Need help with entry door

9 years ago

1980's split level ranch needs an updated entry. As you can see from the photo the doors need to be replaced. Should I replace the doors with a single door with sidelights or two doors again?

How an I make the entry more inviting? Do I need to make changes to the overhang or landscape?

Featured Answer

Susie .

9 years ago

Do you need a new door or do you just not like it (are there structural issues or rot)?
I'd start with the landscaping. It is overgrown near the house and sparse along the walkway.
The mix of materials on the walkway diverts attention away from your front door.
How big are the changes you want to make?
Small: carve the two evergreens flanking the door, so they aren't so ominous, and plant some larger plants along the walkway. Trim the other plants near the house as well. Paint the doors. I like black on that style, but a red to enhance the color of your brick would be nice too.
Big: new sidewalk and landscaping to accentuate the nice long front yard. One material (just concrete or just flagstone). New door(s). I like the double doors on your house. It is large enough to make it work, and fits the era of the home.

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Comments (13)

PRO
R.D. London Studios
9 years ago
Definitely keep double doors. The front distraction is the support braces on each side of the front door. If possible replace them with columns. Also your walkway would be improved by using small evergreen shrubs rather than the flowers. Best wishes!
bandoni thanked R.D. London Studios
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bandoni
Original Author
9 years ago
The doors are in poor condition and need to be replaced as the weather stripping can not be fixed.
dietribe
9 years ago
Another vote for keeping double doors. Glass with a black painted frame would be fresh and pretty. Would you consider painting the brick surround? I think it's a good looking house and isn't going to need much to make it beautiful.
bandoni thanked dietribe
dietribe
9 years ago
Wanted to add that you have the first split level '80's ranch I ever thought was good looking!
bandoni thanked dietribe
PRO
UNEKUAL Construction
9 years ago
In my opinion, if you wish to keep the architectural style of the house intact, I'd make the front door a single leaf with side lights. Split ranch homes started in the 50's and have been popular ever since. I see a very large portion of them having one or two side lights at the entry. The only small issue I see occurring with sidelights is that of security and privacy, unless you were planning on having the glass frosted.

That would be my two cents.

Hope it helps!

UNEKUAL Team
bandoni thanked UNEKUAL Construction
hmarney
9 years ago
I agree with single statement door and sidelights. To me, the double doors appear heavy and do not add curb appeal. Update the door, with sidelights with opaque or frosted glass, depending on your taste.
I agree with the columns and shrub statements.
Good luck!
bandoni thanked hmarney
PRO
BeverlyFLADeziner
9 years ago
Wendy
9 years ago
Yes, some posts and decorative beams would look great.
PRO
M&M Interiors
9 years ago
I would go with a door and sidelights. The single door seems heavy. I would also add columns to support the over hang in place of the current supports. I also suggest clearing out the old landscaping and replacing with a more open plan. These changes can really update the look of the outside of your house. Good luck!
Nancy Ingram
9 years ago
I would embrace a more modern vibe with the new door and side light being glass and painted for a pop of color. Trim back existing shrubs. Remove the two bushes by the front door. Add planters on either side of the door and a more modern walkway.
Bailey R
9 years ago
I would re-landscape if your budget allows. That's what bothers me the most. I would consult with a landscape designer.
bandoni thanked Bailey R
lefurge
9 years ago
last modified: 9 years ago
Great house! I'm with @dietribe: first split level I've liked. @jacknewportbeach is right on: work first with a landscape designer. I hated coming home until we did the landscaping, especially the hardscape. Now, coming home is a pleasant walk through the garden. As to clarifying the style of house, I agree with Nancy Ingram. Your entry roof and the roof to its immediate right are intriguing. They suggest a more modern interpretation than Craftsman. Your landscape designer can link the yard and the front facade. Your door style will follow from that design decision. Have a great time!