Café Shutters: European Style, Privacy, and Versatility
Doesn’t the phrase “café shutters” sound sophisticated? The window treatment experts at Cindy's Window Fashions certainly think it does. And even though the design appears elegant, the installation and operation are straightforward. We love how the European flair enhances interior space, and we enjoy helping clients customize these shutters. Today, we’re happy to share what these unique window treatments are and how you can enjoy them in your home.
The Basics of Café Window Shutters
Café shutters serve the same purpose as other window treatments — controlling light and privacy. They originated in European bistros, where they shielded patrons from glare while discouraging passersby from peeking inside. These coverings are traditionally attached midway along windows, leaving the upper sections open to light. That way, diners enjoyed partial concealment and could see what was on their plates.
That styling still holds appeal, and the half-open, half-covered profile adds a touch of elegance to homes. We recommend them for dining areas, washrooms, and recreation rooms that can benefit from this kind of ambiance. Rather than eliminating daylight entirely, café shutters create a cozy atmosphere and add character to the space.
Creating the Look with Hunter Douglas Shutters
Cindy's Window Fashions partners with Hunter Douglas to customize three of their shutters in the café style. Each comes with 2 ½", 3 ½", or 4 ½" louver sizes.
- Heritance® Wood Shutters feature 100% hardwood basswood or poplar and are offered in over 20 colors. They look just like finely painted wood, with a stunning Finetech® finish and Truemill® dovetail construction.
- Palm Beach™ Polysatin™ Vinyl Shutters have heat- and moisture-resistant materials, and Hunter Douglas manufactures them in three colors. These café window shutters are perfect for kitchens, bathrooms, and other hot and humid rooms.
- NewStyle® Composite Shutters also boast Truemill® dovetail construction and a gorgeous finish, but are made with composite materials for added durability. Choose from eight finishes and we’ll install them in your high-traffic rooms.
Why Should I Get Café Shutters?
Yes, they look lovely, but are café shutters worth the investment? We think so. The adjustable louvers provide control over incoming light without blocking it entirely, so you can adjust the brightness as needed throughout the day. They're also effective at providing privacy at eye level while leaving the upper window open for natural light and ventilation. This versatile, partial coverage also means you can maintain your outside views and avoid hiding a pretty window frame or architectural detail.
Built from durable materials, café shutters tend to last longer than fabric window treatments and require little maintenance — just occasional dusting or a quick wipe-down. They also add a layer of insulation between your room and the window glass, which controls the inside temperature.
Get Custom Window Treatments in Gresham, OR
We are dedicated to serving each and every customer, whether your job is a whole home or as simple as covering one window. Stop in to see Hunter Douglas café shutters or contact us for a consultation in Gresham, Portland, Clackamas, Happy Valley, Damascus, Sandy, Oregon City, Milwaukie, Corbett, Hood River, Cascade Locks, Lake Oswego, Beaverton, Hillsboro, Tigard, West Linn, Fairfield, Troutdale, OR, and Vancouver, Camas, Battle Ground, WA.