22 homes that perfect the art of the French door

This lookbook showcases ten residential projects that effectively incorporate French doors, highlighting their versatility and aesthetic appeal in various home designs. French doors are typically characterized as a pair of doors featuring glass panes that extend their full height, often used to connect indoor and outdoor spaces while maximizing natural light. Their largely glass construction allows for significant light ingress, making them suitable as exterior doors, but they also serve as effective interior partitions, dividing spaces without sacrificing openness or brightness. The featured projects demonstrate diverse applications of French doors within home renovations, extensions, and new builds. One example is the Tower House in London, designed by Dominic McKenzie Architects, where black, glass-panelled French doors, situated beneath a rectangular skylight, open onto a sunken garden from a brick extension. The interior of this project features chevron flooring, drawing the eye towards these doors. In Shanghai, Atelier Tao+C renovated a top-floor apartment to feature a study as its central element. Here, white French doors are oriented towards a white modular sofa and lead to an L-shaped balcony. These doors are framed by floor-to-ceiling smoked oak bookshelves that line the entire apartment. Studio Schicketanz’s Tehama One in California utilizes extensive panelled glass, including large French doors, to integrate indoor and outdoor living areas around a landscaped courtyard. The design emphasizes textural materials throughout the interior, and the French doors offer serene views of the central courtyard. Casa Mami, a holiday home in the Californian desert by Working Holiday Studio, draws inspiration from Japanese and Scandinavian design and the work of Luis Barragán. French doors in this project frame the desert landscape from within the minimalist interior, which includes a sculptural Cylinder Back Armchair. Gundry & Ducker’s White Rabbit House in London, a neo-Georgian home, features green-painted double doors in the kitchen that open to a garden. A skylight above the kitchen and its island-cum-breakfast bar complements these doors, contributing to the bright and open feel of the space. Amott Road in East Dulwich, London, by Alexander Owen Architecture, is characterized by curving timber, geometric shapes, and vibrant colors. Arched French doors, leading to the garden from a wood-lined kitchen, enhance the home's modernist and pop-art aesthetic. Kilburn Nightingale's renovation of a Victorian property in Hackney, London, includes a double-height library with pale-wood-lined glazing and French doors that open to the garden. This design visually connects the outdoor space and an upper-level living room with a mezzanine-style railing. An Antwerp apartment designed by Bovenbouw Architectuur, located in a converted 19th-century building, features large French doors that extend high into the interior. The design incorporates classical elements like parquet flooring and decorative marble panelling, reflecting 19th-century design ideas. Maison 0.82 in France, by Pascual Architect, is a single-storey home where an open-plan kitchen, lounge, and dining area are positioned on the southern side. Floor-to-ceiling glazing, doubling as large French doors, provides extensive views and access to the exterior. Finally, Lucas y Hernández-Gil’s overhaul of a 19th-century apartment in Madrid involved reconfiguring the layout, adding new kitchen features, and incorporating oak and stone surfaces. Original joinery was restored, and French doors from the open-plan kitchen and living area can be covered by bi-folding shutters to control light. These projects collectively demonstrate how French doors can be a key architectural element, enhancing light, space, and connection to the outdoors in diverse residential settings. #FrenchDoors #HomeDesign #InteriorArchitecture #NaturalLight #ResidentialProjects #ArchitecturalFeatures #ModernLiving #DesignInspiration #Lookbook

French doors, with a history spanning back to the 16th century in Italy and France, are experiencing a resurgence in popularity for modern extensions and renovations, offering a timeless aesthetic that can integrate seamlessly into both old and new properties. While contemporary patio door options often lean towards large sliding or bifold doors, French doors present a compelling alternative, particularly when space is at a premium. Their simple hinge system allows for smooth operation without requiring extensive room for folded panels, a common necessity for bifold systems. This makes them a practical and stylish solution for tighter spaces, while also preventing encroachment on patio areas. Architects and designers emphasize several advantages of French doors. One key benefit is their ability to significantly enhance natural light and external visibility, especially when complemented by sidelights or fanlights. Full-height fanlights, for instance, can visually double the amount of light drawn into a space, a feature particularly beneficial for rooms with high ceilings or those at semi-basement levels, as demonstrated in a kitchen extension designed by Studio Bark. Another design approach involves strategic placement, such as positioning matching sets of French doors opposite one another across an internal courtyard or within a garden room. This creates pleasing symmetry and helps to visually connect disparate elements of a building, forming dramatic glazed features that amplify the sense of space. The versatility of French doors extends to material choices and design adaptations. While timber remains a classic choice, offering elegance and better handling of timber movement compared to sliding or bifold mechanisms, modern advancements have also popularized aluminium frames. Aluminium frames can mimic the aesthetic of Art Deco-style steel systems, like Crittall doors, with slim sightlines and excellent thermal properties, while requiring less maintenance. Steel French doors also maintain their appeal for their elegant design and thin sightlines, effectively maximizing light and views in striking spaces like double-height dining areas. French doors can also be customized in shape and size, moving beyond standard designs. Arched French doors, for example, can be fitted into period homes with tall arched openings, adding an elegant touch. For period properties, timber French doors can be designed to perfectly match existing windows, often a requirement in Conservation Areas. Furthermore, French doors are being increasingly utilized as internal door systems, allowing light to flow between rooms and creating better connections in open-plan living spaces. They can also transform bedrooms, providing access to balconies and a sense of connection to the outdoors, while still allowing for internal dressing with curtains. From a cost perspective, French doors are generally the most affordable option compared to bifold and sliding doors, making them an attractive choice for those managing renovation budgets. The cost varies depending on size and material, with uPVC being the least expensive and hardwood at the higher end. Despite the rise of other patio door systems, French doors continue to offer a timeless, stylish, and often more practical and cost-effective solution for various architectural contexts, proving their enduring relevance in modern home design. #FrenchDoors #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #ExtensionIdeas #ArchitecturalDesign #PatioDoors #NaturalLight #GlazingSolutions #Renovation

Flush doors are a popular and practical choice for Indian homes due to their lightweight nature, durability, and cost-effectiveness. These doors are characterized by their smooth, plain surface, constructed from timber wood with a core of blockboard formed by bonded wood strips under high pressure and heat. They offer significant advantages, including high strength, resistance to weather changes (preventing swelling), anti-termite protection through chemical treatment, and scratch resistance, ensuring a long-lasting and aesthetically pleasing addition to any home. They are also easy to install and available in numerous designs that provide noise protection. There are three main types of flush doors. Solid core flush doors, also known as laminated flush doors, feature a solid wood block in their core, making them exceptionally strong and durable. Hollow core flush doors are lightweight with a honeycomb structure inside, made from plywood sheets bound to the frame; while lighter, they are less sturdy than solid core doors. Cellular core flush doors are a middle ground, stronger than hollow doors but not as robust as solid core options, built with a central frame incorporating stiles and rails. These doors can be used for both commercial and residential purposes, inside and outside the home, depending on their core type and construction. When considering a flush door, several factors should be kept in mind. While highly functional, flush doors may not be as decorative or ornate as traditional panel doors. For exterior applications, a solid-core flush door is recommended due to its enhanced strength and longevity. It is also advisable to choose reputable brands known for their quality and assurance. Flush doors are available in a wide array of designs and colors, allowing homeowners to move beyond conventional blacks and browns and experiment with themes that complement their interior design. The article showcases 15 specific flush door designs, detailing their materials, suitable positions (interior/exterior), and aesthetic characteristics. Examples include solid core flush doors with wooden finishes and veneer for bedrooms and bathrooms, and sturdier wooden flush doors for entryways. Plywood flush doors offer a cost-effective solution for both interior and exterior use. Italian Veneer doors provide an exotic touch, often featuring unique hinge locks and superior strength. Century Flush doors, known for their durability and termite resistance, are suitable for interiors. Specialized options like waterproof bathroom flush doors, PVC flush doors for internal spaces, and laminated flush doors with creative patterns demonstrate the versatility. Designs integrating glass panels for natural light and acoustics, or mica and Sun Mica sheets for glossy, chip-resistant surfaces, also highlight varied aesthetic and functional choices. Teak flush doors offer a rich look and increased security for main entrances, while decorative and readymade flush doors offer convenience and style for various home areas. The wide range of options ensures that homeowners can find a flush door that meets their specific needs for aesthetics, budget, and functionality. #FlushDoorDesigns #IndianHomes #HomeInterior #DoorMaterials #SolidCoreDoor #HollowCoreDoor #DoorDurability #CostEffectiveDoors #HomeRenovation

French patio doors offer a solution to enhance the indoor-outdoor connection of a home, providing both functional benefits and aesthetic appeal. These doors are designed to lighten and brighten a space by acting as windows, thereby enhancing views and architectural interest. Experts in interior design, such as Joshua Smith and Mark Lavender, emphasize the classic look and versatility of French doors, recommending their use in various rooms like living rooms, dining rooms, and areas leading to terraces or Juliette balconies. Brad Ramsey highlights their ability to create an open flow between indoor and outdoor environments. Selecting the right French patio door style is crucial for maintaining consistency with the home's overall design. Designers often opt for simpler versions with clean lines to achieve a timeless feel. Beyond style, paint choice plays a significant role; for instance, Benjamin Moore White Dove is a popular selection for its ability to shift colors with natural light. The exterior facade should also be considered when choosing paint colors for the outward-facing side of the doors, as demonstrated by using Benjamin Moore Middleberry Brown to complement a Spanish Revival home's creamy exterior and terracotta roof. French doors are not limited to traditional settings and can be integrated into contemporary designs, such as a four-paneled French door connecting a living room and patio in a modern residence. The interior framing of these doors is also important, with light-filtering linen drapery and wooden doors adding charm and character while embracing an indoor-outdoor lifestyle. For specific applications like poolhouses, French doors provide flexibility, allowing spaces to be closed off while maintaining a connection to the outdoor area. Design considerations extend to the door's shape, with rounded French doors offering a clean, modern aesthetic for backyard seating areas. Utilizing multiple French doors can create expansive, open spaces ideal for entertaining, enabling seamless movement between indoor rooms and outdoor patios. Contrasting trim colors, such as bright white French doors against a warm dining room, can add an elegant touch. Incorporating extra windows above French doors in double-height rooms maximizes natural light. Finally, ensuring the French doors match the exterior paint, such as a creamy Glidden white, maintains a cohesive look, and their application indoors can provide sound privacy while still inviting ample light, as seen in a breakfast room offering privacy to an adjacent den. #FrenchPatioDoors #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalInterest #IndoorOutdoorLiving #DesignInspiration #RoomDecorating #HomeRenovation #ExteriorFacade #PaintColors

This article highlights five modern homes that showcase impressive and distinctive door designs, curated from the Dwell community. The featured homes, submitted by members through Dwell's 'Add a Home' feature, exemplify various approaches to integrating functional and aesthetic doorway solutions within contemporary living spaces. Each project offers unique insights into how doors contribute to the overall design, flow, and character of a residence. The first home, Quarry Bay Residence in Hong Kong Island, designed by Lim + Lu, features an entryway with a full-height oak slat shoe closet that includes a brass-finished cutout. The interior designers aimed to create sweeping views between rooms and maintained the building's original chipped concrete beams, juxtaposing them with new white walls and a warm palette of oak and brass accents. Materials like woven wicker and volcanic slate contribute to an island getaway aesthetic, reflecting the nature-loving owners' appreciation for relics. Next, the Renton Hill Residence in Renton, Washington, by Citizen Design Collaborative, presents a dining room that opens to an expansive outdoor area through a massive metal door. The architects focused on blending original traditional details with modern indoor and outdoor spaces to accommodate the homeowners' evolving needs and social lifestyle, intending for the home to age gracefully and be passed down through generations. The third project, Chocolate Loft in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, by PLANT Architect Inc., demonstrates a flexible living solution. Here, a wall with a gentle dogleg trajectory and a series of sliding doors allows the 900-square-foot loft to transition between a two-bedroom and a one-bedroom configuration. The doors are designed with a combination of glazing at the street edge and wood veneer closer to the entry, providing both privacy and light control for the mathematics professors who use it as a pied-à-terre. Virginia House in Santiago, Chile, by 2712 / Asociados, features exterior walls on the first floor painted in a dark, neutral color that sharply contrasts with the bright, illuminated interiors and a striking sunny yellow front door. This house is located in a social housing neighborhood from the early 1960s, originally constructed with prefabricated concrete panels. The project showcases an intervention that updates one of the few remaining original constructions in an area experiencing significant economic growth and continuous home improvements. Finally, MG House in Hod HaSharon, Israel, renovated by Maya Sheinberger, emphasizes indoor/outdoor connection. Sheinberger redesigned the first floor and outdoor areas, incorporating new windows and a large front door to maximize this connection. The renovation transformed the house from a dark, old-fashioned country-style residence by changing the first-floor layout and adding a second-floor attic bedroom. The interior color scheme utilizes calm tones, combining wood with shades of blue and gray to create a serene atmosphere. #ModernDoorways #HomeDesign #InteriorArchitecture #ResidentialDesign #ArchitecturalFeatures #SlidingDoors #ExteriorDesign #InnovativeDoors

Painting a front door is highlighted as one of the most effective and affordable ways to enhance a home's curb appeal. The article emphasizes that a fresh coat of paint can convey a bold statement and significantly improve the first impression of a house. Beyond the exterior, the suggestion is made to also paint the interior side of the door to extend this impact. The article then explores various color categories, showcasing 16 different front door ideas. The 'Pinks' section presents four examples. An L.A. home designed by Lizzie Green features a fuchsia double door, setting the tone for an interior primarily in pink and green. Melissa Johnson's Sacramento Airbnb incorporates a pale pink front door with a pineapple bell, designed to be 'Instagrammable.' Geneva Vanderzeil of A Pair and a Spare blog chose an arc design in pink, preserving some of the door's original charm. Lastly, Cara Irwin's door, once showing glue marks, is transformed with a sweet shade of pink visible from both inside and out. Moving to 'The Blues,' three instances are provided. Melissa Johnson's family home exterior renovation uses a turquoise door to introduce playfulness to its mid-century modern aesthetic. Designer Andrea Van Soest's glass-panel door, though intricate, demonstrates that detailed frames can still be painted using a small brush. A soft gray-blue door on a white brick Tudor home by Studio McGee is shown to complement its traditional character. 'The Yellows' section features two vibrant examples. Natalie Myers's restored mid-century ranch home uses a zesty lemon-colored door, paired with a giant globe light, to create a glowing exterior. Michelle Nadar's extra-wide entrance is painted a canary yellow, evoking jungle vibes with surrounding potted trees. 'The Greens' offers three distinct uses of the color. A 'swampy green' door (Madras by Resene) is presented as a chic, unconventional choice for a front door. Kay Volmar's Florida home renovation includes a happy, tropical hue called Warm Springs by Benjamin Moore, chosen to signal a positive transformation. Dabito's New Orleans home features a vibrant Kelly green door, with the other side painted bright yellow for a double dose of fun. Finally, 'The Reds' and 'The Whites' sections each provide examples. In 'The Reds,' Mae House in the Hudson Valley features a merlot-colored door that complements sage green siding, creating a calm yet striking effect. Los Angeles designers Jason and Laura O’Dell painted a Dutch door in candy apple red for their Silver Lake Colonial, enhancing its fairy-tale aesthetic. Lori Paranjape's Chicago client's apartment elevator entrance is painted in a red inspired by Cubs colors with a lacquered finish, demonstrating that this concept can apply to high-rise living. In 'The Whites,' Julia O’Rourke’s Maine cabin features a white front door against a jet black facade, illustrating the dramatic impact of high contrast. The article concludes by reinforcing the idea that a simple paint job can profoundly transform a home's exterior. #FrontDoor #PaintColors #CurbAppeal #HomeExterior #DesignInspiration #DIYHomeImprovement #ColorPalette #HomeRenovation

The article discusses the declining popularity of bifold doors in modern home design and explores various stylish and practical alternatives. For years, bifold doors, often seen in glass box extensions of period terraces or 1930s semis, have been a hallmark of 21st-century domestic design in the UK. They were intended to foster open-plan living, 'bring the outside in,' and add property value. However, the practical realities often fell short of this aspiration. Many homeowners found bifold doors to be inefficient, making rooms too cold in winter and too hot in summer due to thermal bridging from their numerous frames, leading to higher heating bills. Additionally, they often presented issues with privacy and practicality, as they consume significant space both indoors and outdoors when fully open and are rarely used to their full extent. Design experts confirm this shift away from bifolds in high-end residential projects, citing a preference for cleaner lines and a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces, even when doors are closed. This preference is particularly relevant in the UK, where doors remain closed most of the time. The article highlights several alternatives that address these shortcomings. Crittall or Crittall-style doors are presented as a top choice, featuring elegant black steel frames and slim profiles that allow ample light while making a strong industrial statement. However, genuine Crittall doors are noted for their high cost, though more affordable alternatives exist. Sliding doors have also made a stylish comeback, offering slimline updates with large glazed panes that can be fitted without visible frames at the base or head, creating an uninterrupted view. These are particularly suitable for homes with smaller gardens. A more advanced option is pocket doors, a type of sliding door that disappears completely into a wall cavity, offering maximum openness. Picture windows, characterized by their larger size and lack of an opening mechanism, are another alternative. They are less costly, provide better insulation, and are ideal for framing views and maximizing natural light while minimizing energy bills. Their simple frames also make them easier to maintain. A growing trend combines picture windows with separate doors, allowing for a framed view and more flexible furniture arrangements. For those seeking a dramatic effect, pivot doors are introduced as a large-scale solution. These doors rotate 90 degrees on a single point, offering a 'wow factor' with widths and heights up to 3 meters, though specialist advice is recommended for insulation and weatherproofing. Slide and stack doors provide a family-friendly option, with independent panels that slide along a track and only fold at the end, allowing for ventilation without full openness, ensuring child safety. Tilt-and-turn doors offer similar benefits, opening like a normal door but also tilting for airflow. Finally, classic French doors are still considered a viable and sophisticated option, providing a timeless charm with good space utilization, light, ventilation, and security. The article concludes with a checklist for choosing the right door, emphasizing the importance of understanding u-values for thermal efficiency, ensuring thermal breaks and weathertight seals, and considering solar reflective coatings or integral blinds to manage heat and privacy. #HomeDesign #ArchitecturalTrends #BifoldDoors #SlidingDoors #CrittallDoors #PictureWindows #PivotDoors #FrenchDoors #EnergyEfficiency

Selecting the right interior door is crucial for new home builds, renovations, or simple replacements, as these doors are used frequently and must be durable while complementing a home's aesthetic. This guide provides essential information for choosing interior doors and highlights top recommendations. The selection process involved drawing on experience with door installations and daily home use, followed by extensive product research to identify leading options. Products were evaluated based on price, available sizes, and overall value, with those meeting criteria receiving specific awards based on their strengths. The Masonite 2-Panel Square Interior Molded Door is recognized as the best overall choice, offering a timeless design, common sizes, and prehung convenience for easy installation. Its hollow-core construction makes it affordable, though it provides less sound insulation. For budget-conscious buyers, the Jeld-Wen Colonist Textured All Panel Molded Door offers a classic style at a low price point, available in various sizes as a slab door for flexible installation. The EightDoors 6-Panel Solid Unfinished Pine Wood Door stands out as the best wood option, providing the weight and soundproofing of solid wood, with the ability to be trimmed and customized, though it may be susceptible to seasonal expansion and contraction. The Masonite 6-Panel Solid Core Interior Molded Door is the top prehung option, combining traditional design with the substance and soundproofing of a solid core, offered in common sizes and primed for paint. The Jeld-Wen Continental Smooth All Panel Molded Door is recommended as the best slab door, featuring an arched panel design and affordability due to its hollow-core MDF construction, though its scratch resistance might be lower than molded composite alternatives. The Masonite Riverside Interior Molded Door is the best hollow-core choice, featuring a unique Shaker-inspired design and durable composite wood shell, offered prehung in various sizes. The Kimberly Bay Shaker 5-Panel Solid Core Interior Door is noted for its solid pine core and MDF face, offering durability and sound resistance in a customizable slab format. The Steves & Sons Unfinished Flush Interior Door Slab is ideal for flush designs, featuring a sturdy plywood exterior and solid core for sound reduction and insulation, offering a blank canvas for customization. Lastly, the Kimberly Bay White Shaker 2-Panel Solid Core Door provides a clean, classic panel look with a solid pine core and MDF face, offered as a pre-primed slab for easy trimming. Key considerations for choosing interior doors include material, style, and whether they are slab or prehung. Materials range from solid wood to MDF, molded composites, and plywood, each affecting durability, cost, and soundproofing. Common styles include six-panel, two-panel, Shaker, flush, double, and French doors. Flush doors are smooth and minimalist, while panel doors offer a traditional, crafted look. Slab doors are just the door itself, suitable for renovations, while prehung doors come with a frame, ideal for new constructions. Additional features like finishes (primed, varnished) and door swing (left-hand or right-hand) are also important. Replacing an interior door is relatively simple, requiring specific tools depending on whether it's a slab or prehung model. A good quality solid core interior door typically costs between $100 for a slab and $300 for a prehung model. Panel doors remain the most popular interior door style due to their timeless appeal. #InteriorDoors #HomeRenovation #DoorInstallation #DoorStyles #DIYProjects #BuildingMaterials #HomeImprovement #InteriorDesign #ProductReviews

