Portal to Elegance: Radius Doors

True arch. This type door features an arch that is truly rounded on top, with no angles. The radius of the top curve is equal to half the width of the door; for example, a three-foot wide door would have a radius of 18 inches. The exaggerated height paired with the limestone gives this door a distinctly Old World feel.

Make a statement with an enfilade of true-arch doorways; a suite of rooms aligned with one another creating a vista, a common feature in grand European architecture from the Baroque period and beyond. Contrasting antique white oak trim accentuate the shape of these arches. The simplicity and uncluttered feel of the hallway allows the arches to sing.

The rectilinear iron panes offset this true-arch, split-entry door, which evokes a Spanish Revival feel. I especially appreciate how the window in the background, on the same axis, mimics the arch and creates a view to what's beyond. In this case, the doors are the star of the show. Walls are painted white and moldings are either painted in or are nonexistent. While these doors were surely made custom, a similar arched French door is available from Marvin.

A true arch is also available as a French (i.e. double) door in solid, glass or a combination of the two.

The high placement of windows on dark wood door preserves the privacy of the owners while letting in light, not to mention giving the door additional dimension and texture.

Elliptical arches. Elliptical arches have two distinct radii; a gentle one in the center of the arch with a tighter radius in the corners. This is truly an elegant style. In this design, functioning pocket doors elevate the look even further, evoking a storied and stately feel.

Stately and elegant, this is truly a traditional door style.

While this style of elliptical-arch door may be a bit more approachable for those of us on a budget, it certainly doesn't lack for style and class. Add more architectural interest with paneling or carvings, as seen in this stately door.

Flat-arch doors are more widely available on the retail market than true and elliptical arch doors. Check out options from Marvin, Jeld-Wen and Pella.

Tip: If you are interested in replacing an existing rectangular door with a radius-top, I recommend consulting with an architect and/or engineer to ensure that all structural implications are considered.

In many homes, such a swap might require a little cutting and patching, while in others (particularly with stone structures), the job might require professional opinions and oversight.

More: 10 Extraordinary Doors
Great Ideas for Pocket Doors
Barn Doors for the Home