When we think of decorative doors, we usually picture a front or backdoor. Many of us will spend time choosing the perfect colour for our front doors. We also put plenty of effort into ensuring our letterboxes and hardware are polished to a fine sheen. In short, we give a lot of attention to our exterior doors. But what about the ones on the inside? Here are a few ways to make your interior doors more interesting.
Curtains
In previous articles we’ve discussed the advantages of front door curtains. However, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t continue the theme throughout your home. A thin gauze curtain would add a beautiful texture to an interior door. Equally, a decorative beaded curtain would create a relaxed, bohemian ambiance. In each case, you have the option of keeping the curtain drawn with a hook or tieback. This will allow you to enjoy its pleasing appearance without it getting in the way.
Interior doorbells
Installing an interior doorbell is a great way of adding some fun to your doors. These can be purchased in many homeware stores, as well as online. They are available in a wide range of designs, so shop around until you find the right one for you.
If you have children or teenagers, this is also a great option for their bedroom doors. You can find doorbells, which are specifically designed for this purpose. Often these will be themed in the shape of a flower, tiara, or a favourite cartoon character. As well as being fun, a bedroom doorbell will give the kids a sense of privacy, which is usually appreciated!
Door knockers
Who says door knockers are only for outside? Using a knocker indoors is a quirky alternative to the interior doorbell. Try installing a knocker on your office door, so people can knock before entering. Another option is to fix one to your bathroom door, which will usually raise a few smiles. If you want to go really silly, why not choose a knocker with a funny design? Browse the various options available in the shops and find one that’s right for you.
Funny signs
If you’re a fan of funny décor, you could fix an amusing sign to the door of each room in your house. A sign that reads ‘beware the mess’ would be a good option for a playroom. If you have a home office, you could use ‘do not disturb, genius at work’. Of course, there are many amusing options for the bathroom. However, if you’d like to go with something subtler, you could use a simple ‘vacant/occupied’ sign for this room.
A splash of colour
This tip can be applied to every door in your home and will add a fun pop of colour to your décor. First, begin by choosing a few different colours of paint. These could match the décor for each room of your home. Interior design writer Lorna Hordos states:
“A door painted a contrasting color to the wall, such as bright blue against white or orange, is going to grab your attention, but it’s also going to visually chop up a small room. If you prefer a sleeker, seamless look, or if the door is in an awkward place such as near a corner or at the end of a hallway, paint it and its trim the same color as the walls.”
Alternatively, you could simply choose the brightest colours you can find. Prop each door open and carefully paint along the top and outside edge. Take care not to get any paint on the front or back of the door. Paint each door edge a different colour. When the paint has dried, you should be able to close the door, hiding the colour completely. When each door is opened, you’ll add a surprise pop of colour to the room. For tips on door painting, check out our article, here.
[Photo by ErikaWittlieb]