Dutch doors, also known as split, double-hung, or half doors, originated in the 17th century and are characterized by a horizontal division that allows the top and bottom sections to open independently. This design offers practical benefits, such as enabling airflow while maintaining a barrier, and is increasingly popular for both exterior and interior applications in contemporary homes. For exterior use, Dutch doors are particularly effective in settings like farmhouses, where they can keep barnyard animals out while still allowing the top portion to open for fresh air and interaction. This functionality extends to pets, as demonstrated by beach house examples where the top half can be open to enjoy the breeze without allowing pets to roam freely. When considering an exterior Dutch door, it is crucial to ensure a tight, weatherproof seal between the upper and lower sections, along with a secure lock or bolt, to prevent movement and ensure security. Beyond their functional advantages, Dutch doors offer significant aesthetic appeal, contributing to a sense of warmth and welcome. They are versatile in design, fitting seamlessly into various architectural styles, from traditional Victorian farmhouses to modern homes. The examples presented illustrate how a Dutch door can be a central design element, whether through a dark and dramatic color choice, a vibrant shade like Pomegranate or yellow, or a simple, inviting entrance complemented by galvanized planters. Interior Dutch doors offer similar charm and functionality without the need for weatherproofing. They are ideal for creating playful divisions, such as leading to a playroom, or for practical purposes like containing pets in specific areas while allowing visibility and air circulation. The article highlights an instance where an existing hollow core door was converted into an interior Dutch door, showcasing a DIY approach to incorporating this design element. Furthermore, Dutch doors can be integrated with other architectural features, such as transom windows, to maximize natural light and airflow. They can also feature unique design elements, like the X-pattern on the bottom half, reminiscent of barn doors, which adds a rustic touch to modern farmhouse aesthetics. The versatility extends to their use beyond the main house, such as on barns, where they can keep animals contained while allowing for ventilation. The aesthetic impact is further enhanced when decorated with elements like wreaths, particularly for holiday seasons. While Dutch doors offer numerous advantages, including the ability to foster an inside-outside relationship, a potential drawback is the lack of an upper screen, which could allow insects indoors. However, proponents argue that this is a small price to pay for the unique charm and style they bring to a home. The article provides inspiration for integrating Dutch doors into various spaces, emphasizing their timeless appeal and practical benefits. #DutchDoors #HomeDesign #DecoratingIdeas #EntrywayDesign #FarmhouseStyle #InteriorDesign #ExteriorDoors #ArchitecturalFeatures

Interior designer Nicole Fisher of BNR Interiors transformed a four-bedroom, builder-grade row house in Hudson, Upstate New York, into a vibrant home with British charm. The initial state of the house, purchased by a developer, lacked character with generic hardware store moldings and fixtures. Fisher's primary goal was to infuse personality and warmth into the space, moving away from the common 'white on white' aesthetic prevalent in the region. The design process began with selecting a cohesive color palette, largely inspired by House of Hackney’s Avalon wallpaper, a striped and floral pattern used in the dining room. This wallpaper dictated the selection of 14 different paint colors applied throughout the house, aiming to create a distinctly British, rather than farmhouse, atmosphere. The homeowners, being British themselves, were receptive to a bold and layered approach to interior design, having previously embraced unconventional choices like a lime green kitchen in their London home. Fisher embraced the British tendency for playful interiors, characterized by multiple patterns and layers, creating spaces that feel timeless rather than confined to a specific era. The philosophy was to choose elements that the homeowners loved, ensuring they would work together harmoniously if executed correctly. A significant feature of the renovation included the incorporation of two hidden doors—one leading to a pantry and another in the TV room. These hidden spaces serve both functional and aesthetic purposes, providing privacy in a house where the entire length is visible from the front door, and offering practical solutions for entertaining by concealing clutter or creating a 'speakeasy' feel. Attention to detail extends to specific rooms, such as the primary bedroom, where multiple patterns are successfully integrated. The key to this success lies in a common color thread, specifically a cranberry hue, which is consistently pulled through various elements like the bed, wallpaper, and chair tassels. Additionally, Fisher employed variations in scale, combining small and large patterns, such as a chunky floral fabric from Liberty (which held sentimental value for the homeowner as her wedding dress designer) for the headboard. This approach creates a collected, aged feel, reminiscent of a modern grandmother's country house, avoiding a 'too new' or 'too precious' ambiance. The kitchen also showcases unique finds, including a faux marble island sourced from 1stDibs. This island, with its colors complementing the chosen wallpaper, became a central element that set the tone for the rest of the kitchen, contributing to the overall layered and inviting aesthetic Fisher aimed for. Other notable design choices include Sanderson’s Stapleton Park Wallpaper in the dressing room, Farrow & Ball’s Potted Shrimp for the den walls, Phillip Jeffries’s Island Raffia in the living room, Cole & Son’s Frutta e Geometrico in the bar area, Soane’s Scrolling Acanthus in Bloom in the primary bedroom, John Derian wallpaper in another bedroom, and Scalamandre’s Magnus in Indigo Blue in the laundry room. These selections highlight a rich interplay of patterns, textures, and colors, successfully transforming a generic space into a home filled with character and warmth, deeply influenced by British design sensibilities. #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #BritishCharm #PatternMixing #WallpaperDesign #ColorPalette #HiddenDoors #HudsonHome #BNRInteriors

