Your front door is the first thing visitors see when they come to your home. It’s somewhat comparable to your home’s business card. It should be inviting, stylish, and reflect your personal taste.
But how do you choose a front door that is both stylish and practical? If you’re not sure where to start when it comes to choosing a front door, don’t worry.
Here are a few tips.
Factor in Your Home’s Aesthetic Style
How would strangers describe your house? A colonial? A Cape Cod? A ranch?
Your front door should be in keeping with the architectural style of your home. That doesn’t mean it has to match perfectly – after all, contrast can be interesting – but there should be some sort of connection.
A Tudor-style home, for example, would look out of place with a sleek, minimalist front door. Similarly, a contemporary home would look odd with a very traditional door.
Also, as color is a primary feature of aesthetics, you should pick a color that complements your home’s exterior. While your front door doesn’t have to be the same color as your house – in fact, it can be fun to choose a contrasting color – whatever color you choose, see that it’s complementary.
Think of the Material
When it comes to material, you have options. Your front door can be made of wood, steel, fiberglass, or composite material.
Each has its advantages and disadvantages.
Wooden doors for instance are classic and inviting, but they typically require more maintenance than other materials. And while steel doors are strong and durable, they can be dented.
Stylewise, each material can work with any type of home. It really comes down to personal preference. For example, a steel door might be the perfect choice for someone who wants a modern look.
Don’t Neglect the Hardware Finish
Imagine two identical wood front doors. One has a brass knocker, while the other has a chrome knocker. Even though the doors are the same, the hardware finish makes them look quite different.
The same is true of handles, locks, and hinges. These details may seem small, but they can have a big impact on the overall look of your door.
There are different choices for door hardware finishes each with its style advantage. Stainless steel for example is great for a modern look while antique brass can add charm to a more traditional door. And nickle is popular for a sleek, transitional look.
Picking a stylish front door is all about considering the overall look you want to achieve for your home. Think about the aesthetic style of your house, the material of the door, the color, and the hardware finish. With so many choices available, you’re sure to find a front door that you love.