Front Door Styles
Although there are countless front door options available, below are some of the most popular styles. These will provide a little inspiration to help you get started.
Modern Front Door Ideas
If your home’s architecture is new, the clean lines and minimalistic charm of a modern front door will fit in nicely, creating a subtle, understated entryway.
Contemporary Front Door Ideas
Contemporary front doors are a popular choice. Although there are many ideas about what constitutes contemporary design, some of the common features you’ll see are geometric designs, beautiful wood finishes and sleek, unembellished door hardware.
Craftsman Front Door Ideas
Craftsman-style front doors are perfect for those who love vintage design or live in a restored home. This style reflects the principles championed by the Arts and Crafts movement.
Midcentury Front Door Ideas
Midcentury modern architecture draws from the preferences and tastes of homeowners in the middle of the 20th century and focuses mainly on comfort and functionality. Though the designs tend to be simple, midcentury doors are usually available in richly finished wood and are slightly more ornate than utilitarian modern varieties.
Rustic Front Door Ideas
Incorporating a rustic front door into an entryway, like this striking knotty alder variety, can add character to a home with virtually any type of décor theme — not just to log cabins.
Traditional Front Door Ideas
A true classic is timeless, which is why traditional front doors have always been a popular choice for those who value craftsmanship.
Victorian Front Door Ideas
If you enjoy the look of stately homes and ornate design, a Victorian front door is exactly what you need.
Coastal Front Door Ideas
For those who have a home at the beach or just like the maritime aesthetic, a coastal front door is the perfect option. Coastal door design can vary greatly, but one of the defining features is large glass panels that let plenty of light in.
Farmhouse Front Door Ideas
You don’t have to live on a farm to enjoy the classic charm and beauty of a farmhouse front door. There’s the traditional variety if you’re fully committed to farmhouse style, as well as the modern farmhouse variety if you prefer a fresher, more subdued take.
Front Door Glass Styles
When it comes to choosing a glass front door, there are multiple glass styles available. Here are some of the most popular options.
Decorative Glass Front Door Ideas
Small touches add personality to a home, which is why a decorative glass front door can make such a big impression on visitors.
Clear Glass Front Door Ideas
If you want to let in the maximum amount of daylight, consider selecting a clear glass front door.
Front Doors With Blinds Between the Glass
If you love allowing the sunlight into your home, but also want the option to shut it out when you need less light or more privacy, a front door with blinds between the glass will offer the versatility you need.
Front Doors With Simulated Divided Lights (SDLs)
Simulated divided-light doors look like traditional front doors with glass panels but differ in construction. SDL doors consist of a single, large piece of insulated glass with dividers glued to both the interior and exterior sides. This technique is more energy efficient than traditional divided-light construction as it creates fewer opportunities for air leaks.
Front Door Colors
Finishing Touches
If you’re tired of the look of your current front door but don’t want to invest the time or money to replace it, there are lots of small updates you can make to freshen up the look, such as:
- Installing new door hardware
- Installing electronic door locks
- Install new smart locks
- Changing out the handleset
- Swap out old door hinges
- Adding house numbers or letters
- Painting or staining your door
Also, if you just want to add more privacy to a glass front door or increase its energy efficiency, there are multiple varieties of window film available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some of the most popular topics of discussion related to front doors.
What’s the Most Secure Type of Front Door?
Front doors made of a sturdy material without windows or with windows made from thick, extra-strong glass are the most resistant to intruders. Of course, it’s also a good idea to invest in a quality security system to alert you in the event of a break-in. A video doorbell as well as a front door with a door guard will help you determine who you should or shouldn’t let in.
Are Double Front Doors a Good Idea?
As with all types of front doors, there are both pros and cons to choosing double doors. One of the main advantages is accessibility. Having an extra-wide entryway will come in handy when moving furniture and large items in and out of your home. However, purchasing two front doors along with the accompanying hardware will also double the initial expense of installation.
How Can I Make My Front Door Stand Out?
One of the easiest and most economical ways to make sure people notice your front door from the curb is to paint it a bold color. If you’re installing a new door, you can also choose one with a unique glass style to add interest.
Which Door Is Best for a Front Entry?
When it comes to durability, you’ll want a sturdy front door that can stand up to extreme sunlight as well as wind and rain. Some of the most long-lasting materials include steel, wood, aluminum and fiberglass composite.
Is a Black Front Door a Good Idea?
Painting your front door black adds a touch of elegance to your entryway, especially in a home with a white door frame, siding or columns. However, as with all design choices, there are a few things to consider. For one, the color black doesn’t reflect ultraviolet (UV) radiation as much as other colors, which means that your door may heat up more if it gets a lot of direct sun exposure. All that extra UV radiation could cause the door to crack over time or cause the paint to fade faster. However, this may not be an issue if your front porch cover keeps your door shaded throughout the entire day. Also, with high-gloss black paint, imperfections or inconsistent brush strokes may be more noticeable than with other dark colors. If you like the look of a black front door and are willing to make the necessary accommodations, it’s a beautiful choice.