What Window Treatments Look

Best from the Outside?

TLDR;

Shutters, 2-inch wood blinds, and roller shades with white backings are top choices for enhancing exterior aesthetics. They offer a clean, uniform look that complements any home's curb appeal, especially when matched with the home's exterior design.

Why Exterior Appearance in Window Treatments Matters

When choosing window coverings, it’s easy to focus only on how they look from the inside. But smart homeowners know: the outside view matters just as much.

• Curb appeal is everything
• Window treatments affect the first impression of your home
• Consistent exterior-facing window designs add home value

Whether you’re a homeowner, renter, or property investor, selecting the right window treatments for the exterior is a powerful yet often overlooked design move.

Creating Curb Appeal from the Street

A beautiful home exterior makes a statement before anyone even steps inside.

• Uniform window coverings signal care and attention
• Real estate professionals emphasize exterior presentation for faster sales
• Homes with polished, matching window treatments appear more upscale

Inside-Out vs. Outside-In Design

From the street, mismatched blinds and curtains create a cluttered look. That visual disarray breaks the harmony of your facade.

• Aligning treatments across windows ensures visual symmetry
• Especially important for multi-story homes or townhouses
• Aim for treatments that match in color, shape, and orientation when viewed from the outside
  

Key Factors That Influence Exterior Appeal

Understanding the role of material, color, and size compatibility is crucial when selecting the right window coverings.

Material & Durability

Exterior window treatments must stand up to weather without compromising beauty.

• Vinyl: Affordable, fade-resistant, low-maintenance
• Wood: Classic elegance but susceptible to warping
• Aluminum: Sleek, rust-resistant, modern vibe
• Composite: Durable and mimics wood without the upkeep

Wondering which one suits your needs best? Our guide on the best shutter material can help you compare options based on durability, weather resistance, and aesthetic appeal.

Consider weather patterns in your area. Moisture? Go vinyl or composite. High sun exposure? Choose fade-resistant options.

Color Coordination with Home Exterior

Your window coverings should complement your siding, trim, and roof.

• White or off-white blinds work well with nearly all exteriors
• Gray homes: Pair with black shutters or white roller shades
• Brick homes: Natural wood tones or taupe composite shutters
• Light-colored stucco: Add contrast with bold-tone shutters

Pro tip from Shop Love Is Blinds: Keep the exterior-facing side consistent, even if the interior color varies by room.

Window Size & Style Compatibility

Not all window treatments suit every window type. Match the treatment to your window style:

• Bay windows: Look stunning with custom plantation shutters
• Casement windows: Favor roller shades or outside-mount blinds
• Arched windows: Use shaped blinds or layered curtains

Traditional homes benefit from classic silhouettes. Modern homes shine with minimalist styles.

Best Exterior-Facing Window Treatments for Curb Appeal

Shutters (Timeless Curb Appeal)

If you want guaranteed impact from the outside, start here.

• Plantation shutters: Elegant and versatile
• Louvered shutters: Coastal charm with airflow benefits
• Board and batten: Rustic appeal for farm-style homes

Ideal for: Colonial, Mediterranean, and Farmhouse designs

Exterior shutters instantly elevate your home's look while offering light control and privacy.

Outdoor Curtains & Drapes

Perfect for patios, balconies, or large windows that open to outdoor areas.

• UV-resistant fabrics last longer
• All-weather curtains withstand rain and heat
• Flowy options create a soft, welcoming exterior



Style tip: Choose neutral tones to blend with your home or bold colors to stand out.

Motorized & Smart Blinds

Exterior beauty meets innovation.

• Smart blinds offer uniformity across multiple windows
• Motorization allows perfect alignment with the press of a button
• Reduce human error: blinds always look tidy from the outside

Also improves energy efficiency and indoor comfort.

Awnings & Solar Shades

For sun-facing windows or patios:

• Retractable awnings protect from sun and rain
• Solar shades reduce heat gain while providing sleek visuals



Enhances both performance and appearance, especially in modern or desert homes.

Style Guides Based on Home Architecture

Modern Homes

Modern architecture calls for crisp, clean lines.

• Minimalist roller shades in neutral or dark tones
• Blackout solar blinds with sleek housing
• Smart controls for seamless appearance and convenience

Traditional Homes

Highlight charm and symmetry.

• Wooden shutters offer timeless elegance
• Textured Roman shades for classic interiors
• Soft fabrics for window layering

Coastal or Tropical Homes

Think breezy, relaxed, and resilient.

• Bamboo shades for natural aesthetics
• White plantation shutters stand up to humidity
• Outdoor curtains for porches and lanais

Weather & Climate Considerations

Hot Weather Climates

Keep interiors cool and exteriors clean:

• Solar shades reduce glare and heat
• Awnings protect against direct sun
• Use light-colored treatments to reflect heat

Cold or Wet Weather

You need moisture and cold-resistant materials:

• Vinyl blinds resist swelling and mildew
• Composite shutters are durable in snow and rain
• Use layered window coverings for insulation

Always consider the year-round conditions where you live.

Smart Home Integration & Energy Savings

Automating Exterior Window Treatments

Upgrade your facade with smart tech:

• Remote control for aligned visuals
• Schedule settings for time-of-day aesthetics
• Integrates with most home automation systems

Energy Efficiency from the Outside In

Curb appeal doesn’t mean sacrificing sustainability:

• Reduce solar gain with solar shades or awnings
• Trap heat in winter with lined curtains
• Lower energy bills while boosting exterior charm

Maintenance Tips for Exterior-Facing Window Treatments

Cleaning Based on Material

• Wood: Dust often, avoid excess moisture
• Vinyl: Wipe with mild detergent and water
• Fabric curtains: Hose down or machine wash when possible

When to Replace or Refresh

Watch for:

• Warped slats or cracked materials
• Fading or peeling paint
• Mold or mildew on fabrics

Shop Love Is Blinds Tip: Check your exterior-facing treatments every 12 months and refresh as needed to keep your curb appeal sharp.

Expert Picks and Buyer Recommendations

Here’s a quick table to help narrow your options: