Entry Door Ideas to Emulate

 

If you’re looking to create a focal point for the front of your home, an intriguing option is the entry door. Wendy Cline, J&B Construction owner, suggests a variety of ways to have the front door stand out and create a positive impression.

Color

One of the first features visitors and passersby alike will take note of when it comes to a home’s exterior, is the color of the home’s front door. “Whether you choose a more neutral, subdued color that blends into your home’s other exterior features, or you opt for a bolder color that really pops against the rest of the home, the color you ultimately select sets the tone for your front entry as well as the rest of the home.” Wendy said.

Colors that are in style right now include those found in nature, such as varying shades of blue and green, and even lavender, as these colors are ideal for complementing surrounding plants and flowers. Moreover, lighter shades of blue and green particularly work well with traditional homes as they create a focal point while still aligning with the home’s architecture. “Another popular option is to paint the front door black,” she said. “A classic choice, black front doors are always on trend and create a high amount of contrast. It especially works well against a lighter-colored home, such as a home with white or cream-colored siding.”

Lighting

The type of lighting fixtures and arrangement chosen will influence the entire look and feel of the front entry. Not only should there be adequate lighting to properly light the space at night, but the lighting fixtures can also serve as a statement piece. “An easy way to choose the right lighting fixtures for your home is to complement the existing architectural style, whether that’s traditional, Cape Cod, Colonial, contemporary, or anything in between,” said Wendy. “If you favor simplicity, then flanking the front door with two twin lights is a classic lighting technique. For those who tend to opt for more details and added luxury, consider pendant lighting or hanging lanterns.”

It can also be beneficial for the lighting to emphasize specific front entry architectural details. “For instance, if your front entry door is surrounded by columns or an archway, you’d want to highlight these features by installing lights on the bottom of each column and or above the door,” she said. “You can also incorporate lighting, so it illuminates various elements on your porch, such as shrubs or plants. If you’re one to prioritize security, then installing a motion sensing spotlight would be a wise investment.”

Glass Type

Another way in which to customize a front entry door is glass type. For instance, in addition to the glass affixed to the door itself, homeowners can choose to incorporate a transom, a fixed piece of horizontal glass that sits above the door, and sidelights, fixed pieces of vertical glass that are situated to either one or both sides of the door.

“Transoms and sidelights are incorporated into front doors for not only aesthetic appeal, but also to increase the amount of natural light that filters into the front entry,” Wendy said. “In addition to choosing the layout of the glass panels, the glass itself can be personalized to match your preference.”

For those that value privacy, frosted glass is a logical choice. To maximize the amount of sunlight that shines through the front door, opt for beveled, rain, or clear glass. For those who crave detail, stained, textured, or patterned glass may be more appropriate.

Hardware

A unique way to personalize a home’s front entry door is to hand select all the hardware, including the doorknob, custom doorbell plate, and a door knocker. “This will allow you to create a truly custom entry door based on your personal preference as well as the home’s color scheme and architectural style,” Wendy said.

Double Doors

If space allows, consideration may be given to creating a front entry that features double doors. Considered grand and luxurious, double doors are designed to maximize the amount of sunlight that enters the home as well as boost its curb appeal and increase its value. “Double front entry doors really open up the possibilities, in terms of design, to create an especially dramatic entryway,” said Wendy. “Imagine the elaborate details that can be added to your double doors, such as ornate glass panels with wrought iron or wood overlay accompanied by a stained-glass transom and sidelights.”

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