Make a Statement with Uncommon Door Styles  

Make a Statement with Uncommon Door Styles  

September 18, 2023
By:
Martin Whitmore, President of US Window & Door
house living room with bi-fold glass door

Want to give your home's entrance a makeover that'll leave a lasting impression? It all starts with that front door you walk through every day. You know, the one your family, friends, and neighbors see even before they step inside your place.

While a fresh coat of paint is a quick and wallet-friendly way to spruce up a dull-looking door, there's a whole world of unique door styles out there that can take your curb appeal to a whole new level. These doors aren't just about function; they're about making a real statement.

Before you rush to grab the paint cans or the welcome mat, consider how a distinctive door design could completely transform your entryway. From pivot doors that add a touch of modern elegance to barn doors that bring that cozy, rustic feel, we're about to take a dive into some seriously eye-catching options. These styles work for all types of entrances including exterior sliding doors and glass doors.

In this guide, you'll learn the best uncommon door styles to help your home make a statement and boost curb appeal.

Statement-Making Pivot Doors  

Pivot doors are a modern architectural marvel that not only catches the eye but also redefines the way we interact with entrances. Unlike traditional doors that rely on hinges attached to the door frame, pivot doors rotate on a central axis, creating a dramatic and impressive effect. These doors often boast larger dimensions, making them ideal for grand entrances. The pivot mechanism allows for innovative designs, such as oversized handles or minimalistic hardware, contributing to the door's overall visual appeal.

From the exterior, these doors become architectural focal points, instantly enhancing your home's facade. Their distinct design and commanding presence contribute to an improved curb appeal that leaves a lasting impression on anyone who passes by.

Pivot doors are particularly popular in modern and contemporary architectural styles, as they align well with the clean lines and minimalist aesthetics often found in these designs. They offer a fresh take on entrances, redefining how we interact with doorways and adding a touch of elegance to any space.

Barn Doors for a Rustic Charm  

modern sliding glass barn door

Barn doors, renowned for their rustic charm, are a type of sliding door that draws inspiration from the traditional doors found in barns and farmhouses. These doors have transitioned from their utilitarian origins to become a popular design element in both interior and exterior spaces, adding a touch of nostalgia and character to various architectural styles.

What sets barn doors apart is their distinctive design, characterized by horizontal wooden slats that often resemble the doors found on actual barns. The wooden slats are arranged to exude a warm and inviting rustic aesthetic. Beyond their appearance, barn doors slide along a track system, contributing to their functional appeal while also serving as a design feature.

The appeal of barn doors lies in their ability to evoke a sense of nostalgia and comfort. They bring to mind images of traditional farmhouses and simpler times, making them a popular choice for those who wish to infuse their spaces with a touch of history and a cozy countryside feel.

Barn doors are highly customizable, allowing homeowners to choose from a variety of finishes, stains, and styles that align with their overall design preferences. The hardware accompanying barn doors, including large handles and rail systems, further enhances their rustic charm and adds to the overall visual impact.

While barn doors are commonly associated with interior spaces, they can also be used outdoors, adding a unique touch to spaces like patios, sheds, or even garage entrances. This versatility allows homeowners to extend the rustic charm of barn doors beyond their traditional indoor applications.

Dutch Doors: Style and Functionality Combined  

Dutch doors are divided horizontally, allowing the top and bottom halves to operate independently. This design is not only visually intriguing but also serves practical purposes. You can keep the bottom portion closed for privacy while opening the top to allow light and fresh air to flow in. They often feature charming details like window-like panels on the top half, enhancing their aesthetic appeal. Whether painted in a cheerful hue or stained to showcase the natural wood grain, Dutch doors are a distinctive choice that brings character to any home's entrance.

Beyond their functionality, Dutch doors are admired for their visual appeal. They often feature window-like panels on the upper half, adding to their aesthetic charm. This design allows you to showcase your surroundings, making them an excellent choice for homes with scenic views or those looking to establish a strong connection between indoor and outdoor spaces.

Dutch doors can be customized to match your design preferences, whether you prefer a traditional wooden finish, a splash of color, or a stained look showcasing the wood's natural grain. This versatility allows you to integrate Dutch doors seamlessly into a variety of architectural styles, from classic to contemporary.

Pocket Doors for Space Optimization  

Pocket doors are a smart and efficient solution for space optimization in interior design. Unlike traditional hinged doors that swing open and require clearance, pocket doors slide discreetly into the wall when opened, effectively saving valuable floor space and allowing for a seamless transition between rooms.

The mechanism of pocket doors involves a hidden track system that guides the door into a recess within the wall. This ingenious design means that when the door is open, it remains completely concealed within the wall cavity, freeing up floor space on both sides of the doorway. This is particularly advantageous in areas with limited room, where traditional doors might be impractical due to their swinging motion.

Pocket doors find their true calling in areas where space is at a premium. For example, they're commonly used in small bathrooms, closets, and narrow hallways where every inch counts. By eliminating the need for a door to swing open, pocket doors open up new possibilities for furniture placement and layout design.

Furthermore, pocket doors aren't limited to interior spaces only. They can also be employed in exterior settings, seamlessly connecting indoor and outdoor areas. This creates an effortless flow between spaces and enhances the overall design cohesiveness of your home.

The choice of materials and design for pocket doors can match your overall interior aesthetic. From classic wooden options to sleek modern designs, pocket doors can blend seamlessly into various design styles, ensuring that they not only save space but also contribute to the overall visual appeal of your living spaces.

