Make an Entrance

Front and Center

When renovating the façade of a home, some might give little thought to the front door selection when there are so many big-ticket items to consider such as roofing, landscaping and pathways. “The front door is the most prominent piece of furniture you can buy for your home,” says Cesar Mendez, designer and co-owner at Grand Entrances.

“When someone comes in looking to purchase a front door, I always ask for a picture of the home because you cannot fight the structure you own,” Cesar explains. “It needs to fit with the architectural style of the home’s exterior.” From there, he designs a custom door. He’s created doors with intricate ironwork, sculptural details, operable glass for added ventilation and fiberglass doors that mimic wood without the maintenance. But the doors are only part of the equation. “Curb appeal exists when the door, the landscaping, the lighting and the stonework all work together,” he adds. He shares his six tips for fashioning a welcoming entrance for visitors.

1. Start with a good foundation.

Lay a brick, stone or concrete path that matches the style of the home.

2. Add items with meaning.

Bring special objects to your landscape. Statues or figures with a spiritual, memorable or nostalgic significance help to personalize a home’s exterior space.

3. Frame the door.

Train a climbing vine over an archway, or plant topiaries, hedges or other lush greens on other side of the entry.

4. Illuminate the entrance.

Hang an outdoor light above the front door, opt for sconces in a courtyard and line a path from the road to the door to let your home shine even at night.

5. Make it a relaxing spot to sit.

A bench, a bistro table and chairs or a swing invites people to linger in the front and enjoy the view.

6. Let water run.

Fountains, waterfalls, ponds and other water features help evoke a tranquil ambiance.

OPEN DOOR POLICY: Update your entry with a bold new door handle, escutcheon, kickplate and knocker. Choose a model that lines up with your door’s existing drill-outs. Or you may opt for a keyless door lock.

Learn more: Contact Grand Entrances Doors and Hardware