This article highlights various noteworthy door designs observed throughout 2017, offering inspiration for enhancing a home's exterior and interior. The front door is presented as a crucial element that establishes the aesthetic tone for guests and significantly influences the overall appearance of a home. The selection covers a range of styles, from vibrant colors to sleek finishes, and includes different door types such as French doors and Dutch doors. One featured design showcases a cheerful yellow front door set against an exclusively whitewashed exterior, emphasizing its brilliance within a mid-century modern home. Another example from a 1930s fixer-upper features a dreamy blue door complemented by whitewashed brick and minimalist house numbers. A simple, all-matte black door is highlighted for its modern yet cozy contribution to a home, with a narrow glass window alongside to allow light. A millennial pink door is noted for brightening a chic abode, with its color harmonizing with the interior decor and ornate frosted windows that provide natural light. Further examples include a powder blue Dutch door that aligns with the natural and fresh aesthetic of a Manhattan Beach home, framed by matching elevated planters. A simple navy craftsman door is shown contrasting the exterior of an updated Victorian row-house, blending original architecture with modern details. A storybook home's interior is enhanced by a saturated cobalt blue door set against an ivy-covered exposed brick exterior. The article also touches upon door designs in commercial spaces, such as LA’s Bird boutique, which uses Benjamin Moore's Rose Petal and Citron for its Mid-Century modern dressing room. Innovative designs are also presented, such as floor-to-ceiling pivoting window-doors in a tiny cabin in Upstate New York, maximizing natural light and offering a modern take on country living. Elegant French doors leading into a luxurious bathroom in a whitewashed farmhouse are also featured. The article encourages unconventional approaches to decor, illustrating this with an industrialized sliding door in a minimalist Culver City home. A true blue door in Charleston, paired with a geometric rug, is presented as an example of modern cool. Lastly, a whimsical entryway with custom double doors mimicking the TARDIS from Doctor Who is shown in a Halloween-inspired home. These examples collectively demonstrate how different door choices can profoundly impact a home's character and curb appeal. #DoorDesign #HomeExterior #InteriorDesign #FrontDoors #DesignInspiration #ArchitecturalDetails #ColorPalette #HomeRenovation

French country houses serve as a significant source of inspiration for creating rustic yet elegant interiors, blending character with a balance of old and new. This style, marked by beautiful architecture and charming decor, offers numerous ideas for homes of various ages and styles, advocating for a lived-in aesthetic and personal touch often overlooked in current trends. This article explores five distinct French country homes, detailing how their owners and designers have crafted characterful and charming schemes. The first example is Maison Noe in Dax, a 1806 'maison de maître' owned by interior designer Benji Lewis. The home features classic symmetrical facades and natural stone brickwork. Lewis's renovation approach emphasizes retaining the original structure's authenticity and reinstating period-appropriate materials. He primarily furnished the home with pieces from local brocantes and antique shops, ensuring they fit scale drawings, and focused on reconditioning and recovering upholstered items to balance preloved charm with comfort. Lewis stresses the importance of a 'brocante factor' to achieve a successful French country look, advising a balance between controlled purchases and a curated mix of interesting items. Manoir Mouret in South West France, built in the 1850s, exemplifies an idyllic French country home surrounded by vineyards. Owner Margaret Reckitt describes the 'maison de maître' as having barns sensitively converted into accommodation. The interiors feature a unifying color palette across all buildings, creating a sense of calm with occasional pops of color. Fabrics and wall coverings often incorporate nature themes, reflecting the surrounding landscape. Antiques, frequently sourced from local fairs, add layers of interest and connect the home to its agricultural history. Sara Silm's petit chateau in the Béarn region, dating back to the 1850s, showcases an enduring old-meets-new aesthetic. Silm, author of "How to French Country," focused on preserving the original charm during restoration. Her color palette is inspired by the local landscape and aged patinas of shutters and doors. Silm layers textures, often starting with the floor using vintage Persian rugs or natural sisal, which contrast with old floorboards or travertine flagstones. She emphasizes a relaxed, unfussy design, integrating wallpaper from her collaboration with Sandberg Wallpaper to express personality and enhance the intimate, warm French country style. Finally, a Maison de Maître in the South of France, owned by Jane Grainger, presents a grand entry with a neutral-finished exterior, offering a more elegant facade than traditional stone. Built in the mid-1800s, this home blends traditional French country style with contemporary additions, designed to feel like a family home while respecting its historical context. Grainger sourced many preloved furniture pieces from brocantes and vide greniers. The home's architectural details, such as well-proportioned rooms, large windows, Juliet balconies, and wooden shutters, are integral to its French country charm, creating a sense of history and light. The overarching lesson from these French country homes is that a harmonious blend of old and new, combined with comfortable, laid-back living, is essential for infusing a home with country charm and character. #FrenchCountryHomes #InteriorDesign #RusticStyle #AntiqueDecor #HomeRenovation #HistoricHomes #DesignInspiration #LivedInAesthetic

