7 Ways to Brighten Up

What your front door color says to the world

Okay, let's face it, we're seeing a lot of our homes right now. And it's kind of a dark time. So whether you're looking to keep yourself busy as you work on "flattening the curve", or maybe you just want to bring a little color into a world that can feel a little dreary...why not consider changing the color of your front door.

You never get a second chance to make a first impression…the same is true for your house. Your front door is the first thing that greets visitors (yes, we WILL get to have them again), so why not make a statement. After all, the world isn’t always black and white, there are always shades of grey. And blue and green and red and purple and tan and ochre and puce and cerulean and...

With so many options—limitless options, in fact—color is indeed a powerful tool. Try a new hue and you could make your home more welcoming, add curb appeal, and set the tone for what's inside.

Red 

Red is never boring. This passionate color adds a boost of excitement and tells visitors the they’ve arrived at a vibrant place, full of life, energy, and interaction.

A bright red, like the color of a Chinese lacquer, immediately draws the eye. A more burgundy shade is a nice twist if you want to stay primarily  traditional…but with an air of mystery. 

Red is an excellent choice to pair with white or beige siding/exterior colors and says timeless elegance—a white home with traditional double-hung windows, dark blue shutters, and a brilliant red door is a classic piece of Americana.

If you follow feng shui, red is a fire color and suitable for south-facing doors. 

Orange

Appropriately, orange combines some of the traits of red and yellow. It is energizing and exciting like red, and warm and friendly like yellow. 

A true tangerine orange conveys fun, joy, and playfulness and encourages social interaction. It’s a great pop of color, especially for an otherwise neutral home. It pairs well with sage greens for an understated look, but can also go with bright pastels for a beachy vibe.

Pumpkin is a strong color—but also appealing in a more muted way. It makes a youthful alternative to a red door and pairs nicely with the neutral colors of stone.

Natural wood siding with orange undertones are also a nice complement.This is a way to have a front door that still stands out, but doesn't scream contrast like it would if the siding were a cooler hue.

Yellow 

Yellow is an extremely bright and positive color. The wonder color, yellow has also been shown to increase metabolism, activate memory, stimulate the nervous system, promote communication, and spark creativity.

Its inherent energy means it is perfect for a welcoming front entry. Not only will it add a ray of virtual sunshine to your exterior, but it will also invigorate you with much-needed energy when you come home at the end of a long day. 

Green 

The color of nature, balance, and harmony, green combines the refreshing quality of blue and the cheerfulness of yellow. Because it goes well with so many other colors, it can be used almost anywhere. 

A bright sprout green adds energy and makes passerby take a second look at your home. It's an unexpected color that provides a cheery springtime welcome year-round!

Green-blue, like copper patina, can add just the right touch of personality to a neutral or beige home.

In addition to its connection to the natural world, green is also associated with wealth, prosperity, and growth. If you want to create an impression or lend drama, some of the darker shades are quite striking. Try a forest green to create a welcoming front door.

Blue

As serene as a deep lake and as stalwart as your true-blue best friend... Chances are, no matter what mood you're looking to engender, there's a blue for you. 

While it is a popular interior color, it is less common for a front door—especially some of the more vibrant shades. Why not shake things up with a blue door to make for an unexpected welcome to your home? Engaging blues, such as cerulean, lapis lazuli, or turquoise are great choices as they encourage gathering and socialization.

Other blues are calming and soothing, and excellent for creativity and healing—all certainly good feelings when you come home from a long day at work or welcome tired travelers to your door. Try a peaceful blue-grey that says, “Welcome; come in and rest for a while.”

Dark blues, such as navy, project blue's natural calm and welcoming nature, along with a rich, classic feeling.

Purple

Luxe, laid-back, and lighthearted: purple can play many roles. Whether you pick warm or cool, purples can complement most any color palate. But use caution—a little goes a long way (unless you’re Prince), and too much purple can be gaudy.

In its deepest, richest incarnations such as eggplant or plum, purple is dramatic and sophisticated. The color of royalty, it’s associated with luxury, creativity, and opulence. 

A flirty, violet jewel tone is an instant update to a traditional color scheme, creating a trendier, more energetic home front.

On the other hand, the subtle richness of of a dark lavender creates a soothing atmosphere. This is another shade that can add serenity after a stressful day, and calm the nerves and allow relaxation. Try it if you have wood siding in a tan, taupe, or other light neutral.

Like red, purple is feng shui fire element and a suitable color for a south facing door.

Black

A classic choice and perennial favorite, black is the absence of all color, and readily absorbs light. A black door can give a feeling of mystery, drama, or elegance when paired with a more opulent-colored siding choice.

A near universal partner, black makes even neutrals like greys and beiges seem brighter.

Pair it with a metallic, like corrugated steel or brushed nickel, and you have a sleek and edgy design. Use black with industrial accents and contrast it with a natural wood like cedar for a modern vibe.

Because black goes with everything, it is a great choice for a home with a more patterned exterior, such as brick, stone, or a combination. While a white or vibrantly hued front door might contrast too much or appear too busy, a glossy black front door ties everything together.