Finding spring front door ideas is a wonderful way to make your entrance look enchanting and inviting. 

We have asked design experts what they use to brighten them up and let us tell you, we're feeling seriously inspired. Gorgeous floral wreaths, fun spring mats, and lovely lighting are just some of their go-to tips.

If you're looking for spring decor ideas and want to spread those seasonal vibes to the front of the home, your door will be one of the easiest and most impactful areas to zhuzh up.

Delightful spring front door ideas

Whether you're searching for spring porch ideas or want to spruce up your little doorstep, these adorable ideas are all worth trying.

Our experts have suggested useful product types throughout, and our team has curated matching picks to help you start styling your dreamy door.

The prices below were correct at the time of publishing this article. 

1. Go for green accents

We love seeing shrubbery turn a different color as sunnier days arrive, which is why we like the idea of celebrating lovely leaves at the front door.

“Embrace the freshness of spring by incorporating vibrant greenery accents into your spring front door,” says Nina Lichtenstein, principal designer and founder of Nina’s Home Design.

She suggests hanging a lush garland of fresh foliage (we like this Sullivans Eucalyptus Garland from Target) along the doorframe or porch railing to add a touch of natural charm.

Alternatively, you can decorate with potted plants or topiaries (Walmart shoppers love this Dr. Plantzen Cedar Topiary) for a refined finish.

2. Choose a spring wreath

Give your front door a burst of color and fragrance with a blooming beautiful spring wreath.

“Opt for wreaths adorned with seasonal flowers such as tulips, daisies, hydrangeas, or cherry blossoms in cheerful hues of pink, yellow, purple, and white,” Nina says. "Complete the look with a coordinating ribbon or bow for a polished finish."

We're loving this Ynylchmx Spring Wreath from Amazon, which comes in nineteen different color options. Or, you could always make your own spring wreath.

As well as florals, you could also go for Easter wreath ideas, which always look egg-cellent (sorry, we couldn’t help ourselves!).

3. Paint it a spring color

If you’re taking your spring reset to your front door, go bold with a fresh coat of pretty paint.

“Choose bright or soft pink, yellow, or blue colors to give your front door a subtle pop of color and create a welcoming atmosphere for visitors,” says Jonathan Faccone, design expert and founder of HALO Homebuyers.

One of our favorite spring shades is Lick Pink 05 Matt Paint, which is a warm shade with earthy undertones.

If you can’t paint your door (renters, we know your pain), Jonathan suggests making a wooden sign with a distressed paint design for a vintage feel. These 12 inch circular wood slices from Amazon are perfect for DIY door decor.

4. Add a spring doormat

Picking out one of the best spring doormats has to be the quickest way to bring the season to your spring front door.

Jonathan says, “Switch out your doormat for a seasonal one, such as one with a spring design like flowers, butterflies, and bees."

For those who want their spring doormat to last into summer as well, we like this cute Ginnie Cat Doormat from Anthropologie which will work in both seasons.

"Opt for durable materials like coir or rubber that can withstand outdoor elements and heavy foot traffic,” Nina adds.

5. Hang baskets

Add a touch of rustic charm to your spring front door with hanging floral baskets brimming with spring blooms. 

“Fill woven baskets or wire planters (we think the Nutsaakk Hanging Baskets from Amazon are a great price) with an assortment of seasonal flowers like pansies, petunias, violas, or primroses in a variety of colors and textures,” says Nina.

She continues, “Hang the baskets from the door knocker, porch ceiling, or railing using decorative hooks for a picturesque display with country cottage charm.”

Just be sure to water the plants regularly to keep them looking fresh and vibrant throughout the season.

6. Drape lovely lights

Planning on hosting a spring soiree this season? Make your front door area an attractive place to step into by hanging up the best outdoor lights.

“String up some outdoor lights (these Minteom Fairy Lights from Amazon are so pretty) by your door, as their gentle glow will create an inviting mood in the spring evenings,” suggests Artem Kropovinsky, interior designer and founder of Arsight.

You could always intertwine these with ribbons (these PackagePerfectBows Pastel Ribbons from Etsy are adorable) and place them around your hanging baskets and plants for a whimsical touch.

7. Add large planters

Seeing all the flowers pop out of the ground is a clear sign spring is here. Celebrate them by bringing the best gardening ideas to your front door.

“Add planters on your windowsills (these Hananojia Window Planters are Amazon's Choice) and around your front door to create a scene straight out of a storybook,” Artem says.

Some easy flowers to grow in planters include daffodils, cosmos, and tulips (these CZ Grain Purple and White Tulips from Walmart are stunning), which you can plant by themselves or bring together for a vibrant composition.

With these delightful spring front door ideas, you can infuse your home's entryway with all the charm of spring.

“Roll out the welcome mat, hang up the wreath, and get ready to greet springtime with style and flair,” Nina finishes by saying.

If your door needs more than a few decorations, you can also learn how to restore a front door to its former glory.

Adding spring porch decor ideas to your front door will create a beautiful entrance for both you and your guests.

It's the place people see the most, so it's a lovely area to make shine for the season. We've asked designers what you can use to elevate this space, from dreamy doormats to whimsical wreaths.

When considering outdoor spring decor ideas, starting at your porch will help you get a feel for your seasonal style, so you can create a cohesive look throughout your home and yard.

Pretty spring porch decor ideas

If you're searching for spring decor ideas, the porch is a great place to start sprucing up your yard.

We've asked our experts for useful products throughout and have shopped these wherever possible.

The prices below were correct at the time of publishing this article. 

1. Choose pastel hues

Give your porch a spring refresh by painting it up with sweet pastel shades, which are also small space color trends for the year.

“Soft blues, blush pinks, and mint greens create a serene and inviting ambiance,” explains Nina Lichtenstein, principal home designer and founder of Nina's Home Design.

She continues, “Incorporate these hues in your front door or even on a porch swing to infuse your outdoor space with a touch of understated elegance.”

Our favorite pastel paint color is Benjamin Moore’s Cotton Candy Paint, which is a dreamy pink shade and perfect for dopamine dressing.

2. Go for a spring doormat

If you’re renting and looking for spring porch ideas, one of the easiest ways to freshen up this area is by adding fabulous spring doormats.

Nina suggests, “Welcome guests with a fresh doormat featuring spring-inspired motifs or cheerful messages.”

You could always go for a versatile style with greenery to last you the rest of the year, such as this Morris & Co Strawberry Thief Doormat from Ruggable.

3. Add seasonal blooms

Breathe new life onto your porch by adding beautiful blooms wherever you have spare space.

“Bring bright colors and greenery with a range of different plants and seasonal flowers,” says Artem Kropovinsky, interior designer and founder of Arsight.

Flower options include tulips and daffodils (we like these CZ Daffodil Bulbs from Walmart), which are both lovely flowers with eye-catching shapes and textures.

Just be sure to place these away from your door, so you don’t risk knocking them over.

4. Swap in seasonal fabrics

If you have a porch with enough room for a seat (we’re jealous if so), swapping out darker fabrics for lighter ones will add breeziness.

“You can update your porch furnishings with light and airy fabrics in pastel hues or floral patterns to evoke a sense of springtime freshness,” says Raf Michalowski, interior designer and founder of Meble Furniture.

“Swap out heavy blankets and outdoor cushions for lightweight throws and pillows that create a cozy and inviting seating area,” he suggests.

He advises going for outdoor-friendly fabrics which are fade-resistant and easy to clean for added durability and convenience.

5. Elevate with floral scents

Spring porch ideas can provide not only include visual elements, but scent, too.

“Incorporate fragrant plants like lavender or jasmine, and consider placing scented candles or diffusers strategically for an aromatic atmosphere that indulges the senses,” suggests Nina.

These Better Homes and Gardens Lavender Plants from Walmart will add a pop of purple to your porch and will give off a relaxing scent, too.

6. Hang up a wreath

Your front door will be the envy of the street if you place a wonderful wreath on it.

“Make a lasting impression with a whimsical spring wreath on your front door,” says Nina. “Incorporate elements like faux flowers, greenery, and charming bows to create a welcoming focal point that sets the tone for your spring porch decor.”

You can either make your own spring wreath or grab one pre-made (we think this Aimik Welcome Wreath from Walmart is super cute) if you aren’t too crafty.  

If you're renting, you might want to learn how to hang a wreath on the door without damaging it. Alternatively, hang it on a furniture piece for a similar effect.

7. Paint planter pots

This easy spring DIY idea is a fun way to infuse your personality into your spring porch decor, showing guests and anyone who heads to your door what you’re all about. 

“Gather family members and paint your own planter pots,” Artem suggests. “You could draw your faces on or paint on spring florals to match the season.” 

You can get started by doing this with plain planter pots (this The HC Companies Planter Pot is an Amazon bestseller) and acrylic paints (this Folk Art Acrylic Paint Set from Walmart is highly-rated) — get creative and show off your creative flair.

With these design tricks and inspirations, your porch will blossom into a haven of springtime charm. 

Nina finishes by saying, “Embrace the spirit of spring and let your porch become a stage for the vibrant energy of this delightful season.”

If you’ve fallen in love with this style, you can also bring it inside with spring mantel decor ideas.

Jessica Simpson's stained glass windows emit such a cozy golden hour glow, it set us searching for something equally inviting in our own space. 

When the singer and fashionista took to Instagram for a photo dump, we were bewitched by the red and gold illumination in her dark, wooden entryway. Since the bespoke glass might not be possible for all dwellers, we asked interior designers how to recreate the aesthetic without damage or invasive renovation. 

Bookmark one of our favorite small entryway ideas and get ready to shine, quite literally, thanks to these expert-backed tips.

How to recreate Jessica Simpson’s stained glass window

If you ask us, one of the most serious small entryway lighting mistakes is giving up on your love of a stained glass window if it's what your heart truly desires. 

With our expert tips, renos are not required, and a peel-and-stick wallpaper style option for windows is ideal.

"Window film is a great option to make your windows look like stained glass without having to replace them completely," says designer Chantelle Hartman Malarkey. "This is the perfect DIY project to give your house a little more privacy while keeping the desired natural light, and it's a cost-effective, removable solution." 

Amazon window films offer a wide variety, including iridescent patterns, lattice grids, and rainbow-hued hexagons. Wayfair window decals offer a similar selection.

 Should you want to forgo the patterns and simply opt for color, HOHOFILM Colored Window Film from Amazonis available in both yellow and orange. And,  Amazon's Professional Window Film Tint Install Tool Kit will make the process seamless. 

Should you be craving a small entryway DIY, you can also opt for more creative, hands-on projects.  

Removable stained glass window paint is a perfect renter-friendly option that gives you stained-glass-looking windows without the permanency," says designer Melony Huber, co-founder of La Peony. "This is a great solution for those who are looking for privacy, maybe those who are also wanting to add some color and design but still want that natural light."

Amazon's selection of removable stained glass window paint could help you with what you're looking for, but do be mindful of the entryway floors. You'll want to put something down to keep the area around the windows protected...just in case.

Speaking from experience, if you're thrifting and come across a stainless steel find, you can hang it near your window, but this could be trickier if the object is on the heavier side and it could possibly damage the walls if not laid out properly. But if you like the vintage vibes, a #ThriftTok deep dive will lead you in the proper direction.

And to top the look off à la Jessica, a black and white photo of your favorite rocker is not required but highly encouraged. We, too, can't get enough of Jim Morrison and The Doors.

Searching for more ways to make your space feel inviting upon entering? The pros reveal small entryway wall decor ideas that will make your space pop. 

America Ferrera’s window seat is one of the most stylish we’ve seen. We spotted her lounging on her wooden bench in the most fabulous suit, and couldn’t help but notice the warm colors and textures.

Whether you want a similar stylish spot to snap pictures for social media, or fancy a space to curl up with a book, having a window seat is a smart small space seating idea. We’ve spoken to design experts to find out why America’s one works so well, and how you can bring the look into your own home. 

There are so many ways this could be styled in the home, from a welcoming small living room idea right up to a hotel-style bedroom look. No matter where you might want to replicate it, a window seat is a super easy way to create an extra place to relax.

America Ferrera's window seat

America Ferrera’s window seat idea will make a small living room feel cozy and when you move to a new home, you can take it right with you. It's just one of the reasons designers love the concept of this versatile seating idea.

Why we love America Ferrera's window seat

The first thing which drew our designers’ attention was how chic yet comfortable the seat is.

“America Ferrera has truly created a captivating window seat,” explains Vera Lopez, interior designer at Povison. "The colors, the style, the atmosphere — everything comes together harmoniously to form a piece of art.” 

It's the perfect fusion of warmth and sophistication.

Vera also loves how versatile it is, making it a useful furniture piece to have wherever you may move next. She says, “It can easily fit into any space, whether it be a cozy nook as a small apartment decorating idea, or in a grand bay window in a spacious home.” 

The warm color scheme of rich reds and dark browns also add to the snug atmosphere, adds Guillaume Drew, designer and founder of Or & Zon. He says, “Applying such a scheme can create a soothing atmosphere and harmonize with varying interior settings.” 

Want to create your very own window seat? Vera has some top tips for doing so. 

She says, “Start with a window which receives plenty of natural light. Then, choose a color palette which speaks to you — whether it's soft pastels or bold jewel tones. Personalize it with your favorite books and some indoor plants to add a touch of greenery,” Vera adds. 

Guillaume builds on this, advising to add handcrafted cushions and throw blankets for a touch of sophistication, with finishing touches around the seat. If you’re adding a small bookshelf nearby to it to turn it into a reading nook, you could always add home fragrances like a reed diffuser for an inviting ambiance.

Get the look with these window seat buys

Turn the space beneath your window into a relaxing haven just like America with these three buys.

The prices below were correct at the time of publishing this article.

The most important thing is making sure the seat — whether you use it as a small entryway bench or put it elsewhere — reflects your style.

“With America Ferrera's window seat as inspiration, let your creativity flow and create a space which reflects your unique personality,” Vera rounds up. “After all, your window seat should be a place where you can truly escape and find solace.”

Are you a property owner looking to make improvements that'll really make your house a home? If a cushion scattered here and there or a new couch isn't cutting it, you might need to think outside of the (decor) box.

A few strategically placed spotlights and pendant lamps might offer ample lighting, but if your aim is to really make a statement with an airy atmosphere and floor-to-ceiling slim sightlines — look to Korniche. 

Its multi-award-winning, quick-to-install aluminium bifold doors, roof lanterns, and flat roof lights will make your self-build, renovation, and extension projects come to life. In short, these products will improve heat retention, security, functionality, and aesthetic appeal. After all, everybody wants to feel safe, warm, secure, and stylish!

Read on for five reasons why you should trust its engineering expertise and portfolio of high-quality and innovative glazed products.

5 reasons to choose Korniche

1. Bathe your home in natural daylight

As well as letting sunlight pour into your space 365 days a year, a roof lantern can also provide ample ventilation in the summertime and lock in warmth to insulate your scheme come the colder months, saving you money when it gets chillier.

2. Customise the space to your exact needs

Korniche doesn't cut corners and it doesn't provide your standard cookie-cutter design. On the contrary, its roof lanterns and bi-folding doors come in a versatile range of configurations and an almost endless number of colours, so you do not have to compromise on a single detail.

3. Ensure safety and security with bi-fold doors

Korniche bi-fold doors come rigorously tested to keep your home fully protected. Certified to the advanced PAS24:2016 standard, its strong, durable, powder-coated, aluminium frames come with enhanced security that includes a three-star attack-resistant Yale locking barrel, high-strength shoot-bolts, and multi-point FUHR locking systems, so you can rest assured that your family can stay safe from environmental elements and deter potential intruders from gaining access to your property.

What's more, sealed bearings prevent debris and moisture and don't degrade your bi-fold doors, ensuring a durable product that's built to last. So whether the kids have brought mud in, or you've got sludgy, autumnal leaves that threaten to stick to your garden door, you don't have to worry about damage. But the best bit? The coating on the glass has self-cleaning and solar control properties for fuss-free maintenance.

4. Installation is quick and easy

Self-build and renovation projects can be an exciting way to put your stamp on your property. There are, however, a lot of decisions to be made, including whether you're looking to do the work yourself or pay for a builder's labour and expertise. Thankfully, Korniche has cut out most of the hard work with its roof lantern design. It's the only one on the market that requires no cutting, trimming, or silicone sealant to be assembled. In fact, it can be fitted in under an hour and glazed in seconds, making it the speediest and simplest install in the industry.

5. Products designed for progression

Just like people, every house has a personality too. Although planning permission may have stopped you from going gung-ho on adding unique features to your home in the past, (in most cases) you won't need authorisation from your council to install flat glass, bi-fold doors, or roof lanterns.

Where to buy

No need to look at a vague map with pins dropped on a part of England you've never heard of. To find your nearest Korniche stockist, simply enter your postcode on the 'where to buy' page and it'll do the rest.

Note that while you can't buy directly from Korniche, its trusted stockists will sell straight to you or via your builder. If you do choose to go through your tradesperson, they may be able to source your materials with a 10% first-order discount via KwikQuote.

If you're not quite ready to take the leap of faith, or you're just a little traditional, visit Korniche at the next Homebuilding & Renovating Show for a no-obligation chat about how it can make your vision a reality.

There’s something so main character energy about stepping onto a doormat. IMO, it makes the whole leaving and entering experience feel so much more meaningful. Obvi, it also stops dirt from getting in your apartment. And trust me, during the colder seasons when it’s more rainy and wet, they’re a good idea to have. Enter the most wholesome ones out there: fall doormats.

When I’m changing up my rental for the season, I’ll always change the doormat and add a seasonal wreath. They both make the entryway feel so much more inviting and look super cute and aesthetic. Fall-themed mats are especially sweet — I mean, who doesn’t love cozy slogans and beautiful illustrations?

If you’re reading this and thinking you might need to get yourself a fall doormat ASAP, I’m here for you. I’ve scrolled through a variety of different sites to find ones that will make your place seasonally stylish.

Ready to make your doorway look totes adorable? Keep on scrolling…

Ok, I’ve officially fallen for these 9 fall doormats

Whether you want a subtle nod or want to go all-out PSL, I’ve got you covered. In this guide, I have made sure to pick out a mixture of styles and patterns.

The prices below were correct at the time of publishing this article.

Up next: The fall bedroom decor you didn't know you needed

We look down on them. We walk all over them. But we love them and couldn’t live without them! Yep, you guessed what I am talking about (because it’s in the title) — indoor doormats. The overlooked small entryway décor staple that is dismissed by virtue of its purpose (to drag my muddy docs all over). However, when I think about the invaluable function of the humble doormat, it makes me want to match it with form and find a genuinely good-looking option. 

My doormat? She’s an icon, she’s a legend and she is the moment. A simple, brown coir doormat, stamped with the words “Shut the Front Door” welcomes me home every evening, and every guest who has stepped foot inside thus far has commented on it. For this reason, I am bestowing upon myself the title of expert when it comes to small entryway ideas, and, in particular, doormats. Too often overlooked, I’m here to demand that we put some respect on their name!! 

Quick Menu:
1. Indoor doormats
2. FAQs
3. How we chose
4. Where to buy

When putting together this roundup, you actually would not believe how long I spent ogling over doormats… it’s not healthy. Basically, there are so many cute, funny, and beautiful options out there, making a doormat the perfect personalized finishing touch to your home. So, without further ado, let’s get into it. Get ready to become weirdly obsessed with doormats.

These indoor doormats are so cute

FAQs

How we chose these indoor doormats

I chose these indoor doormats featured in this guide, based on their impressive customer ratings and what people are searching for online. I made sure to include a range of materials, colors, and sizes, making sure to cater to all different home styles. So, hopefully, you should find something you love! 

Where to buy an indoor doormat

Continue your search for an indoor doormat below.

• Anthropologie indoor doormats
• Amazon indoor doormats
• Etsy indoor doormats
• H&M Home indoor doormats
• Wayfair indoor doormats
• Target indoor doormats

Having a bright, open, and airy home will make you feel more connected to nature. If your current situ is lacking in natural light, then roof lanterns and bi-fold for are the tried and tested route to increase sense of space. But whether it's flat-roof extension, self-build or renovation, there's more to consider besides the basics, like the price — there are thermal qualities, ease of extension, and aesthetics to think about too.

British brand Korniche’s innovative, award-winning engineering combined with an eye for style make its designs the perfect choice for anyone looking to create a brighter, more beautiful home. Appearance aside, its aluminium roof lanterns and bi-fold doors are low maintenance and weather resistant, keeping your home warm and secure all year round.

Including views, frames, and energy efficiency, here are five ways Korniche can help bring your designs to life and make the most of natural light, right: 

 1. A stunning view 

It's true, some glazing options can be bulky, obscuring whatever view you may have outside. Korniche’s roof lanterns and bi-fold doors provide a solution with some of the narrowest sightlines available, thanks to their seamless aluminium joints and sharp design sensibilities. This maximises your view from every angle. 

Inspired by Victorian architectural design, the brand’s roof lanterns create a powerful link with the outdoors by opening your space to the sky above, and bathing your room in natural light. This gives your home a bright and stylish appeal, and can do wonders for your mental health and well-being; the benefits of natural daylight go beyond brightening up just your living room. 

PS: Every detail on the roof lanterns has been carefully considered, with no visible fittings and a smart, but simple design that can be professionally installed and glazed in no time at all. In fact, the ease and speed of installation include a patented Speedbead that allows the glazing of Korniche products to be carried out in seconds.

2. Double frames means more light 

Korniche’s range of bi-fold doors is similarly sleek, with narrow but durable frames that allow for more natural light and an increased sense of space in your home. The option to powder coat in vivid hues adds a dash of colour and character to your design, while creating the perfect stylish vista. 

How your space feels is just as important as how it looks, of course, and Korniche’s effortlessly smooth roller system is engineered to last for years to come, retaining quality and function even with daily use. 

Korniche’s products are available in bespoke sizes and an *almost* endless range of customisble colours, making it easier than ever to integrate roof lanterns or bi-fold doors just the way you want.

3. Energy efficient, too

Anything to reduce the energy bills, right? Well, you'll be pleased to know Korniche’s bi-folds have innovative smart thermal technology, specially designed to keep your home warm and cosy — making them a must-have. 

Don't worry about your money being wasted either, as a patented clip-glazing bead means the glass on your bifold can be taken out and replaced in seconds. This bonus extra feature is invaluable for long-term maintenance and customisability.

And if you opt for the roof lanterns, they use thermal breaks to vastly reduce the heat transfer for amazing weather resistance, come rain or shine. 

4.  Looks that are made to last 

Yes, even in the unreliable British weather, you can trust Korniche. Every product is weather resistant, made using lightweight and durable aluminium materials which, unlike timber, don’t warp or rot as they age. This means all of Korinche’s products are incredibly low maintenance, saving you time and money in the long run, whilst reliably retaining their good looks.

5.  Maximum security 

Have peace of mind when it comes to keeping your (now) beautiful home secure with Korniche. Leveraging over 30 years of experience to develop the most advanced products on the market, Korniche has made industry-leading security a standard across its range.

All Korniche’s bi-fold doors come with enhanced features installed, including 3 Star Yale locking barrels and multi-point locking systems. The roof lanterns, are some of the strongest on the market, supporting maximum glass sizes without the need for additional rafters. Impressive! 

 How to buy your new bi-folds or roof lanterns 

Korniche is a distinctly British brand with all its products designed, engineered, and manufactured in the UK — delivered to the mainland via a network of local trade retailers, distributors, builders, and installers. 

Visit https://www.korniche.co.uk/ today for more information about these innovative products, or to find your local supplier or reseller.

For many people tackling a renovation or redevelopment project, the end goal is to extend their social space out onto the terrace or patio. To provide that seamless connection that blurs the indoors and out, customers have been presented with two options: bifoldsor sliding doors. But now, there is a practical and aesthetic alternative that pays dividends.

