by Doreen Schofield
When it comes to interior doors, most doors are as dull as a doorknob. But doors are extensions of walls and space and can – or should – be just as interesting. There are a few things to consider when selecting an interior door.
First, one should have a basic knowledge of door materials.
Solid Wood doors can be made from a variety of woods. These doors offer the ability to have carvings, moldings, and panels. Keep in mind, solid wood doors do expand and contract with changing temperatures and humidity, so you may get a little sticking once in a while.
Solid Core doors may feel like one piece of lumber, but are actually made of many layers of material. The top plywood layer is a veneer and gives the door its finished appearance. This door can also have moldings and panels. This is a personal favorite of mine because it can be a better price point then solid wood, has sound reducing properties, and comes in many personalities.
Hollow Core doors are usually made of plywood or molded composite. They are lightweight and less costly, but they don’t buffer sound well.
Metal and Glass doors offer a streamlined, modern look and come in a myriad of styles.
Secondly, define a style to coordinate with the room’s design. Feel free to mix and match your doors, but keep some element consistent so there is a flow throughout the home. Using different panels can help make a statement. If one’s home has a Craftsman vibe, a variant three-panel door with one top panel and two vertical bottom panels is right at home. A Georgian Colonial welcomes a classic six-panel door. A Tuscan retreat is the perfect abode for single raised beveled panel with molded medallion.
Panels don’t have to be of wood. Glass – clear, etched, or obscure, can open all new possibilities. Panels can also be metal and tile.
Here are some of my design ideas:
Boring slab bypass closet doors get an airy pick-me-up when they have white fogged glass panels.
Don’t forget color! Wood work within your home does not have to be the same – just coordinate – so be bold. Mix a light natural cherry door with dark cherry stained casing, jam, and baseboard.
Painted doors are beautiful accents, offering a chance for your door to become a focal point.
Classic white and black doors are now competing for the spotlight with gray. And don’t be shy to paint the interior side of your kitchen door the sunny yellow color your Salt Box craves.
Keep one of your glass panel French doors closed. It’s fun to peek thru the glass
Open a small space by replacing the space-taking door with a pocket door
Be a trendsetter and replace your hinged door with a modern sliding barn door.
Interior doors are a vital part of your home, your home’s personality, and a beautiful completion of a dramatic effect. If you have some ideas and want to get started or don’t have ideas but want some, feel free to give me a call.
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