We really can't see any shutters here, and personally, if it were my home, I wouldn't cover the beautiful windows with any shutters. You don't appear to need privacy. If sun fade is a problem, today's hi-tech UV window films could solve that and preserve your lovely views. I certainly wouldn't put shutters on the door's sidelights, even if you decide to put them on the other windows.

Thank you very much --- actually, it is a desire for a sense of privacy and to warm the area up. In winter, another home could see in one of the windows -- however it's unlikely that anyone would look. We went for years with the windows "open" and like it, but when I consulted a decorator on ways to cozy up the space a bit, she suggested we extend the shutters to other windows, and I have gone back and forth whether to do this (in my own mind) for years. One shutter guy echoed your point about leaving the big windows open, so I'm glad I'm asking and hearing from people I know will help me figure it out. We do need shutters on the sidelites -- the question is whether to match the 2.5 louver or go for the 3.5" version. The shutters would be open alot - but be closed at night and when we desire privacy. Thank you again!! Happy new year :)

Stationary fabric panels at the large windows will be more "cozy" than shutters, which are just another hard surface. If you have no budget concerns match them all at the larger 3.5" version. Consider replacing the solid glass sidelights with heavily patterned etched glass - very hard to see through that and much more suitable than skinny shutters would be in that location.

I know its 9 months later (!) but I think mixing the sizes would be ok. I think on your door sidelights it would be good to match the stain color in the shutters. It would add warmth and enlarge the drama of the door

I am not a professional decorator, but I have had the same question about not having the same louver size in my home. I've decided that there is no reason to not mix the two throughout the home. My living room faces south, and faces our street. I have put up samples of both the 3 1/2 and 4 1/2 louver. Personally I feel the 3 1/2 give the room a cozier, classic feel to it, plus I feel it lends a bit more privacy when they are open. My dining, kitchen and family room face north and the backyard. I feel I need more light exposure in those rooms, besides the fact that I love to look out into my backyard. So the 4 1/2 it is. I haven't ordered them as of yet, but I'm feeling really good about my decision on this one. If you get a chance, let me know what you ended up doing, and if you're happy with your decision.