Combining the benefits of bifold and aluminium sliding doors, the unique new slide and turn door system from IDSystems is the ultimate in flexibility and wow factor. The Swiss-designed vistaline doors (also known as slide and swing or slide and stack doors) consist of individual glazed panels that concertina before turning and stacking, offering the narrow sightlines of sliding doors but with the advantage of opening up the space entirely, allowing natural light to pour in, just as bi-folding doors do.

Slide and turn doors versus bifold and sliding doors

Popularity-wise, there has been a paradigm shift in trends away from bifold doors and towards sliding doors over the past five years.  

“The large panes of glass and narrow frames that can be achieved with sliding doors make them a must-have for larger builds, though bi-folding doors still have their place, especially for smaller renovation projects where the fixed panel of sliding doors would block the space,” says Edward Stobart, sales manager at IDSystems.

“Our vistaline slide and turn doors combine the benefits of both, and have super-slim 45mm sightlines.”

How do slide and turn doors work?

As well as gliding along and turning to stack at right angles at one end of the track for a completely open aperture, the individual, independently-operating panels can simply slide open at intervals, revealing small or large gaps depending on how much fresh air you want to bring into your home. The top-hung vistaline system opens effortlessly and smoothly.

Space-savvy stackable panels

Unlike bifold doors — where the panels open up before sliding — the vistaline system slides along a single track before turning to stack at the end, meaning indoor and outdoor furniture can be positioned close to the doors. This is ideal for those with cosy courtyard gardens or small interior spaces.

“The vistaline system is ideal where space is limited on a patio, in a living room, or even on a balcony," says Stobart. "You aren’t going to catch plant pots or furniture as you open up the doors, meaning you have more usable space, whether the doors are open or closed."

An energy-efficient solution

Whether you're planning to install slide-and-turn doors in your new build or a renovation project, the goal is a stylish system that keeps energy costs down. With triple-glazing as standard, vistaline doors from IDSystems can achieve a U-value (the measure of heat transfer) as low as just 1.1W/m²K. The system’s aluminium frames are thermally broken, which prevents the transfer and loss of heat through the frames of the doors — making them an ideal solution for an environmentally-conscious project.

How to contact IDSystems

For more information about IDSystems’ exclusive vistaline slide and turn doors, visit IDSystems, email your architect's drawings to info@idsystems.co.uk, or call 01603 408804.  

The most beautiful front door ideas will make a good first impression all year round. Along with ticking off important functional features, like safety, security and good structural design, when it comes to bringing that all important curb appeal, style is a must also.

Whether you're trying to copy your favorite front of house design ideas or need inspiration because you're replacing your door as part of a renovation, Brad Loveless of the Simpson Door Company notes how 'Gone are the days when a homeowner has to settle for a cookie-cutter front door,' adding how 'Today, the front door is the place to make the biggest design impact, turning a once mundane doorway into a statement-making entrance.'

We couldn't agree more...

Front door ideas for style and function

Whether you're looking to transform your house exterior to be more sympathetic to the age of your home, or adding the cherry on top of a home renovation project, we asked experts about the top trends to look out for, what kind of door is best for the front of house, and why. 

1. Go minimal 

If you prefer a more contemporary and minimal interior design style indoors, we’re talking clean lines, zero clutter and huge windows, reflecting that in your choice of front door design is a great way to go and will give visitors a taste of your home from the onset.

The Home Depot has got lots of options that tick off style and substance. Eliot Spritzer, Senior Merchant of Exterior Doors at The Home Depot says, 'Add chic curb appeal with the Krosswood Doors Modern Hemlock Wood Door Collection.’

2. Add inviting color 

A pastel-painted or bright front door can make a striking contrast with an otherwise neutral facade. If you fancy a weekend DIY project, you can paint your door yourself. Or, if you'd prefer to buy one that has already been pre-painted, it will make things a little bit easier. 

As Spritzer says, 'Pops of color add a playful element to your exterior, such as the JELD-WEN Left-Hand 3/4 Lite Eastfield Decorative Glass Blue Painted Fiberglass Prehung Front Door with Brickmould.'

3. Make a sustainable statement

Combining a color that draws the eye with sleek horizontal grooves makes for a stand-out front door. Plus, if you're concerned about saving energy and spending less money on bills, it's worth looking into the energy efficiency of your front door before investing.

The best way to do this? Spritzer says, 'The most popular materials for an exterior door are fiberglass, steel and wood. Choose the material for your type of door based on energy efficiency, security concerns, maintenance level and the style of your home. Fiberglass doors will be the lowest maintenance option.'

The Parma Pivot Doorset is made from hardwood and steel reinforced with high-security features. Select from six finishes including iroko, European oak and American black walnut, as well as any RAL shade. Recreate this look with RAL color 1032.

Since bold and bright colors are trending for front door ideas, Spritzer adds how 'A different stain or paint color can dramatically change the look of your front door, especially if you have a natural wood finish. Stylish options like red, turquoise and yellow make your exterior pop.'

4. Choose a door with window panes 

Glass inlays are trending in the front door world. And it's for good reason. 

'Stained glass was a popular choice in the craftsman era,' Spritzer says. but clear or frosted fiberglass doors can modernize the look of your home. Top-half panels or multiple lite configurations let you choose the option that’s right for you.

'Complement the architecture of your home with the Steves & Sons Legacy Collection Customizable Fiberglass Front Door that features eye-catching Sidelite paneling.' Adds Spritzer.

Even combining small glass inlays with a color that draws the eye and sleek horizontal grooves makes for a stand-out front door idea.

5. French doors 

Just as their name suggests, French patio doors take their style from France. More often than not French doors are used on balconies because they are usually the width of two standard doors. This makes them well suited for smaller spaces, that still deserve a grand feel. 

Spritzer says there are a number of door trends that seem to be popular right now. This includes, French doors. Spritzer explains, 'Also known as double doors, French doors are timeless and a great option for larger entryways that can accommodate the scale.' Spritzer's French door of choice? 'The Krosswood Doors Craftsman Knotty Alder Wood Clear 9-Lite provincial stain Right Active Double Prehung Front Door is a great choice for an elegant entryway,' he tells us. 

6. Choose a modern design

The look and feel of the front of your house will naturally dictate the front door you choose. If you've got a contemporary-looking frontage, make sure the door lives up to this style too. 

Elizabeth Assaf, designer and co-founder of Urban Front says, ‘At the moment, the most popular doors are more contemporary classic designs like our Milano V in Oak with an ebony oil, simple steel doors in a Rust finish and doors with concealed handles sitting in matching cladding like the Porto.’

7. Nod to your home's era

In the same breath, being sympathetic to when your home was built is worth considering when choosing your front door design. Inspired by Georgian designs, this six-paneled door from Westbury Joinery features two double-glazed units at the top to increase light levels without compromising on privacy or traditional style. Made from a combination of larch and accoya, and finished in three coats of microporous Westbury White paint, it's a stunning example of a traditional front door design that will still make for a fresh upgrade.

8. Take on texture with steel 

Along with the look of the door and its functional qualities, it's also important to consider the feel of the door. But why is this? Assaf says that it's crucial to make sure the door 'isn’t just one dimension.'

This steel high-security steel door from Urban Front is not only extra strong, but it can withstand extreme weather conditions, it has soundproofing qualities and the metallic materials will naturally weather over time. Can you ask for much more from your front door? We think not. 

9. Go large for more light

Another way to tick off style and substance? By investing in 'very large doors and lots of glass', Assaf says. 

If your home is north-facing or low-rise and tends not to get enough light, opt for a front door design that incorporates glazing. This particular design idea is perfect to boost the amount of natural light you get inside your home and you'll also be able to see who's at the front door before you've even opened it. It's a win-win.

For more function, note that when it comes to accessorizing your outdoor space, lighting is key. 'Updating your exterior lighting, particularly if you have a fixture next to your front door, can boost the look of your entrance,' Spritzer says. 'One of our favorite accent lighting pieces to complement your front door is the Hampton Bay Alexandria 180° Black Motion-Sensing Outdoor Decorative Wall Lantern Sconce.'

10. Make it wooden 

A natural wooden door adds a classic twist to any home. No matter whether it's a small space or a bigger home. And nowadays, it's not just classic styles that wooden doors come in. 

Loveless says, ‘A wood door makes it possible to complement a wide range of architectural styles, as it can be customized by size, shape, wood species or glass type. Plus, with advanced manufacturing techniques, proper protection and periodic maintenance, today’s exterior wood doors can uphold their beauty in many types of climates and weather conditions.'

If you've already got a wooden front door, why not learn how to restore a wood door?

11. Supersize

Boost your home's curb appeal in a big way with oversized custom wood front door ideas like this wooden offering from Simpson Door Company. 

Loveless adds, 'While extra-large doors were once deemed near impossible to bring to life, top door manufacturers have fully embraced the challenge, rendering configurations that reach previously unimagined heights. We have extra-large doors that can span up to 8 feet wide and 10 feet tall. For a contemporary twist on the “XL” look, homeowners can look to Simpson’s Monster Pivot Door System™ instead of traditional hinges.'

12. Farmhouse style 

Love farmhouse decor? Coming with bucket loads of character, a farmhouse-style door is ideal for those who are looking to give the outside of their home just about as much rustic charm as the inside. 

Meredith Nethery, Wayfair’s category lead for hardware says, 'Farmhouse design is also having a moment, and this definitely extends to front doors. Farmhouse doors tend to be made of wood and are either stained or painted, with many including glass paneling or dutch doors that allow you to open the top half.'

Check out this farmhouse-style mahogany door which includes a door, jamb legs, brick mold, and comes with clear glass panels.

13. Add interest with an industrial style 

'Another trend that we’re seeing is an increase in customers shopping for an industrial or modern take for their front door,' Nethery tells us. 'These doors are typically darker in color and made of either wood, metal, or a combination of both. They also tend to have sleeker, cleaner lines for those looking to achieve a more industrial or modern look.'

If industrial feels like your front door style, this wood and glass standard door from Wayfair ticks all the boxes. 

14. Look for weather-tight options 

After front door ideas that fit flush to help stop drafty doors fast? Look no further than this fiberglass door from Wayfair which is virtually maintenance-free, won't dent, warp, rot, or split. It also almost eliminates air and water infiltration.

Nethery says, 'Customers may be looking for a slab door - just the door itself without any hinges, knobs, or frame - or a pre-hung door, which is already placed in a frame and can be seamlessly installed for a new construction. Pre-hung doors are also ideal for those seeking a weather-tight option or are looking to replace a damaged door frame.'

15. Choose a heritage finish

Own a period home but your type door hasn't been made for centuries? 

It might be easier to procure a well-crafted replica than you think. Look for a door maker that specializes in period designs and traditional techniques. Then you could always choose a quality paint for your door to achieve a polished look. If painting the door yourself, choose a durable exterior paint, such as Intelligent Exterior Eggshell by Little Greene or Weathershield by Dulux. And once you've given it the once over, don't forget to add period features such as door knockers and brassware. 

16. Contrast finishes

You don't always have to have a traditional door – even if you live in a historic property, but especially if your home is an urban area or a new build. Experiment with a bold modern design in a striking color, especially effective as a contrast to concrete and glass.  

The sleek Porto door from Urban Front is vertically grooved and will make an effortless addition to any home design.

17. Frame your entryway with wood and steel

With an external finish of oak and a central stainless-steel band, this contemporary front door has a distinctly crisp look. If that's not your style, it also comes in other finishes such as marble, stone, metal and glass. 

Include in a wall opening or surround with frameless glazing for a front door that makes a lasting first impression. This version is H250cm x W180cm and is from IQ Glass.

18. Invest in a sleek, high-security solution

If security is top of your front door criteria, this hardwood timber FunkyFront Door from Klöeber could be the option for you. Laminated for strength, it offers the utmost in security, without compromising on its stylish and contemporary design thanks to Hamburg style panels.

19. Add drama with a black front door

A black door is said to add value to a property and if you have a Victorian home that’s lost an original door along the way, you can restore it to glory with a traditionally-inspired design like this one, sure to add a touch of drama.

The four-panel door has authentic heavy moldings and is painted in dark grey, which complements the tiled path. It has been made from solid accoya wood, which is treated to be extremely durable and stable, and is finished with smart polished chrome door furniture. From the London Door Company.

20. Welcome guests with lavender

Choosing the paint color of your front door with care is a must. Lighter-colored buildings will benefit from soft, pastel shades, while red-brick or darker homes can take on a brighter and deeper color. Not to mention pastels like lavender can add a touch of sophistication. 

What kind of door is best for a front door and why?

Eliot Spritzer, Senior Merchant of Exterior Doors, The Home Depot says, 'Choosing the right front door for your home is dependent on your personal style and your home’s architectural design. Update your exterior and improve curb appeal with a new door in a style that complements your current design preferences. Whatever your style, updating or replacing your front door can make your home more appealing for you and your guests.

'When selecting a door, you'll need to know the "handing" of the door. An easy way to do this is to simply open the door. Stand in the doorframe with your back along the hinges. If the hand by the doorknob is your right, it's a right-handed door. If it's by your left, you have a left-handed door.  

'There are two common types of exterior doors. Pre-hung doors include both the door and the frame that supports the door. Slab doors include just the door alone. Pre-hung doors are often easier to install than slab doors. Accurate measurement is key to the right fit.'

What are the most popular front door styles? 

Spritzer says, ‘Craftsman and mid-century are popular door styles that give homeowners a vintage-inspired look. Modern front doors have gained popularity because of their architectural details and minimalist design. Steel front door styles are still popular for their durability, security and versatility. These are great options for front doors, patio doors and back doors.'

When it comes to the best materials, historically, pitch pine was the timber of choice for front doors. However, these days a high-quality, traditionally crafted exterior door is far more likely to be fashioned from durable hardwood, such as oak or, increasingly, accoya, a chemically modified timber that outperforms hardwood in terms of strength and stability.

All external doors should be fitted with high-security deadlocks and, in order to ensure adequate strength and protection against intruders, they should be made of a solid-core construction that is at least 44mm thick. This will also aid heat and sound insulation, as does the use of slimline heritage double-glazing.

For authenticity, timber doors can be finished and maintained using quality linseed oil, wax, or microporous paint, culminating in a weather-tight barrier that is both aesthetically pleasing and secure.

Budgeting for the cost of a new front door is a must, and if a solid wood door is out of your price range, there are plenty of engineered wood options available. Offering many of the same benefits as solid wood doors, they are made from blocks of different types of wood that have been assembled – or engineered – into a single composite material. 

It’s easy to underestimate how internal doors can impact your home, but bulky frames and dull living spaces that feel totally closed off are a thing of the past and there are lots of brilliant features to look for in new internal doors that can completely revolutionise how your rooms, and entire household, feels.

From letting more light in, to enhancing your home’s design and streamlining the functionality of your space day to day, there are plenty of reasons why it’s worth exploring glazed internal doors.

1. Redesigning open plan living 

Over the past few years, open plan layouts were one of the most popular home configurations around, blending different living zones and letting more light bounce around even smaller spaces. Now, we’re actually looking to redefine our rooms, so that the dining space doesn’t creep into the home office for example. So for those who can’t, or who would rather not, go open plan, glazed internal doors like those from Origin's new OI-30 collection, offer a stylish solution - allowing households to keep a broken plan layout, whilst nodding to a lofty and light finish.

2. Tapping into your lifestyle needs

Sleeker than other designs on the market, the Origin OI-30 Internal Door system offers four beautiful configuration options: a French Door, Single Door, Fixed Screen or a combination with a corner post to create a whole new space. These ensure the door can suit a variety of room shapes and household needs.

Whether you’ve a newly installed downstairs toilet that wants more privacy, or a children’s playroom that you’d like to feel more connected to the neighbouring living room space, your chosen installer can offer Origin’s internal doors with a variety of glazing options to suit each individual space. Choose from clear, frosted or reeded glass, depending on the practical needs of the room and on your design preferences.

As they are all completely customisable, you can select everything from the configuration that suits the room’s shape, as well as the preferred door opening direction and much more to make the most of the space you are working with. Additionally, the powdercoating of the OI-30 internal door frames not only looks great aesthetically, but it also makes them more forgiving to any light scuffs and scrapes from a busy home environment ­– ideal for families with pets and kids in tow. 

3. Enhancing your home’s aesthetic

Much like how the colour of your walls and the type of floor you have will impact the overall feel of your space, internal doors are no different and glazed doors offer a world of interior design possibilities. 

Customisable options from Origin will allow you to refine your home’s look, whether you seek a more classic or modern finish. 

Choose your overall size and glazing bar configuration. Add more bars and the likes of kickplates or solid panels for a more traditional look, or less if your interior design style leans towards minimalism. Letting you define all of the smaller, nonetheless important, details like the type of handle will make all the difference. Discover signature, heritage options or take your pick from the contemporary collection and see how matt black, satin brass and many more elegant designs can match the colour scheme and material finishes around your home.

4. Build your space to last

Internal doors form the bones of your home’s internal structure and Origin’s collection of glazed doors are built with premium grade aluminium and designed with seamless operation in mind, with no compromise on their flawless finish, making them a worthwhile investment.

The OI-30 doors even come with an industry-leading warranty of up to 20 years to give you peace of mind that they shouldn’t need replacing, anytime soon. And, with models starting from just £1,400, including the frame, glass and installation, you’ll be making a beautiful investment - and likely making the most of your budget.

5. Bringing your home to life, in a flash

When you want to transform the look of your home and inject more energy into your surroundings, you usually want to do it as soon as possible. Installing glazed internal doors can make a dramatic difference instantly and when using a manufacturer with a renowned reputation like Origin, you can count on quality. Visit origin-global.com today to find your local installer who will help you design and customise your doors, meaning that smartening up your home has never been easier or more enjoyable.

Need to know how much a new front door costs? A brand-new front door is one of the most important choices you'll make for the exterior of your home. 

It needs to tick several boxes that are crucial to your home's security, insulation, and curb appeal. It really is well worth your while to do proper research before setting your front door budget: you get what you pay for with doors. Considering that a front door should last you many, many years before it needs to be replaced again you should invest as much as you can.

Before you start browsing front door designs, take a deep dive into typical front door costs. The expert-sourced information in this guide will help you decide on the material, and whether you want to hire a professional to install your front door or whether you may want to give a DIY front door a go.

How much does a front door cost?

The final cost of your front door will depend on a number of factors, most importantly the material quality and the size of your door. Let's drill a little deeper into what the costs are likely to be. 

Glen Garza, a professional home maintenance technician and consultant at The Project Girl tells us that 'a basic front door with no additional features, such as a storm door or window, can cost anywhere from $100 to $300. This price range includes doors made from metal, fiberglass or wood. 

'A higher-quality front door made from metal or fiberglass will cost between $150 and $400. A wooden front door can cost as much as $600. 

'If you want to add a storm door or window, this will add about $200 to the cost of your front door installation.'

DIY vs professional front door costs

If you are hanging a front door yourself, expect to pay between $100 and $200 for materials. You can find these materials at your local hardware store. 

If you hire someone else to do the work, it will cost anywhere from $1,000 to $3,000.

Richard Kelly, Co-founder & Home Repair Expert at Unique Home Guide, adds that  'If you're handy and want to save some money, you can always try your hand at a DIY front door. The price will depend on the materials you use, but you could knock one out on the cheaper end for around $100.

'You can also find great pre-hung doors at most home improvement stores, which makes the process that much easier. Otherwise, you'll need to measure and cut the door yourself, which can be tricky if you're not experienced.'

Put it this way: if you've never done DIY, then you may find that you'll have wasted precious materials and still don't have a front door. Yes, professional front door build and installation will cost you significantly more, but you can be certain that the job will be done to a high standard, that the door will last and be hinged and installed properly. What you really don't want is a poor-fitting front door or one that isn't strong enough to withstand substantial wear and tear. 

How much does it cost if you need a new door and frame?

The cost of a new door and frame will depend on the type of door you want, the size of your home, and the type of material used. 

According to Garza, 'a steel door can be purchased for around $150 to $300. A wooden door will cost more, starting at around $300 to $500. If you have a small house or apartment, the cost of a new door and frame may be as low as $100. 

'If you have a larger home or office building, it could cost up to $1,000 for one door. The price will vary depending on what kind of material is used in construction and how many doors need to be replaced in each structure.'

Is there an alternative to a new front door?

If you don't have the DIY skills to make and/or install a front door yourself and you are daunted by the costs of a new front door, you could try restoring your front door. The process will still require physical effort and dexterity from you, but it's much easier than making a front door from scratch. 

If your front door is still in good condition but is showing signs of cosmetic wear (e.g. peeling paint and scratches), you can save a lot of money by just painting your door.

Whatever you decide to do, keep your front of house design looking sharp and you won't regret it.

The cost of bi-folding doors can be a worthwhile expense if you want to be able to open the inside of your home to the outside. Of all the options available as patio doors, these allow the widest opening between the house and the exterior, and even when they’re closed, they permit excellent views of the backyard from the room in which they’re fitted.

Quality bi-folding doors are also easy to open and close, and look stylish, too, with a choice of frame materials and colors allowing you to complement the rest of the windows in your home.

But if you’re thinking of fitting them, or choosing between bi-folding or sliding doors, you’ll need to know the costs, and that’s where we come in. We’ve got the details you need on average costs, different materials, and installation.

What is the cost of bifolding doors?

With panels that concertina together to open the aperture in which they’re fitted to the outdoors, bi-folding doors are a great choice as patio doors. But what should you budget to have this type of door fitted?

 ‘Installing bifold patio doors typically costs between $3,000 and $10,000 total, or $500 to $900 per linear square foot,’ says Bailey Carson, home care expert at Angi. 

‘The exact price will depend on the material, size and style of the doors, as well as the cost of labor in your area,’ she continues. ‘Bifold patio doors are more expensive than other types of patio doors, which usually cost closer to $2,500.’

How much does it cost to install bi-fold patio doors?

The cost of professionally installing bi-folding doors is one you should factor in. ‘Labor typically makes up about $400 to $1,400 of the total project cost, while the rest will depend primarily on your material choices,’ says Bailey Carson.

How does the material affect the cost of bifold patio doors?

Which of the different frames you select will affect the cost of bi-folding patio doors, especially if part of a home addition. ‘Bifold doors are usually made of either one or two materials,’ explains Bailey Carson. ‘If you’re looking to save money on your project, think about opting for less expensive materials for the door, like molded composite instead of wood, or vinyl instead of steel.’

What can you expect to pay? ‘The costs per square linear foot start at between $600 and $800 for frames made of materials like vinyl and aluminum,’ says Adam Graham, industry analyst at Fixr. ‘If you want fiberglass or steel, you are looking at costs between $600 and $1,200 a linear foot installed.’

Consider appearance, durability, and maintenance requirements when assessing the different frame options. ‘Vinyl is a durable and inexpensive material commonly used for smaller bifold doors, and is a great option if you’re looking to spruce up a doorway without breaking the bank,’ says Bailey Carson. It can look like wood, and is low maintenance.

Aluminum creates strong and sleek framing, and can be a good choice in regions with strong winds. It is also used as exterior cladding for wood patio doors to reduce maintenance.

More costly, fiberglass is a strong material that can be the best option for regions that experience large shifts in temperature during the year. It is easily maintained.

Steel is also a strong option and creates slim frames that maximize views. It’s highly durable and resists weather, fire, and decay.

How does glazing choice influence cost?

The glazing you choose is a further factor in the final cost of bi-folding doors. The per linear foot costs above assume basic double-pane glazing. ‘If you want to add features like argon gas or low-E coating, expect your costs per square linear foot to jump up another $100 to $200 making your total cost range $700 to $1,400 depending on your material,’ says Adam Graham.

The boom in home improvement projects during lockdown has accelerated an interesting shift in extension and renovation design.

