Hill • Cottenham Park • Colliers Wood (SW19) • Merton Park • Morden (SM4) • Mitcham

Additional South West London & Surrey Areas: Putney (SW15) • Roehampton (SW15) • Barnes (SW13) • Mortlake (SW14) • Wandsworth (SW18) • Esher (KT10) • Weybridge (KT13) • Cobham (KT11) • Walton-on-Thames (KT12) • Molesey (KT8) • Thames Ditton (KT7) • Claygate (KT10)

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Why Choose Shutters Design?

Local Family-Run Business You Can Trust

As a family business based in Kingston, we understand South West London properties intimately. From Victorian sash windows in Richmond conservation areas to modern bi-folds in Kingston Riverside developments, we’ve worked across every property type and architectural style. Colin and Jeanine personally oversee every project, ensuring the highest standards.

UK Manufacturing Excellence

Unlike many competitors importing from overseas, our tailored shutters are crafted in Britain. This means superior quality control, faster turnaround times (3-4 weeks vs 12+ weeks), support for British craftsmanship, and direct communication throughout production.

Market-Leading 10-Year Warranty

We stand behind our products with a comprehensive 10-year guarantee on all hardwood and FauxWood shutters—one of the longest warranties in the industry. This reflects our confidence in both our manufacturing quality and installation expertise.

Transparent, Honest Pricing

As a family business with lower overheads than national chains, we offer premium-quality shutters at fair, competitive prices. No pushy sales tactics, no hidden costs, no pressure—just straightforward service you can trust. What we quote is what you pay.

5-Star Google Reviews

Don’t just take our word for it—read reviews from satisfied customers across Kingston, Richmond, Wimbledon and surrounding areas. Our reputation has been built on quality work, honest advice, and exceptional customer service.

Comprehensive Design Expertise

We’re not just installers—we’re design advisors who help you make informed decisions for your home’s architecture, interior style, and practical needs. With years of experience in South West London properties, we understand what works beautifully and functions perfectly.

Swift 4-Week Delivery

Our UK manufacturing facility delivers finished shutters in just 3-4 weeks from order confirmation—significantly faster than competitors importing from overseas. This means you can transform your home quickly without long waits.

Impeccable Installation Standards

Our installation teams are experienced, trained, and take genuine pride in their craftsmanship. We treat your home with respect, work cleanly and efficiently, and don’t consider the job complete until you’re absolutely delighted with the results.

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Recent Projects Across Kingston, Richmond & Wimbledon

Richmond Hill Victorian Semi-Detached Home Full-height plantation shutters in Silk Grey with hidden tilt rods for five period sash windows. The contemporary mechanism suited the clients’ modern interior whilst respecting the property’s Victorian architecture. The result: a stunning transformation blending period charm with modern functionality.

Kingston Riverside Luxury Apartment Brilliant white tier-on-tier shutters for floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the Thames. The independent top/bottom operation provides street-level privacy without sacrificing spectacular river views. Installation completed in one day with minimal disruption.

Wimbledon Village Georgian Townhouse Bespoke premium hardwood shutters custom-matched to Farrow & Ball ‘Cornforth White’ throughout three floors. Full-height shutters for bedrooms, café-style for the period kitchen, and a complex five-sided bay window design for the principal reception room—our most technically challenging and visually stunning project this year.

East Sheen Family Home Complete Transformation Waterproof FauxWood shutters for two bathrooms and ensuite, brilliant white MDF shutters for four bedrooms, and tracked bi-fold shutters for patio doors opening to the landscaped garden. A comprehensive whole-house installation completed over two days, transforming every room.

Twickenham Edwardian Bay Window Specialist Project A particularly challenging three-sided bay with uneven walls, non-standard angles, and significant irregularities. Our precision measurement process and UK manufacturing expertise delivered a perfect fit that has become the property’s standout architectural feature—precisely what bespoke shutters should achieve.

Hampton Court Period Cottage Solid panel shutters in traditional style for a Grade II listed cottage. Working within conservation guidelines, we created historically appropriate shutters that provide complete privacy and insulation whilst respecting the property’s 18th-century heritage.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Plantation Shutters

How much do plantation shutters cost in Kingston, Richmond, or Wimbledon?

