I recently supplied a set of shutters to the Isle of Wight for a customer who has previously ordered with me. However, this set was unusual as the customer was keen to be able to remove the shutter panels completely during the day to enjoy the beautiful view from their home.
After discussing the customer’s requirements, as they have a beautiful view and a window seat in a square bay, the customer’s builder and I came up with an interesting solution. We agreed to fit battens around the inside of the window recess. The shutter panels would bi-fold and would lift into the window between the battens to be held in place by a series of magnets. It would also be possible to lift them out and fold them away as you would a room divider during the day, with felt pads attached to the bottom to prevent damage when this is done.
The added bonus is also that when the house is empty the shutter panels can be put back in place, and the louvers closed, helping to make the property secure as it is impossible to see through them to assess what might be inside. At night it also makes it difficult to see if there is anyone home. Closing the shutters also means that light won’t damage furniture or fittings, and when home they can angle the louver blades to direct light away.
Supplying places like the Isle of Wight with shutters is always a pleasure, as many of the homes are enhanced greatly by them, as the louvers can be left open to ensure maximum light and prevent the view being obscured. Another bonus is that they are easy to clean, and can be wiped if necessary to prevent any build up from the salty air near the coast. My ABS option is particularly suitable for seafront properties if being wipe-cleanable is particularly important.