For much of the last decade, the desire to create large open-plan kitchens and family spaces has been complemented by bi-fold doors that connect the new living area to the patio and garden. However, in recent years, sliding doors, with large panes of glass and incredibly narrow frames, have become the go-to option.

Will Mitchell, product manager for award-winning glazing specialists Sunflex UK, offers his insight into the reasons behind the trend:

Doors for all year round

‘The popularity of bi-fold doors is obvious – the ability to open up the entire set of doors for a seamless transition between inside and out offers a wow-factor for any home.

‘The drawback is that they are designed with more frame and less glass, compared to modern sliding doors – which means when they are closed, there is less glass to look through. Given the climate we have in the UK, the doors will be closed for far longer each year than open, so the trend towards sliding doors becomes more understandable and obvious.’

Minimal frame, maximum light

‘Thanks to advanced technology, the visible frames between the glass on the Sunflex UK SVG20 sliding doors, have been reduced to just 20mm, providing almost completely uninterrupted views out while filling the inside of the house full of light – ideal for summer but also perfect during winter when the light levels are lower.’

Keeping your home warm during winter

‘Modern sliding doors don’t just look good, they also offer protection from wind and rain – even in the most exposed and rural locations. The SVG20 and SVG30 sliding door systems deliver advanced thermal performance with U-values from an incredibly low 1.2W/m²K, ensuring you keep the warmth of your home indoors during winter.

‘The design of our sliding doors, unlike bi-fold doors, allows for a completely flush threshold between inside and out without reducing the protection the doors offer from wind and rain.'

Advanced security

‘The Sunflex UK range of sliding doors feature multi-point  locking mechanisms as standard. For additional protection we recommend opting for laminated instead of toughened glass, which is the standard required for the Secured by Design, the police preferred specification for security. A polymer layer sandwiched between two panes of glass means that it shatters but does not break, so is better at preventing break-ins.’

For more details about Sunflex’s award-winning sliding doors, go to sunflexuk.co.uk, or call 01603 424 434

A DIY fan has revealed how she made the window in her nursery look way bigger, which in turn gave the whole room feel a more spacious feel. 

You may have already seen a similar curtain trick on Instagram, but Mariah from @rusticrosehomestead shows how using a longer curtain rail is the key. This clever bedroom curtain idea might be just what you need if you're currently grappling with a particularly awkwardly-shaped guest bedroom. 

Here's how to try it out at home.

'How to make your small window appear larger using only curtains!' Mariah writes in the caption. In the video, the DIYer removes the old curtain rail, which was black, exactly the same length as the top of the window, and positioned close to the window frame.

She then uses a ladder to hang a larger, golden rail significantly higher up, a mere 3.5 inches from the ceiling. Mariah also attaches the brackets 12 inches away from the edge of the window on either side, high up close to the ceiling. 

Once the drilling is done, she hangs beautiful floor-length curtains in sumptuous pink velvet. You can pick up the exact blackout curtains Mariah used at Amazon.

The video went down very well with Mariah's followers on @rusticrosehomestead. 'Yes yes and more yes!' one follower commented. 

'Great tip and it truly does make the room seem bigger,' said another. 'Sooo much better!!!' exclaimed a third.

Mariah uses this curtain trick in her baby's nursery, but you could just as well incorporate it into your small living room ideas, or you could try it in your home office. Whatever the room, large swathes of material flowing all the way down the walls helps to achieve a luxurious look, lengthening the walls and accentuating the room's height.

This simple hack draws the eye up and gives a simple window a more dramatic finish. Read up on how to put up a curtain pole before you give this curtain trick go, so you can approach the task with confidence. 

Rather than positioning curtain rods close to the window frame, we'll be hanging curtains high and wide from now on.

White uPVC framed double glazing became a fixture in our houses during the 1980s. They were truly revolutionary by providing an affordable but durable option for windows that kept the cold out and the heat in. 

They very quickly dominated the market for domestic types of windows however their aesthetic appeal quickly waned. Modern architects and designers are more likely to favour the aluminium or wooden counterparts to the uPVC frame for their sleek or more natural looking finish.

While colour and finish options for uPVC frames have expanded over the decades they haven’t been adopted widely, with most of us opting for the rather bland white framed mainstream version...

Our uPVC windows before:

When we moved into our 1930s semi-detached in 2019 the building had a lean-to conservatory along the back of the property. The conservatory itself was in great condition with an insulated roof so it was a pleasant space to be in and ended up becoming an everyday room for us.

It has large white uPVC windows on all three sides with French doors leading out onto the garden. I found it to be a really difficult space to style as without much wall space to paint or hang art, there was little chance to inject some personality.

So, I decided the room needed a facelift using the power of paint and the most important part of the project was to paint the uPVC window frames.

The painted uPVC windows after:

Can you successfully paint uPVC windows yourself?

Many of us have taken to hiring the professionals to spray paint our uPVC frames to update the look of our properties. But, this isn’t a job that needs to be done by a professional as more of us are going DIY to transform our windows both internally and externally. And, once you know how to paint windows yourself, you have the option to change the frames to any colour you wish, and the result is an instant transformation, with much less of a spend!

What is the best way to paint uPVC window frames?

There are a few DIY options for completing this task at hand and it all depends on the finish you want. But, the best way to get a smooth finish is to use a paint spraying machine like the professionals do.

In my experience, over-the-counter DIY paint spraying machines are not very good and a waste of money and so this wasn’t going to be an option for us. Another way to achieve the smooth finish is to use spray paint cans, but this limits your colour options and can be expensive for the amount that you need – not to mention it's not environmentally friendly either. 

So, I decided to opt for a brush and roller combination for the application as it is relatively simple to do and the finish is pretty on point.

How to paint uPVC windows step-by-step

Tools Required:

• Degreaser
• Sanding Sponge
• Masking Tape
• Paint Brush – try our best paint brushes roundup
• Roller
• Scraper
• Your paint and primer if using

1. Prep and cleaning

I'm not going to lie, this bit sucks but it is worth doing right. 

Firstly you need to clean the window frames using a degreaser making sure it’s squeaky clean.

Next, you want to use a sanding sponge to gently buff the surface of the uPVC frame without scratching it. Do not use sand paper for this reason! Then, wipe any residue with a damp cloth. This ensures the paint adheres directly onto the uPVC.

2. Tape off the edges

You need to add masking tape along the edges of all the frames you intend to paint. I had 35 panes of glass to apply masking tape to which took me the best part of 2 hours to do. As with any painting make sure you lay down a dust sheet and remove any furniture from the area.

3. Choose the right type of paint

Choosing the right kind of paint for your uPVC window frames is a very important to to ensure the durability of your newly painted frames. Luckily there are a number of options on the market these days. There are products like Zinnser AllCoat that do not require any primer but they are limited in colour options. Rustoleum Garden Paint can be applied directly onto uPVC and comes in 110 colours or you can also use a primer with an external paint for a hard-wearing finish.

Your local paint providers can give advice on the best options for the finish you want to achieve. After chatting with my local, I decided to use an outdoor primer and then for the main coat, I used an internal eggshell. As I had painted the wall with Myland’s Copper Green I decided to use another colour from their palette called Borough Market which is a luscious Dark Green that almost looks black in certain light. 

4. Painting

First I applied Mylands wood and metal primer in Dark grey onto the frames using a brush, making sure to get in all the edges and corners. Doing a small section at a time I quickly ran over the painted section using a small roller to flatten out any brush marks. This helps to smooth out the finish on the surface.

• Find all our conservatory ideas for more inspo.

When this first coat is dry, apply the main colour on top of the primed frames using the same method of using the brush followed, by the roller. 

You may need two coats of the main colour.

5. Remove the masking tape

When you have finished with your final coat start to immediately remove the masking tape before it dries. If you allow the paint to dry before removing the masking tape first you run the risk of it flaking off the frame. If you do happen to get any paint on the windows don’t worry, just use a scraper and the paint will come off easily.

The results:

Is it worth painting uPVC windows?

In one word: yes! I am over the moon with the results. It instantly transformed the space and I particularly enjoy the way it frames the view of the garden. Having a darker colour on the frames has also made the room feel bigger as the contrast tricks the eye a little and distracts from the smaller size of the room. Our conservatory no longer looks cold or cheap and now feels elegant and sophisticated. 

When we moved into our 1935, dream house, fixer, the French doors between the sitting room and our primary bedroom were sadly missing. The hinges remained attached to the door frame as a reminder of what had once been. I longed for Aerin Lauder-esque, highly decorative and dramatic double doors. 

For the first few years, while we took on more pressing repairs, I scoured architectural salvage shops, with dreams of scoring 1930s doors, magically in the perfect size.

The empty door frame before

Without luck, I moved on to the local woodworking shop. I was quoted $3,500 – not including hardware or install. After sulking for a good amount of time, I dusted off my door dreams and instead started to think up a new DIY project to help create my vision within our budget. This is how it went.

French door DIY: Step-by-step

Decorative door tools & materials:

• Flat paneled doors
• Door trim (from the kitchen cabinet)
• Miter box
• Hand saw
• Masking tape
• Nail gun/liquid nails
• 12” cabinet pulls
• Push plates
• Lucite handles
• Screws
• Shiny gold paint
• Behr, Starless Night paint – find it at Home Depot.
• Paint roller & brush

1. Finding a replacement door

With the help of our handyman, I found unfinished, flat paneled doors at Menards that clocked in at $350. I didn’t have a decorative plan yet, but I knew the possibilities were endless. I flirted with adding wood trellis or wallpaper to the panels, and created a whole Pinterest board dedicated to decorative door inspiration.

2. Creating the door pulls

Even though I didn’t, yet, have a clear direction to dress up the plain doors, I started with creating bold, lucite, pulls inspired by Tory Burch’s store entrances as seen in the NY Times.

I used large, 12” cabinet pulls and mounted them to brass, push plates, by swapping the included screws for shorter versions. The brass finish pulls were not available at that time, so I taped off the lucite and gave the metal a quick spray with a shiny gold paint.

3. Painting the doors

I then masked off the push plates and painted the doors with paint I had leftover from the bedroom. The color matches the wallpaper pattern and surrounding blue accents in both rooms the doors open out to also.

And that’s where the doors sat for months... They looked great but they still weren't quite as bold and dreamy as I had hoped.

4. Using reclaimed kitchen trim

Then I remembered the trim I popped off our 1960s cabinets during our no reno kitchen makeover... 

I played with a few shape and size options, using the reclaimed kitchen trim, and landed on three boxes per door.

I cut the trim to size using a miter box and hand saw. I then used masking tape to hold the trim in place on the door and attached the trim with my nail gun. 

Top tip: If you don’t have a nail gun, you can also use liquid nails to attach the trim.

5. Adding the final touches

I finished by caulking all the seams and painting the trim to match the bedroom walls and doors in Behr, Starless Night paint which you can find at Home Depot.

Replacing the French doors ended up becoming more than just an aesthetic improvement. They have come in clutch to separate our new work from home office spaces and the temporary online classrooms our home unexpectedly required.

The results:

Real costs: a breakdown of project material costs

Below you can see a breakdown of our project costs. I love the way the doors look, and even more so, the money we saved to put towards the continued repairs on our dream house!

• Doors: $350 Unfinished, solid core, flat panel doors
• Trim: Free
• Cabinet pulls: $28 x 4 from Amazon
• Push plates: $14.51 x 4
• Labor: Door install $200

Total cost: $720.04

Bay windows are beautiful features that you'll usually find in historic homes. They consist of three separate window panels that protrude from the inner room creating more space, architectural interest and bringing more natural light into the space also – be that a living room, kitchen or bedroom. 

Bay windows were mostly present in Victorian times, particularly in the British Isles, and what's so wonderful about them is that they offer a world of opportunity in terms of design. Their unique shape means that you'll have to get creative with different window treatment ideas as a standard curtain rail will not necessarily cut it. And, if you do want curtains all the way across, you'll need to invest in made-to-measure options that work around those bends.

From dressing your bay to decorating the surrounding area, there are lots of ways to fill that additional space underneath the window itself also, to ensure that it's put to best use. 'These elegant windows are often the centerpiece of a room. Drapery panels are a graceful addition to a bay window and work well on their own or paired with shades or blinds. For the latter, plantation-style shutters pack a visual punch. Outside-mounted window coverings are often an ideal choice for bay windows in order to preserve their clean lines.' According to blinds and shades specialists at Stoneside.

What do bay windows do?

Lucy Askew, spokesperson for home interior experts Hillarys says, 'Bay windows increase the flow of natural light into your home and give you views of the outside that you wouldn’t get with an ordinary window.' It's important to choose the best types of window treatment to suit and enhance the functionality of your bay windows. 'To emphasise this, pick out lightweight Rollers or sheer Pleated blinds, which create a lovely ambience by allowing sunlight to gently filter into your room.'

'Outside-mounted window coverings are often an ideal choice for bay windows in order to preserve their clean lines.' Suggests Stoneside.

1. Space-enhancing patterned roller blinds

'Roller blinds in a sheer fabric are a good choice for bay windows, as they also offer enhanced levels of daytime privacy while still allowing lovely diffuse sunlight to fill a room.' Notes Askew. Using this spot also to place a neutral-colored cabinet makes for one of the most functional bay window ideas also for added living room storage.

2. Bespoke options

Shutters pack a visual punch, especially if you like a modern design factor and custom-made fittings will help make the most of the bay window's shape. 'Because there are many different types of bay windows – from angled bay to multifaceted bay and bow windows – and the shape of each is unique, it is important to select a bespoke window covering that will fit perfectly.' Says Askew. 'Our Shutters range is perfect for homes with uniquely shaped windows. For a start, choosing made-to-measure shutters means each panel is designed to fit each section of the window. The result is something tailored to your home and very special.'

3. Tier-on-tier for a layered approach 

Bright and functional, a layered shutter look will add structure to even the coziest of living room spaces. 'Tier-on-Tier shutters are a versatile option, as the top and bottom halves of the shutters open independently of each other, so you can throw open the top set to let some sunlight in while keeping the bottom set closed for a little more privacy.' Adds Askew.

3. Clever sofa positioning

Elizabeth of @victorianhouse1986  added her sofa to the small spot between the bay window panels – an option that some steer away from. Though, you can see by how beautiful it looks and how useful it is, that it is one to try. 'I chose to put a sofa in my bay window as the opposite side (where the photo has been taken from in the first picture) has previously been knocked through into the dining room and is therefore open. The sofa here allows you a full front to back view of the house. With the addition of an arched lamp and some throws, it's a cozy spot especially in winter.'

4. Enhancing the architecture with paneling

Wall paneling around the bay window enhances its naturally beautiful design, in-keeping with the home's era and adding a little modern character also. Elizabeth used every inch of the surrounding space also for trinkets to add more design personality.

5. An opportunity for elaborate furniture

Hillary's shows how you can find interestingly shaped seating and other types of furniture like this fabric chaise longue to fill the seemingly awkward gap between the outer two window panels. The perfect viewing spot for a morning coffee or to place to relax with an evening read. The romantic drapes and blinds softer the look furthermore. 'Roman blinds offer a gorgeous, soft fabric option, which can be set at different heights to create an interesting look, but also sit neatly within your window recess for a neat and streamlined finish.' Says Askew. Layer them with curtains either side for an even more opulent finish.

6. Highlighting the bones of your bay window

'You can beautifully highlight the bones of a bay window with Roman shades crafted from a rich fabric.' Adds Stoneside experts. The watercolor pattern here adds an artistic finish to this bedroom space. Note also how the small radiator cleverly doubles up as a shelf for decor.

7. A bedroom bay window seat

Adding a built-in seat to a bedroom bay window is a classic, failsafe look that makes great use of the space. Functional and decorative, add a selection of cushions to complement the curtains and you will enhance your bedroom decor instantly. 

Natural light pouring into a bedroom is a magical feeling of course, but to ensure your bay window functions just as good as it looks, nod to black out bedroom curtain ideas. The latest designs means that you'll enjoy a stylish look that doesn't appear too heavy.

8. Letting all the light through 

To let in as much light as possible and to complement the natural moldings of the bay window frames, choosing simple soft roman shades in the same color as the paintwork will create a seamless and open finish. Highlighting the rest of the room's finer decor features further.

9. Floor to ceiling curtains

Adding drama and a little luxury via your living room curtains is a quick win in the design world. 'Fully-lined curtains are perfect for creating a sophisticated finish, floor-to-ceiling drama and a warm and cozy ambience.  And as bay windows use more glass than a normal window, there is a small chance of further heat escaping from them. If you are worried about getting chilly, you can create an extra cozy feel by choosing thermal linings for your curtains and even layering curtains over your Roman blinds.' Adds Askew.

10. Frosted film for an element of privacy 

Frosted film is a grand idea for those renting especially or, those undecided about what to dress their bay windows with. Adding a subtle element of privacy and letting all the light in, it's a very modern way to let your bay window's personality shine through to the rest of your space.

How do you modernize a bay window?

Rest assured that bay window ideas are very much on-trend. Askew adds, 'Although they are usually associated with period properties, bay windows can be found in contemporary homes too. Therefore, if you are lucky enough to have one in your home, it is vital to make the most of it.'

Some new window treatment ideas will really make a difference to your space – whether it's the final touch to your newly decorated living room or dining room or just a quick way to update your open plan space.

First think about what’s on your list of requirements for your living room window treatment ideas. Does it need to create a focal point? Keep the inside of your home private? Stop sunlight damaging furniture and flooring? All of the above? 

With an exacting list of specifications, and whether you’re planning to roll out all new window dressings or simply swap in new curtain panels or even curtainless options for your windows, you have options.

1. Colorful curtains

Bring a little joie de vivre to your living room window treatment ideas with a bold floral print. For classic types of window treatments you'll want to keep it cohesive with a simple color duo like pink and navy here to let the pattern stand out tastefully.

2. Choose easy-update roller blinds

If you are looking to change up your living room ideas with the seasons, check out these roller blinds. The original fabric can be hooked off and replaced with a new one while the blind system itself stays in place. The blind pelmets are changeable, too.

3. Floor to ceiling pleat dining room curtains

Fresh and clean cut, these pleat curtains will make you feel like it's springtime all year round. Perfect for a picture window or even to dress sliding doors, when you choose one color, you can afford to go for length with your window treatment ideas.

4. Denim textures

Fabric is everything when finding the best window treatments to bring your living room ideas to life. Harry Cole, Founder of Loom & Last adds 'If the fabric or pattern is a key part of your design scheme, Roman blinds are the best option. The header rail allows visibility of your fabric pattern whether the blind is up or down while the traditional pleats are a stylish addition that makes a feature out of your window.' Adding more texture is one of the best kitchen window ideas.

5. Showcase pattern with panel curtains

Make a focal point of the window – or distract from a view that leaves much to be desired – with a patterned window treatment. Flat panels put maximum focus on the motif itself as there are no fabric folds, and look contemporary to boot.

6. Flexible shutters for a bay window

Street-facing living rooms can leave you feeling on show when you’re trying to relax. To avoid the goldfish-bowl sensation, consider tier-on-tier picks of the best shutters. The stacked panels allow you to cover the pedestrian-height portion of the window  while the slats mean fine control of privacy but will let light in during the day.

7. Save space with a Roman blind

Small living room but like the softness of a window dressing made from fabric? Choosing the best Roman blinds will create a generous effect with pleats of fabric apparent when it’s pulled up, but as it fits neatly and hangs down flat it won’t take up space alongside the window or create bulk against the wall.

8. Built-in UV protection

The best bi-fold door ideas along with generous glazing create a fabulous connection between indoors and out but the sun can cause furniture and wood flooring to change color over time. Choosing window treatment ideas that come with built-in UV protection can make this less of a challenge day-to-day. Blinds that are designed to stop UV light damage will also make screens easier to see on bright days. 

9. Window film is a great option

To keep natural light flowing into a living space and obscure the view of the curious, window film proves a simple and effective solution. Doesn’t feel dressed up enough for the space? Team it with curtains for a more opulent window treatment. Letting the curtain fabric pool on the floor, as here, will make the look more luxurious.

10. Floor to ceiling for a contemporary space

A blind that maximises natural light while foiling attempts from neighbors to spy on your interiors is a 21st century solution to a problem of urban living, and discreet window dressing ideas are the way to go. It’ll do the same job at night, too, when it can be completely closed.

11. Blackout blinds are great for south facing rooms

Prevent the glare from street lamps disrupting the carefully created ambience of your living room in the evenings with the best blackout curtains or blinds.

These blinds have a pleated structure that’s also designed to absorb sound to keep that element of the outside out, too. 

12. Velvet drapes add a luxe feel

Velvet’s a huge trend for sofa upholstery and it’s just as appealing used for living room curtains too. It looks and feels soft and, of course, drapes beautifully. Try dark shades for a contemporary effect and add brighter jewel tones as accents to the scheme.

13. Combine shutters and curtains

A shutter and curtain combination is an ideal way to draw attention to the lovely lines of a bay window. Here, café-style shutters mean the room’s kept private, while floor-length curtains frame the attractive feature. Once night-time comes attention’s focused on the sumptuous drape of fabric. 

14. Or curtains and blinds

If you want a relaxed, informal look in your living room, choosing curtain and Roman or roller blind fabrics that complement each other but don't match is the way to go. Picking designs from the same collection is an easy option. 

15. Choose honeycomb blinds for a soft light

Blinds that have a honeycomb structure are perfect for living rooms if you want to also keep heat in during the cooler months. They look nice and subtle, you could even layer with a curtain, but actually, they are such a practical choice and can drawn to and from as necessary to adjust the light, sound, temperature, and privacy. 

16. Frame a bay window with wooden blinds

Window dressing ideas for living rooms don't have to be overly complicated, especially if you're working with bay windows which are beautiful in design by default. Create simple but effective cohesion by installing wooden window blinds. The neutral color helps anchor the room in a subtle way and nods to the modern look of sustainability.

17. Match your blind to your accessories

This chocolate colored Roman blind lifts this charming window seat area and cleverly allows the light to still flow through when pulled up due to the nature of the fabric. 

By matching your blind to your accessories you can ensure your living room window treatment looks cohesive and flows throughout the space. 

18. Choose the right curtain heading

'Folds of fabric are gathered tightly together that resemble the size of a pencil, hence the name. This type has small discreet hooks attached to the back on the curtain which is then hooked to the curtain pole.' Says Cole. Simple and refined, this style of window dressing wraps the room's decor up perfectly especially if you prefer pared back living room layout ideas. 

19. Fake the look of stained glass with window film

If you're afraid that curtains will make your lounge feel dark, play to the dramatic space and up the vampy, gothic vibes with a stained glass effect film. It's a budget-friendly buy that costs less than drapes, so is the perfect purchase for renters.

"Rooms which are exposed to little sunlight require creative thinking and decorative interest. If you find yourself deterred from spending time in a certain room due to the lack of light, consider choosing a bold patterned window film," says Joanna Baumard, co-founder, Purfrost.'Botanical and brightly-colored designs reflect the summer season, lift your mood and elevate unused dark spaces.'

How to choose living room window dressings

Dressing a living room window provides the opportunity to impress, or use a more understated treatment that quietly solves the problems it has to. If it’s a separate room, you won’t need to think about the window dressing in relation to others, but in an open-plan kitchen diner and living space, consider repeating colors from a kitchen window treatment to pull the whole space together.

However, it’s not only the aesthetic of the window dressing that’s a factor. Light control to reduce glare on screens and protect upholstery from fading may be vitally important, depending on the room’s orientation. Street-facing rooms, meanwhile, need a treatment that brings privacy without making them gloomy, and here specially designed blinds, shutters, and window film can come to your aid. 

What can I use instead of curtains?

If you're not into light curtains, or heavier drapes you can of course opt for blinds, shutters or other types of window treatments. These do come up a little more expensive and if it's costs that you're trying to keep low with your window treatment ideas, you can choose either shades or even window films. Shades give you less control over how much light you let in however you will enjoy privacy, The same goes with window film as they let lit in when it's light outside so they are probably best kept in a living room space where no one is (usually) sleeping. 

