Ask a Designer: How Do I Choose Exterior Doors?
Traditional or contemporary? Glazed or solid? Blend in or stand out? Before you choose a front door, check out these inspiring ideas
Choosing an exterior door is so often an afterthought, yet it’s the first thing visitors see. It says a lot about your style, and it can hugely up the kerb appeal of your property. With so many designs available, it’s important to consider the practicalities of your lifestyle, as well as remaining sympathetic to the build. It’s no good having fully glazed doors if you hate seeing fingerprints, and you should steer clear of a pivot door if you’re always rushing in and out (or need to slam it shut after an almighty row!). Take a look at these stylish examples and you’re sure to make a good first impression.
Let a pro paint a gloss finish
A glossy painted front door is an elegant choice, especially in a period property. Do make sure, however, that the painting is done properly, as gloss shows up every little lump and bump. You’ll also need a day of perfect weather – neither windy nor wet. If it’s a new door being fitted, take advantage and have the painting done off-site – that should avoid a few flies in the ointment!
Explore 10 standout designs for your front door
A glossy painted front door is an elegant choice, especially in a period property. Do make sure, however, that the painting is done properly, as gloss shows up every little lump and bump. You’ll also need a day of perfect weather – neither windy nor wet. If it’s a new door being fitted, take advantage and have the painting done off-site – that should avoid a few flies in the ointment!
Explore 10 standout designs for your front door
Get a handle on it
Choosing the right handle can make all the difference. Visually, it needs to be proportionate to the door. And from a practical point of view, consider the weight of the door – you’re not going to want a small knob on a heavy wooden structure.
Choosing the right handle can make all the difference. Visually, it needs to be proportionate to the door. And from a practical point of view, consider the weight of the door – you’re not going to want a small knob on a heavy wooden structure.
Consider the weather
We do sometimes get a bit of rain in the UK… An awning over the door can be a great idea, especially if you’re likely to be kicking off wellies after a long walk or need somewhere to park the pushchair. This one blends in beautifully, yet offers good shelter and space to fit a welcoming overhead lamp.
We do sometimes get a bit of rain in the UK… An awning over the door can be a great idea, especially if you’re likely to be kicking off wellies after a long walk or need somewhere to park the pushchair. This one blends in beautifully, yet offers good shelter and space to fit a welcoming overhead lamp.
Add quirky character
I think you can be a bit brave with your main door. It’s rather like your cloakroom, where you hang that crazy wallpaper you daren’t put anywhere else. As long as it’s a reflection of you and it fits the build, you can explore the possibilities, maybe go to a few antiques fairs and salvage yards. It can be a great way to add some oom pah pah to your home.
Discover ways to freshen up your front door
I think you can be a bit brave with your main door. It’s rather like your cloakroom, where you hang that crazy wallpaper you daren’t put anywhere else. As long as it’s a reflection of you and it fits the build, you can explore the possibilities, maybe go to a few antiques fairs and salvage yards. It can be a great way to add some oom pah pah to your home.
Discover ways to freshen up your front door
Light up with a frosted panel
A panel of frosted glass flanking the door allows light into the hallway while retaining privacy. It’s also an opportunity to add a design feature, with words or numerals worked in. If you already have a glass panel, consider window film, which can come with graphic designs or your house number already punched out.
A panel of frosted glass flanking the door allows light into the hallway while retaining privacy. It’s also an opportunity to add a design feature, with words or numerals worked in. If you already have a glass panel, consider window film, which can come with graphic designs or your house number already punched out.
Don’t forget the back of your house
If there’s a door you adore but it’s not quite right in pride of place, then think about using it elsewhere, maybe to jazz up your old garden shed or, if you’re lucky enough to have one, on a summerhouse or outbuilding. However old the door is, though, make sure you add smooth, modern hinges. There’s only so much history a house needs!
TELL US...
What exterior door do you prefer? Share your thoughts in the Comments.
If there’s a door you adore but it’s not quite right in pride of place, then think about using it elsewhere, maybe to jazz up your old garden shed or, if you’re lucky enough to have one, on a summerhouse or outbuilding. However old the door is, though, make sure you add smooth, modern hinges. There’s only so much history a house needs!
TELL US...
What exterior door do you prefer? Share your thoughts in the Comments.
This is as far from a traditional front door as possible – an extra-wide, fully glazed pivot design that suggests a big, contemporary interior awaits. This door has the wow factor, but it’s probably best restricted to concealed entrances – having the whole street watch you walk about your hall and living room isn’t for the faint-hearted!