Front Door Trends and Townhouse Exteriors
Colours, materials, glazing and details: current trends for townhouse front doors and façades, while respecting the architecture.
On a townhouse, the front door is the signature of the façade. Every passer-by sees it, and it instantly sets the character of the home. Here are the trends gaining ground, and how to adopt them well.
Colours
- Anthracite and black remain popular: understated and elegant, they suit stone as well as pale render.
- Deep colours are on the rise: forest green, midnight blue, burgundy or terracotta give classic façades personality.
- Two-tone doors show a bold colour on the street side and a neutral shade inside.
Materials
- Aluminium for contemporary lines, tall doors and textured finishes.
- Timber for older houses and historic centres, with traditional mouldings and panels.
- Composite for the look of wood without the maintenance.
Glazing and light
Glazed fanlights above the door and narrow side lights brighten the hall without compromising security, thanks to laminated glass. Textured or frosted glass keeps privacy from the street.
Details that make the difference
- Vertical pull handles for a contemporary style.
- Wrought-iron grilles for period façades.
- House number and lighting matched to the door.
- Consistency with the windows: same or complementary colour for a harmonious façade.
Respect the architecture and the rules
In town centres, especially near listed monuments or in conservation areas, colours and materials may be regulated. Changing the look of the door often requires a prior declaration to the local council in France. Check the local planning rules before ordering.
Performance too
A fashionable door must also perform: multi-point lock, certified cylinder and a low Ud value. A new door is a chance to improve style, security and insulation at the same time.
In short
A confident colour, a material suited to the house, well-planned glazing and respect for local rules: these are the ingredients of a successful townhouse entrance.