"From frosted to vibrant patterns, window films can either blend seamlessly into the background or create a real design statement,' says Baumard.

'If you’re looking to add a real wow factor, consider framing your film by painting the surrounding window edge in a contrasting color. This quick trick will instantly elevate the space and draw your eye to the window, making the room appear much brighter and larger.'

And for more plush designs, Loom Decor always has gorgeous window treatments for living rooms and the rest of the home in different beautiful fabrics.

If you're taking on a period home with no original features, chances are you're keen to restore a bit of character to the space without spending a fortune. Tasks like restoring plasterwork and repairing old windows can be pricey, but there are ways of injecting classic style into your space for less – and one homeowner has done just that with an Ikea hack for timeless yet inexpensive fitted wardrobes. 

Jade Rodrigues and her husband Darren took on their Victorian ex-council house with a small budget, but thanks to a great carpenter and an eye for design, they've managed to create a stunning space for less. And the star of the show? Beautiful fitted wardrobes made from the humble Ikea Pax range.

Check out how they did it below, then head to our gallery for more bedroom storage ideas. 

Jade and Darren had always wanted a period home, and they fell in love with the high ceilings, chimney stacks and large proportions of their Victorian terrace. The property needed a lot of work, so the couple decided to start with the primary bedroom. 'We wanted to have a space to be comfortable in while we tackled the main kitchen and bathroom projects,' Jade explains. 

She admits they're not DIY people, so when it came to building built-in storage for their room, they called in help. 'We did all the painting, but had carpenters in to do the technical work, she says. 'By employing individual tradespeople and paying a day rate, we saved a lot of money.' 

The room has a statement fireplace on the far wall with alcoves either side. The couple were keen to utilise the space for built-in wardrobes, but wanted to get the look for less – so they turned to Ikea. 'The wardrobes are Pax wardrobes,' says Jade. 'We had the carpenter cut them down to fit in the alcoves and box them up with MDF.'

To bring the new wardrobes in line with the era of the house, the couple asked the carpenter to add beading onto the doors. 'We also added a picture rail to make it all look like part of the walls,' Jade adds.

The wardrobes and the walls below the picture rail were painted in Dolphin by Little Green, while the ceiling and the space above the picture rail were painted in Mid Lead from the same company. 

The palette is a softer take on the monochrome scheme through the rest of the house, which was inspired by an unusual source. 'I like bold colours and take a lot of inspiration from old pubs – lots of dark blues and blacks,' says Jade. 'I wanted the house to be traditional and in-keeping, but also cosy.'

Jade finished off the room with an upholstered bed from Sofa.com, a circular mirror from Ikea and a ceiling shade from Habitat. The couple are thrilled with the final look. 'It’s exactly what we wanted – bold and neutral colours in balance,' says Jade. 'We didn’t want to go too safe, so the two-tone walls and painted ceiling make a statement. We chose the colours to make the room feel cosy, and it almost encapsulates you – it’s sleep-inducing, which is ideal!'

Kitchen window treatments can be overlooked when actually they offer the best opportunity to finish off your kitchen look in a very practical way. 

Modern options include curtains, blinds, shades and more. And, not only will the best kitchen window treatment ideas look great but they should also help regulate light, allow you to control privacy, offer up a little insulation, handle splashes, regular cleaning and the list goes on. An essential part of all good kitchen ideas, whether yous windows are above the sink or not, they deserve your attention.

What type of window treatments are best for kitchens?

Whichever types of windows you need to dress, be them large glazed doors, small casement windows or anything in between, it’s vital that kitchen window treatments are chosen with the specific zone of the room in mind. Above sinks and in close proximity to the cooking area, go for moisture-resistant kitchen blinds, or robust shutters. Further away from the working zone of the room, treatments such as Roman blinds and curtains are appealing because they’ll introduce softness to a space that’s filled with hard materials. 

Light control’s important for both comfortable preparation and dining, so where direct sunlight’s an issue, adjustable Venetians and plantation shutters are practical choices. 

Think privacy as well in your kitchen design, A space with a garden view may not require a window dressing that conceals all. But if you live in a city with this room in plain sight, consider the benefits of made-for-privacy blinds, panels, shutters and window film. Our kitchen window treatment ideas will give you plenty of ideas. 

Harry Cole, Founder of Loom & Last says "When looking for the right treatment for your kitchen window, a blind is your best bet."

1. Save space in your kitchen with window film

If you are looking for a kitchen window ideas for a tight space, such as a window above a sink, or want to leave the windowsill free for better kitchen storage ideas or display, window film’s a winning dressing. 

For maximum privacy choose a stained glass style design, like this Palanga in Amber from Purlfrost, or go for a plain etched look to boost light coming in.

2. Play with pattern above a sink

If specific fabrics or interesting patterns are an integral part of your interior design scheme, you can get more creative with different types of roman blinds. 'The header rail allows visibility of the fabric pattern, whether the blind is up or down, while the traditional pleats are a stylish addition that make a feature out of the window.' Adds Cole. Choose something made to measure for the perfect fit.

3. Pick shutters to dress kitchen doors

Whether you have traditional French windows, contemporary bi-fold or sliding doors, once darkness descends it’s cozier to be able to shut out the night. 

These Warwick Silk White tracked shutters from Hillarys, suit all outward opening doors, as well as sliding versions.

• Find the best shutters for your home.

4. Pick fresh kitchen window treatments for rooflights

Rooflights boost natural illumination in a kitchen, but the addition of a blind can be useful to soften the light and prevent glare as the sun moves round the house. These roller blinds from Velux are power operated and come in a choice of 15 colors.

• Check out our gallery of blinds for glazed extensions and roof windows.

5. Add style with white voiles

When your kitchen space says so much, your window treatments can take a back seat. Floor to ceiling white voile drapes serve purpose as they're simple yet very effective, and won't overpower an already well thought out space.

"To maintain a cohesive interior consider screening off any large windows that might distract from the style inside,' says Jamie Watkins, co-founder, Divine Savages. "The benefit of adding full length voile curtains is that whilst they can block out outside distractions they also lets through lots of natural light, leaving the kitchen colors to shine, seen here in cabinetry painted a subtle sage green that perfectly complements the statement wallpaper."

6. Playful motifs add charm

Keep cooking as cheerful as you can with cute motifs on your kitchen window treatments that complement the colors of your kitchen cabinets too. 'Roller blinds are a great choice if you are looking to maximize daylight and make smaller windows appear taller. Neat and tidy they roll up, taking up just a small portion of the windowpane ensuring full visibility and sunlight throughout the day.' Adds Cole.

7. Balance light and privacy in your kitchen

Looking for the softness of fabric but the adjustability of a slatted blind?  This Zebra roller blind in Pale Ash with clip on matching pelmet fromBloc Blinds, is made with colored and transparent fabric bands on a loop. Via the pulling together of similar bands they allow either maximum light or maximum privacy at different times of day.

8. Choose kitchen curtains for a softer look

Take the opportunity to indulge in more opulent kitchen treatment ideas and add softness with curtains as well as Roman blinds. Here Kensington Dijon curtains, made-to-measure, have been teamed with Sion Mimosa Roman blinds at Style Studio, to give the windows a luxurious finish.

• Use our guide to pick the best curtains for your kitchen

9. Pick a flexible kitchen window idea

To manage the problem of being overlooked when your kitchen’s street facing while keeping the daylight coming, try a highly this manoeuvrable kitchen window idea. 

These top-down bottom-up blinds can be adjusted upwards or downwards so you can position them at any point on the window as needed from Duette.

10. Keep your space streamlined with shutters

Fitted into the window recess, shutters are a neat way to dress kitchen windows without intruding into precious work space. Easy to clean, they can be fitted in hard-working areas – a wipe down will have them pristine once more.  

They're also great for controlling the light levels, and you can either leave them white or paint them to match your scheme. 

11. Inject color with Venetian kitchen blinds

If you’ve picked cream or white kitchen units for their space-stretching qualities, why not use your choice of window treatment to add an accent shade that can be repeated in other kitchen accessories? 

There are so many great Venetian blinds out there and this pink Venetian blind, from Apollo Blinds, adds energy to the scheme as well as regulating light.

12. Add height with your kitchen window treatments

Vertical blinds can help draw attention to the grand scale of large windows and patio doors, or make a small window feel taller by drawing the eye upwards – ideal in a small kitchen design. In this kitchen, made-to-measure vertical blinds by English Blinds enhance light and space.

13. Keep insects out of the kitchen with a screen

If it’s a barrier to stop small creatures finding their way into your kitchen you need at patio doors or kitchen windows, take a look at this S2 screen from Centor. It can be fixed to the interior or exterior of French, sliding or single patio doors, as well as wood, aluminium or uPVC windows, and paired with new glazing or retro-fitted.

14. Leave the windows undressed

If your windows are double-glazed, if the view of your garden, both in daytime and lit at night, is fantastic, and if you're not overlooked, why not leave your kitchen windows undressed? In a period room with lots of decorative detail you can easily get away with this. In a contemporary room with lots of hard surfaces, beware of the echo and consider adding a rug and some soft furnishings to absorb sound.

15. Add a monochrome blind for a streamlined look

Of course, many kitchens look just fine without any window treatments, and you may well want to make the most of a nice large window and the light it brings in. But what if your kitchen faces a busy road – or, conversely, a dull fence you don't fancy looking at? That's where a smart blind comes in handy. 

Take inspiration from this graphic monochrome blind that works brilliantly with the black-and-white design scheme or even full on white kitchen ideas. Look created by Humphrey Munson.

We're all looking forward to basking in some glorious summer sun, but not every home is blessed with great lighting and sunny skies. That's where Korniche's aluminum home products come in. Roof lanterns are one of the best ways to flood your room with light and elevate your space, and thanks to Korniche's award-winning designs, it doesn't have to cost the earth, either. 

Korniche also specialises in bi-folding doors, which are a classic way of opening up your space or adding an extension without losing the garden. Bi-folds are ideal for making your extension flow from indoors to out, perfect for alfresco dining or making the most of a light breeze on a sunny day. Here are four reasons why homeowners should try Korniche. 

1. Korniche's designs are award-winning

Korniche's bi-folding doors and roof lanterns are the recipients of numerous awards.

The Korniche Aluminium Roof Lantern won the Conservatory and Orangery awards in 2019. In the same year they also took home the Professional Builder Top Product Award for innovation.

The brand has also been shortlisted for Housebuilding & Renovating's Best Roof Lantern Supplier brand in 2021, so it's got the backing of builders, architects and renovators for quality and innovation.

2. Korniche's products are thermally efficient

Thoughtful design is at the heart of Korniche's products. The roof lantern is guaranteed to eliminate cold bridging, which can cause condensation and be detrimental to paint quality when present, meaning heat transfer will not be a problem for efficiency-conscious renovators. This is achieved through an insulating aluminium T-bar and quality glazing. 

The eaves beams act as an insulating barrier between sections of glass, which are self-cleaning and available in a variety of colours or tints. 

3. Korniche products look gorgeous

The aesthetic results are at the top of the list for any home improvement project. Not only do Korniche's roof lanterns and bi-folding doors let the light in to highlight your home's beautiful finishes, they bring a classic and yet modern element to any space. The slim lines allow you to make the most of your view with minimal interruptions.

The roof lanterns are available in matte black and grey finishes, as well as gloss white and even bespoke colours and dual colour combinations. You really can adapt Korniche products to any space, without compromising on quality. 

4. Installation is easy

Korniche designs slot together like clockwork. The expertly-finished design is crafted to take any stress of out the installation process, and to make your home watertight again in no time. 

Only a single tool is needed to assemble the entire roof, and the roof lantern is crafted to bear weight evenly and securely. Fitters will enjoy the pre-drilled eaves beams, which saves the time taken for measurement and ensures the right amount of fittings are used. 

Sliding door ideas come with a multitude of benefits including a streamlined look and seamless fitting, whether used inside or out.

Exterior glass sliding doors create a stunning view from an open plan space, helping to connect the inside and out, be that part of an extension or not. 

While internal sliding doors are readily available in wood, metal and glass too, used to cleverly conceal closets, divide rooms (less harshly that a wall would) and more for modern living.

Are sliding doors a good idea?

It depends on the project, and whether you are considering them as external or internal types of doors. 

To create a stylish opening onto a patio, Shannon Normoyle of IQ Glass says 'Sliding glass doors are extremely versatile systems that can be used as patio doors, for roof terraces or in a modern Juliet balcony design. 

Sliding doors tend to have slimmer frames, especially when closed as you don’t get the chunky meeting style. Our slim sliding doors have sight lines as minimal as 20mm, offering uninterrupted views and allowing in a vast amount of natural light, even when closed.'

Patio sliding door ideas

1. Nod to indoor outdoor living

'When creating an indoor-outdoor living space, the threshold details are an important consideration. Although there are bi-fold doors with a flush threshold, IQ has sliding glass doors that are certified for barrier free access. How important this is will depend on the homeowners and project requirements.' Adds Normoyle.

2. Complement a home with contemporary glass doors

If you live in a historic home, it doesn't mean you should shy away from minimal, modern glass door designs for the patio. If anything they will help enhance the architecture and style of your property, letting more light in and creating a view from the inside also.

3. Frame your patio

Choosing slim frames that are pocket sliding will add an extra design accent to both your indoor area and patio space. It's a simple opening that's super effective in bringing a little of that outdoor splendour inside.

4. Create a seamless corner

Sliding doors are really flexible in design. Installing them on a corner can still give you optimal performance and an intriguing finish that will complete a modern extension, making it feel fully connected to the patio space.

5. Create a fluid transition with flooring

If your priority is to maximise space and create a fluid connection between your indoor and outdoor living area, then sliding doors will be your best bet. Using the same flooring indoors and out will enhance the unifying effect. 

The sliding doors in this indoor-outdoor living space are from the Pilkington Suncool Range – they are not only unobtrusive and versatile design-wise, but will keep your home cool, making them especially useful for South-facing rooms.

6. Make the most of a small space

Homes with a difficult or awkward access to a small rear garden will benefit from a sliding door solution. This corner-access garden has been opened up with chic, industrial-style sliding doors by Maxlight which makes the most of otherwise lost space.

7. Create unrestricted views

Enhance tall sliding doors furthermore with surrounding turn windows to create a bigger view from inside and out of the house. The slim frame refines this look giving an architectural edge to the home.

8. Match your frame color inside

For a seamless transition, match the color of your glass door frames with the walls of the room they are in. White on white adds fresh aspect and enhances the natural light.

9. Go floor-to-ceiling for an ultra-modern design 

In a large home with an ultra-contemporary design, bi-fold doors may look a little busy – if the space permits, why not go transform a whole wall into a sliding door, creating a completely open-plan look?

This stunning minimalist, monochromatic design is by IQ Glass.

Internal sliding door ideas 

Our homes and rooms now need to work overtime, segmenting into spaces fit for work, sleep, exercise and entertainment. Whether it's to conceal a closet area or feel more connected to another part of the home, internal sliding doors can help add functionality and style to your space.

'Open plan living was at the forefront of architectural home design for decades, but over the last few years we’ve seen a huge rise in demand for ‘broken plan’ living. Using internal glass doors are an excellent way to achieve this as the spaces can be separated when they need to be, but can also be opened up to create a interior space with an open plan feel.' Adds Normoyle.

10. Help light travel through

Keeping your home bright throughout is a must, and you can find internal sliding doors that let natural light come through. 'Even when closed , internal glass doors allow natural light to flow through the home, preventing any spaces from becoming dark and dull. There are a range of glazing options, such as sandblasting, that give spaces privacy without completely blocking the light.' Adds Normoyle.

11. Imitate a barn door

This barn door from Wayfair creates cozy vibes all with plenty of functionality too. Ideal to turn that open spare room into a guest bedroom with the privacy it deserves also.

12. Double sliding doors

For more of a grand opening, perfect to frame a dining room, consider double sliding internal doors that you can pull apart in unison with a little drama. These white metal sliding door are from Wayfair.

13. Frosted closet sliding doors

Cover up your closet with an aluminum frame frosted glass sliding door like this design from Home Depot. Stylish and non-invasive, this would work really well to separate a walk-in too.

14. Create a mirror image

Choose mirrored glass sliding doors to cover up a closet and enhance a small space all at the same time.

There are a whole host of different types of door locks out there, so you might be wondering which you should choose for the range of doors in your home. 

Secure locks for the entry doors to your property are vital, of course, and these include the latest option of smart locks as well as more traditional locks for keeping your home safe. And patio doors also need good locks.

Meanwhile, inside your home, bathroom door locks are crucial for privacy, and you might want locks for bedroom doors as well.

We’ve got a full guide to all the types of door your home might have in our special feature, and to find out about all the different types of door lock sets, just scroll down.

Different types of door locks

Doors to the exterior need different types of door locks from the doors in the interior of your home. Want to know what the choices are for each? They’re right here.

1. Smart door locks

Smart locks are the latest type of door lock. With the best smart locks you won’t need to carry a key around when you’re away from home. Instead, and depending on the lock you choose, you could be opening the door by tapping in a numeric code, using a key fob, or via your smartphone. 

When you’re choosing, bear in mind that some smart door locks work with your home wi-fi, while others need a hub along with your home wi-fi network.

As well as being able to go keyless, one of the advantages of fitting a smart lock is that you can let guests in remotely.

Worried about adding one of these to your entry door. Don’t! You can install a smart lock yourself. 

2. Electronic door locks

If you like the idea of a lock that doesn’t require a key, but don’t want to use smart technology, consider an electronic door lock. 

These are opened by entering a code on the numeric keypad, so you don’t have to remember to take keys with you every time you go out, nor worry about giving out copies to family members or friends and then losing track of them.  

They can be straightforward to install yourself, much like when hanging a door.

3. Entry door knob locks

A popular solution for exterior doors, entry door knobs are easy to fit yourself. They’re an inexpensive choice, but secure. Choose from a range of styles and finishes to co-ordinate with other door hardware. 

They are best combined with a deadbolt lock, too (see below).

4. Entry door lever locks

Entry door lever locks are a great alternative to door knob locks because they’re easier to operate, and many are ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant. 

They’re straightforward to fit to an entry door and available in a variety of modern and more traditional styles and a range of finishes allowing you to create your preferred look.

Although you can expect to pay prices that start a little higher than those of entry door knob locks, these are still a great value option.

Combine with a deadbolt for maximum security (see below).

5. Deadbolts

If you want to up the security of an entry door, opt for a deadbolt along with an entry door knob lock or entry door lever lock.

You can choose between single cylinder and double cylinder deadbolts. What’s the difference? A single cylinder deadbolt is key operated from one side, and then has a lever or knob on the other side to be used from the interior. A double cylinder deadbolt is operated with a key on both sides.

A single cylinder deadbolt is a favorite for homes – it’s more convenient if you don’t need to use a key to lock and unlock the deadbolt from inside.

A double cylinder deadbolt offers additional security, and could be a great choice for a door with glass panels that an intruder might smash in order to turn the lever and open the lock. Bear in mind if you choose one of these that in an emergency leaving your home would take longer. For this reason, building codes can require a single cylinder version.

With an entry door that’s pre-drilled for a deadbolt, installation is easy.

6. Lever handlesets

As an alternative to buying a deadbolt separately, consider a handleset, which includes both a handle and a deadbolt. 

They’re available in both traditional and modern styles, and a range of finishes, and will give your front entry door a smart look.

7. Sliding door locks

Wondering about sliding glass door locks? Special sliding door locks are available to maximize the security of sliding patio doors. Designs for uPVC doors along with those made from other materials are available.

8. Interior door locks

Want to be able to lock bedroom doors and the bathrooms of your home? You’ll need locks specially designed for interior doors. 

Choose between knobs or levers to complement the rest of the door hardware in your home. Either way, these designs are fitted so there’s a lock on the inside of the room, which might be pushed or twisted to operate.

You don’t need to worry that one of these might leave someone locked in. They are designed so they can be unlocked from the outside with a coin or similar if that happens.

Which lock is the most secure for homes?

The most secure lock for homes is a deadbolt, teamed with a locking door knob or handle. 

‘Deadbolts are considered the most secure type of door lock since it’s difficult to move them from the locked to the unlocked position,’ says Johnathan Kaloara, Founder and CEO of We Buy Properties in the Bay Area. ‘Since it requires rotational movement to unlock from the outside, it’s not possible to rotate it when it’s locked making it the most secure of all the door locks.’

When you’re buying a lock, look out for the ANSI (American National Standards Institute)/BHMA (Builders Hardware Manufacturers Association) grade level. These are assigned after testing and range from the highest grade, one, followed by grades two and three.

For a deadbolt, look out for a lock with a grade two rating at least. Grade one is a commercial rating, and will likely prove more costly, but you could use one of these on your home if you prefer.

Entry door locksets with levers or knobs should have a grade two rating.

For interior doors, a grade three rating is sufficient.

When you’re buying, make sure you choose exterior door locks that are resistant to picks along with bump-proof.

Where to buy locks from:

• See more interior door locks at Amazon.
• See more door locks available at Home Depot
• See more door lock sets from Wayfair.
• See more door lock sets from Lowes.

The best bi-fold door ideas are stunning to say the least and sure to bring much needed functionality to your home also. One of the most popular types of doors around nowadays, whether you're installing yours as part of a house extension, externally to open up onto a patio, to corner off your closet or to conceal your pantry, it's a divine look. 

Coming in a wide range of versatile customizable and bespoke designs, bi-folding doors work brilliantly externally to create a link between the inside and outside, and make a sound internal partition doors for bedrooms, open plan kitchen spaces and other areas of the home that you'd like to feel more accessible.

'Bi-fold doors in particular have taken centre stage this year, with many home owners opting for the design as they can open up living spaces and create indoor/outdoor living areas. Bi-folds often take up less space than other more traditional door types and because of this are a popular addition to any modern home.' Says Marcus O’Boyle, Genesis Collections’ Business Development Manager.

1. Update your conservatory with a graphic bi-fold design 

Conservatories and orangeries are the first candidates for bi-folding doors, and with good reason. Designed to bring the garden indoors visually, these rooms really benefit from being as transparent as possible. Adding some interesting with metal casing will introduce an elegant, graphic dimension to the room. 

This conservatory has been kitted out with doors by Architectural Bronze Casements. 

2. Maximise natural light in a dark room 

Have a dark kitchen that faces a small walled backyard or patio space? Introducing bi-folding patio doors will help maximise space – and natural light – even enhancing those patio ideas leading onto your garden. Choose a painted design in white or ivory for a delicate and weightless look.

This kitchen has been fitted with Engineered hardwood folding doors finished in a microporous paint by Scotts of Thrapston.

3. Go minimalist in a contemporary interior 

Let a panoramic view take hold with a pared back bi-fold patio door frame that will help enhance the landscape around your home.

4. Keep it simple

If you like your interior to be streamlined and serene, it’s important to get your doors right too. Avoid overly ornate bi-fold patio door design when part of a fairly modern house extension, opting instead for a simple, contrasting frame. 

This contemporary living room design is by De Rosee Sa. 

5. Introduce bi-folding doors on a balcony or terrace

Even a small balcony or terrace can benefit from the space- and light-enhancing properties of bi-folding doors. With the doors open, your outdoor space won’t feel so tiny after all.

This home transformation by Scenario Architecture makes the most of a small space with the use bi-folding doors.  

6. Go for classic bi-fold design in a traditional extension

Thinking of extending to create a conservatory or orangery? A traditional bi-folding design will work well, opening the room up into the garden on warmer days.

This orangery design is by Westbury Garden Rooms. 

