Dutch Doors: Double-Duty Entryways

Dutch doors are particularly great for kids' rooms. Of course, as the kiddos get older (and more curious/adventurous) the Dutch door situation won't fool them, but keep those infants and toddlers in check with a safety door that doesn't have to look or feel temporary.

I've said Dutch doors are appropriate in modern settings, but the long farmhouse history may make that difficult to imagine. Well, DeForest Architect did the work for us: This very clean, modern Dutch-door-as-entry is seamless with its environment. And the high-gloss paint finish is a great touch.

Most of the examples we've seen have been wood, but this is a great image of a steel Dutch door.

Here's another example of high contrast paint making a splash. I love the chartreuse Dutch door as it pairs with the French gray shingles and bright white casings. The unexpected color makes the already-interesting door design even more special.

Naturally, with such an atypical door, unique hardware is in order. Dutch doors require additional hinges, although they can be regular hinges — nothing fancy needed here, unless you're so inclined. A vertical bolt or latch installed on the top door connects the upper and lower portions, allowing them to be opened as a single door when desired. Check out Baldwin Hardware for some good options.

While a standard slide bolt will work, a quadrant latch made specifically for Dutch doors is most appropriate. E.R. Butler in New York has some of the most beautiful hardware on the market, including Dutch door quadrants.

Dutch doors don't have to be relegated to the home: Employing them in a greenhouse is a fantastic idea.

More: See an Austin Sculptor's Artful Screen Doors

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