Although we can't do without doors, most of us don't consider them essential to interior design. Think again!
Whether you want to liven up a dated door, make a design statement, or create more useful space, there are lots of ways to incorporate doors into the design of your space. Here are a few of my favorites.
Convert to chalkboard doors.
In my opinion, this is the best, easiest way to add both fun and functionality to a door by making good use of all that vertical space. Simply convert all or a portion of the door with a few coats of chalkboard paint. No need to think only in black & white as Benjamin Moore paints now allow you to get any of their colors as chalkboard paint. And if you don't want to paint, there are some great removable, re-usable vinyl alternatives.
In the kitchen, this is a handy space to write out quick reminders, the week's menu, or your grocery list. When you're ready to go shopping, just snap a picture with your smart phone!
Your kids will be thrilled to finally be able to draw on the walls! Cleanup is a snap with a simple chalk eraser.
Add a creative pop of color.
There is no rule that says doors have to be the same color inside and out. Painting the inside of the door is a great way to spruce up an ordinary space, add texture to a minimalist room, or add your own personality if your home's exterior colors are dictated by housing or condo associations. Don't limit yourself to just the front door, either. Bathroom doors, back doors, kid's rooms…they all benefit from a little more life!
Get creative with closets.
Closet doors can be pretty hum drum, or even downright dumpy. But with a few small updates, closet doors can actually enhance a room's design rather than just keep all your stuff out of sight.
Convert a standard bi-fold door (that may be prone to falling off the tracks!) into French doors.
Update a boring closet by swapping bland, pre-fab doors for architectural panels. Paint them in a clean, unifying color for an even more contemporary look.
There are a few ideas to get your door ideas flowing. And to think we haven't even touched on hardware!
I know you've got some great ideas or successful projects of your own. Don't be shy! Share them with us over on our Family Home Pinterest board?
Sara Eizen is a Seattle-based interior designer and home organizer with a passion for helping busy families reclaim style and space in their homes on any budget. In a bi-weekly column for Seattle's Child, Sara shares creative, fun, affordable tips and tricks for clearing clutter, sprucing up rooms with minimal effort, creating systems that simplify family life, and much more.
