Monday, July 28, 2014

Door Couture




Making a Grand Entrance

If the saying "first impressions are everything" is true, what is your front door saying about you?  A door draws you in.  It sets the tone for what's inside.


Before

In the Club Road Project, the architectural details of the home were lost with the front door and trim painted to match the stone exterior.













After

 To create curb appeal, we not only changed 
 the actual front door, but also changed the
 trim color.  The darker trim color sets off the 
 amazing wood pediment (original to the 
 home) that surrounds the front door.  In the 
 "before" color, this detail simply blended into 
 the stone.  

 Next step:  Creating a new front porch to 
 enjoy the beautiful view of #2 green.









You don't have to change the actual front door to make an update.  Paint your door a signature color.




Is your door exposed to the abusive afternoon sun?  If so, use marine-grade stain/varnish for durability.

Remember to always keep your threshold clean.  Wipe your door down on a regular basis.  

Last, but certainly not least, is what I like to call "door couture."  Unleash your creativity on the wreaths and decorations for your door.   Celebrate each season with something new for your front door.  


Don't forget about rugs too!




Top and Middle Rugs:  Pottery Barn; Bottom Rug:  Frontgate




By the Numbers:  Is ROI possible?


According to the "2013-2014 Cost vs. Value" analysis by the National Association of Realtors, an average door update cost of $1,162 will recoup 96.6% of the remodeling cost at resale.  Money well spent, I'd say.





Why Stop at the Front Door?

Garage doors don't have to be boring.  There are so many different styles of garage doors to choose from today.  Which style complements your home?





With the Club Road Project, we converted two single car garage doors to one large garage door.  Let's just say it had to do with a certain someone (I'm not mentioning any names) backing out and leaving a rear view mirror behind.  So, one door is easier to navigate.  Yes, I'm speaking from personal experience.  




The fiberglass door was painted and hardware was added to transform the basic fiberglass garage door into, what looks like, carriage doors.  A wrought iron detail was also added to the window above the garage for added architectural interest.



Now, what are you waiting for?  Dress your door!



Positively yours,



Paula Chamblin Aulino
Associate ASID