The double doors connecting Mount Vernon’s piazza to the Mansion’s central passage, essential for visitor access and structural integrity, are being replaced after over 60 years of heavy use and exposure to elements. Built in 1954 from young, fast-grown pine, these doors lacked the strength-giving resin of old-growth timber, leading to a shortened lifespan. In 2018, carpenter Amy Harrington McAuley was commissioned to construct new doors using traditional 18th-century hand tools and methods, aiming for an authentic reconstruction of the doors as they would have appeared in George Washington’s era. The project commenced with extensive research into the original doors, which are no longer extant. Architectural Historian Caroline Spurry reviewed archival records, while Preservation Specialist Eric Litchford examined Mount Vernon’s architectural study collection, comprising retired structural fragments. Although the original door pieces were not found, fragments of an 18th-century door from an unknown estate location and the predecessors to the 1954 doors were discovered. Paint analysis on these doors helped approximate their age and provided insights into Mount Vernon's architecture after Washington’s time. It was determined that the 1954 doors and earlier 19th-century doors were bi-leaf (two doors in one opening). This was corroborated by an 1796 watercolor painting by Benjamin Latrobe, depicting the Washington family on the piazza with bi-leaf doors in the background, confirming the form of the original doors. McAuley and the architectural team meticulously measured the existing doorway and doors to understand the construction materials and techniques employed by Washington’s carpenters. The doors utilize a frame-and-panel construction, featuring vertical stiles and horizontal rails joined by mortise and tenon joints. This design allows panels to “float,” accommodating wood expansion and contraction due to temperature and humidity changes without the need for nails. For the new doors, Mount Vernon’s carpenters, John O’Rourke and Dave Weir, sourced old-growth yellow pine beams salvaged from a demolished mill. This type of pine, from ancient, slow-growing trees, possesses exceptional hardness and strength due to its high resin content, making it more durable than hardwoods like oak when seasoned, and was commonly used in 18th-century construction. McAuley began by surfacing the lumber with a scrub plane, followed by smoothing with the grain. A tool mark study conducted by McAuley and Architectural Conservator Steve Stuckey on other Mansion doors revealed subtle grooves, informing McAuley’s choice of planes to match 18th-century techniques. After shaping and smoothing, the lumber was cut to the frame's dimensions, and edges were evened with a jointer plane. The frame assembly involved 24 mortise and tenon joints, requiring precise chiseling of rectangular openings (mortises) through the stiles and cutting slightly smaller edges (tenons) on the rails. Grooves were also cut along the pieces to accommodate the floating panels. Unlike modern doors where moldings are often separate, the Mansion’s doors are self-molded, with decorative profiles carved directly into the frame. The architectural preservation team selected an S-shaped molding, or ogee, prevalent in the Mansion. Lacking a matching plane, McAuley meticulously stenciled the profile, cut grooves, leveled them into steps, and established the curve using round and hollow planes. The joinery of the moldings at the corners presented another challenge. Instead of modern miter joints, the original doors used scribe joints, an older technique where rail moldings are undercut to fit over stile moldings at a 90-degree angle. McAuley, despite her extensive experience, had not previously made a scribe joint. She reverse-engineered the joint by studying existing Mansion doors and an 18th-century door fragment. After consulting an expert, she mastered the complex technique, which involved cutting a precise angle through the molding, thinning it, and gouging out space for a snug fit. This process was repeated 60 times, honing her skill. Once the frame was assembled, McAuley focused on the panels, which required gluing several boards together to prevent warping. She used planes to create the raised field and beveled edges of each panel, working meticulously with and across the grain. The physical effort of running planes across the tough pine yielded beautiful results. The frame was then fastened, with tenons wedged tightly and joints secured with wooden pegs. After approximately 450 hours of work over 36 days, the Mansion doors were completed. These doors, crafted with traditional methods, are expected to last another century, providing future generations access to George Washington’s home. The choice to use 18th-century techniques not only ensured an authentic product but also helped preserve a fading craft, demonstrating a commitment to historical accuracy and traditional craftsmanship. #MountVernon #HistoricPreservation #18thCenturyArchitecture #TraditionalCraftsmanship #DoorConstruction #GeorgeWashington #ArchitecturalRestoration #WoodworkingTechniques

The choice of a garage door significantly influences a home's curb appeal and resale value, ranking among the top home improvements for return on investment. A garage door is not merely a functional element for security; it is a crucial component in defining a home's exterior aesthetic. This article highlights seven trending garage door styles that enhance both form and function, particularly for modern homes or those undergoing an exterior update. Full-View Aluminum and Glass Garage Doors are praised for their clean lines, transparency, and modern aesthetic. These doors feature durable aluminum frames with large glass panels, suitable for urban and contemporary designs. They allow natural light and create a seamless indoor-outdoor transition, making them ideal for garages used as versatile spaces like home gyms or studios. Customization options include various glass types (frosted, tinted, mirrored, or clear) and frame finishes (anodized or powder-coated), with tinted or frosted glass recommended for privacy. Flush Panel Garage Doors offer a sleek, minimalist, and low-maintenance option. Their flat, unembellished surfaces are perfect for minimalist architecture, typically made from steel or aluminum, providing clean lines and subtle sophistication that blend seamlessly with modern façades. They are available in various finishes, including wood grain textures and matte colors, and can be paired with smart garage door openers for a complete modern upgrade. Plank Garage Doors combine texture with contemporary simplicity through horizontal grooves or slats, adding subtle depth without overwhelming a minimalist design. These doors are popular in mid-century modern and Scandinavian-inspired homes, balancing warmth and modernity. They are available in wood, composite, and steel, with darker wood grain finishes suggested for a bold contrast against light exteriors. Frameless Glass Garage Doors are presented as an ultra-modern, statement-making, and futuristic choice. These doors feature a smooth, uninterrupted glass surface with concealed structural supports, reflecting light beautifully and offering a clean, mirror-like finish. They are ideal for high-end contemporary architecture and are particularly effective in coastal or desert homes where they can enhance natural lighting and views. Carriage House Garage Doors, with a modern twist, merge classic charm with contemporary materials. This traditional style is reinterpreted with sleeker lines, steel construction, and minimalist hardware to suit transitional and modern farmhouse aesthetics. Durable steel and clean finishes are key, with matte black hardware or minimalist handles recommended for a refined look. Vertical Window Garage Doors offer an asymmetrical and architecturally bold design. Unlike traditional horizontal window layouts, vertical placements add visual interest and allow for creative symmetry. This design not only brings in light but also creates visual movement, making the garage door a focal point. Matching the garage door window style with the front door or home siding lines can maximize impact. Custom Wood Garage Doors provide a warm, organic, and unique touch. Modern homes often incorporate natural elements, and custom wood doors, crafted from materials like mahogany or cedar, help soften geometric lines. These doors can be customized to match specific design visions, though proper weather treatment or the consideration of faux wood options for lower maintenance is advised. Key considerations for choosing a garage door include material durability (steel and aluminum for longevity, wood for luxury with higher upkeep), insulation for energy efficiency, ensuring the style complements the home's overall aesthetic, and balancing privacy with natural light in glass door options. Investing in a modern garage door is highlighted as a strategic home improvement that enhances both property value and functionality. #GarageDoorStyles #HomeImprovement #CurbAppeal #ModernHomeDesign #LuxuryRealEstate #ArchitecturalTrends #HomeRenovations #ExteriorDesign #PropertyValue

