Security and lifestyle choices are driving one of the most persistent trends in the South African property market, more and more home buyers are choosing to live in security estates rather than freestanding homes.

Recent research conducted by Lightstone Property shows that estate property makes up over 15% of the total 6,2 million residential properties in South Africa, and the percentage is set to continue increasing as demand remains higher than supply.

With the price of an estate property averaging at R2 million – almost three times the national average property cost of R700 000 – homeowners are looking for quality finishes that not only match and enhance the aesthetic of their homes, but that add value to their property.

“We are manufacturing and installing an increasing number of shutters for homes within security estates,” says Karina Palmer, interior designer and marketing director of AMERICAN shutters®. “Anything from a single shutter to multiple installations of shutters and blinds throughout the home.”

According to Karina, the reason so many estate homeowners choose shutters over fabric window dressings, for example, is multifaceted. In addition to the fact that shutters are considered permanent fixtures and add actual financial value to a property, shutters also offer complete privacy without compromising views, natural light and ventilation.

“The security and lifestyle benefits of estate living are obvious, but one potential drawback is the loss of privacy. Although the community concept of estate living allows residents free and safe access to the shared areas and facilities of the estate, it also puts homes and residents in close proximity to one another and this impacts on personal privacy,” says Karina. “However, with a tilt of the shutter louvres, homeowners are able to obstruct sight lines into their homes without losing views, natural light and fresh air.”

For more than three decades AMERICAN shutters have been recognised as leaders in the supply and installation of superior quality interior and exterior shutters throughout South Africa. Whether it is their most cost-effective and eco-friendly Decowood Shutter range or their new improved Security Shutters, any home is enhanced by their sheer timeless beauty and practicality.

AMERICAN shutters recently installed custom-made Decowood shutters and complementary Privacy Blinds throughout a beautiful home in the Val de Vie Estate in Paarl in the Western Cape.

From the bedrooms to the bathrooms, kitchen to the living areas, the shutters perfectly complement the gorgeous interiors of the home and make the utmost of the beautiful surroundings. One of the most remarkable features of this installation is how the shutter panels slide inside a wall cavity when opened, allowing a 100% unobstructed view of the beautiful estate. When closed, they provide complete privacy and ultimate light and ventilation control.

Homeowner Gail is thrilled with her shutters – “it has added timeless sophistication and elegance to our home” – and is quick to recommend AMERICAN shutters to friends and professionals.