Darren Keefe's Beacon Collection: Designs With Emotion

Some doors are more than just an entryway—they’re a new beginning, a memory, and a tribute. For carpenter and HGTV star Darren Keefe, the front door of his parents’ home became all of those things and more. Inspired by his late mother’s dream to renovate the family home, Darren set out to create a design that honored her vision while giving his father a fresh start after her passing.

This wasn’t just about curb appeal. It was about healing, legacy, and the power of design to carry emotion. The door became the first step in a series of renovations, symbolizing a new chapter for the home—and for the family within it. Every detail, from the materials to the silhouette to the materials, was chosen with intention, reflecting Darren’s parents’ deep connection to the home and the story behind it.

Discover the inspiration behind Darren’s latest collaboration, the Beacon Ensemble® Entry Door designer collection, the creative process that brought it to life, and how one door came to represent so much more than a way in—it became a way forward.

The inspiration behind the design

Darren’s mother always dreamed of modernizing the family’s mid-century modern home, infusing it with her own eccentric personality and flair. Though her health prevented her from seeing that dream through, her passion for design was contagious. “She loved interior design, which is why it became important to me as I got older,” Darren says. “She lit up every time she talked about her plans for the house.” 

After her passing a few years ago, Darren felt called to carry that vision forward. A new entry door sparked a series of renovations which became a way to honor her memory and give back to his father—the man who has always been there for him. “Growing up, whenever my car broke down, Dad was the one to pick me up. He was always there when I needed him. This was my chance to do something meaningful for him.” 

The name Beacon was deliberate. A beacon represents light, guidance, and homecoming—all the things Darren wanted this collection to embody. 

What makes a design for a home with mid-century modern roots

Nestled in a quiet cul-de-sac near the Smoky Mountains, the home is a true mid-century modern marvel. Darren affectionately calls it “the Brady Bunch house” with its wide windows, clean lines, and open feel, the home was designed to bring the outdoors in. 

The challenge? Choosing a door that complemented the home’s architectural roots while offering modern performance and comfort. 

Bold, black finish color 

The bold black finish gives the entryway a commanding presence. It’s deep, moody tones add contrast to the neutral façade while adding a touch of drama and sophistication. Darren describes it as giving the house “a little sexiness”, a modern edge that both honors the sleek, minimalist aesthetic and makes a striking curbside statement.

Sidelights with obscure glass

Privacy and design meet in the sidelights flanking the door. Darren chose obscure patterned glass to mirror the home’s original windows above the entryway, preserving consistency with the existing design. “I think it’s important for any project; you need to lend the design to what's already here,” he says.  The choice not only maintains visual harmony but also speaks to the mid-century idea of letting in light while preserving a sense of privacy—an ideal balance of openness and comfort. 

Skinny glass panel

Clean, linear forms define mid-century design. The door’s long, vertical glass panel reflects the slender windowpanes above the entryway, reinforcing the home’s geometry and symmetry. This understated yet striking detail unites the home’s architecture, making the new door feel like it has always belonged to the home. 

Multi-point locking system 

Form meets function with Renewal by Andersen’s multi-point locking system. Darren’s father, Pete, once struggled with the old warped, wooden door, forcing it shut each time. Now, the new door closes with smooth precision. “It's quiet and seamless. The hinges have no sound, and when the latch clicks, it's just this beautiful sound. It's perfect,” says Darren. Beyond convenience, the secure system offers peace of mind while staying true to mid-century values of simplicity and practicality. 

Durability for everyday life

Mid-century homes were built to last, and Darren wanted his door to carry the same enduring quality. With three energetic dogs running in and out, durability was essential. “It's sturdy and easy for me to open, to get them out here in the yard. It's seamless and simple,” notes Darren. Strong, sturdy, and low-maintenance, the door balances timeless design with everyday resilience.

Before and After Transformation 

The difference between the old and new door is night and day. The original wood door had warped after years of exposure to Tennessee humidity and cold. Pete had to lean his full weight just to close it. The weathered look diminished the charm of an otherwise striking home. 

The Beacon Ensemble® entry door changed all of that. Effortless in operation and bold in design, it now makes a dramatic yet welcoming first impression. “I really underestimated what a door could do for the overall look of a house,” Darren reflects. “Not only is it beautiful, but it’s also a statement piece.” 

As a carpenter, Darren admired the meticulous installation. “They took so much care,” he says. “Every seam was on point. They integrated the door beautifully without making a mess. As a craftsman, I respect that kind of quality.” 

That craftsmanship affirmed what Darren already believed—quality design and installation matter just as much as aesthetics. 

A Legacy of Light 

This project wasn’t just about replacing an entry door. It was about carrying a legacy forward. Darren honored his mother’s dream of creating a welcoming home while creating something meaningful for his father. During the installation, he reflected on the memories made in the house and acknowledged that change, while difficult, is necessary. “I think if Mom was here, she'd want to refresh, too. The door is a great step in the right direction, and really the kickoff to a broader renovation.” 

About Renewal by Andersen’s Designer Door Collection 

The Ensemble® Entry Door designer collection is a curated series of stylish doors designed in collaboration with our brand ambassadors. We teamed up with five of our experts to make it easier for homeowners to find an entry door that reflects their personal style and meets their everyday needs. Each designer brings their unique perspective to the collection, making it easier than ever to pick the perfect front door.  

Darren brought his affinity for quality craftsmanship and elegant design to life through his Beacon collection. Panels with clean lines, contemporary hardware, and glass sidelights make his entryway feel expansive, modern, and timeless. 

Why Choose Ensemble Entry Doors? 

· Fast, In-Home Design Our team makes it simple and seamless. 

· Enhanced Curb Appeal From timeless charm to modern elegance, each door makes a lasting impression. 

· Crafted for Every Home Personalize the design that’s perfect for your space and style. 

· Unmatched Security Advanced locking systems and sturdy construction protect your home with confidence. 

· Reliable Performance Built to withstand the elements while enhancing energy efficiency year-round.

Find Your Perfect Door Design

The Beacon door now stands as a symbol of memory, gratitude, and the light that guides us home. It's proof of what’s possible when craftsmanship, design, and personal meaning come together. 

Ready to write your own story?

Explore the Renewal by Andersen Ensemble® Entry door collection and design and entry that welcomes light, life, and legacy into your home.

Discover the Beacon door and book your consultation today. 

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