Curb appeal starts at the front door. A bold modern silhouette, a rustic farmhouse charm, or a classic paneled design can define the atmosphere of your home from the outside in.
With so many entry door styles available, the challenge isn’t finding a door you like; it’s finding the one you’ll love today, tomorrow, and well into the future.
Exploring the options can feel overwhelming—but that’s also the fun part. Browsing popular designs can spark ideas and help you discover a look that feels authentically “you.”
Factors to Consider When Choosing an Entry Door Design
Your sense of style plays an important role in selecting the perfect entry door, but it shouldn’t be the only factor. Here are some key elements to weigh before deciding:
#1. Your Home’s Existing Design
Your front door should harmonize with your home’s architecture. A Victorian-style entryway may feel out of place on a sleek, contemporary home, while a clean-lined modern door might clash with a cottage exterior.
Consider your roofline, siding, and architectural details—your door should complete the look, not compete with it.
#2. Current Exterior Colors and Finishes
Your door doesn’t exist in isolation. The siding, trim, shutters, and even landscaping affect how it looks.
A bold red door might pop beautifully against neutral siding, but it could feel busy if paired with colorful brick. Choosing complementary finishes ensures your door elevates your curb appeal rather than distracting from it.
#3. Climate and Weather Patterns
Your door isn’t just decorative; it needs to perform. Considering the climate ensures your investment lasts.
In areas with harsh winters or extreme humidity, certain materials (like steel, fiberglass, or high-performance wood) may hold up better than traditional wood. In sunnier climates, UV resistance is key to preventing fading.
#4. Privacy Needs
Some homeowners want an entry door design that allows natural light to pour in, while others value privacy above all else.
Frosted, leaded, or decorative glass can strike a balance by letting in light without sacrificing seclusion.
#5. Preference for Natural Light
Glass inserts, sidelites, and transoms can completely change the feel of your entryway.
If your home tends to feel dark, a door with glass panels can brighten your interior and make your space feel more welcoming.
#6. Energy Efficiency
If lowering utility bills is important, consider how well a door insulates.
Insulated cores, advanced construction methods, and weather-resistant seals can make a big difference in maintaining comfort inside your home.
#7. Security Considerations
Your entry door is also your first line of defense. Materials like steel, reinforced glass, and multipoint locking systems offer peace of mind without sacrificing style.
#8. Maintenance Commitment
Upkeep varies by door style, so think about what kind of care feels manageable to you.
A natural wood door is stunning but may require periodic refinishing, while fiberglass and steel options offer durability with less maintenance.
The Most-loved Entry Door Styles
While trends come and go, certain entry door styles remain homeowner favorites for years. These designs combine timeless appeal with practical functionality.
Shaker-style Entry Doors
These entry door styles are all about simplicity and craftsmanship, offering a timeless look that feels clean and refined.
- Defining Characteristics: Clean, simple lines; flat panels; minimal ornamentation; focus on craftsmanship.
- Best Fit: Homeowners who appreciate understated beauty and want a versatile look that works with both traditional and modern homes.
Craftsman-style Entry Doors
Designed to showcase handcrafted details, craftsman-style entry doors balance beauty and functionality.
- Defining Characteristics: Square edges; flat panels; smaller, true-divided glass panes at the top; handcrafted appearance.
- Best Fit: Bungalows, cottages, and homes with unique character where authenticity and simplicity shine.
Victorian-style Entry Doors
Ornate and dramatic, Victorian-style entry doors are designed to make your entrance as memorable as your home itself.
- Defining Characteristics: Intricate paneling; ornate carvings; stained or leaded glass accents; decorative hardware.
- Best Fit: Historic homes or anyone seeking a dramatic, elegant entrance that makes a lasting impression.
Spanish-style Entry Doors
Spanish-style entry doors capture Mediterranean charm with warm finishes and distinctive detailing.
- Defining Characteristics: Rounded or arched tops; warm wood tones; wrought-iron details; heavy, solid construction.
- Best Fit: Mediterranean or Spanish Revival homes, especially those with stucco siding or clay roof tiles.
Cottage-style Entry Doors
Cozy and inviting, cottage-style entry doors add a touch of storybook charm to any home’s exterior.
- Defining Characteristics: Cozy and charming; soft colors; small windows; whimsical or storybook-inspired details.
- Best Fit: Smaller homes, cottages, or homeowners wanting to create a warm and welcoming feel.
Farmhouse-style Entry Doors
Farmhouse-style entry doors balance rustic appeal with timeless simplicity, making them one of the most enduring choices.
- Defining Characteristics: Natural wood; simple paneling; rustic yet timeless appeal; often paired with glass inserts.
