- Traditional shutters offer an alternative to modern air conditioning for cooling homes, working with the climate rather than against it.
- Italian 'persiane alla genovese' shutters have louvred panels that open in sequence for privacy and cooling, painted green for uniformity.
- French 'jalousies' shutters allow viewing out without being seen, with white or sage colors for reflection and dust hiding.
- Caribbean Bahama shutters open vertically, act as canopies against hurricanes and rain, and are made from durable materials.
- Maltese 'muxrabija' shutters are latticed timber boxes that filter light and provide privacy, fully integrated into building facades.
- Ancient Greek stone screens used thinly cut marble to let in light while blocking elements, inspiring a return to simple, seasonal architecture.