We recently completed a beautiful installation of anthracite tracked plantation shutters for a customer in Wilmslow, Cheshire. Designed specifically to sit over a wide set of bi-fold doors, these shutters were colour matched to the existing frames to create a seamless, high-end finish that perfectly complements the modern aesthetic of the property.
The result is clean, architectural and practical — exactly what shutters over bi-fold doors should be.
Designed for Large Openings
Bi-fold doors are a fantastic feature in any home, flooding rooms with natural light and opening up to the garden during warmer months. However, finding the right window covering can be challenging. Curtains can feel heavy and intrusive, while blinds often lack the structure and presence needed for such a large glazed area.
Tracked shutters are purpose-built for this type of installation. Mounted onto a smooth-gliding track system, the panels slide neatly to one or both sides, allowing full access to the doors when open. When closed, they create a solid, uniform look that enhances both privacy and insulation.
Superior Light Control
One of the key advantages of plantation shutters over bi-fold doors is precise light control. Adjustable louvres allow you to:
Reduce glare without losing natural daylight
Angle light upwards to brighten the ceiling
Close fully for privacy in the evenings
Unlike roller blinds, which are either up or down, shutters give you layered control throughout the day.
Improved Thermal Efficiency
Large expanses of glass can be a weak point in a home’s insulation, particularly in the colder months. Shutters add an extra barrier between the room and the glazing, helping to:
Reduce heat loss during winter
Minimise draughts
Keep interiors cooler during hot summer days
The structured panels create a pocket of insulating air, making them a practical as well as stylish addition.
Added Sound Reduction
For homes in busy areas of Wilmslow or near main roads, shutters can also help soften external noise. While not soundproofing, the solid panels and snug fit can noticeably reduce the sharpness of outside sounds compared to blinds or bare glass.
A Stronger Sense of Security & Privacy
With bi-fold doors often opening onto gardens or patios, privacy can be a concern. Shutters offer full coverage when required, giving peace of mind in the evenings without sacrificing style. From the outside, they also present a solid, structured appearance that feels more substantial than fabric coverings.
A Perfect Colour Match
For this Wilmslow installation, the anthracite finish was carefully chosen to match the existing bi-fold frames. This attention to detail ensures the shutters look like an integrated part of the original design rather than an afterthought.
The tracked configuration allows wide panels to move smoothly, maintaining the clean lines and symmetry of the doors.
