Door design decisions made easy

While so much is shared about what people have done with the interior of the home, it is the exterior that can sometimes be neglected as an after-thought or oversight. But, it is one element of a home that can make a strong first impression.

When building a new home, seek the advice of designers that volume builders provide during the process of choosing fittings, bricks and other materials for your abode. You want the door to blend with the style of home you are building. A modern home lends itself to having a wide, pivoting door with a stained finished; while a traditional heritage-style house could be better suited to a solid four-panel design with glass side panels.

Interior designer Georgia Ezra, from G.A.B.B.E., says doors are “definitely neglected” on the homefront. However, to achieve the timeless look and style, homeowners should keep it simple when choosing a door design - for inside and out.

“Keep it simple, don't be overwhelmed by choice and take your time to decide,” Georgia says. “Door manufacturers are making it easier to help you make your choice, rely on them that they have done their homework and chosen styles that have stood the test of time.”

So, the good news is, if you have an existing home and you think its front door is off style, then it’s easier than ever to change to a more suitable design. For front doors, Georgia says a recent trend is homeowners integrating timber panelling to  ensure the door stands apart from the rest of the house - an inviting risk, she adds. “It’s to emulate what is inside as timber is often used as either a wall or ceiling feature. This is taking a risk as it is changing up the colour and finish and bringing in new materials to the door front.”

Other ways to make a difference is to choose a colour that will reflect the era of your home.

“In Victorian houses I love to see owners embracing the real Victorian front-door style and making it a feature - painting it a bright colour in an emerald green or high-gloss black to draw your attention to the entry focal point. Ensure the hardware is not an afterthought so you can create a beautiful statement.”

For interiors, Georgia believes the transition into a different space is extremely important. “The doorway creates the focal point of suspense and reveal and sets a precedence for what is to come,” she says. “The best way to start the story for your interior space is to make the door in front of it a feature.”

Door manufacturers are releasing collections that suit housing periods and Corinthian Doors is leading the charge with its new Deco range. "Routed interior doors in a splash of colour are on trend at present, which reflects displays at home stores," Georgia says.

“Speak with your designer or see what door manufacturers are offering - whether the design is Deco, French, heritage or glass-framed, they have set designs they think will give you personality and timeless aesthetic,” she says. “It will help you not take something too intricate or simple that will be out of style, but rather give you something with personality that will last with time.”