Design File
One Door at a Time
Sunday, August 29, 2010
As a designer I will admit to having a few pet peeves when it comes to curb appeal. (don’t even get me started on these!)
It really only takes a few things to improve the look of the front of your home. I will apologize to you in advance because once I point out this design faux pas, you won’t be able to help but notice it everywhere you look:
Luckily, Vanessa and her family were going on vacation so I got to pretend that I really had my own design show where I sent them to Disney World for the week (no, Vanessa, I’m not going to reimburse you for your trip) and was able to surprise them with the big change upon their return.
This project only cost about $20 and just a few hours for me to work my magic.
Before you begin, be sure to check with the folks at the paint store, they will point you in the right direction to find the right paint for the project.
Wash & dry the screen door, remove the screen, and tape the edges and handle. Since there are usually just a few screws you can also remove the door handle, however this particular door had an intricate locking feature that I didn’t want to mess with while my “clients” were away.
Primer is the most important step in this project because you don’t want your front door to turn into a peeling disaster in a few weeks. Let the primer dry for at least an hour so it really has a chance to adhere to the door.
MK Design Tip: Have the paint store tint the primer! It will make it easier to cover with the top color coat.
Look how stunning the door looks finished with a Semi-Gloss House paint. Also note, if your door has a cross bar on the screen itself, don’t forget to prime and paint that!
I know what you’re thinking…I should put on my Curb Appeal Cape and fly around town saving the world one screen door at a time. But the reality is, those capes are entirely too expensive to clean and I’ve got my boys to look after so that’s not going to happen, but in case you were wondering…I talk the talk and walk the walk!
Want more? Check out MK Design's Facebook Page and stay tuned for more in Suzy's Design File with MK Design in August!
It really only takes a few things to improve the look of the front of your home. I will apologize to you in advance because once I point out this design faux pas, you won’t be able to help but notice it everywhere you look:
The White Screen Door
To me, the white screen door is like carrying your white purse after Labor Day! A red front door should be behind a red screen door, green front door equals green screen door, do you see where I am going with this?!? Color match people…it makes a world of difference!
My friend and neighbor, Vanessa, was kind enough to lend me her house for this month’s column. She has a beautiful home with good curb appeal but I wanted to make it great curb appeal. I love the hanging planters and charming porch rockers…but there is one glaring mistake in front of that beautiful black front door and I’ve made it my mission to fix it!
Luckily, Vanessa and her family were going on vacation so I got to pretend that I really had my own design show where I sent them to Disney World for the week (no, Vanessa, I’m not going to reimburse you for your trip) and was able to surprise them with the big change upon their return.
This project only cost about $20 and just a few hours for me to work my magic.
Before you begin, be sure to check with the folks at the paint store, they will point you in the right direction to find the right paint for the project.
Wash & dry the screen door, remove the screen, and tape the edges and handle. Since there are usually just a few screws you can also remove the door handle, however this particular door had an intricate locking feature that I didn’t want to mess with while my “clients” were away.
Primer is the most important step in this project because you don’t want your front door to turn into a peeling disaster in a few weeks. Let the primer dry for at least an hour so it really has a chance to adhere to the door.
MK Design Tip: Have the paint store tint the primer! It will make it easier to cover with the top color coat.
Look how stunning the door looks finished with a Semi-Gloss House paint. Also note, if your door has a cross bar on the screen itself, don’t forget to prime and paint that!
I know what you’re thinking…I should put on my Curb Appeal Cape and fly around town saving the world one screen door at a time. But the reality is, those capes are entirely too expensive to clean and I’ve got my boys to look after so that’s not going to happen, but in case you were wondering…I talk the talk and walk the walk!
Want more? Check out MK Design's Facebook Page and stay tuned for more in Suzy's Design File with MK Design in August!