7. Combine with sliding doors in an awkward space

Unusually-shaped rooms will benefit from a flexible approach – a combination of bi-fold doors and sliding doors. Go bespoke to get the best results. 'Both sliding or bi-fold doors are fantastic options if you’re looking to enhance your home’s design. Not only do they dramatically increase the amount of natural light flooding into a space, but they’re also extremely energy efficient, without compromising on security.' Adds O'Boyle.

This bespoke design is by Scenario Architecture. 

8. Go for bi-color doors 

Like the idea of a different door color on the inside of your room to that on the outside? This is something you can achieve with composite bi-fold doors and sliding doors. The composite construction of these WarmCore aluminium doors from Bison Frames means a different shade on either side comes at no extra cost. There are four powder-coated finishes on offer, as well as four external aluminium designs for the door sashes, three handle finishes and four threshold options. 

9. Fit bi-fold doors for a home extension

Bi-fold doors can happily suit an extension of a Victorian home or other historic property. In this extension project by Scenario Architecture, they make the addition bright and open, while still allowing light through to the original home via door and window openings left in place to respect the historic layout. These bi-fold doors from ID Systems are integrated with angled fixed frame glazing in the gable end and a single glazed door. 

10. Include bi-fold doors in an industrial home design

In dark silver metallic with stainless steel hardware, these bi-fold doors from Origin complement the interior furnishings perfectly. Standard two-door bi-fold, H2.2m x W1.8m, £2,519.

11. Go for bi-fold doors with built-in screens 

Built-in screens and shades in Centor’s 205 integrated door prevent overheating and stop insects entering the house. They’re solid European Oak on the inside with an aluminum exterior. This H2.13m x W5.76m doorset cost £15,264.

12. Maximize a natural effect with oak doors

Enjoy unique natural detail  with these Oak KustomFold doors from Klöeber. There’s a variety  of stain or paint finishes including a dual-color option. From £3,390 for W2.09m up to H2.2m.

13. Throw back the patio doors for unrestricted garden access

Whether you have a big or small outdoor space, make access to it more vibrant with bright white bi-folds. Although this is split into several separate panels, it still lets in plenty of light.

'When it comes to homes with smaller structural openings, many people favour bi-folds as when stacked neatly to the side, they leave a completely open aperture, giving the interior space a strong connection with the outdoors.' Says Shannon Normoyle of IQ Glass.

14. Brighten up a kitchen diner with a wall of doors

A long garden-facing kitchen diner will look stunning with bi-fold doors all along the length – not only stylish, but also useful for illuminating the kitchen when it’s in a corner.

This stunning design by Anglian Home Improvements goes all-out on doors – and roof windows to boot!

15. Enhance your space with an external mirrored finish

Sure to add interest and enhance smaller backyards, choosing mirrored glass bi-folds will also up the privacy inside if your outdoor space is somewhat overlooked. 

16. Go floor to ceiling

Make an impact with floor to ceiling bi-fold designs, we love how it complements the wall length picture window also.

17. Contrast aluminum bi-fold frames with wood

Aluminum bi-fold doors are fairly cost effective and they look beautiful when contrasted with natural wooden features like with different types of windows or even any furniture you have in the surrounding area like above.

'Choosing the right framing material can be difficult given there are now so many options. With timber, steel, aluminum and uPVC all available some homeowners can find it overwhelming. We always recommend going for metal framed doors as timber frames expand and contract which can cause problems, and also require frequent special maintenance. For uPVC they have a shorted lifespan and with exposure to sunlight can become discolored. So really the choice comes down to aluminium or steel. Steel is more expensive but has an extremely long lifespan and real steel framing has an aesthetic that is hard to mimic. Aluminum is more cost-effective and requires little to no maintenance thanks to its natural rust and corrosion-resistant properties. If you’re choosing between steel and aluminum there is no better choice, it comes down to personal preference, budget and requirements of the project, such as thermal performance.' Adds Normoyle.

18. Elevate an open-plan design

Broken plan is the way forward. Install internal bi-folding doors to give you the option of closing off a kitchen area or not.

19. Bring warmth in with bi-fold closet doors

Internal bi-folds are a top choice to keep walk-in closets neatly closed off but still very accessible. Natural paneled options will bring warmth to a space like these pine closet bi-fold doors from Wayfair. 

20. Make kitchen cabinet doors bi-fold

Folding doors needn't be reserved for your closet or extension either, mix up your kitchen cabinet ideas up with bi-folds for a sleek design that lets you decide whether you want your spices on show or not.

Are bi-fold doors worth the money?

Modern and versatile, bi-fold patio doors are comprised of a series of panels that open, concertina-style, and stack at a right angle to the wall. The doors can be completely pushed back to provide unrestricted access to the garden patio space, particularly when paired with a level threshold. They offer a large glazed surface area when external and the cost usually starts around $600 for installation. With prices starting at around $100 for internal bi-folds, the benefits of both styles does outweigh the cost in our eyes.

When you're choosing windows for a reno or if you're replacing old wood windows in your home, there are lots of different areas to consider. From the types of windows you choose to the material you buy yours in. Wood windows used to be the go-to, but now it's all about vinyl vs fiberglass as these variations have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their more accessible price points, different levels of durability and even potential to add value to your home... So which should you pick and why? 

With pros and cons to both vinyl and fiberglass windows, it's key to know the main differences so that you choose the best material for your home accordingly.

Ben Neely, President of Riverbend Homes says 'I like to tell clients your home is only as energy efficient as your windows. The window market has really evolved over the years, but the 2 most popular types of windows still are Fiberglass and Vinyl. As a rule of thumb, fiberglass windows are generally superior in most categories, they allow for thinner frames, they’re more energy efficient, more color options, and are rated to last longer than most other types of windows, but that all comes at a premium.'

Are fiberglass windows better than vinyl?

The dividing factors between fiberglass and vinyl windows are mainly cost and resilience – both of which are important when replacing any window. Vinyl is appealing due to its low cost (usually 30% less) whereas fiberglass can be up to 8x stronger, meaning it will last longer. The down side of a lower cost means that some worry about vinyl windows looking cheap. However, this comes with the benefit of easy installation and no need to paint.

Aaron Donovan of AD Services says ‘Fiberglass and Vinyl windows have become increasingly popular in recent years, more so fiberglass, which has really exploded in popularity since the early 2000s. Vinyl is the cheaper option, generally by about 10-30% - this includes both purchasing the window and installation costs. This is also a far easier DIY Install option if you’re that way inclined. Fiberglass is more tricky to install mainly because the material is so tough and rigid. When it comes to Fiberglass windows, you’re going to definitely need a professional to install them as if you don’t use the right techniques and methods you’ve inevitably going to ruin the product.'

Vinyl windows: pros and cons

Michael Dean, founder of Pool Research says 'Vinyl windows have been around for over 50 years because they're cost-effective, easy to manufacture, and you don't need to paint them; however, they're not as durable and not as visually appealing. Vinyl installation is usually fairly cheap, only about $750, which is why most people chose them. You also don't need to paint them, but if you want to paint them, it's not recommended since they don't hold paint well. They're not as durable as fiberglass and are more likely to fracture.'

Donovan adds, 'If you’re concerned about heating & cooling costs, vinyl windows can be appealing as they are constructed with hollow cavities, these cavities can they be filled with insulation. They also never need to be re-painted or touched up, however this can be both a pro or a con depending on what way you view it, pro if you are happy with the colour you selected day one, con if you are the type of homeowner who tends to re-paint the property.'

Fibreglass windows: pros and cons

Fibreglass came into the spotlight a little more in the 2000s as vinyl's more resilient and often better looking rival. Dean says 'Fiberglass is durable, visually appealing, and comes in a wide variety of colors, but it's expensive and difficult to put in yourself. Fiberglass is made by using glass and insulation pieces and infusing them with resin, making them extremely hardy. Fiberglass has become more popular because it's available in a wide variety of colors, and it fits in easily to any decor. However, it's usually expensive, and the cost of installation only increases that price, costing as much as $1,500. You need to know exact measurements, and many professionals have techniques to put it in that many homeowners simply don't have.'

Vinyl vs. fiberglass windows – cost

It's clear that in terms of costs, fiberglass is the more expensive option compared to vinyl. But, you will be paying for better quality usually.

Adam Graham from Fixr.com says, 'In general, fiberglass windows cost more than vinyl. The cost range on average for vinyl windows is $100 - $4,500, whereas the range of types of windows made of fiberglass carry a higher average cost of $200 - $2,500.' Says Graham.

So it depends on the job, if you're replacing just one window that's in a low visibility part of your home – that's perhaps rented – (ie. looks/durability may not be so important) vinyl might be for you. Whereas if you're investing in new windows for a complete reno, fiberglass will be more pricey in the first instance but then perhaps  worth it in the long-run if it's your forever home. Neely adds, 'We priced upgrading a home's vinyl window package to fiberglass and the costs came in over 40% higher!.'

Vinyl vs. fiberglass windows – looks

You'll find that vinyl window frames are a little more standard looking and have a visible join line. Sadly for DIY enthusiasts, it's not possible to paint windows that are made from vinyl so you are restricted to the colors and finishes on the market – which is thankfully fairly vast due to their popularity. 

Fiberglass also comes in a variety of colors and finishes. It can also be painted which gives you more freedom but also more maintenance compared to vinyl windows where the color won't fade or peel overtime. 

'While both materials look similar from a distance, and both can be quite attractive, fiberglass offers more variety in terms of window appearance. Fiberglass frames tend to be slightly thinner than vinyl, leaving more glass exposed—desirable when you want to let as much natural light into a room as possible. And while both materials come in a wide range of colors, fiberglass is paintable and vinyl is not. Finally, fiberglass can be textured to look like real wood, whereas vinyl is generally smooth.' Says Ken Fisk, Director of Technical Services at Window Genie. 

Vinyl vs. fiberglass windows – durability

This is an important factor to consider, especially if you're replacing more than one window at a time. How long your windows last can also depend on the climate and area that you live in and, on how good you are at staying on top of maintenance.

'Both vinyl and fiberglass tend to outlast wood, as they don’t rot or decay from moisture or insect damage, but fiberglass is the most durable. A high-quality vinyl window will last up to 30 years, but fiberglass has been known to last much longer – up to 50 years. What makes fiberglass superior to vinyl is that it resists warping and cracking even under prolonged weather and temperature extremes. Since vinyl expands and contracts with seasonal temperatures, the seal between the window frame and glass pane can break, damaging the insulation factor of the window.' Says Fisk.

Vinyl vs. fiberglass windows – energy efficiency

Fiberglass reigns supreme in contrast with vinyl in terms of energy efficiency. 'When it comes to energy efficiency, fiberglass is by far a better option. The added glass fibers will ensure better insulation than vinyl, meaning it won’t conduct heat or cold. In fact, fiberglass is up to 15% more effective than vinyl for insulating.' Say Graham. 

There is lots to weigh up but, the determining factor will be down to your priorities, preferences and most likely – budget.

Gorgeous windows that let in as much light as possible are high on the list of priorities for most homeowners. Of course, the other purpose of windows is to let fresh air in and to ventilate your space. But, it’s no secret that windows play a significant role in adding to the finished architectural style of a building and a room, too. With so many window types to choose from, it’s worth considering what you and your property need before you invest. From pocket-friendly price points to the best types of windows for safety if you have kids around for example.

• Keep reading: Home renovation - an expert guide

Kris Lippi, real estate broker, official member of the Forbes Real Estate Council, and the business owner of the popular real estate website ISoldMyHouse.com says that the two main window types he commonly sees in houses are single-hung and fixed windows'. And there are pros and cons to each window type.

1. Casement windows

This is quite a popular type of window found in modern and trad homes and they are probably the best window type to promote air flow. They hang on a hinge, so pivot on the side, allowing you to open them like a door and letting the outside air funnel in. They are usually installed singly or as a pair, however, they don't always qualify as an egress opening as they are usually fairly small – making them a better option for children if this is the case. Small versions make sound options for laundry rooms, basement rooms and the like. If you find a larger version as above, it can look lovely in a hallway.

Care and maintenance

Right now, casement windows are better designed than ever. Saying that, depending on where your casement windows are from, they can be a little prone to the crank mechanism failing over time.

2. Awning windows

Much like casement windows although these are mounted with the hinge at the top so that you push it out. These are useful for opening to the back and side of the house. Note, these should be kept out the way of high traffic areas outside as it will obstruct the path.

Care and maintenance

They will need cleaning (as all windows do) but perhaps more regularly as when opened in all seasons, they are prone to collecting leaves and anything falling from the sky! As they are similarly built to casement windows, depending on where yours are from, the crank mechanism can fail over time.

• Keep reading: How to clean windows

3. Double-hung windows

This is a classic, widely common window type, identifiable by two large sashes that slide up and down to open and close by means of vertical tracks. Modern versions are usually designed with springs in these tracks as opposed to weights and the wide availability of double-hung windows means that they are quite reasonably priced. These can open fairly wide so aren't always the best option for children. 

Care and maintenance

They will need some maintenance to ensure the springs are in good condition.

4. Single-hung windows

Another decorative window type, single-hung windows have one moving sash while the upper sash is fixed in place. This does minimize air flow a little but with no compromise on style.

'These windows are the ones where you can slide the bottom part upwards, creating an open space underneath. The advantage of having this kind of window is that you can easily open it if you want ventilation, but you can keep it closed if you don’t. Either way, you still get the natural light you want during the day. Plus, they are space-saving since they stay in their frame all the time. This makes them ideal for tight spaces since they can still let air in despite their size. The only thing you need to take into consideration when it comes to single-hung windows is that they aren’t ideal for people who might have difficulties pushing the window up, like the seniors and the physically challenged.' Adds Lippi.

Care and maintenance

Both double and single-hung windows can be prone to letting a draft in so it’s worth taking proper precautions to insulate windows if you’re buying yours new or if you’ve inherited this window type.

• See also: Home insulation - how to improve energy efficiency in your home

5. Bay windows

These types of windows are really popular now, not just in the UK and bay windows add a small projection to properties that you can use for an extra bit of seating space, or for a houseplant or two. Of course, you can keep the space as it is too. They work nicely in living rooms and bedroom or family spaces. We love them because of the amount of light they let in and the dual functionality.

Craig Ricks Jr., President of Acadian Windows and Siding, a residential construction company in New Orleans adds, 'Bay windows are a wonderful choice, as they create an illusion of more space from both inside and outside the home with very little extra work. These windows are an especially good choice for a smaller room you want to get more use out of, as their protruding style allows for more space and natural light. Bay windows should especially be on your radar if you live in the country, since they allow for great views – and not a lot of privacy.'

Care and maintenance

Cleaning of course, and if you’ve inherited tired timber frames, you could consider painting windows too…

6. Sliding windows

This window type is pretty basic, designed with a simple construction, sans crank, which fortunately means it’s also an inexpensive option. Slider types of windows are built for a lot of usage so they might not be the most stylish – unless you’re set on Mid-century modern interiors – but they are easy to operate and likely to stand the test of time. 

'Sliding windows are perfect for spaces where there’s more vertical room than horizontal, especially in bedrooms or living rooms.' Adds Ricks.

Care and maintenance

You’ll want to keep these super clean and streak-free for unobstructed views. Otherwise the seals should stay put and there is no tension mechanism to tend to either.

'As the name suggests, these windows slide into each other to open, meaning they’re very easy to clean and operate. With these windows, you’ll almost certainly want to also invest in shutters, so you can control the amount of light coming in.' Adds Ricks.

7. Picture windows

These types of windows will give you Selling Sunset vibes, think big panoramic views, depending on what’s outside of course… However these will not open. They make a safe, good looking option for apartments.

Care and maintenance

Make sure you look for double-pane designs to max out their efficiency in retaining/dispersing heat.

8. Jalousie windows

The all-American window types, recognizable by thin glass slats that open much like a Venetian blinds. You will not have the best view with these, though they provide good air flow which is a bonus if you don’t have air conditioning.

Care and maintenance

The slats may collect grime a little easier and be sure to check the metal casements are fully functioning.

9. Fixed windows

Much like the name implies, fixed window types are more feature than function focussed. They will still let in light but you won’t be able to open them for ventilation. They make lovely additions to add character to the exterior of a house.

'Since this kind of window doesn’t open at all, they are mainly placed in houses to let natural light in. Because of this, they are commonly placed in areas where there is some kind of scenery. This provides an aesthetic appeal to your interiors.' Adds Lippi.

Care and maintenance

Cleaning should just about do it. 'The benefit of having fixed windows lies in the fact that you won’t need to maintain any mechanism for them, since they aren’t movable. What you have to consider though, is that you can only clean the exterior from the outside.' Adds Lippi.

While you might be happy with the thought of wallpapering walls, wallpapering windows is a bit more daunting. And it’s true that it does take some care to wallpaper around a room’s obstacles – and windows are one of them. 

But we’re here to help and once you know what you need to do you’ll be able to get a great finish around windows and into the recess for a pro standard job. ‘The key is to take your time and make sure you’ve got the right tools to hand,’ says Jason Hines, Trading Director for Decorative, Homebase.

Get savvy about how to wallpaper round a window with our step-by-step guide. All you need to do is scroll down. 

• Find all the best wallpaper ideas to inspire your look.

How to wallpaper around a window

You will need: 

• Dust sheets
• Stepladder
• Bucket of water
• Paper-hanging brush
• Pasting table
• Tape measure 
• Plumb line or spirit level
• Wallpaper scissors
• Sponge
• Wallpaper
• Wallpaper paste
• Seam roller

• Need to remove wallpaper too? DIY.

1. Start with the walls

Wondering if you should wallpaper walls or windows first? The answer is to start with the walls. The first length of wallpaper in a room should be hung on the wall next to the wall with the main window.

And do you wallpaper towards or away from the window? ‘When hanging wallpaper, it is best to work away from the window,’ says Chris Moorhouse, Category Director for Timber, Building, Décor and Garden at Wickes. ‘This is so that paper edges do not cast a shadow if they overlap slightly. It’s always best to start in the direction based on your dominant hand, that is if you’re left-handed, start on the left side of the window.

‘Another top tip would be to avoid hanging harrow strips against the windows to ensure these edge pieces do not peel away over time.’

• DIY: painting windows.

2. Overlap the window frame

As you reach a window recess, hang a full length drop of wallpaper overlapping the opening.

Bear in mind that you might need someone to help support the weight of the pasted paper at this stage.

• See more on painting molding and trim in our guide.

3. Cut the wallpaper at the top and bottom of the recess

Using the scissors, make a horizontal cut level with the top edge of the recess. Make a parallel cut level with top of the windowsill. These cuts will allow the wallpaper to cover the side of the recess.

A cut out for the windowsill will also be required. It can be helpful to press the wallpaper against the sill to make its outline in the paper, the pull it away from the sill to cut.

4. Smooth the wallpaper into the reveal

If there is sufficient wallpaper to fit the depth of reveal, crease it around the corner using a paper-hanging brush.

Not enough paper to reach the window frame? Cut and paste a wallpaper strip that’s a bit wider than the gap and hang it on the side of the reveal. If your wallpaper is patterned, take care to match the pattern.

5. Trim the wallpaper

Run the scissors along the crease to create a cutting line. Gently peel back the wallpaper and trim to fit. Use the brush to smooth the paper into place. 

6. Work from the top of the wall

Cut a piece of wallpaper large enough to extend from the ceiling above the window to the window and into the recess as far as the window frame, allowing some extra for trimming. 

Hang this next to the previous strip of wallpaper and use the brush to smooth it into the window recess. Trim at the ceiling level and at the top of the window frame. Repeat as necessary above the window.

• Decor inspo: Living room wallpaper ideas.

7. Wallpaper under the windowsill

Measure from the top of the baseboard to the windowsill and add an extra 2 inches (50mm) for trimming. Cut the strips of wallpaper to this length to cover the area below the window.

Hang the wallpaper below the window, matching patterns if required.

8. Neaten the top corners

Cut the full length drops of wallpaper on either side of the window so they fit under the top of the window opening. It’s worth cutting and pasting these first before finally pasting the lengths of wallpaper in the sides of the reveal for a neat finish.

• DIY: painting doors to get the job done before you start wallpapering.

Pro tip: ‘Pre-cutting your strips of wallpaper will really help when you’re wallpapering around a window,’ says Chris Moorhouse. ‘Measure the space around the window before you start, adding an extra 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15cm), for overhang. When finished, feel for the corner of the window frame and mark it with a pencil, then cut straight across the top and bottom so it’s easy to fold and paste the flap into the window reveal or ledge if there is one.’ 

Neat edges all around.

A thrifty DIY fan has added huge kerb appeal to her home by transforming the garage doors. Before, they were standard, plain white garage doors you see all the time.

• How to paint a garage door

But with some special paint and magnetic accessories from Amazon, Karissa has made them look like traditional wooden doors. The entire project took a few hours and only cost $65, and now the garage doors match her wooden front door perfectly.

Before

The two key items Karissa used are the Giani Wood Look Garage Door Paint Kit in English Oak, and some black magnetic hardware from Amazon.

Karissa told us what inspired her to spend her free time giving her garage doors a makeover. 'We bought and completely gutted a 50-year-old fixer upper,' she says. 'The outside was in fairly decent shape and really only needed new garage doors and windows, but the inside needed to be torn down to studs.

'I had this vision of gorgeous wood garage doors that would match the heavy wood bespoke double front doors we had installed but didn’t have room in the budget. 

She explains that most of the budget went on things that made the home safe, liveable, and efficient. 'Not dreamy wood garage doors three times the price of generic insulated steel,' she says.

But, clearly, Karissa had a vision - she just needed to get creative to bring the idea to life. 'I had seen the “wood look” that people had achieved with just paint and read through a lot of the reviews on a garage door paint kit on Amazon,' she says. 

'I figured in the worst-case scenario I could try the paint kit and if I hated it, I was only down a small amount of money and a few hours, and could just paint over it.'

• See also: 31 DIY projects – easy to do in a day and budget-friendly to boot

There was one worrying moment when the base coat turned out to be a coral color, but a couple of coats of brown paint later and the doors were looking great. She says that the finished 'wood look' is so convincing that people have asked her how much her wooden garage doors cost.

'I definitely ended up with the best-case scenario: I LOVE the look of our garage doors. They completely transformed the front of the house.'

After

The magnetic door handles were just $11, and, Karissa tells her followers, they don't fall off! Read our garage conversion design ideas guide for information on costs and planning if you're thinking about converting. 

Plus, a fresh lick of paint does wonders - our guide on how to paint the outside of a house will help you get the job done.

When we're thinking about house exterior design, we usually look at our front gardens, driveway, or front door. But freshening up your garage doors could make all the difference.

Considering making the switch to shutters, from blinds or curtains, throughout your home? Or, perhaps you are thinking about trying them out in one room first of all? This is a purchase you won’t regret as the benefits are, quite frankly, life-changing. For everyone in the family, that is. Especially if you buy said shutters from Shuttercraft – the clue is in the name.

Shutters from Shuttercraft allow you to control exactly how much light you let into your home. Whether you want to enjoy the sunlight on your face while working from home, you need the nursery to be dark in the afternoons for the little one’s nap, or perhaps you are a sensitive sleeper and don’t fancy waking up at 5 o’clock in the morning – especially now that the clocks have changed. Now is as good a time as any to invest in shutters, since we are heading out of lockdown, and a good night’s sleep is more important than ever with life soon to be back to the busy normal. For more reasons to make the investment to shutters in your home, other than for sleep and wellness, keep scrolling.

1. Shuttercraft shutters offer the ultimate light control – no matter the time of day

If you are someone who struggles to stay asleep after the sun has risen, and you have tried numerous solutions, then perhaps shutters could be the one buy that saves your sleeping pattern. How? They can make an otherwise South-facing and very light room, dark. Even during the middle of a summers day. So you can carry on snoozing until your alarm goes off. On the other hand, each section can be individually controlled, so that you can tailor how much light comes into your home all day long. During the daytime, you may want to close the lower parts for privacy, but allow light in from higher panels. Or, for those non-street-facing windows, you can completely open the shutters to let the light flood through your home.