- Best Fit: Classic farmhouse homes, porches with lantern lighting, or exteriors needing a touch of country charm.
Mission-style Entry Doors
Prioritizing function and structure, mission-style entry doors feature strong lines that highlight durability and craftsmanship.
- Defining Characteristics: Strong vertical and horizontal lines; heavy wood construction; simple glass inserts.
- Best Fit: Homes with traditional architecture or for homeowners who prefer a solid, sturdy, and functional design.
Modern Entry Doors
These bold and sleek doors are perfect for homeowners who want their entryway to feel fresh and current.
- Defining Characteristics: Sleek, minimalistic silhouettes; bold use of glass and steel; geometric paneling; smooth finishes.
- Best Fit: Contemporary homes or homeowners who want their front door to make a striking, modern statement.
Who Leads the Market in Entry Door Design?
When it comes to standout entryways, Glenview Doors leads the way. Known for their fusion of craftsmanship and cutting-edge technology, Glenview Doors offers wood, aluminum-clad, steel, and glass entry doors to fit virtually any style—all available at Northern Building Supply.
Their wood front door collections are particularly popular:
- Modern Collection: Sleek designs with European craftsmanship, custom veneers, and stainless accents—perfect for contemporary homes.
- Classic Collection: Timeless wood grains, elegant glass patterns, and raised moldings for a traditional look.
- Craftsman Collection: Square edges, rustic v-groove panels, and art glass details designed for cottages, bungalows, and Craftsman homes.
- Heritage Collection: Rich carvings, arched double doors, and wrought-iron embellishments for a touch of European grandeur.
All of their wood doors feature EuroTech™ construction, a sandwich-core technology that prevents warping, cracking, and insulation issues common with traditional wood. As a result, their doors look like solid wood but perform even better—lasting longer, standing up to harsh weather, and offering superior energy efficiency.
With Glenview Doors, customization is practically limitless. Whether you opt for a semi-custom or fully custom design, you can tailor details to match your vision.
Choose from a wide range of rich wood veneers or incorporate distinctive stainless steel and glass accents. Decorative glass options let you balance natural light with privacy, while unique hardware adds the perfect finishing touch. Even door size, shape, and paneling can be customized.
Unique Aspects of Entry Door Design
Entry door style isn’t just about shape or color—smaller design elements can also transform look and feel. Consider these options:
- Hardware Finishes: Knobs, levers, and hinges in bronze, nickel, or matte black can bring it all together.
- Glass Paneling and Patterns: Leaded, frosted, or clear glass changes how your door balances light and privacy.
- Door Paneling: Raised or flat panels can create depth and visual interest.
- Door Beveling: Subtle edge angles add a touch of refinement to your entry door design.
- Door Rails and Stiles: The horizontal and vertical frame components impact durability and style.
- Door Trim: Molding and casing can frame your entryway like artwork.
- Door Veneers: Exotic woods like mahogany or walnut can elevate your home’s curb appeal.
- Door Size: Oversized doors or double-door configurations make a grand statement.
How to Narrow Down Entry Door Designs
With so many entry door styles and design features to choose from, it can feel overwhelming to land on the perfect fit. Start by stepping back and asking yourself a few key questions that will guide you toward a door you’ll love:
- Does this door complement my home’s architecture? Your entryway should look like it belongs. A modern door may feel out of place on a colonial-style home, while an ornate Victorian door could clash with a minimalist exterior.
- Will the material perform well in my climate? In colder regions, advanced wood doors with insulated cores can help keep your home comfortable. If you live in a humid or rainy area, fiberglass or steel might provide better durability.
- How much natural light vs. privacy do I want? Glass inserts, sidelites, and transoms brighten your interior, but they also impact privacy. Decorative or frosted glass can strike a nice balance.
- What’s my maintenance comfort level? Wood doors offer unmatched warmth and beauty, but they require some upkeep to maintain their best appearance. Fiberglass and steel options are lower-maintenance.
- Do I want my door to blend in or make a statement? Some homeowners want their entryway to feel seamless, while others want it to stand out as a focal point with bold color, an oversized design, or a unique glass pattern.
- Will I still love this style in 10 years? Trends are fun, but your front door is a long-term investment. Ask yourself if the design you’re drawn to today will meet your expectations years from now.
Which Entry Door Styles Align with Your Vision?
We know that choosing the right entry door design is a big decision. The Northern Building Supply experts are here to walk you through the options—
With leading brands like Glenview Doors, you’ll have access to entry door styles that fit your unique vision, budget, and home aesthetic. Ready to explore? Get in touch with us today to explore options, ask questions, or request a quote.