Artist Stephanie Dillon and her husband, Reilly, were captivated by a model home in Eden Prairie, which boasted a blend of whitewashed shiplap and shakes on its exterior, creating a timeless and airy aesthetic. The interior featured light-filled communal spaces, each with a distinct character, moving away from conventional floorplans. The color scheme ranged from calming charcoals and pale neutrals to deep greens and rich terra-cotta, evoking a European atmosphere. Kelli Fontana Vogelgesang, owner of West Bay Homes and the designer behind the model, drew inspiration from her travels to Paris, characterizing the style as French contemporary farmhouse. She envisioned the kitchen as a French pastry shop, integrating multiple layers of meticulously detailed materials throughout the 5,000-square-foot residence. The kitchen's design incorporates three types of glazed tiles for the backsplashes, with a small hexagonal tile chosen for its light-reflecting properties, contributing to an elevated visual experience. Dillon, an acrylic and mixed-media artist known for painting her emotions, found a kindred spirit in Vogelgesang, whose design philosophy also prioritized passion and feeling. Dillon retained Vogelgesang to complete the interior design of their new home. The designer expressed enthusiasm for incorporating Dillon's extensive rug collection. Elements like shiplap and painted charcoal, seen on the exterior, were repeated inside on the basement's fireplace wall and the vaulted ceiling of a lounge area adjacent to the kitchen, along with charcoal-colored square tiles extending from counter to ceiling in the kitchen backsplash. This repetition of color ensures cohesiveness and a holistic progression throughout the home, where all environmental elements relate to one another. Vogelgesang skillfully managed the abundance of materials, preventing a busy or cluttered appearance, much like Dillon blends colors on her canvases. Some design choices stand out, others recede, and some shimmer, collectively defining the mood of each space. The materials coalesce into a balanced and proportionate composition, resulting in a home tailored for an artist. Vogelgesang aims to create spaces that are timeless and elegant without being overly delicate or cost-prohibitive. The lower-level bar area features charcoal shiplap around the fireplace, painted in Sherwin-Williams’s Dorian Gray, and steps down into a sunken media room, showcasing the designer’s preferred brass and gray combination. Brass hardware also adorns the front entry doors. Light fixtures, including those from Mitzi on the library ladder, were strategically chosen. The unexpected entry leads to a "dining hall" that functions as a grand foyer, as described by Vogelgesang. This space features nine-inch-wide-plank white oak floors laid in a herringbone pattern, with ceiling beams bisecting its soaring height, allowing ample natural light. The built-in bar features a backsplash of alternating light and dark neutral tiles, custom cabinetry with dental molding, and a marble sink skirt. Open shelving in the kitchen displays two sizes of backsplash tiles from The Tile Shop, with custom alder wood cabinetry finished with a clear whitewashed stain and brass hardware for an enhanced shimmer. The kitchen, inspired by Parisian pastry shops, includes two islands for ease of navigation, with only one housing a sink to allow for uninterrupted dining on the other. The mudroom boasts large-format heated tiles combined with white oak cabinetry, finished in a whitewash stain, offering an industrial concrete look harmonized with French country cabinetry. A basement guest bath incorporates vibrant color through whimsical floral tiles from The Tile Shop on one wall and Sherwin-Williams’s Perfect Periwinkle on the adjacent wall. The library features a bold mix of Sherwin-Williams paints: Canyon Clay on the walls and Gauntlet Gray in a high-gloss enamel finish on the moldings and doors, complemented by chartreuse chairs. A wide-plank whitewashed cedar wall on the rear deck provides privacy. The prep kitchen off the mudroom embraces color with Waverly Classics wallpaper by York, cabinets painted in Sherwin-Williams’s Green Onyx, and a hammered copper sink, showcasing how personal touches can enhance practical areas. The powder room dazzles with an antiqued mirrored glass tile wall from The Tile Shop, a custom white oak vanity with a marble shelf, and Savoy House sconces. The floors throughout the home incorporate patterned ceramic tiles from The Tile Shop. The home's floor plan, while a traditional rambler, diverges into an unconventional layout where the front entry opens into a vaulted foyer and dining room, serving as a pass-through to the kitchen and great room. #HomeStyle #InteriorDesign #HomeTours #FrenchContemporaryFarmhouse #CustomCabinetry #TileDesign #ArtisticHome #ArchitecturalDetails #EuropeanInfluence