Tan House Exteriors Matched with Black Shutters
Adding black shutters is an excellent way to enhance the curb appeal of a tan house exterior. The bold contrast between the neutral tan walls and dark black shutters creates a striking and elegant look.
Complementary Colors
Black and tan are considered complementary colors on the color wheel, meaning they are directly opposite each other. When paired, they create a vibrant look that adds visual interest.
While tan house exteriors evoke feelings of warmth and comfort, black shutters add a sophisticated splash of contrast. Together, the colors complement each other beautifully.
a. Color Wheel Basics
The color wheel is a useful visual tool for understanding color relationships. It contains primary, secondary, and tertiary colors. Complementary colors are located opposite each other on the wheel.
b. Benefits of Using Complementary Colors
- Creates a vibrant, eye-catching contrast
- Adds dimension and depth
- Balances light and dark tones
c. More Examples of Complementary Color Pairings
- Red and green
- Yellow and purple
- Blue and orange
Why Black Shutters Work Well with Tan Houses
There are several reasons why black shutters pair exceptionally well with tan house exteriors:
a. Bold Contrast
The high contrast between the black and tan creates a striking, eye-catching look full of visual tension. The black draws attention to the windows, doors, and architecture details.
b. Versatility
Black is extremely versatile and complements almost any color. But it looks especially sharp against soft neutral backdrops like tan, beige, cream, or white.
c. Classic and Timeless
While color trends come and go, black will always remain a classic. Black shutters offer timeless elegance that won't date the look of a home.
Style Options for Black Shutters
Black shutters offer plenty of style flexibility. Here are some of the most popular design choices:
a. Full vs Half Shutters
- Full shutters cover the entire window area
- Half shutters only cover portion of the window
b. Common Styles
- Raised panel
- Louvered
- Board and batten
- Arched
c. Consider Shape and Architectural Details
For a cohesive look, choose shutter shapes and sizes to match the windows. Also complement the home's existing architectural details.
Best Practices for Installing Black Shutters
Installing shutters the right way ensures they enhance the home for years to come:a. Ensure Proper Fit
Custom-sized shutters fit the windows perfectly. For a clean look, ensure shutters sit flush and don't leave gaps.
b. Choose Durable Materials
While vinyl is affordable, wood offers a classic charm. For longevity, look for weather-resistant wood, composite, or aluminum.
c. Consider Hiring a Professional
Precisely installing shutters levels, centered, and secured requires expertise. A professional ensures it's done right the first time.
Costs and ROI of Installing Black Shutters
Investing in black shutters offers excellent return on investment over time:a. Added Curb Appeal Increases Home Value
Enhancing exterior aesthetics with black shutters can boost a home's value by 4-5%.
b. Durability Saves on Frequent Repainting and Replacement
Quality materials like wood, aluminum, and composite resist weathering, saving on maintenance costs.
c. DIY vs Professional Installation
- DIY shutters can save on upfront costs
- Hiring a pro ensures proper fit and finish
Alternatives Colors Besides Black
While black has universal appeal, other dark colors also pair beautifully with tan homes:
a. Dark Taupe
For a softer contrast, earthy dark taupe complements tan in a more neutral way.
b. Crisp White
Bright white shutters pop against tan siding, creating a beach cottage vibe.
c. Navy Blue
For a subtle splash of color, navy blue shutters add personality while still pairing well with tan.
What to Avoid with Black Shutters
To ensure black shutters improve home aesthetics, steer clear of these pitfalls:a. Flimsy Vinyl Shutters
Cheap plastic shutters easily warp, crack, and fade, ruining the upscale look.
b. Mismatched Sizes
Skipping custom sizing results in uneven shutters that detract from the architecture.
c. Clashing Colors
Bold black risks overwhelming other colors like red brick. Seek professional design advice first.
Gallery of Black Shutters on Tan Houses
Seeing real-world examples illustrates how striking the black and tan color scheme can be. Here is a photo gallery showing diverse shutter styles that complement tan houses beautifully:
Traditional Farmhouse Style
The classic farmhouse gets a stylish makeover with the addition of black full louvered shutters. They enhance the home's curb appeal and add architectural interest.
Modern Black Board and Batten
On this contemporary light tan house, sleek vertical board and batten black shutters reinforce the modern aesthetic with bold lines.
Coastal Cottage Charm
Half-louvered shutters in black update this beachy cottage with breezy contrast and dimension while retaining the relaxed seaside vibe.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions about adding black shutters to tan house exteriors:
Do black shutters work with all shades of tan?
Deep tan or brown may overwhelm black shutters. Lighter shades like beige and cream showcase black best.
What style should I choose?
Consider architectural style first. Louvered suits cottages, board and batten complements modern homes.
Are black shutters high maintenance?
Quality woods naturally resist weathering. For longevity, proper installation and occasional sealing is key.
Black shutters can make a dramatic, elegant statement against tan house exteriors. The bold contrast showcases a home's architecture while adding dimension. From stately woods to sleek composites, black offers timeless appeal across home styles from traditional to contemporary.
When sourcing shutters, ensure they properly fit the windows and complement existing trim details. Hiring a professional ensures proper installation for visual appeal that boosts curb appeal over the years.
Black shutters can make a light tan house pop in new ways.