Shutters for Townhouse Living: Privacy Without the Dark

Townhouses and apartments on the Central Coast are built closer together than the quarter-acre blocks many of us grew up with. That's fine until you notice your neighbour's balcony sits level with your lounge window. Plantation shutters handle that. Tilt the blades to keep the sun and the view while blocking the line of sight. Close them when you want more privacy. Here's how they work in a close-quarters home, and what to expect.

How do plantation shutters give privacy without blocking light?

The blades tilt. That's the whole trick, and it's why shutters suit homes where the neighbours are close.

Tilt the blades partly closed and you cut the line of sight from outside, while daylight still comes in. Tilt them open and you get the view back. Close them right down and the room feels private, day or night.

Curtains and many blinds work in two states, open or shut. Shutters give you everything in between. You can angle the blades so the sun softens on the floor but the person on the next balcony can't see in.

Which windows in a townhouse or apartment need privacy most?

It's usually the windows that face a neighbour or a shared walkway. Start with these:

• Living room windows facing a neighbouring balcony or courtyard. You want daylight, but you don't want eye contact while you're on the couch. Our lounge room page has more ideas.
• Bedrooms close to a side boundary. Blockout options are available in the room, and the shutters give you a clean, tidy look.
• Bathrooms and ensuites. These rooms need privacy most of the day, and tilting the blades lets light in without opening the view.
• Street-facing windows. Shutters let you keep the view and control who can see in.

Can you see through plantation shutters when they're closed?

Mostly no, but not completely. Plantation shutters aren't sold as a complete blockout product. There are small gaps between the blades, and at night a lit room can show some light or movement. If total darkness matters, such as in a bedroom for shift workers, tell us. We can talk through your options for that room.

Do plantation shutters suit apartments?

Often, yes. Each set is made to fit your window, so odd sizes aren't a problem. Shutters have no cords, and they wipe clean with a damp cloth.

How do I look after plantation shutters?

Day to day, there's not much to it. Shutters are easy to wipe clean, so a damp cloth over the blades and frame takes care of most marks.

When you want to change the angle, move the blades together rather than working on one blade at a time. To open a panel, use the frame instead of pulling on the blades. That keeps the blades lined up and the panel working smoothly.

We're happy to show you how the operation works at your free measure and quote. You can also try a sample in the Erina showroom before you decide.

Which type of shutter should I choose for a close-neighbour home?

We make plantation shutters in PVC/polymer and timber, including the Capri Driftwood Series. We also make aluminium external shutters for indoor-outdoor living, such as alfresco areas, decks, BBQ areas and outdoor spa areas. Tilt the blades to let the light in and keep the space open, or close them down when you want more privacy.

The best choice depends on the room, your style and how you use the space. The showroom is the easiest place to compare. You can see samples in natural light, tilt the blades yourself and judge the privacy first-hand.

Ready to see how it would look in your place?

Request a Free Quote for plantation shutters, or visit our Erina showroom at 1/217 The Entrance Road, Erina NSW 2250. We're open Mon–Fri 9:30am–5:00pm and Sat 10:00am–3:00pm, and closed Sundays and public holidays. For shutters enquiries, call or text 0420 112 810 or email info@mytimber.com.au. We cover about 50km around Erina, and you can check your suburb on our service areas page. Come home to calm.

Frequently Asked Questions