We often use shutters in our projects for their historical accuracy and the beauty and proportions they lend to a home’s facade. When we design a window with shutters, we detail the hardware so they can be closed if necessary. In the United States, historically, shutters were used to control sun exposure, ventilation, privacy, and security. A good example of shutters for sun control is shown below on the New Iberia, Louisiana home, Shadows on the Teche, which has enormous shutters protecting part of its expansive porch.
One of my favorite places to research historical details is the Historic American Buildings Survey, which was part of the W.P.A. and kept architects and photographers from starving during the Great Depression. All the photographs shown are part of H.A.B.S. and are used with their permission. I have spent many hours looking up random details and buildings just for the fun of it. I encourage you to do the same.
Photos by Historic American Buildings Survey   Curated Brochure by Crisp Architects: Portfolio
To get my monthly newsletter, On The Drawing Board, click here. Jimmy Crisp