Prices vary depending on material, style, window size, and configuration complexity. As a guide from Shutters Design:

• MDF shutters: £250-£350 per square metre
• FauxWood composite shutters: £300-£400 per square metre
• Premium hardwood shutters: £350-£500 per square metre

A typical bedroom window (1.2m x 1.5m) costs approximately £450-£900 fully installed, including VAT. We provide exact quotations during your free home consultation based on your specific requirements—no guesswork, no surprises.

What’s the difference between plantation shutters and traditional shutters?

Plantation shutters feature wider louvres (typically 64mm-89mm), offering better views when open, more dramatic light play when tilted, and easier cleaning with fewer slats to maintain. Traditional shutters have narrower slats (25mm-47mm). Plantation shutters originated in the American Southern states, where larger slats suited the climate and grand architectural proportions. They’ve become the contemporary standard in UK homes due to their clean, timeless aesthetic that works beautifully in both period and modern properties.

Are plantation shutters suitable for listed buildings and conservation areas in Richmond?

Absolutely. Shutters Design regularly installs shutters in listed buildings and conservation areas throughout Richmond, Kingston, and Wimbledon. Shutters are historically authentic—they predate curtains by centuries and were the original window covering in Georgian and Victorian properties. We advise on appropriate styles, materials, fixings and installation methods that comply with conservation guidelines whilst enhancing your property’s period character. We’ve successfully worked with conservation officers across multiple London boroughs.

How long do plantation shutters last?

With proper care (minimal—just occasional dusting), quality plantation shutters last 20-30+ years as standard. Premium hardwood shutters can last significantly longer—many Victorian shutters installed 100+ years ago remain functional today. This exceptional longevity makes shutters far more cost-effective than curtains or blinds requiring replacement every 5-10 years. Factor in the 10-year warranty from Shutters Design, and you’re making a genuine long-term investment.

Can you match shutters to Farrow & Ball or Little Greene paint colours?

Yes, absolutely. Shutters Design offers custom colour matching to any paint manufacturer including Farrow & Ball, Little Greene, Dulux, Crown, and any RAL colour code. This ensures perfect coordination with your existing interior scheme for a harmonious, professionally designed appearance. Popular choices in South West London include Farrow & Ball’s ‘Railings’, ‘Cornforth White’, ‘Pavilion Gray’, and Little Greene’s ‘Grey Teal’ and ‘French Grey’. Bring a paint chip or colour card to your consultation.

Do plantation shutters block out light completely?

Standard louvred shutters significantly reduce light when closed but don’t provide complete blackout due to small gaps between slats and the frame. Light reduction is typically 90-95% when closed. For bedrooms requiring total darkness for shift workers, young children, or home cinema rooms, we recommend:

• Solid panel shutters – Complete 100% blackout
• Shutters combined with blackout blinds – Layered solution
• Tight-fit frames with light-blocking seals – Minimises gap light

Most clients find that closed louvred shutters provide more than sufficient darkness for comfortable sleeping in typical bedroom situations.

Are shutters difficult to clean and maintain?

No—shutters are one of the easiest window coverings to maintain, which is why busy families across Kingston, Richmond and Wimbledon love them. Maintenance couldn’t be simpler:

• Weekly: Dust with a microfibre cloth or feather duster (takes 30 seconds per window)
• Monthly: Wipe with a slightly damp cloth for deeper cleaning
• As needed: Use mild soapy water for stubborn marks
• Never: Use harsh chemicals, abrasive cleaners, or excessive water

Unlike curtains requiring washing machines and ironing, or blinds with dust trapped in unreachable crevices, shutters take minutes to keep pristine. FauxWood shutters are particularly easy—simply wipe clean, even in bathrooms.

Can you install shutters on bay windows?

Bay windows are one of our specialities—and South West London is famous for beautiful bays from Victorian times through Edwardian periods to modern interpretations. We’ve perfected the art of measuring, manufacturing and fitting shutters that follow the exact angles, curves and depths of your bay. Whether angled, curved, box-style or modern geometric, we create seamless installations that enhance this architectural feature rather than compromise it. Bay window shutters consistently receive the most compliments from our clients’ visitors.