2. Shuttercraft products are highly customizable for all design schemes

Shuttercraft shutters can be tailored to everything from bay windows to full-height windows, they have cafe-style shutters and a tier-on-tier option, too. They can also be designed to suit whichever size window you have whether that be curved, angled or a regular-shaped window. When choosing your shutters, there are several styles to select from depending on whether your home is contemporary, modern or classic. Once you have decided on the style of shutter you prefer, you can then choose a colour or customize a colour, select hinges and take a look at add ons. We love the idea of PowerMotion shutters which open and close at the touch of a button. Alternatively, there’s AutoClose, which closes the louvres automatically when you open the shutter. The choice is yours.

3. Shuttercraft shutters are also simple to clean and maintain

Unlike curtains, that need to be machine washed and hung to dry, or in some cases professionally cleaned, shutters can simply just be wiped down. You'll want to dust them off with a microfiber duster, or a lightly damp cloth - easy stuff.

4. Shuttercraft Shutters also look the part in your home – and they can add value to your property

We all know that shutters are an investment, therefore if and when the time comes to sell your home or get it valued, having shutters installed instead of blinds or curtains hanging should definitely add a few pound signs onto the market price of your home. Not just that, but they are a design statement and will show potential buyers that you have looked after your home well.

5. They are insulating for winter – and for colder summer days

Yes, having shutters in your home can prove to be more economical than curtains or blinds. This is due to their wooden construction which holds the heat in, reducing heat loss through windows by as much as an impressive 50 per cent. Not just great for colder days and nights, shutters are actually thermally dynamic to reflect the cold from the outside when it comes to warmer months. So, you can turn your heating right down and pop your fan on low.

Whether you're short on outdoor space or not, window box ideas will see you adding greenery and your favorite plants to any free small space you have in sight. Ideal for a lonely window sill, and perfectly beautiful on the ground too, whether you want a minimal pure-foliage look or a colorful number to brighten up the view, in and out of your home, window planters will do the trick.

When it comes to choosing the best garden plant ideas for your window boxes, that is down to your taste and also dependent on where you plan to locate your planters. 

With more and more of us keen to become savvy gardeners, even if we don't necessary have that much garden space to work with, window box planting is a brilliant way to use your vertical space in a practical and beautiful way. We spoke with Chris Bonnet, founder of Gardening Express who says 'Blossoming window boxes are a cost-effective way of increasing the kerb appeal of a home, especially if there isn’t much space to get planting. Using a variety of plants, with different textures and colours will add dimension and personality to any dreary outdoor spaces. They are easy to hang and remove without leaving any lasting marks behind.'

1. Choose a metal frame for a trad feel

For classic good looks opt for a window box that’s made with a traditional metal frame reminiscent of a hay trough. Pop in some peat-free compost and nestle your plants in for a summer display. Combining pink and red together will add a splash of color - geraniums will do the trick!

2. Use them to brighten up your outdoor living space

You’ve already adorned your windowsills, so place some more window boxes alongside your outdoor seating area as a decorative finishing touch. Groups of three always work best, choose designs that complement the rest of your scheme and plant them up with multiple colors that work with your chosen color palette.

• We've more outdoor kitchen ideas to get you dining al fresco in no time.

3. Plant yours up for year round greenery

Window boxes with hooks are a genius idea, it means you can hang them over your balcony or on a wall - both great choices if you don’t have a windowsill. If you’re not particularly green-fingered and bright colors don’t float your boat, but you want something that adds texture and interest all year round then consider planting trailing ivy. It will last well and is a great low-maintenance option.

• Find more low-maintenance garden ideas in our edit.

4. Choose rustic wood for character

There are window boxes for every style whether your home is ultra modern or full of period property charm. Or, use them on your shed or outbuilding. Create a welcoming glow by adding in some fairy lights gently intermingled with the plants, you can use battery operated ones for safety. 

• Find all our garden lighting ideas in the edit.

5.  Fill an ornate window box with one variety

The beauty of window boxes is that they can be used on the ground too. When planting up, remember that less is more - the same theory that we use with our interiors. An ornate design will look much better with one variety of garden plant because you don’t want to detract from the detailing. 

6. Create a spring feel

These wooden crate style planters will work on deep window sills, and if you don’t have any because you live in an apartment then opt for designs that can stack on top of each other. The beauty of these is that you can simply place your chosen plants straight in their individual pots - no need to use compost. 

• Find all our balcony ideas in one place.

7. Plant out a wildlife-friendly display

For a beautiful flowering display throughout summer and fall choose varieties that will last. Dianthus, Sweet William and Erigeron daisies will create a meadow type feel that will trail down. This combination is ideal for pollinators like butterflies to create a wildlife and especially bee-friendly garden space, even if you don't have that much room!

8. Choose white wicker for a quaint look

Country style window boxes can be filled with beautiful blooms like geraniums, lavender, delphiniums and roses. If you choose a design like this white PET plastic flower box it will last for years and won’t weather during the winter months. 

9. Fill your window box to the brim with trailing flowers

Do you love the cottage garden style? This window box is full of blooms that will fit this theme. Rich pinks and lilacs teamed with textural foliage will create an eye-catching display - look out for Osteospermum, Rhodochiton, Senecio and Verbena to recreate this fabulous arrangement in your window box.

10. Know that size doesn't matter

If you’re a beginner gardener or haven't got a lot of room to play with, then it’s absolutely fine to start small. You don’t need to fill your entire window sill, you can simply plant up one window box and place it in the middle. This galvanized planter is full of pretty pansies - a great value choice for quick color during spring. 

11. Make life easier with handles

Window boxes can get heavy once they’re filled with compost and plants, so make life easier for yourself and look for designs with handles. This curvy timeless planter is easy on the eye and you could fit two next to each other on your window sill. Use it for herbs or pretty plants. 

12. Go vintage

This classic looking window box is made from zinc plated steel ensuring it will be weatherproof. The rectangular body means it will fit perfectly depth-wise on a standard sized window sill whether you want to place a small design in the middle or a long one to fill the sill completely. To add height, fill it with a plant that will grow upwards rather than one that trails down. 

13. Plant for fragrance

Lavender is one of the easiest flowers to grow in window boxes; its compact growing habit will add just enough height without going floppy. Try combining thyme, lavender, and salvias for an even more fragrant, herbaceous window box that's also perfect for bees.

14. Choose the best window box herbs

Growing a herb garden in window boxes is one of the most satisfying small space projects. You can easily combine several herbs in one window box: thyme, basil, parsley, and oregano will all happily grow together, although rosemary is probably best left as a border plant, since it can get leggy. Most herbs can be easily raised from seed: just give them two to three weeks to germinate. 

15. Make your window boxes more edible

You can have a vegetable garden, even if it's a tiny one! And, growing strawberries and tomatoes in window boxes is another way to add edible color to your window garden. Tomatoes are easily raised from seed, but strawberries may be best bought as plug plants. Go for compact, trailing varieties – or, if you feel up for something a little different, consider a climbing strawberry variety, such as Mount Everest. Train it up with a plant support positioned against a wall. 

• Our trellis ideas can offer more support.

Do window boxes need drainage?

They sure do. Like with all container gardening methods, water logged plants aren't usually happy ones. To increase drainage in a window planter you can either drill holes into the bottom, or you an add gravel, rocks or wood chip to the base of yours, before adding soil as this will help excess water evaporate a little more quickly and efficiently.

See flowers everywhere!

Window boxes are both the perfect small space gardening solution for urban homes with only a balcony as outdoor space but, they make a classic addition also to the windowsills of country cottages with rambling plots. 

Better still, the best window box ideas are easy to plant up, even for beginners, and you can choose a huge variety of plants that are sure to thrive and look beautiful in the space you have, depending on your window's orientation. Plus, they needn't be high maintenance. You can of course grow pretty seasonal blooms in window boxes, but frost-proof perennials can look smart, too. Whether you want to DIY your own or buy one new, use our guide below to plant up and secure your window box properly.

• Find all our small garden ideas in our edit.

Window box planting essentials

• Window box of choice
• Potting compost mix or any other good quality compost, such as John Innes
• Plants of choice
• Liner if using
• Gravel if using
• A small hand trowel and gloves
• Brackets and a masonry drill bit – If securing yours to a brick wall.

1. Decide on the look you want

The first thing to think about is what style you'd like your window box to be, and to choose plants accordingly. Will the garden plant ideas you choose for your window boxes be elegant and formal-looking or are you going for a rustic feel with pretty flowers and trailing plants? Think of this as the early design stage for your window box display.

2. Consider maintenance

Next, you'll want to consider how much maintenance you want to give your window box. Fruit, veg and some herbs, plus seasonal flowers take up more time than perennials, for example. 

• We've plenty of low-maintenance garden ideas in our edit too.

3. Scale up and get the aspect right

Next, consider the shape and scale you'll create with your window box planting. The labels in plant pots or on the back of seed packets will tell you the growing habit of the plants (upright, trailing, etc), as well as their height and spread. Plants that grow very tall and upright won't suit a window box and may need more soil around their roots, so always stick to plants that are described as having a 'compact growing habit' or that can be pruned into a shape and size that is a suitable scale for the window box it's in.

Consider the location too, north-facing or south? This will help determine the best plants for the space.

• Find more inspiration at our garden ideas page.

4. Purchase or DIY your window box

Finally, choose the window box(es) that suit the look you're going for and your needs too. Window boxes themselves come in a wide variety of finishes, but are typically elongated rather than round, to fit onto windowsills. As a general rule, matching, rectangular-shaped troughs create a more formal look, and oval-shaped troughs or mismatched window boxes gives a more relaxed look. Remember too that DIYing your own is a great way to add character to all types of small space. 

The best window boxes for your window garden will depend on your preference for materials, but also on how heavy you're prepared for your window boxes to be. Stone and Italian terracotta look amazing, but weigh a lot, so if you don't think you'll be able to move your window boxes, you might be better off with plastic or metal window boxes. Plastic also has the benefit of holding on to water better, which can be a benefit if you won't be able to water your plants regularly. Rattan or wicker window boxes will also be light, but you will need to change them every couple of years, as they will not be weatherproof.

• Going up? We have more vertical garden ideas to try.

5. Settle on your plants

With all of the detail decided, you'll now be aware of the plants you can have, making it easier to select the flowers you actually want. Flowers with a compact growing habit or trailing varieties look wonderful in window boxes. Lobellias, petunias, fuchsias, daisies, pansies, and pelargoniums all make for a wonderful window display, but you needn't stick to flowers of course, as herbs, evergreens and more will make for a cool and varied finish.

6. Prepare to plant up your window box

Planting window boxes is essentially the same as planting up any garden pot or container gardening (and many people mix pots and window boxes in their window gardens anyway). 

Some window boxes are more like planters so it will just be a case of placing individual pots in there. If it's a more traditional window box then you'll need to think about drainage and potentially lining your box.

7. Drainage and lining

Ideally, all your window boxes should have drainage holes in them, but many on the market do not, in which case it's advisable to line the bottom of the window box with gravel, or chips from a broken terracotta pot to prevent water logging in the soil. Or, safely drilling a few holes in the bottom.

If your window boxes do have a lot of drainage, or if you have a wide gapped slatted design but still want to fill it with soil, you'll want to consider lining your window box.

8. Fill your window box

As you would with a container, fill your window box, lined or not, with your soil of choice. If there is a lot of good drainage and if you live in a warm climate, you can mix vermiculite into your compost to stop water evaporating too quickly. Leave room for the root balls of your plants and tuck them in carefully covering all the roots with soil – giving them the right amount of room as indicated.

9. Position your window box(es) in place

Some window boxes will be sturdy enough to stand alone on your window sill if it's wide and sheltered enough. But, if your windowsill isn't wide enough to hold a window box – or you don't have one at all – hanging a window box by fixing it to the exterior of your house with brackets, will be your best option. Bear in mind that you will have holes in your brickwork, and, if you live in a flat, your window box may be a safety hazard for the people below, if the brackets ever came loose.

To fix your window box with brackets, you will need a masonry drill bit, to protect your brick. Watch this handy step-by-step guide that demonstrates how to drill the holes and attach the brackets. 

10. Care and maintenance

Try not to forget about watering your plants and trimming them if needed, especially if your window planter is attached to a balcony which gets direct sunlight as the top soil is likely to dry out pretty fast. Take care of what you're growing and you'll enjoy a year-round beautiful display.

• Find all our balcony ideas in the edit.

What do you put in the bottom of a window box?

Window box liners can be used to prolong the life of your window boxes. Typically made from plastic or coconut fibre, window box liners create a buffer between your window box and the wet soil, preventing your container from cracking, discoloring, or rotting. Always choose the same size of liners as your window box or trough, and make sure the drainage holes align. 

Then you can add an additional layer of gravel, small stone chips or bark to help with drainage as noted in the method above.

Plant up!

So you are hunting for bedroom window ideas. We actually ask a lot of our bedroom windows, they need to provide enough darkness and privacy for us to sleep well but also need to look lovely and bring something to the space. Lucky for us, there are loads of options out there to suit any style but are still functional and well, do the job or covering your windows. 

How can you dress a bedroom window?

To name just a few you have the classic bedroom choice – curtains or drapes, there's also blinds (Roman, Venetian, roller, etc.) or shutters. And of course you can also combine these different treatments too, but more on that later.

So which bedroom window treatment to choose? Well, that's where we come in. Here we have pulled together all our fave bedroom window ideas to get you inspired, and of course to help you make the most practical choice for your space. 

Keep reading for plenty of bedroom window ideas to copy and don't miss our bedroom ideas hub page too for plenty more inspiration. 

1. Go for a classic look with authentic style shutters

For a characterful bedroom window idea, choose shutters. These are full height, but for more flexibility, choose tier on tier, which allow you to open the top and lower sections separately, or café curtains that cover just the lower part of the window. 

Find out how to choose the best shutters for your bedroom in our guide.

2. Can't decide? Consider mismatched drapes

If you love an individual look and can't decide on one particular floral pair of drapes then follow this creative idea and mismatch your designs. 

They are both subtle enough to not take over visually and the patterns are carried on throughout the scheme – something to consider for cohesion.   

3. Use curtains to turn a plain room patterned – but line them for darkness

If you are a fan of the soft look of drapes or curtains but like the black-out effect of a blind, you could line your curtains with a black-out fabric. You don't lose the lovely softness of a curtain but you still get the darkness when it comes to sleeping.

'The primary use of blackout curtains is to obstruct the direct sunlight streaming through the windows, which makes them an ideal choice for the bedroom when the sun rises from as early as 4am during the summer. Great for all seasons, but especially the warmer months as blackout curtains will keep the heat out by reducing the heat transfer from window to the room. For the optimum results, an integrated interlining combined with blackout lining work best.' advises Harry Cole, Founder of Loom & Last.

Why not make your curtains the focal point of the bedroom and pull out colors from the design to accessorize with?

4. Pick a light and breezy style for a dark bedroom

Some of us simply love the whimsical feel of linen curtains floating in the summer breeze... but more than that, if your bedroom is already dark, bulky curtains at the windows are just going to cut out even more light, even when they're open. So if you’re not one to be woken early doors from the light streaming in during the summer then this pretty option is for you. 

Love the dramatic look of a darkly decorated bedroom? Check out our black bedroom ideas gallery. 

5. Hang curtains floor to ceiling

Noticed anything about all the curtains so far? They don't just flap around the dimension of the window, they flow down to the floor. This is always how bedroom curtains should be done!

'Gone are the days of shorter curtains, they feel dated and can make a window feel small and boxed in.' say Jen & Marr of Interior Fox.  'Instead opt for floor to ceiling curtains, ensuring there are no gaps. This look adds height to a room, while keeping a clean a simple aesthetic. A personal favorite of ours is a wave curtain in a solid color, they create a smart but simple finish that’s easy on the eye. Attention to detail goes a long way, we like to swap out the eyelets to match the curtain pole. This simple but effective technique makes all the difference and helps to create a more unified and custom look.'

6. Keep it simple with roller blinds

If your home is contemporary then fussy full-on curtains and blinds will naturally not be your thing. Roller blinds are a great option, they’re streamlined and don’t impose visually on the space. Depending on the color you choose they can be ‘barely there’ which is ideal if you’re a modernist who wants to control the light and privacy in your bedroom – or show off a fabulous view. 

Check out our guide to choosing roller blinds for plenty more advice and ideas. 

7. Update your bedroom window by adding a new layer

Already got blinds but fancy a change? Loving your curtains but not getting the light-blocking qualities you need? Layering curtains with other window treatments, such as blinds or window film, will give you maximum daylight but privacy if you're overlooked. You needn't choose heavy curtains if you prefer a lighter look – why not layer a light cotton curtain with a heavier blackout option, such as Roman blinds, for the best of both worlds?

8. Add wooden accents with a light Venetian blind

Bring a natural element to the bedroom with wooden Venetian blinds, one of the most adjustable treatments for a sunny window since the louvers can be tilted precisely to deflect glare. Wide louvers are bang on trend and create a more simple, fuss-free look than the classic wooden blind. You could also choose contrast tapes for a hint of color. 

9. Shutters are a useful choice for a kid's room

Looking for bedroom window ideas that will suit kids' rooms? Shutters shut out the light, so kids get some rest even in summer when the evenings are long, but they also open up the possibilities for color and motifs that you can weave throughout the rest of the room – or keep them plain and decorate the walls instead. 

Check out all of our kid's bedroom ideas for plenty more inspiration. 

10. Choose blinds as a super-practical bedroom window treatment

Motorized blinds are a great option for loft or hard-to-access windows such as in an attic bedroom. Or for a more budget-friendly option pick manually operated roof blinds that you just pull down easily if your windows are within reach. 

11. Increase bedroom privacy with window film

A super quick and easy bedroom window idea, window films are ideal for a ground-floor bedroom that is overlooked. You can get them ready-cut to the exact measurements for your window and is easy to fit. Frosted finishes, all-over patterns and motifs are available too if you want to add some texture and interest to your space as well as privacy. 

Be inspired by these window film ideas to get the best design for your bedroom.

12. Set bedroom blinds within the frame for elegance

A great bedroom window idea for tall windows or French doors, are pleated blinds fit neatly within each pane for a minimal look without interrupting the frame. Team with sheer curtains hung from a pole that extends either side of the windows so they can be swept right back.

13. Match your bedroom curtains to your soft furnishings

Found a fabric you love but afraid of busting the budget? Roman blinds are the answer, taking far less fabric than curtains, yet folding into decorative pleats. We love how in this bedroom they have been matched with the cushions to create a really cute cohesive look. 

What bedroom window treatments are in style?

The most popular window treatments right now are shutters – they are stylish, compact and really practical too. The one downside is the price since they are mostly made to measure, bespoke window treatments they won't suit everyone's budget. So another, more budgeted friendly bedroom window treatments  that's in style, is a classic light drape – something gauzy or linen-like that allows soft light to filter through. Hang them floor to ceiling for a much more luxurious look – this will add some height to the room too. 

What treatments are best for a small bedroom?

In a small bedroom just don't want anything that's going to add bulk around the window and block out the natural light. Natural light is key to making a small look feel lighter, airy and, as a result, bigger so opt for in a light fabric that isn't too heavy. A roller blind would work well, and you can soften it up by layering with a curtain in a lightweight fabric. 

If you are on the hunt for the best window treatment for any and every room in your home, your search is over. Finally! Venetian blinds are such a practical choice wherever you want to put them, they aren’t super expensive and they look really stylish too. They almost give a similar effect to shutters, which we know can get expensive, so Venetian blinds are the perfect option. 

Swift Direct Blinds have so much choice too, you can pick between wood effect or aluminum depending on the look you are going for, there’s every colour you can think of available and are all made to measure. So, if you need some help choosing the right Venetian blind (or convincing they are right for your space) then just keep on reading…

1. Venetian blinds will work in any room all year round 

Our favourite thing about Venetian blinds is that they are so versatile, they will work in literally any room. In a bathroom they work because they aren’t too bulky and can cope with moisture. They also can add privacy to a living room or bedroom and you could always soften the look in these rooms by hanging a curtain over the top too. They are also the ideal choice for conservatories. 

Swift Venetian blinds are made to measure so will perfectly fit your window no matter how awkward the size and shape. This makes them a great window dressing option all year round – they help considerably with insulation and reducing drafts in the winter and in the summer can keep heat and strong sunlight out. 

2. They are designed to perfectly fit your window

With Swift you can pick between either Perfect Fit or Neat Fit. Perfect Fit comes with an aluminum frame that clips directly onto the window frame, no drilling needed and really easy to do yourself. Neat Fit also clip directly onto the window and sit flush to the glass. These blinds don’t come in framework though, they have a header and footer rail that clip under the glass for a really seamless finish.  

3. You can find a Venetian blind to suit your style

Swift’s wooden blinds come in so many colours and you can choose between aluminum or wood effect, whichever will suit your space and lifestyle best. 

If you are after a clean, minimalist look, we would suggest going for a white blind that will fit really seamlessly into your space. The Verona 25mm Pure White Aluminium Venetian would work perfectly and is a really affordable option with prices starting from just £7.99. If you are after a warmer look, check out all the wood effect options – they look really realistic, but obviously still have all the benefits of being aluminum, so fine to use in a bathroom or behind a kitchen sink for example. Then there are all the coloured options too – perfect for adding a pop of something bolder, and would be a great choice for a kid’s bedroom or a playroom. 

Read more:

• Bedroom window ideas: 12 looks to dress your bedroom windows perfectly
• 12 window dressing ideas for living rooms
• Kitchen window ideas: 12 ways to dress your windows
  

You’ve decided to extend your home, you’ve found an architect or designer to work with, and you’ve agreed your budget. 

Now it’s time to focus on those all-important ‘wow factor’ design statements that will bring your project alive – and bi-folding and sliding doors are right up there.

Glazing is a great way of injecting personality into your extension or self- build while bringing masses of natural daylight flooding into your home, whether through bi-fold or sliding doors, or a strategically placed glass roof lantern. It’s a design approach that works equally well with period and modern homes. 

How to choose the right bi-folding and sliding doors

When it comes to bi-folding and sliding doors, there are a few things to consider: the style, the type of glass, the frame material, security and energy efficiency.

Industry experts believe that the best way to do your research is to view the product for yourself in a showroom,  seeing and feeling the designs in a live setting, as well as getting up close to examine the finer details. Charlie Luxton, Architectural Designer, explains why it’s worth visiting an Express Bi-folding Doors showroom.

Visiting a showroom will also give you a chance to talk to the supplier about their approach, credentials and product range, and to discuss your own plans, even if they’re at the early stage.

If you’re concerned about visiting a showroom at the moment, it’s worth pointing out that suppliers and retailers have been busy adapting their showrooms to the ‘new normal’, with social distancing, mask wearing and hand sanitisers all in place to make the visit safe for customers and staff.

Viewing at home

With so much of our buying decisions taking place online now, it’s also worth spending time looking at the wealth of online tours available – it’s an easy and effective way of finding the right products for your project. 

Express Bi-folding Doors are a good example: you can take a virtual tour of any of their four inspirational showrooms, giving you an in-depth look at how their products might look in your own home.

What’s more, you can take an online tour of some of their most inspiring projects, giving you a chance to see how their products have been used to best effect in real homes. 

To speak to one of Express Bi-folding Doors’ experts, or to book an appointment to visit one of their four showrooms in Leeds, Redhill, Romford and Glasgow, visit the website or call 0800 121 4809.

Express are now taking bookings for next year, order your free brochure now.

We can't say Ikea doors are usually something we get too excited about. Yep in the past we have of course sung their praises for being simple, chic and affordable but we've never felt the need to dedicate a whole article to one particular type of Ikea door. Until now...

