Doors are one of the most often-used and visually obvious parts of a house, yet we sometimes forget what a big impact they have on the look and feel of where we live. Even expensive custom homes can be outfitted with low-quality doors that do nothing to improve appearance or functionality. Fortunately, today's consumers are becoming more aware of the importance of thoughtful design in architecture, and as a result, are demanding better.

 

Photo courtesy of TruStile

The trend toward design detail in homes is showing itself in doors that make the typical six-panel hollow-core door look flimsy and uninteresting. Manufacturers are responding with new style selections in solid doors made of wood, glass, metal, and MDF (a composite wood product).

Traditionally, builders have offered fairly limited selections and manufacturers have so many that it's hard to choose. This leaves the consumer to seek out alternatives. In new home building, a designer or architect may be able to help with the process. The most important thing is to know that architecturally authentic doors are available to complement the style of your home.

TruStile Doors offers a design series based on 12 architectural styles, including art deco, Colonial, high country, new European, traditional, Tuscan, Arts & Crafts, farmhouse, modernist, southwestern, Tudor, and Victorian. Each design includes a collection of doors faithful to that style. If you need help identifying your home's style, or just want to browse house styles, the architectural heritage of each is described on the TruStile Web site at www.trustile.com

Design Trends in New Homes

 

Photo courtesy of Jeld-Wen

Many of today's new homes are inspired by European architecture, and exterior doors in an old-world style fit the trend. Homeowners often want their exterior doors, especially the front door, to make a statement in keeping with old-world style.

These doors are typically made of solid wood or a wood composite material, but are also made of fiberglass and steel.

The National Association of Home Builders reports that 63 percent of today's homeowners would rather choose a smaller home with high-quality amenities than a larger house with fewer amenities (37 percent). Bolstered by this attitude, many people are upgrading their homes with expensive design details rather than moving to a bigger house. The result is seen in doors that include transoms and side lights or other details in keeping with the home's architecture.

Jeld-Wen offers real wood, composite, and fiberglass exterior doors, all in old-world styles. Hardwoods available include cherry, oak, walnut, mahogany, and clear and knotty alder. You can also choose decorative metal accent pieces, door knockers, and entry locksets. For more information, go to www.jeld-wen.com

Friendly Front Entries

 

Photo courtesy of Peachtree

French, swinging, and sliding patio doors have long been popular options in new homes and remodeling projects. But they haven't always been the most beautiful, energy efficient, or secure doors to own. Fortunately, today's better-quality patio doors are attractive, energy smart, and secure.

French patio doors offer a European look, and because both doors open, they flood a room with air and light. A swinging patio door has one fixed and one operable door, and is probably the most commonly used patio door today. The sliding patio door is best when there isn't space for a swinging door.

Peachtree offers all three styles of patio doors with various materials options, including pine, hardwood, aluminum, fiberglass, and steel. See their line at www.peachtreedoor.com.

Home Exterior Ideas