Folding Doors for Versatility  

Folding doors are incredibly versatile solutions for connecting spaces. Also known as accordion doors, they consist of multiple panels that fold and stack neatly against each other when opened. This creates a wide and unobstructed entryway, making them an excellent choice for enhancing indoor and outdoor spaces.

The primary advantage of folding doors is their ability to seamlessly blend the boundaries between spaces. These doors provide an expansive view and create a sense of openness when fully extended. This makes them particularly popular for connecting indoor areas to outdoor patios, gardens, or decks.

The versatility of folding doors lies in their ability to adapt to various scenarios. You can fold and stack the panels to the side to create a larger area for gatherings or open up the space to enjoy natural light and fresh air. When closed, folding doors offer the privacy and insulation of traditional doors while still allowing some natural light to filter through.

Folding doors are not just practical; they're also visually appealing. The panels can be designed with various materials, finishes, and styles to match your home's architecture and interior decor. Whether you're aiming for a contemporary look or a more traditional aesthetic, folding doors can complement your design vision.

bifold glass door of luxury house

Industrial Steel Doors for Urban Chic  

For a touch of urban chic and industrial aesthetics, consider installing industrial steel doors. These doors feature a steel frame with large glass panels reminiscent of factory windows. Industrial steel doors add a modern edge to your home's exterior and can be an excellent choice for contemporary or loft-style residences.

This design trend artfully blends the robust charm of industrial steel doors with the contemporary elegance of urban aesthetics. These doors, built primarily from steel, boast a rugged allure thanks to their metallic construction, often featuring visible welds and rivets that evoke a utilitarian appeal.

The urban chic style draws inspiration from metropolitan environments, embracing the unrefined textures of exposed brick and concrete. Rooted in minimalism, the urban chic aesthetic prioritizes clean lines and open spaces, aligning seamlessly with the industrial essence of steel doors. This fusion is achieved through a juxtaposition of materials, expertly combining the cool industrial look of steel with the warmth of wood or textured fabrics. The neutral color palette, dominated by shades of gray, black, white, and earth tones, cultivates a cohesive and sophisticated urban ambiance.

This design approach integrates functional elements such as security-focused steel doors into spaces, imbuing them with a stylish and modern flair.

Stained Glass Doors for Vintage Charm  

While French doors are a familiar choice, there's a unique twist that can add an element of uncommon elegance to your home's entrance: stained glass French doors. These doors merge the classic appeal of French doors with the artistic charm of stained glass. The result? A stunning entrance that invites natural light and introduces an array of colors and patterns to your space.

Stained glass French doors are a creative fusion of functionality and artistry. The glass panels, extending the full height of the door, are adorned with elaborate stained glass designs. This maintains the privacy you seek and casts a soft, vibrant glow as sunlight filters through the glass. Whether your aesthetic leans towards floral patterns, abstract geometrics, or even inspired scenes, stained glass French doors transform your entrance into a visual masterpiece.

The marriage of two classic styles—French doors and stained glass—creates a remarkable statement piece that is sure to captivate the eye and imagination. So, if you're drawn to elegance that stands out from the ordinary, consider these stained glass French doors to illuminate your home with extraordinary charm.

Stained glass doors evoke a sense of vintage charm and timeless beauty. These doors feature stained glass panels that add a pop of color and elegance to your entrance. Stained glass doors are available in various patterns and designs, ranging from classic to contemporary, allowing you to choose the style that resonates with your home's overall theme. 

stained sliding glass wall door

Rustic Carriage Doors for Nostalgia  

Rustic carriage doors for nostalgia represent a design concept that combines the classic elegance of vintage carriage-style doors with a yearning for sentimental connections to the past. These doors, adorned with a rustic aesthetic, embody the charm of historical carriage houses, evoking a sense of heritage and tradition. Often characterized by their distressed wood, wrought iron hardware, and intricate detailing, these doors mirror the weathered appearance of bygone eras.

These doors make a statement by transporting us to a different era through their design elements. They exude a sense of history and craftsmanship, bringing to mind images of cozy cottages, charming farmhouses, and vintage estates. The detailing and hardware, such as decorative handles and hinges, evoke a sense of handcrafted artistry often absent in modern designs.

By incorporating rustic carriage doors into spaces, whether a home, a garden shed, or an entryway, they immediately become focal points that command attention. Their unique appearance stands out against more contemporary elements, creating a visual contrast that draws the eye. Moreover, they create an ambiance of nostalgia, reminding us of simpler times and connecting us to a sense of history and continuity. The doors become a conversation piece, sparking discussions about architectural heritage and design evolution.

Elevate Your Home with Distinctive Door Designs  

When designing a home with flair, incorporating exterior sliding doors and other unique door styles can make a difference. Whether you opt for a statement-making pivot door, a rustic barn door, a functional Dutch door, or a space-saving pocket door, each of these uncommon door styles brings charm and functionality to your home's entrance.

By choosing a door that aligns with your design preferences and lifestyle needs, you can create an entrance that is visually stunning and uniquely yours.

Ready to transform your home's exterior into an exceptional work of art? Contact US Window and Door for expert door installations. Our team of professionals is here to help you bring your design visions to life and make a statement with your home's entrance. Explore the world of distinctive door styles, and let us craft a stunning entryway that reflects your personality and elevates your space. Get in touch today!