Matching Shutters to Window Trim & Paint

Plantation shutters do not have to match the window trim exactly, but matching or closely coordinating the two usually creates the most seamless, built-in appearance.

In this article

Overview

White and neutral shutters are designed to visually become part of the window, so choosing a tone that sits comfortably beside the architrave can make the transition from trim to shutter almost disappear.

There is no rule saying they must match. Contrasting trim can work beautifully when contrast is intentional and repeated elsewhere in the room.

For this step, if you are planning to repaint the architrave, do it before the shutters are installed. Painting around a finished shutter is slower and increases the risk of marking the shutter or leaving an uneven paint edge.