How about just doing the three panels the copper and the rest of the door black or a deep gray?
Or, how about some rosettes in the center of the panels?

If you do the copper, the art store (i.e. Michael's) sells those faux finishes as a kit, so you don't go crazy (and broke) trying to find the right color combo.

This is a very intriguing idea! Would it be possible for you to show us a photo of your house exterior? showing the whole house?

If you decide a copper finish is the way to go (and I think it's a great idea as long as it works with the rest of the exterior) then contact Modern Masters. They have a few options for metal patina that might work for you. Don't let the amount of patina they show deter you - you don't have to do any and you don't have to allow that much reaction. You can stop it where you want. I've worked with their products and once you practice on some sample pieces of wood (scrap crown molding works well) you get your own technique down and do your door. I was able to get samples from MM of several different finishes before making a decision - they were very helpful. I've used their products on interior and exterior applications with no problems.

Here is a link that might be useful: Modern Masters Metal Effects

Oh I think it will be awesome. I paint fountians & statues in a faux bronze/faux copper and it looks great. I always use spray paint, as it works easiest.

I tried a bazillion times to figure out the right mix and what I discovered is to paint the whole piece black first, then add the patina color of your choice. THEN add the aged copper color. If you look at patina'd pieces, the copper/bronze isn't bright it's muddied before it turns that lovely patina color. So add a bit of black to your copper color.

The molding will be a perfect spot to add your patina also. Gosh, I wish I had a door like that that I could paint! You could easily use spray paint on your door...primer first, then add the paint. Spray paint is super easy because it's easy and fast to recover where you don't like the finish. Then use several coats of clear for sealer and it'll last forever. I did a concrete dog statue that we've got in our yard about 7 years ago in this method and it's still looking great.

Thanks all, We got back too late to take a photo of the exterior of the house. The front entry has a screen covering it so the front door isn't visible when looking at the front of the house. I'll check out modern masters, the rosettes sound interesting because the top panel has a door knocker so that might balance the other two out, not sure I want rosettes, but perhaps something more geometric in shape for the middle though.

the background color I have is pretty dark so that might act as the black. I will post photos later today of the front of the house.

Thanks again.

Just wanted to say Wow!!! I absolutely love this look!!! I can't wait to see more photos

Wher do get the paint?