My husband and I live in a 1950 ranch-style home a few miles west of Madison, Wisconsin. When I'm not working, I like to do projects around my house, get out in my solo canoe or go camping, read design and psychology blogs and work on mixed media art.
My husband and I live in a 1950 ranch-style home a few miles west of Madison,... More »
Though their original purpose was to keep out unwelcome guests, gates have grown to become beautiful architectural structures, adding feelings of enchantment and curiosity to the landscape and reflecting the homeowners' personality and style. Highlighted in this ideabook are 12 unique gates, each of them adding function and good looks, and fitting effortlessly into their surroundings.
Framed by an arbor and fence, I almost missed the fact that this gate is actually an old door! The bricks beneath are a delightful touch, and it's quite possible that they came from the same resource as the door.
Tip: Check your local ReStore for interesting salvageable materials that can be used in your yard.
Upon seeing this unique entrance, I couldn't help but to imagine the shadows that would be cast as people come and go. There's no doubt in my mind that a small detail like this would create a heightened sense of admiration, sure to draw a smile.
Hidden behind foliage, this gate still makes a bold statement, thanks to the ornamental medallion that's displayed at eye level. Of course, the deeply saturated color helps a lot, too.
This charmingly weathered gate offers a glimpse at the sweet purple flowers that reside in the garden behind. The height of this structure adds an additional element of wonder, while the slotted design allows one to feel welcome and at ease.
A bit different than your average fence and gate combination, this set reverses the typical arrangement. Generally the fence is solid while the gate is windowed, but this is a fun change!
My favorite part about this garden entrance is how simple it would be to replicate. Many of the gates that you come across are grand and somewhat costly, whereas something like this may be obtainable over the course of a weekend, with the help of a few tools and a small stack of materials.
Check out this how-to of a gate that's similar in style.
A beautiful gate such as this can't help but pull any and all attention to the lush garden behind. The circular design creates a strong focal point that's quick to draw the eye. Crowned with an arbor, the gate is finished off with a good sense of balance.
This funky door boasts character as well as an admirable sense of flow. Not only are the colors consistent with the house, but the top of the gate dips down to meet the height of the fence, making this space feel much less rigid than if a traditional gate had been used.
The unfinished wood used for this gate was a nice choice for its surroundings. Over time, a structure that is left without stain or paint will slowly weather. In this case, the subdued finish goes well with the neutral tones of the house.
It didn't take long to notice the harmony shared by this home and its entrance. By using a same colors represented on the exterior of the house, the designer was able to create a restful and cohesive feeling.
I love the honeysuckle & clematis over my front gate, and the white wisteria over the front door. My goal with the wrought iron fence & gate was to let passers-by see right in, with a sense of invitation & curiosity. It flirts.
Flip, I love you place, just beautiful and inviting. I saw several gates in the photos that drew me in, the first one for sure, made me thing of a secret garden, which I would adore, aw but one can dream right? My yard is so ugly, we are working on it, but so far, yeck.
Our next home will have a gated front entry with a private outdoor patio! I love the extra outdoor living space and the security that this design provides. No more solicitors when I'm lounging in my pj's without makeup.
