“You never get a second chance to make a first impression”.


By Karin Andrews T


hroughout our lives we have often heard the old adage, “You never get a second chance to make a first impression”. This pro- foundly simple statement was never more-true as it pertains to the front door appeal of our home, which is the most obvi- ous focal point of every house. The front door and entry makes a definitive statement about the homeowner and the home itself. There is no other exterior im- provement that we can make to our home that will have a more profound and powerful impact. It will either speak or reek. Welcome or repel. Whether we like it or not, a dynamic and tasteful front door will stop everyone in their tracks, causing them to take note of what the door has to say about itself and the homeowner.


There are several design elements in play when considering which color is most appropriate for your home and design style. It is good to remember that color evokes subjective responses in all of us. For the mere investment of a can of paint, you can significantly boost your goodwill in the neighborhood and your property value at the same time.


The House & Home Magazine Less is more


Simplicity is the foundation of all good design. The architectural lines, color, ex- terior finishes and character of your home will guide you in determining the choices that you should make with regard to the overall all color theme of your front door and any other accessories that you wish to include. You will want to consider any surrounding gardens, trees and homes, if they are part of the picture.


Whether you just want to update the


front door impact of your home or are considering placing your home on the market, the key to a striking re-do is a cohesive color theme and choices that “pop”. Of utmost importance is to allow the front door to speak for itself in a strik- ing and welcoming way. Before you consider painting a front


door, make sure that the door works with the overall architecture of your home. If it doesn’t work, no amount of color will change that. Exterior wooden storm doors will upgrade even the most mundane of doors and should be painted the same color as the front door for continuity and the maximum impact. They look beauti- ful and provide a window in and out when the front door is open.


Color Counts


In recent months, I have seen bright ruby red, deep magenta, plum, robin’s egg blue, bright gold, rich maize, peacock blue, deep orange, periwinkle, black and regal navy blue doors that absolutely “pop” and bring to life an entire property. Their accessories are limited and frame


the front door. It is important to note that a glossy door has greater color and design impact than a dull finish. The gloss will add clarity to the color you have chosen rather than “dulling it down”. More stately colors like dark green,


rich brown, eggplant, black, garnet and every shade of grey are also lovely, if you are looking for a less whimsical color choice. White front doors should be avoided as they can seem sterile and un-welcoming on any house.


A Word on Color


Red – is a strong and extraverted color and not for the faint of heart. Ultimate reds for the front door include: classic red coat red, deep red garnet, rich barn red and deep maroon. Red doors are fearless and bold. They are most often found on more traditional and colonial homes.


Eggplant, Amethyst and Plum − believe it or not these colors are absolutely gorgeous against a taupe colored home with white trim and black shutters. I have seen this color combination twice recently, which left me utterly speechless. Who knew that various shades of eggplant, purple or plum could ever so beautifully complete a home and create such a stunning focal-point.


Orange − Pumpkin, coral, burnt sienna, or deep orange can be very striking on the right color of house. These doors have a warm, autumn quality all year long. Burnt Sienna or pumpkin is beautiful on a white, olive, soft cream or pale yellow home with large shade trees.


Blue − Deep navy or indigo blue doors are among the richest and most regal shades


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