The IVAR door. The most stylish Ikea door to EVER exist plus it is super cheap and would turn the most boring of cabinets into something gorgeous. Keep scrolling to find out more about this stylish new launch and head to our living room ideas feature for more inspo.

See, we told your the IVAR door was no ordinary door. It's almost like a cane effect, that's so bang on trend at the moment. In fact, we have seen so many DIYs and Ikea hacks using wicker and rattan webbing to upcycle Ikea furniture, but now you don't have to bother! You can just replace your doors and get a really similar effect faff free and for just £25. 

These Ikea doors can be attached to any piece of storage furniture in the IVAR systems so you can mix and match open and closed storage. We think it looks fab in a living room, but if you have the space it could work as some freestanding kitchen storage too. Really it would look great in any room of the house to give it a slight rustic boho edge.

You can order the doors online (yipee! No mad Ikea queues) and they are only £25 for two. If you do still fancy giving Ikea hacks a go – you could definitely paint these doors, oooh they would look so cool in white – then head over to our gallery.

Read more:

• Living room storage ideas: 12 ways to quickly tidy up your space
• Kitchen storage ideas: 27 ways to declutter your space
• Beach house interiors: 18 ways to get the coastal look
  

Real Homes here, coming at you with more easy DIYs and hacks that you can be doing now you are spending more time at home. We've been scrolling through Instagram and Pinterest and found loads of inspiring ideas that are quick and easy, don't need lots of equipment and can really lift a room (and hopefully your mood).

Today we are showing you how to add a pop of colour to any room by painting your window frames. This has been a growing trend over the last few months and we reckon it might be the new feature wall. Keep scrolling to find out how to paint window frames and for loads of inspiring looks to copy. 

You will need:

• Interior wood paint (we think chalk paint for wooden furniture works best)
• Masking tape
• Small paintbrush 
• Sandpaper
• Cloth
• Goggles

Step one: sand and clean your window frames

Gently sand down your window frame to get rid of any raised or textured sections to give yourself a smooth surface to paint. Then brush away any dust and give the frame a clean with a damp micro-fibre cloth. 

Step two: mask of windows and walls

Use masking tape to mask off the inside of the window so no paint gets onto the glass. If you want to be extra cautious you could use newspaper or a plastic sheet to cover all of the glass. Mask off the wall that meets the window frame too. 

Step three: start painting

Use a small paintbrush and make sure to paint in the same direction as the grain of the wood. Depending on your colour choice, one coat might be enough but if it needs two, let your first coat dry and then go in with your second coat. 

Step four: remove masking tape

Once your paint has dried and you are happy with the coverage you can gently remove the masking tape from the window panes and the walls. And that's it! A cute pop of colour in just four easy steps. 

Read more:

• How to paint kitchen cabinets
• Kitchen paint ideas: 18 stylish ways to update your space quickly
• Bathroom paint colours: 17 ideas to spruce up your space in 2020

Patio doors have been an increasingly popular addition to all styles of home
over recent decades. Whether you’re looking for a way to tackle a dark kitchen
or want to gain better garden access from your main living area, patio doors flood the home with natural light while also offering unrestricted views. 

When pulled back, they can transform the garden into an outdoor dining area or expansion of the living space, providing you with some of the benefits of extending at a fraction of the cost. Alternatively, the doors may form part of a new extension, such as a family-friendly kitchen-diner. 

Read on to find out how to choose the perfect design for your home, then head to our bi-fold doors and sliding doors design gallery for more.

1. Oak framed French patio doors blend seamlessly into a period home

Retaining the natural colouring and patterns of wood adds a depth of character to patio doors in a traditional home. Here, the warm tones of the oak surrounds are combined with a steel inner frame for doors that look fabulous while being strong, secure and long lasting.

2. Create an effortless link between outside and in with bi-fold patio doors

There has been a recent move away from ‘in-keeping’ designs for period homes, in favour of ‘barely there’ modern doors. The slimline frames and minimal sight-lines offer clear garden views and let in maximum light, without detracting from the house’s original style.

3. Combine of bi-fold patio doors and level flooring for the ultimate alfresco dining space

Not just the preserve of modern designs, bi-fold patio doors can also be made from timber in classic styles, for an elegant addition to a period home. The patio doors on this orangery fully open to create a seamless flow between the outside and in – perfect for giving a sense of dining al fresco.

4. Add a modern touch with industrial style aluminium patio doors

With its rich patina, architectural bronze is a classic yet characterful material choice for patio doors, making an impressive entrance for a period home. Made from an alloy of copper, zinc and other metals, bronze is more flexible than many other metals, so can be easily curved to create unique and statement designs. These stunning doors cost £9,000 at Architectural Bronze Casements.

5. Bespoke designs mean that patio doors can be fitted in even the most unusual shaped rooms

Period homes do not come in one size or shape, with slanting ceilings, unlevel walls and unusual shapes. Thankfully bespoke patio doors can easily overcome these challenges. 

It's also worth noting that adding patio doors to period homes is normally allowed under permitted development rights. However, all additions and alternations will need to comply with building regulations to ensure safety and energy efficiency, and a building notice may need to be submitted to your local authority. 

Discuss this with your installer. Listed homes will need listed building consent, and those in Conservation Areas may also need permission. Visit planningportal.co.uk
for more in-depth guidance.

6. Throw back the patio doors for unrestricted garden access

Modern and versatile, bi-fold patio doors are comprised of a series of panels that open, concertina-style, and stack at a right angle to the wall. The doors can be completely pushed back to provide unrestricted access to the garden, particularly when paired with a level threshold. They offer a large glazed surface area, and although this is split into several separate panels, it still lets in plenty of light.

7. Maxmise the light into your home with sliding patio doors

With individual panels running along a track and opening to the side, sliding patio doors offer an unobstructed view of the garden. Unlike bi-folds they don’t protrude into the living space as the panels slide on top of each other. However, the doors cannot be fully pulled back for a clear opening unless you opt for a more complex, architecture-led design, where the panels slide into a pre-made pocket in the wall. 

8. Elegant and traditional, Crittal-style patio doors make a sophisticated statement

As suggested by their name, French patio doors take their style from France, where they opened on to a balcony. Since they are only the width of two standard doors, French doors are great for smaller spaces, but still create unobstructed access when opened. Their traditional appearance is also in-keeping with many styles of period home.  

9. Make a statement inside and out with oak frame patio doors

You need to consider how the frames will look from both inside and outside. If you are seeking a traditional style, then solid wood is a natural choice. Oak is a particularly desirable material due to its inherent strength and beauty. However, some types of timber are prone to warping and will need regular maintenance to keep looking their best. Factory finishing, which involves treating the wood and spray-painting it with a microporous paint, can also significantly extend the lifespan of the doors.

10. Opt for Accoya patio doors for an environmentally friendly choice

Combing hi-tech Accoya wood with a classic design, these patio doors perfectly complement the exposed stone of this home. An ideal material for patio doors, Accoya is treated softwood that  maintains the timber’s aesthetic and durability, yet does not swell or warp, regardless of changes in temperature and weather. The wood is sustainably sourced and fast growing, also making it an environmentally friendly choice.

More period home must-sees:

• Traditional outdoor dining spaces: 18 beautiful ideas for your garden
• Garden storage: 14 space saving ideas that aren't sheds
• The best garden dining sets

Often referred to as the eyes of a house, traditional windows play a vital role in defining the character of a period property. Key components of overall appearance, they are inextricably linked with architectural style and it is often through examining windows that you can determine the age of a building.

Usually made from wood or metal, period windows are vulnerable to decay if not properly maintained and if you are renovating you might find you need to replace them. This guide will help you choose the best windows for your period home. 

Find out more about windows on our dedicated pages.

Should I repair or replace old windows?

Original windows were made using traditional techniques that are hard to imitate today due to modern building regulations, and their unnecessary replacement erodes the character of period homes. This means it’s vital that very effort is made to preserve and maintain original windows.

Even if your windows look beyond repair – having succumbed to rot and broken glass – you’d be surprised at what can be achieved through expert restoration. 

If your windows do not require structural repair, they can still be significantly improved. ‘Draught-proofing and repairing original windows can dramatically improve functionality, security and efficiency at a fraction of the cost of replacement,’ says Richard Dollar, managing director of The Sash Window Workshop.

Additionally, the whole-life environmental costs of replacement will be much greater than repairing the architectural treasures that already exist.

Single-glazed windows are often replaced with double glazing due to a fear of inefficiency. But you are unlikely to ever see a return on fuel bills, while the originals could have been upgraded. However, if they are too rotten to repair, inappropriate modern designs are present, or you are extending, you need to source authentic-looking new designs.

Use our guides, too, to find out:

• How to restore your original sash windows
• How to repair and maintain leaded windows
• How to restore metal windows

Windows DIY Maintenance check

While larger jobs and repairs require professional skills, there are smaller maintenance tasks you can carry out to keep your windows in good condition.

• Fixing putty - The main damage to putty is caused by sunlight. Depending on the severity of the damage, putty will need to be repaired by filling the gaps, or replacing it. To replace, remove old putty using a scraper and allow the exposed wood to dry out. Then prime the wood with paint, allow to dry and replace the putty.
• Draught-proofing – Applying DIY draught-proofing is an easy fix for a common problem in period homes. Use draught strips, or brush seals for sash windows, which are available from DIY stores. 
• Repainting – Regular painting of windows is vital as poorly maintained and unprotected timber will rot and swell. Make sure you prepare the surfaces, sanding down to remove all loose paint and stripping paint layers using gel-type strippers. Natural linseed oil paint offers good protection
• Oiling hinges and sashes – Check hinges, locks and catches. Where necessary, realign, ease, repair and lubricate them. Apply beeswax or tallow to the edges of sashes to help them run.

How much do new windows cost?

Windows are priced individually, but for the purposes of working out rough costs over large areas, these estimates are presented in metre square.

• Softwood casements: from £200 to £350 per m²
• Hardwood casements: from £350 to £500 per m²
• Timber sash windows: from £800 to £3,000 per m²
• Metal windows: from £300 to £600 per m²

How can I upgrade existing windows?

Old windows inevitably face threats such as warping, rotting, sticking, chipping and corrosion.

In addition, many homeowners complain of draughts and high energy bills. But before automatically replacing, look at measures to repair and upgrade them

Energy is lost through windows in two ways: by heat passing through the glass and by warm air escaping though gaps in and around the frames.

‘If wood windows are in a reasonable condition, they can be draughtproofed and repaired,’ says Richard Dollar, managing director of The Sash Window Workshop. ‘This improves functionality, security and efficiency at a fraction of the cost of replacement.’

Occasionally, individual panes of existing windows can also be substituted for insulated glass units (IGUs).

To further improve performance, look at fitting secondary glazing, which involves adding a slimline pane of aluminium-frame glass to your existing windows. It’s a cost-effective, efficient way to insulate and sound-proof windows without impacting on their character. Try a company that produces discreet bespoke designs, such as Storm.

What are the different window styles?

The most familiar window types in period homes are side-hung casements – wood or metal – which swing open like a door, and vertical sliding timber sashes, which consist of two frames or ‘sashes’, each with panes of glass held together by wooden glazing bars, which slide vertically in grooves and are held open by weights and pulleys concealed in a timber box frame (although early sashes were held open by pegs).

Manufacturing techniques developed over the centuries to allow for larger glass sections, which were cheaper and more readily available, so early windows had small panes and later windows usually had larger panes.

The glazing is as important as the frame, and imperfect original glass adds its own unique character. Stained glass panes are sometimes present.

Medieval and Tudor windows

Glass was very expensive during the Tudor period, to the extent that when people moved they would often take it with them. Rural properties and those of more humble backgrounds tended to have wooden or stone openings that could be covered with boards, and later shutters. 

When glass was used in windows, they usually featured metal frames with leaded glass inserted into stone or wooden openings. 

Metal windows continued to be used throughout all eras, although saw a notable resurgence during the Arts and Crafts period as design became increasingly influenced by medieval styles and craftsmanship.

Georgian windows

Comprised of two individual sashes, each with panes of glass held in place by wooden glazing bars, sash windows slide vertically in grooves, which are operated by weights and pulleys concealed in a timber box frame. Earlier Georgian designs were typically in eight-over-eight or six-over-six pane configurations.

Victorian windows

If you live in a Victorian home you are likely to have sash windows or casement windows – most likely made from timber. Mock Tudor homes were also popular in the Victorian era so leaded lights between stone mullions may be present.

All Victorian windows were single-glazed so many were ripped out in post-war renovation projects and replaced with double glazing. If you are lucky enough to still have the original windows, always see if repair is an option before replacement, then upgrade with secondary glazing to improve the efficiency.

1930s style windows

The 1930s housing boom created a large stock of homes that still stand today. Bay windows are common on 1930s homes and steel was used widely as shown by the popular Crittal-style windows of this time. The Art Deco movement was in full swing so unusual shapes and ornate glasswork were commonplace in 1930s windows too.

Sash window types

• Sash windows reigned supreme from the Georgian to Victorian eras, first in eight-over-eight or six-over-six pane configurations , and eventually two-over-two or one-over-one. Sometimes multiple panes were used in the upper sash, with a large pane in the bottom half 
• In the Victorian era, sash horns were introduced on the bottom edges of upper sashes to take the additional strain caused by the lack of glazing bars and heavy glass panes.
• Bay windows were hugely popular in the Victorian era.

Casement window types

• In Tudor homes, small ‘lights’ in a leaded lattice framework – usually diamonds or rectangles – set into stone or timber openings, are authentic.
• Casement windows continued to be used in small, rural dwellings and in the late-18th and early-19th century. Later casements increasingly had larger panes and timber glazing bars.
• The Victorians often adorned the upper halves of their windows with elaborate glazing bar designs and shaped windows heads, such as Gothic arches.
• In the 1930s, steel Crittal-style windows were widely used.

What are the benefits of timber windows?

‘Timber windows offer a huge range of benefits beyond style and design flexibility, such as thermal performance and a long life,’ says Tony Pell, senior product manager at Jeld-Wen.

There are two main types of timber used in windows: softwood and hardwood. Windows made of hardwood, such as oak, are the more expensive option, due to the fact that the trees are slower growing. However, its tighter grain offers more stability within the wood, providing it with a typical lifespan of around 60 years.  

Softwood, such as Douglas fir, carries a lower price tag and money can also be saved by glazing on site. Yet, the lower price is reflected in its shorter longevity, which varies depending on the type of wood used. 

Two other options that are rapidly gaining popularity are engineered and modified timber. In engineered timber, sections of individually weaker wood are glued together to create a stronger single piece, while modified timber has been treated with chemicals or exposed to high heat to achieve the same result.

Depending on the specific glue, chemical types or heat used, engineered and modified timber can be up to 60 per cent stronger than the alternatives, offering a lifespan of up to 80 years. As a result, both types of wood are being increasingly specified by the construction supply chain as they offer a desirable alternative to uPVC and metal, providing many of the benefits of hardwood at a lower price point.

What are the benefits of metal windows?

The first metal windows were made from wrought iron by medieval blacksmiths, but metal casement windows had a revival during the Arts and Crafts movement, towards the end of the Victorian era, and in the 1930s, when Crittall styles were popular. Previously thought of as cold and inefficient, metal windows are now a thermally efficient choice thanks to modern technology.

Aluminium, bronze and steel all offer exceptional stability and strength while being relatively low maintenance. Metal windows are competitively priced, with hardwood designs.

How to get the windows' design right

With period properties, like for like is always best. If you are looking to rectify inappropriate windows, study nearby properties from the same era to ensure the style of window matches the rest of the building. Proportion, glazing bars and the glass itself all contribute to the character and overall appearance of a window, so all components must be addressed when thinking about replacements.

‘All aesthetic aspects should be considered, including selecting the right timbers, colours and decorative options, while also taking into account neighbouring properties so your home is in-keeping with its surroundings,’ says Sean Crane, head of surveying at Jack Brunsdon. If in doubt, ask your local conservation officer for advice.

Do I need planning permission to change my windows?

Usually replacing period windows with like-for-like replicas will not require permission, but it may be needed where permitted development rights are restricted.

If you live in a Conservation Area, planners can be very particular about the new replacements being as close to identical as possible, and if there is an Article 4 directive, you will need to apply for permission.

Listed building consent is always required to replace windows in listed properties. To gain permission to replace any listed windows or doors, homeowners need to prove that the existing ones are beyond repair or that they are experiencing too much heat loss.

Take advice from a reputable company that has experience in window and door design and construction, and remember that planning officers can also advise on what is and is not acceptable.

Do new windows need to meet building regulations?

‘For complete new windows, the company making and installing them must be registered with FENSA,’ says Richard from The Sash Window Workshop.

‘If your current windows have trickle vents – small ventilation holes in the frame – you will need to ensure that the new windows have them or there are alternative sources of background ventilation.

‘Windows near floor level must contain safety glass (toughened or laminated) and must include the relevant safety mark clearly visible.

‘Once the work has been carried out you should receive a FENSA certificate through the post, which you will need if you sell the property in the future.’

To meet building regulations the amount of heat that can pass through the glass and framework is measured as a U-value and this has an effect on the efficiency of the window. For a listed building there is some flexibility in the U-value, in the interest of preserving traditional character.

New sashes or casements fitted into existing frames are classed as refurbishment, and so this work does not require certification. Find out what you need to know about fitting new windows.

Do I need double glazing? 

In order to comply with building regulations, most new windows are fitted with double glazing for increased energy efficiency.

However, double glazing can cause issues when it comes to replicating authentic single-glazed windows. This is particularly the case for designs with elegant timber bars or leading, as both options traditionally involve joining together multiple smaller panes.

To replicate this on new leaded double-glazed windows, leaded detailing is applied to the surface of the glass for an authentic appearance. Timber bars are traditionally widened to accommodate double glazing, although this can impact on their elegance. Ultra-thin double-glazing units have now been developed, however, that can fit within original frames; this means slimmer, more authentic designs are now possible for listed homes or those in conservation areas, without compromising on efficiency. 

The glazing industry is continually innovating to improve the issue, which means that double glazing units are being developed that are thinner than ever, such as Slimlite, allowing for more elegant designs.

Triple glazing is another option for new windows that will enhance comfort inside. The sections will look too thick for authentic windows, but it can be a good solution for casements on some extensions, newer period-style houses and less historically important older homes.

Bespoke windows or off the shelf?

The most cost-effective option is to buy ready-made timber windows off the shelf. ‘Opt for made-to-measure windows if you can’t find what you’re after in standard sizes, or to address quirks or unusual shaped openings,’ says Tony Pell. ‘This also enables you to specify in-keeping double-glazed designs.’

More advice on old homes:

• How to strip and repaint original plaster mouldings
• House renovation: how much does it cost?
• How to extend an old house

Additional copy by Pippa Blenkinsop, Holly Reaney, Elizabeth Bailey and Paula Woods

Windows have a big impact on the character of your home, so if you are replacing them choosing something appropriate to the age and style of your home can feel like a weighty responsibility. What’s more, choosing the wrong windows can devalue a property so you must buy well to protect your investment.

If your home should have timber windows to maintain authenticity, there are lots of choices on the market – but with so many options it can be hard to know what sets a good window apart from the rest. 

Fortunately, we have some top advice on where to start. With the help of industry experts Timber Windows, here are the seven things all homeowners should look out for when choosing new timber windows.

1. Choose the right style for your home

Timber windows come in a number of styles and designs, so it is not enough to just choose wood over a modern material when you are trying to maintain an authentic look.

If you are replacing original windows you can take your cues from what is already there. Victorian and Georgian properties tend to have a mixture of casement and sash windows with older homes having sashes with more lights (or sections of glass) to each sash. As glass manufacturing methods improved over time, the panes they were capable of making became bigger, so as a simple rule, the older the home, the more lights each window will have. 

If you don’t have the original windows and want to reinstate the charm of an old home, look to any neighbouring properties built around the same time for an idea of what style to choose. Or, if you are adding windows where they may not have been before – on an extension or barn conversion for example – choose timber windows to suit modern lifestyles such as bi-fold doors to allow greater access to outside.

2. Check the quality of the wood

Lower quality wood will twist, warp and could rot much faster than a high-end choice. If you can, look for slow-grown wood that is well suited to the exterior of a home. Engineered timber is a good choice as it does not swell and contract with changes in moisture levels which can lead to sticking doors and windows. Engineered timber is created by layering wood to optimise durability, while maintaining the look and feel you expect from wood. Joiners find it easier to work with meaning maximum quality at reasonable prices.

Also look for woods that have natural properties that help it last. Redwood for example contains a chemical that helps make it more resistant to rot. This is perfect if you are worried about the ongoing maintenance of timber. While they still need looking after in the same way you would with any other part of your home, if you choose a good wood and products with robust guarantees, you will need to spend less time caring for them.

3. Make a sustainable choice

As well as the quality of your wood, making a sustainable choice is really important. Look for wood from a noted source that has been grown with respect to the environment. Even when you buy handmade windows in the UK, you need to check the origin of the wood as tropical hardwood that is commonly used is cheap and easy to import but can have a negative impact on the environment, both in airmiles and how it is grown.

Look for European woods from colder climates which are grown much slower than tropical woods and therefore remove more CO₂ from the atmosphere in their lifespan. Ask your supplier about the source of the wood so you can be sure it is from a sustainable forest.

4. Look for optimum insulation and security

Owners of period homes often want new windows for improved thermal efficiency and security. Modern timber windows can be double glazed meaning much better levels of insulation and less heat loss. If you choose sashes, check the draught-proofing between each sash to ensure your home stays warm. Then looks for locks that conform to modern standards to keep your home secure.

5. Find a fitter with specialist expertise

When you choose new wooden windows, find a company that can offer not only the highest levels of design, but can also offer their advice when it comes to installation. Some companies offer a supply and fit service which has advantages as the people making the windows are also the ones who install and thus know the fit better than anyone else. It also makes the process more straightforward for the homeowner.

Look for a company that also understands the importance of choosing an authentic look window – this is especially important if you live in a conservation area.

6. See the windows in person

Always see examples of the windows in person. Some window suppliers might be able to show you homes where their windows have been fitted, but a showroom gives you the chance to look at (and test) the windows at your leisure. 

7. Don’t forget the finishing touches

One of the beautiful things about timber windows and doors is the option to finish them in whatever paint colour or stain you like. Colour is another way to add personality to your home and paint does this, while protecting the wood. 

Finally, don’t forget that the ironmongery you choose for your new windows will need to match the overall look and feel of the property. Handmade latches, hinges, knockers and locks will all add that finishing touch and period style.

Metal windows and doors offer a huge range of opportunities for updating the style of your property. From the classic Crittall style populalised in the 1930s to bolder, industrial design often used in terraced home extensions, this type of glazing is right on trend. 

Highly sought after, metal windows and doors can either replace original designs, or be used to smarted up a property that had plastic or old timber windows. 

Are you fitting metal windows as part of a renovation project? Find our how to renovate a house in our expert guide. Or, if you are extending, find out how to extend a house. 

• How to repair and maintain metal framed windows

Will metal-framed glazing suit my home?

Metal-framed glazing is an elegant option that suits properties of different styles and will look great for years to come. Both metal-framed doors and windows can complement homes with brick exteriors as well as modern grey or white rendered walls. 

If your house currently has dated uPVC doors and windows, metal can be a much slimmer and more attractive alternative. Fitting metal in place of wood, on the other hand, can allow you to avoid the maintenance requirements of timber.

Why choose metal framed doors and windows?

Panel style metal-framed doors won’t offer the uninterrupted views that bi-fold or sliding doors do. However, they will frame views to the exterior in an appealing way. The metal framing isn’t bulky, so they’ll still let in plenty of light and each panel can reveal a new perspective. You might also like the idea of the doors themselves being a feature rather than a barely-there barrier, and they can complement other materials used in an interior scheme.

And the style’s not just appropriate for doors: panelled metal windows can bring an industrial edge to your home, or create period style, depending on the dimensions of each of the glazed elements.

