You’ve chosen your builder, homesite and floor plan in Sierra Vista. As you get ready to visit the design center, have you given any thought to your front door? If not, maybe you should. Your door is one of the first things your guests will see. It’s a first impression. It’s part of that all-important curb appeal. It’s also something you can choose to upgrade at the design center. Here are some typical design options. Your builder might not have all of them, but they are worth checking out.
Size Matters
Doors are getting taller. The typical front door is 6 feet and 6 inches high. Many builders have begun installing 8-foot front doors. Sometimes this is standard but for many homebuyers, it is still just an option. Why should you opt for a taller door? Symmetry and proportions. Modern homes have oversized windows. The average door looks puny by comparison. An 8-foot door is also pretty impressive.
Single or Double?
Whether you decide to stick with a single door or upgrade to a double one is entirely up to you. Single doors are functional, and you won’t have to make structural changes. Double doors are cool. They definitely add a “wow” factor to large homes with distinctive architecture. From a practical standpoint, they make it easier to move large items in and out.
The Warmth of Wood
Doors can be varnished, stained or painted. Increasingly, homebuyers are embracing natural wood. Going au natural adds a touch of warmth to your home’s exterior. They dress up a traditional home and soften more modern designs. The woods most suited to a simple varnish or stain include mahogany, white oak and walnut. The grains on these woods are simple but the natural colors are vibrant. You can also choose to stain the wood a darker color to really make the door pop.
Go Bold with Paint
Another way to go bold is with paint. Paint choices emphasize the individuality of the home and its owner. The current trend is to go darker. Dark colors such as black, navy or dark green add drama to your entry. Bright colors such as red and yellow are cheerful and welcoming. If you choose to go dark, remember that dark colors absorb heat and light colors reflect it. Also think about how quickly the color might fade if exposed to too much sunlight.
Should You Choose Steel?
Not many people choose steel doors, but they are available. These doors are durable, secure and energy-efficient. They come in a variety of colors. You can even find ones that look like they are made of wood.
Choose Your Style
Doors come in a lot of styles. Distressed wood doors give your home an antique feel without looking worn out. If you want a more modern look, choose doors that are simple but use rectangular glass inlays. Glass inlays can be used to dress up traditional doors. Choose stained glass with multiple cut outs. Hardware is also important. Iron door handles offer a mid-century look. Brass handles look antique. Clavos are large, decorative nails that add a rustic touch to your entry door.