What’s the lead time from ordering to installation with Shutters Design?

Our typical timeline:

• Initial consultation: Usually within 3-5 days of your enquiry, or scheduled at your convenience
• UK manufacturing: 4-6 weeks from order confirmation to delivery (significantly faster than overseas imports)
• Installation: Scheduled at your convenience, typically completed in one day for standard projects

Rush orders may sometimes be accommodated for urgent requirements—discuss your timeline with Colin during consultation. We prioritise quality over speed, but our UK manufacturing gives us flexibility competitors can’t match.

Are shutters safe for children and pets?

Yes—plantation shutters are one of the safest window coverings available and recommended by child safety organisations. They feature:

• No dangling cords – Eliminates strangulation risks entirely
• Sturdy construction – Resistant to pulling, climbing or pet damage
• Smooth edges – No sharp components or pinch points
• Simple operation – Easy for older children to use safely
• No small parts – Nothing to detach and create choking hazards

For families in Kingston, Richmond and Wimbledon with young children or pets, shutters provide peace of mind alongside style—many clients specifically choose shutters after researching child safety statistics about cord-operated blinds.

Do shutters help reduce energy bills?

Yes, significantly. Shutters create an insulating air gap between the window and room interior, with thermal performance comparable to double glazing. Research shows shutters can reduce:

• Heat loss in winter: Up to 51% reduction compared to uncovered windows
• Heat gain in summer: Up to 70% reduction, keeping rooms cooler naturally
• Energy bills: Many clients report 10-15% reduction in heating/cooling costs

This proves particularly valuable in South West London’s period properties, where original single-glazed sash windows are protected features that cannot be replaced. Shutters effectively “double-glaze” your windows without structural changes, making period homes more comfortable and economical to run.

Can I install shutters myself to save money?

We strongly advise against DIY installation of plantation shutters. Professional installation requires:

• Precision measurements – Tolerances of just 1-2mm for a perfect fit
• Specialist tools and equipment – Not typically found in home toolkits
• Experience with variations – Every window is different; walls are rarely perfectly square
• Understanding of mechanics – Frame types, hinge configurations, adjustments
• Problem-solving expertise – Dealing with irregularities, pipes, and obstacles

Incorrect installation results in poor operation, gaps allowing light and draughts, damage to walls/windows, voided warranties, and ultimately costs more to rectify than professional installation would have cost initially. Our installation is included in the quoted price—there’s no genuine saving in DIY, only risk.

What’s the best material for bathroom shutters?

For bathrooms, always choose waterproof materials to prevent warping, discolouration and deterioration:

• FauxWood composite shutters (our recommendation): 100% waterproof, maintains appearance indefinitely, excellent for shower rooms and high-moisture bathrooms, identical appearance to painted wood, 10-year warranty
• Vinyl/PVC shutters: Completely waterproof, suitable for wet rooms and commercial settings, slightly more plastic appearance than FauxWood

Never use MDF or natural hardwood in bathrooms unless ventilation is exceptional and shutters are far from direct water contact. Even then, FauxWood offers better longevity. We’ve seen too many expensive hardwood shutters ruined by bathroom moisture—trust our experience and choose waterproof materials.

Do shutters work with unusual or non-standard windows?

Yes—bespoke manufacturing means we specialise in challenging windows that defeat off-the-shelf solutions. Shutters Design has successfully fitted:

• Arched windows – Gothic arches, semi-circular tops, Palladian windows
• Circular and oval windows – Precision-crafted curved shutters
• Angled windows – Rake windows in loft conversions, angled bay windows
• Floor-to-ceiling glass – Modern expansive windows and sliding doors
• French doors and bi-fold doors – Tracked systems that fold away completely
• Skylights – Specialist systems for roof windows (consultation required)
• Windows with obstructions – Radiators, deep sills, tiled surrounds, pipes

During consultation, we assess your specific situation and design a solution that works perfectly. “Impossible” windows are our favourite challenge—and where bespoke UK manufacturing truly excels over standard imports.

