The front door is an element of a home’s design where character and personality can be displayed. Whether it’s modern entrance doors, contemporary doors, or a quirky, colourful traditional timber door design, the options are endless. The main entrance to a home is part of the first impression visitors will have of a property, so it’s a place where creativity and clever design can define the overall style and personality of a property’s owners.

How to design and choose a front door

The first thing to consider is the architectural style of the property, and how the entrance door will fit into the facade. Is its contemporary property where a modern steel front door would fit seamlessly into the design? Or is the property in question a house where the front door design lends itself to a wooden main door?

What are the colours and materials of the rest of the external cladding and detailing? In some cases, contrasting colour or material for the front door can create a trendy design element. In others, a more pared option may be the best way to go, especially if the facade has other imposing or vibrant features. 

External doors have a number of requirements in terms of function, including that they must be weather-resistant, secure and strong. Exterior doors lend themselves to charm and character in any case, and even the most pared-back external door can exude flair. Whether its an ultra-modern black aluminium entrance door with a keyless entry system or an elegantly crafted and detailed traditional wooden door, the options are endless in terms of both modern and traditional front door styles. 

At the end of the day, the choice of the front door will depend on the personality of the owners, the design considerations in conjunction with the architectural style of the house, material, colour and texture, and the primary function. A front door may also need to work with a wider context, such as landscaping elements, fences and gates, and other outdoor features such as louvres, joinery and juxtaposition of existing cladding materials.