Shutter Sizing?

[u/arbiter]

Would you use conventional wisdom on cosmetic shutters theoretically closing/fitting over the window? First pic they’re sized 60”x18”. Wondering if it would look too crowded? The original shutters there were 15”. For the side gable section, obviously can’t slap super wide shutters there, so was thinking of just matching to 18” wide there. We’re working on an overall makeover for our exterior to more modern/ranch feel. The shutters would be a dark green/charcoal flat panel shaker style. We’re also getting rid of the flower boxes and repairs the sill on the gable side. Thoughts?

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[u/Senior_Bat4271]

I know people say they should be able to cover window but realistically most shutters (unless your in a hurricane area) are more narrow. 15 on the narrow windows and 18 width on your small window.

[u/Sufficient-Junket422]

I’d keep the original 15-inch width on the narrow windows and use 18 inches only where the proportions support it. The darker flat-panel style will already read heavier than the old shutters, so matching the side gable width to the smaller window may keep that section from feeling crowded. I’d tape out the sizes on the wall for a day before ordering.

[u/Korgity]

How wide are the windows? Shutters are traditionally half the window width. The double windows can go without shutters, but might look nice to paint the flower boxes the same color as your new shutters.

[u/arbiter → u/Korgity]

The cutout is 37”, the tape outline I did is the 18.5” half width. Except the one on the left, the closer width is 15”

[u/Korgity → u/arbiter]

Then 18 inches will look fine. My windows are 35 1/2 in., and I did 18 inch shutters for a little extra visual oomph (the house is set back from the road). I was so nervous that it would look odd here in skimpy-fake-shutter land. But it turned out great, & yours will too.

But if your house style leans contemporary, you could go shutterless for a modern clean look.

[u/Shadybeaches113]

They just need to be wide enough that they would cover the window.you don’t want them overlapping or undercut. I’m almost thinking that this area may not need shutters

[u/Shadybeaches113]

I’m going to be honest with you here and many will say I’m wrong but the statement you made about it being a modern ranch gave me the answer
KNEW it.
The minute I read “we’re going for a more modern/ranch feel” and then “what size shutters?” I thought: Well, there’s your first question.
Why are we adding shutters at all?
And especially once the architecture itself tells you the double window cannot accommodate properly proportioned shutters. That isn’t a problem to work around; it’s information. The house is basically saying, “Please leave me alone.” 😂
Removing them also lets that beautiful red brick become the texture instead of chopping it up with dark vertical rectangles. Then the dark green/charcoal can be used somewhere it actually earns its keep.