Can I paint or re-stain my shutters later if I redecorate?

Yes—shutters can be repainted or refinished when you redecorate, though most clients find this unnecessary as timeless neutral colours work across multiple decorating schemes. If you do decide to repaint:

• Professional repainting recommended for significant colour changes
• Light sanding before painting ensures optimal adhesion
• Use quality furniture paint or eggshell for the best results and durability
• Hardwood shutters can be stripped and re-stained to change or refresh the wood tone
• FauxWood shutters repaint easily due to their smooth, stable surface

Most clients choose classic neutrals initially (whites, greys, creams) that transcend decorating trends and complement any colour scheme changes—one of shutters’ many practical advantages over fabric treatments tied to specific colour palettes.

How do shutters compare to curtains and blinds?

Shutters vs Curtains:

• Durability: 25+ years vs 5-10 years
• Maintenance: Simple wipe clean vs washing, dry cleaning, ironing
• Light control: Precise adjustable louvres vs all-or-nothing
• Allergens: Smooth cleanable surface vs fabric trapping dust, pollen, pet hair
• Investment: Higher initial cost but better long-term value
• Property value: Increase home value vs no impact or potential negative
• Child safety: No cords or hazards vs potential cord strangulation risks

Shutters vs Blinds:

• Construction: Solid, durable vs fragile mechanisms, breakable components
• Aesthetics: Architectural, integrated vs utilitarian, afterthought appearance
• Insulation: Superior thermal performance vs minimal insulation value
• Safety: No cords vs cord strangulation risks (even “cordless” blinds have mechanisms)
• Cleaning: Easy thorough cleaning vs difficult to clean thoroughly, dust traps
• Longevity: Decades of perfect operation vs mechanisms failing within years
• Repairs: Rarely needed vs common broken cords, bent slats, failed mechanisms

Do shutters add value to my property?

Yes, measurably. Quality plantation shutters are considered a premium permanent fixture that appeals strongly to buyers in South West London’s competitive property market. Estate agents in Kingston, Richmond and Wimbledon consistently confirm that:

• Homes with shutters typically sell faster than comparable properties
• Shutters are specifically mentioned as desirable features in property listings
• Buyers perceive shutters as high-end, quality additions suggesting a well-maintained property
• Unlike curtains which buyers often dislike and plan to replace, shutters are almost always retained
• Properties with shutters throughout often achieve the asking price or above in competitive situations

While difficult to quantify exactly (property value has many variables), industry estimates suggest quality shutters contribute 1-3% additional value on properties in premium postcodes—potentially £5,000-£15,000 on typical South West London homes. They’re one of the few home improvements that genuinely pay for themselves.

Can you install shutters in rental properties?

Yes, though we recommend landlords consult tenants and vice versa, as shutters become permanent fixtures. For landlords investing in rental properties across Kingston, Richmond and Wimbledon, shutters offer:

• Durability across multiple tenancies – No replacement costs like curtains/blinds
• Low maintenance requirements – Reduced management time and costs
• Attractive premium feature – Commands higher rent in competitive markets
• Reduced tenant damage – Solid construction withstands normal use
• Enhanced property appeal – Attracts quality tenants willing to pay premium rent
• Long-term cost savings – Initial investment recovered through reduced replacements

Many professional landlords view shutters as a strategic investment for long-term rental properties, particularly in higher-value areas where tenants expect quality fixtures and fittings.

What if my windows aren’t square or my walls are uneven?

This is extremely common in period properties throughout Richmond, Kingston and Wimbledon—in fact, perfectly square windows are the exception rather than the rule in Victorian, Edwardian and Georgian homes. Our process specifically accounts for irregularities:

• Multiple measurement points – We map variations across the window opening
• Custom manufacturing – Each shutter panel is made to exact measurements, including variations
• Installation techniques – Professional methods that compensate for uneven walls
• Beading and architrave – Creates a seamless finish, disguising irregularities
• Adjustment capabilities – Frames and hinges can be fine-tuned during installation

We’ve successfully fitted shutters in Victorian properties where nothing is remotely square, Georgian houses with walls several inches out of true, and conversions with significant structural issues. It’s what we do every day