Different glazing panel styles are available when you’re buying – they could be either horizontal or vertical rectangles with different dimensions on offer, or square in appearance

Metal doors and windows don’t have to have the multiple glazing bar style, though. Consider more contemporary offerings that team expansive panes of glass with super-slim metal framing that maximises light and views.

What colours do metal frames come in?

There’s an enormous choice of frame colours for metal windows, ranging from classic black, through greys to standout shades such as orange, red or green. Your supplier might also be able to colour match them – for example to a favourite paint shade.

What are metal door and window frames made from?

Crittall’s doors and windows – the designs that probably spring to mind when you’re thinking industrial-style glazing – are renowned and are made from steel. If you’re lucky enough to have a period property with original Crittall Windows, you can replicate the historic designs. Steel doors and windows can look just as good when they aren’t original to the property, though.

Steel designs from other manufacturers are also available – for windows and doors and even roof lights.

Metal doors and windows can also be manufactured using aluminium. This metal is strong and light, and will create frames without bulk. As well as designs that maximise light including both bi-fold and sliding doors, there are also versions that have the typical steel frame style, if that’s the look you prefer.

Look out also for composite doors and windows. These low maintenance designs use metal on the outside and wood on the inside for a warmer effect internally, energy efficiency and durability.

Metal windows do require some maintenance; find out how to repair and maintain metal window and door frames.

Can metal windows and doors be made bespoke?

Yes. Many companies that sell metal windows and doors will provide a fully bespoke service, which will include a site survey, help with design, manufacture and installation of your windows. Don't assume that because you have an unusual or awkward space, it can't be fitted with metal frames. 

Are metal framed doors and windows well insulated?

Well-designed modern metal doors and windows include thermal breaks (aka thermal barriers). These insulators are part of the frame and prevent heat being conducted outside by the metal, which could create condensation and leave rooms cold. They will also stop the metal frames indoors from feeling cold in winter or hot in summer, both of which can affect a room's ambient temperature. Together with modern glazing, thermal breaks ensure doors and windows are energy efficient.

Can you divide rooms with metal doors, too?

Metal doors can be a brilliant solution inside a home, and using them internally in addition to exterior doors will give your decor a consistent look. Used within the interior, metal-framed doors and partitions let light through but create a measure of separation – try them if you like the idea of broken-plan rather than fully open-plan layouts. 

Using metal-framed glazing in a hallway can also be a sound strategy, allowing light from a front reception room into the passageway without losing the benefits of a separate entrance to your home.

How much do metal framed doors and windows cost?

Expect to pay from £2,640 to £3,120 per metre for glazed panelled doors to fit a standard door height.

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Looking for more window advice?

• How to choose replacement windows for period homes
• How to fit new windows
• How to install secondary glazing

Although there has been increasing awareness recently on how to live in a more environmentally friendly way and the importance of reducing the amount of plastic that we use, you may not have previously considered the environmental impact of replacing your windows.  However, some window materials will be a lot more environmentally friendly than others.

Plastic vs Timber

Did you know that for every wood window you install instead of a plastic window, you save around 160kgs of carbon dioxide (source: WWA)?  In addition to being non-biodegradable when no longer required, the manufacture of plastic windows is also more toxic than the manufacture of timber windows.

If there is a fire, plastic windows will also melt, giving off dangerous dioxins and hydrogen chloride that can cause permanent respiratory diseases.

Plastic windows do not last as long as high quality timber windows, meaning that they will need replacing more often.

Sustainability

It is important to remember that there are many different types of timber and not all companies will ensure that forests are maintained sustainably.  Wood from sustainable forests will ensure that replacement trees are planted for any that are cut down.

Check whether the company are registered with any organisations, such as FSC.  FSC Certified timber will come from forests that are sustainably maintained, protecting and maintaining the forestry.  The FSC ensures that the forest is protected including protecting rare animals, plants and sacred sites for the local indigenous people.

Where are the windows made?

Consider where the windows are manufactured.  Are the windows being shipped to the UK from a different country, or are they being manufactured in the UK?

Shipping windows into the UK will often not be as environmentally friendly as manufacturing in the UK, as a result of having to transport the finished window.

It may also be harder for the company installing the windows to rectify any issues if the products have been made abroad, especially if they are manufactured by a different company.

Repair rather than replace

Depending on the condition of your windows, you can often repair timber windows rather than replacing them.  This may involve draught proofing the existing windows or replacing just the sashes (the moving parts of the window) while retaining the existing window frames.

It is always worth checking whether the windows can be repaired as this will save you money and cause less disruption to your property.

Useful contact

The Sash Window Workshop manufactures all their timber windows in their workshop in Berkshire.  They use a timber called Accoya^TM as standard, which comes with a 50 year anti-rot guarantee meaning you can feel confident that the product will last.

The company are FSC Certified and always aim to minimise their environmental impact.

The Sash Window Workshop offer a supply and installation service and repair services across London and Southern England, while offering a supply only service nationwide.  To obtain a free, no obligation quotation contact The Sash Window Workshop on: 01344 868 668.

By looking at front door designs around the country we built a collection suitable for every kind of home. In our collection, you will see Entrance Doors with glazed panels, those suitable for conservation areas, smart panelled doors, practical stable doors and sharper, more contemporary styles.

Whichever style you choose, every door is hung on robust, fully adjustable hinges, colour co-ordinated to the door threshold. Security is assured with robust multi-point locking mechanisms, featuring hook bolts and deadlock which meet Secure By Design standards.

A selection of decorative glass options, based on authentic Victorian stained-glass motifs, has been uniquely commissioned for the range. These may be selected from a variety of colour palettes to complement the door colour or finish.

Opening up your living space and bringing the outdoors closer, the practical yet beautiful Timber Windows range of French Doors, Bi-Fold Doors and Patio Doors are a joy to use and can enhance both your home and lifestyle.

French doors can open inwards or outwards, Bi-Folds can stack neatly inside or outside and Patio doors slide effortlessly, all authentically styled in either traditional or contemporary designs.

Constructed to the same exacting standards as our windows, with timber guaranteed for decades, our door sets incorporate a host of technical innovations for absolute peace of mind.

FIND OUT MORE

Choosing the right windows should help improve not only the thermal efficiency of your home, but also the appearance.  High quality windows should combine high levels of performance and durability, while also looking beautiful both from a distance and close-up.

Period Appropriate

Period appropriate windows can help improve the kerb appeal of your home.  Beautiful, high quality timber windows can provide a charm and add character to your property.

Installing period appropriate windows will also help add value to your property.  When buying a new home, buyers will often look to deduct money from the asking price for windows that are not sympathetic to the property.

Longevity

With regular maintenance, timber windows can last a lifetime.  The longevity of timber windows means that they are better value for money compared to plastic windows, even when maintenance has been taken into account (source: Heriot Watt University).

A major advantage of timber windows is that any issues that do occur can often be repaired, if caught early, rather than requiring full replacement.

Timber windows will often come with a longer warranty than plastic windows, which often only come with a 10 year warranty.  If your windows are made in Accoya^TM, you will receive a 50 year anti-rot guarantee, in addition to any guarantees offered by the company replacing your windows.

Thermal Efficiency

The majority of heat loss in a window comes from the glass panes.  However, heat loss can also be reduced by ensuring that gaps around the window, which enable the window to operate smoothly, are draught proofed.

Don’t be fooled into thinking that you need to choose between the modern benefits of double glazing or preserving the character of your home.  Unless planning permissions prevent it, new timber windows should be double glazed and draught proofed on installation, helping to improve thermal efficiency and reduce the draughts in your home.

Environmentally Friendly

Sustainably sourced timber is more environmentally friendly than plastic windows.  Timber from sustainably sourced and managed forests mean that trees are replaced or allowed to regenerate naturally.  When checking whether the timber is sourced sustainably, look out for the FSC logo or logos from similar organisations.  The FSC ensures that the forest is protected including protecting rare animals, plants and sacred sites for the local indigenous people.

The manufacture of timber windows is also better for the environment than the manufacture of plastic windows.  For example, did you know that for every timber window you install instead of a plastic window, you save around 160kgs of carbon dioxide (source: WWA)?

Timber Window Company

The Sash Window Workshop have extensive experience replacing timber windows in period properties across London and the South. They can comply to conservation area and listed building requirements when necessary.

The Sash Window Workshop uses Accoya^TM timber as standard and are FSC certified.  The company’s windows are all bespoke and made to order in their Berkshire workshop.  Unless otherwise specified, their windows are double glazed and draught proofed as standard.

To obtain a free, no obligation quotation to replace your windows, contact The Sash Window Workshop on: 01344 868 668.

Internal doors can often be a let-down to the overall finish of a scheme; failing to complement other decorative or design choices. 

This may be because original doors may have been replaced along the way with plain versions that don’t complement the house’s period features. Or, in more recently built properties, they may look like ugly relics of another decade. 

Replacing internal doors with a more stylish option needn’t be a puzzle, though. Just use our guide to internal doors for everything you need to know.

And for all things doors – from restoration to painting – visit our dedicated hub page.

Which door style should you choose?

Think about the way in which the door will work both with the style of your interior and furniture, and elements such as the staircase and flooring, or any mouldings. This approach can work well in homes that retain plenty of original features. 

That’s not to say you have to match, however. Interior doors can create a standout feature by the choice of timber colour or grain pattern, or with colour.

If your home’s architecture or interior is contemporary, a flat (aka flush) door can be a great complement, echoing sleek minimalist lines, as in the kitchen below.

A panelled door, on the other hand, has more detail and depth, and can be either contemporary or traditional in effect.

If your home’s Victorian and you want to reinstate features with original style, look out for classic panelled door designs or shop for salvage doors that can be trimmed to fit.

Tip:

Be aware of what exactly you’re buying when you invest in new internal doors. Does the price cover just the door itself, or is it a doorset, including frame, architrave and hinges and so on? Check, too, if the handle is included in the set. If you’re retrofitting, a separate door can be all you need, but a new opening will need a doorset.

How to buy period doors for a traditional look

Old doors are best thought of as antique furniture – after all you wouldn’t discard a 200-year-old table just because it has a damaged leg. If well maintained, a door can last for centuries and should be relatively easy for a joiner to repair.

When you’re choosing a door, a key consideration is the thickness, as the thicker it is, the more stable it is likely to be. Not all internal doors are made of solid, real timber, so be sure you know what you’re buying. With hardwoods, check that the pattern of the grain and colour is what you want. If you opt for oak, remember that the appearance of English or European oak differs considerably from American white oak.

Some salvage yards offer a wide selection of internal doors. Before you buy any door, new or reclaimed, ensure that it is not cracked or warped. Beware of doors that have been commercially stripped to remove paint by dipping in caustic baths; this can result in shrinkage and distortion and may loosen joints and raise the grain.

In the past, doors made of hardwoods such as oak or mahogany would have been polished but, contrary to popular belief, the ‘traditional’ look of stripped pine is historically inaccurate since cheap and knotty softwoods were either painted or ‘grained’ so that the surface resembled hardwood.

Try to avoid cutting doors down to fit an opening as it will spoil their proportions and weaken them. Before you decide to cut the bottom off a door to allow for the height of a new floor covering, remember that such irreversible changes are likely to outlive the flooring material.

Doors often stick but think twice about trimming the edges during damp weather or after building work where ‘wet’ trades have been busy as they may settle down once the atmosphere becomes drier and the heating is turned on. Heating can cause panels in doors to shift and crack so it is worth giving them time to acclimatise before decorating.

Can you put contemporary doors in a period home?

The home police won’t come knocking if you use contemporary doors in an older home – although if your property is listed, you may need consent to change doors as they could be of historic value.

Other than in listed buildings, using contemporary doors can be a successful decorative strategy. Choosing those made from a material used elsewhere can be a good way to tie them into the rest of the interior, as can choosing handles and hinges that chime with other fittings.

Going for pale woods such as pine and ash can also be a good way to complement an older home, letting you select a more minimalist door style that doesn’t jar. 

What are internal doors made from and what looks can you create?

Internal doors can be solid or hollow. Hollow doors are generally cheaper. On the downside, they are less robust.

Solid doors are heavier and, on the whole, more expensive but provide superior thermal and sound insulation. A solid core is usually surrounded by timber veneer. An engineered core makes the structure more stable because it’s designed to resist warping in response to humidity.

When it comes to the look, think about whether you prefer wood (or the appearance of it), or a painted finish.

A wood finish will introduce the warmth of a natural material. Light and mid-toned woods such as oak have enduring style, but if you’re after a more eye-catching effect, consider richly coloured woods such as walnut.

Painted doors – or buying a ready-to-paint version and finishing it yourself – are frequently white, but there’s no reason not to consider a finish that’s dramatic or colourful. Bear in mind that painted designs can also reproduce the look of wood grain – a budget-conscious alternative to a wood-veneered door. 

Find out how to paint a door perfectly in our guide.

Are glazed internal doors a good solution?

Internal doors with glazing are an excellent way to ‘borrow’ light from other spaces to keep the interior of a room as light-filled as possible. A door can be fully glazed or only feature glazed sections either horizontally or vertically, and there are glazed styles to suit both contemporary homes and older properties.

The glazing itself can be clear but there are also various styles of obscure glass, which will allow in light but retain an element of privacy.

There are glazed fire doors (see below) available as well.

Bear in mind that glazed doors are best used in the living spaces of a home, or in master suites. No one will thank you for leaving them with a bedroom in which they’re on show. 

Which doors are best to divide through rooms?

If you’re dividing two rooms or creating an open plan layout, there’s an opportunity to add stylish internal doors between the two spaces. You'll want to choose between glazed and solid versions. 

Glazed doors 

Create a stronger link between rooms using glazed doors. One room will be on view from the other, even when the doors are closed, which can also make both rooms feel bigger, as you can see further, as well as brighter.

Solid doors

Though solid doors won’t have the space-stretching effect when they’re shut, they're a great option if you want to spend time in more intimate, closed-off spaces and don’t like the distraction of seeing what’s going on in the other room.

In terms of design, you might consider the following:

Bi-folding internal doors 

Easy to open and close, as well as space-saving, bi-fold doors make a stylish addition to a home with a contemporary feel.

Double doors 

While double doors are an option for some homes, do make sure you have enough room to open both wide when you want to fully connect the two spaces to avoid cluttering up one or other of the rooms.

Sliding doors 

Sliding doors are another great option for dividing a room, though it's worth bearing in mind that sliding doors won’t allow you to fully open the two spaces to one another.

That said, glazed versions will leave two spaces visually connected, which may be the effect you’re aiming for. Consider them to divide a large bedroom into dressing area and sleep space, for example.

Barn doors, like this Grange Sliding Barn Door from Jeld-Wen, are another option if you're designing a space with a rustic feel.

Pocket doors

Sliding away into a cavity in the wall, pocket doors are a space-saving option that’ll allow two spaces to be fully open to one another. They are, however, more complicated to fit than other door styles.

Metal-framed glazed door systems 

As well as dividing two rooms, metal framed glazed doors add a distinct industrial edge to a space. See our guide to metal doors and windows for more info.

Frameless glass doors

Perfect for maximising light flow, frameless glass doors maximise light flow when closed, and can slide into a pocket in the wall for a fully open doorway. 

When do you need to fit fire doors?

Fire doors delay the spread of fire from one part of a home to another. Closed, they’re a barrier to stop the fire’s spread and open they provide a way to escape. They are tested and classified according to the resistance they offer to flames and smoke over a specified time – generally 30 or 60 minutes. This can be checked on the label found on the top of the door, which should also state the manufacturer’s name and its unique traceability code.

Building regulations specify when a fire door is required – for example for homes of more than two storeys, or when you convert a loft. Integral garages also mean a fire door is necessary. 

In addition, all essential ironmongery such as hinges, closers, locks and latches must be CE marked and fire protected otherwise the fire door will not be fit for purpose if a fire breaks out. Any small differences in detail, such as glazing, apertures, intumescent strips, door frames and ironmongery may significantly affect the rating.

Although not required, some people like to fit fire doors elsewhere – think from the kitchen, for instance. 

Bear in mind that you will pay more for a fire door, and that it must be correctly fitted to enable it to do its job in the event of a fire, so call on a professional who’s experienced in fitting them. As well as using the correct hardware and adding the certified strips, they will ensure that there is no more than a 3mm gap on the top and sides of the doors, and no more than 10mm gap on the bottom to the flooring. When fitting doors, it is essential to follow the instructions provided with them.

Should you opt for a painted door?

Painted internal doors have the advantage of being simple to refinish over time so that they come up looking as good as new. They also make it easy to change the entire look of a room as part of a redecorating project. 

Opting for a painted door also allows you to match wooden window frames and door to give rooms – and even the whole interior – the consistency that makes a home look more designed. 

Go for gloss paint for high sheen, satin for a more subtle sheen or the flatter effect of eggshell.

Which door colours are on trend?

If you’re looking for a neutral finish, grey’s a fashion-forward option for doors and will enhance the contemporary credentials of a room scheme – see our grey bedroom and grey living room ideas for inspiration.

Just like for walls, almost black, deep navy and rich green are also up-to-date options for painting doors. Try matching the door to a wall painted in one of these shades to create an uninterrupted cocoon that’ll feel super snug rather than breaking up the wall shade with a block of white. Browse our dramatically moody room schemes for more ideas.

Alternatively, how about going bold in a 1980s-inspired yellow that’ll create a sunny accent for a space, like in the hallway above?

Read more:

• How to choose a new front door
• How to choose bi-fold or sliding doors
• How to repair internal doors

Choosing a traditional front door design for a period home is one of the most important elements of a house renovation: it creates an important first impression while also protecting your home from the outside world. 

From authentic wooden planked structures to four-panelled Victorian doors in every colour of the rainbow, traditional front door designs are many and varied. With so many different colour, style, glazing patterns and design options, choosing the entrance to your home can be overwhelming. So whether you're simply looking to experiment with a bold new shade or are seeking to replace your whole door, take a look through our collection of the best front doors for period homes. 

Find out more about renovating a house in our dedicated guide. And if you're considering repair rather than replacement, check out our expert guide on how to restore your front door to help keep yours in good condition. 

1. Pick pastel paint for the perfect cottage feel

A wash of lavender, periwinkle or sage green adds a gorgeously quaint and fresh finish to a cottage home. Pastel is perfectly complemented by rustic flowerpots and a thatched roof – it is the perfect way to create that dreamy country finish. If you fancy a weekend DIY project, you can paint your door yourself, or buy one that has been pre-painted. 

It is also worth noting that pastels are gaining increasing popularity in leafy urban areas, since their calming tones offer an antidote to counteract the grey shades of busy city life. Find out more about maintaining period front doors in our guide.

2. Increase kerb appeal with a bright colours

If you want your home to stand out, painting your front door in a strong, bright colour such as cobalt blue, rich reds or bright yellow will certainly increase your home's kerb appeal. Opt for a colour that not only complements the outside of your home but also reflects your interior style to create harmony between the inside and out. 

For more advice about how to paint a front door, see our expert guide.

3. Celebrate your home's heritage with a reclaimed door

Look to reclamation yards and specialist dealers for a wide variety of authentic front doors. Reclaimed wooden doors are particularly stunning as patina and age adds a rich character to the door and to your home. It is also the most environmentally friendly option when it comes to replacing doors as it is a great way of recycling and saving energy. Find out more about how to choose a front door for your home.

If you opt for a reclaimed front door, inspect it closely to ensure the wood is a not warped, cracked or showing sign of rot. Ensure that the doors are all stored inside and have not had to brave the elements which can also damage the door. Try SalvoWeb for a salvage yard near you.

The biggest issue with a reclaimed door is going to be will it fit? Height, width and depth all need to be considered. Should a suitable size be unavailable, most doors can be trimmed by up to 25mm without an adverse effect.

4. Add character with personalised details and wrought-iron hardware

A simple way to revive a tired old front door is to update the hardware. Door knockers are a quaint way to add some personality to your front, they are best placed at head-height. Opting for an original, reclaimed piece is more likely to be unique but replicas give you greater flexibility at a fraction of the cost. Find further inspiration on our how to choose door knockers advice page.

Numbers and name plaques also add character to your home and help to make it stand out from neighbours. Depending on font, design, position and size, a plaque can set the tone for your house. Elegant script on a wooden plaque would look perfect on a country cottage, while bold chrome serif numerals will always shine on a Georgian panelled door. 

5. Let in the light with glazing

Hallways have a reputation for being quite dark rooms, however glazing offers the perfect solution. If your front door leads on to a locked porch, then you have a little more flexibility with regards to clear glazing which can provide a bright finish to your home.

However, if your front door leads onto a hallway, obscured glass is a must. Opting for smaller windows, above head-height, enables you to have clear glass without compromising your privacy though it does limit the amount of light let in. For larger windows, patterned, etched, and frosted glass are all viable options and can add an influx of pattern as well as light. A specialist glazer will be able to discuss the options with you to help you find the perfect fit for your home. 

6. Make your Victorian home beautiful inside and out with stained glass

Think about the interior as well as the exterior, your front door has two sides after all. Opting for stained glass designs not only increases your privacy while let in light but adds a beautiful, elegant burst of colour both inside and out. It's simplicity helps to maintain a clean finish in this mostly white hallway while it externally, adds a colourful facade. 

7. Take a traditional route with classic panelling 

The panelled door is a classic feature of Georgian and Victorian properties. With elegant lines and symmetry, it complements and mirrors the architecture of the building. Windows are often added in the frame above the door, enabling light to flood the hallway without compromising on privacy. 

Though popular with 17th and 18th century homes, this elegant style of door and can look equally stunning in terrace and cottage properties.

8. Look for a specialist designer for more specific period projects

Stuart Interiors (below) specialise in traditional joinery techniques from the medieval period to the 18th century. 

'From the court of Henry VIII and the pinnacle of the English Renaissance, one of the great icons of design is the linenfold panel,' says Peter Russell of Stuart Interiors. 'We have harnessed the design and emblazoned it on the main entrance door of this Tudor revival home.' 

Made in solid quarter sawn oak and polished to reflect the period, age will only improve its appearance. Made to order it can be designed to fit any size required.

9. Embrace original architectural features

Alternately painted black brick work draws attention to the sleek, glossy door, making it a focal point of the exterior. Dark hardware creates a sophisticated finish to this renovated mill house. The dark details are brightened by the climbing roses which frames the structure and creates a welcoming entrance to Tina and Simon Jones' home. 

10. Take note of the neighbours

If your home is part of an elegant Georgian terrace or part of a series of quaint identical cottages, it's worth considering your neighbours' designs. If everyone else has black doors against a white frontage, it may be advisable to follow suit.

However, if your street is home to an array of pastel or bright shades, embrace the rainbow with a complementary shade. 

11. Go traditional with timber

This beautiful, traditional front door has a distinctly ecclesiastical feel with its distinguished and intricate panel detailing. The example shown is manufactured in Engineered European Oak and finished in a Dark Oak Stain. It is paired with black period ironmongery and leaded glass to complete the look. The homeowner described her new door as her pride and joy! 

12. Add life to neutral doors with colourful planting

Paint isn't the only way to add colour to the front of your house. Bedecked in wisteria, climbing ivy, hanging baskets and potted displays, breathe life into this country cottage, and the glossy black planked door provides a rich backdrop which illuminates the green of the foliage. 

13. Choose an on-trend Georgian style to complement a 18th century home 

Six-panelled doors were the go-to style of the Georgian period. Usually plain in design, it was the ornate surrounding porch that indicated wealth. Although usually grained or painted in darker hues, bright blue became increasingly popular towards the end of the century with green shades also gaining traction throughout the period. 

14. Admire the stunning craftsmanship of artisan Arts and Crafts front doors

The desire for simpler forms and craftsmanship led Arts and Crafts designs to pair simple plain plank designs with more elaborate iron hinges and latches. Leaded and stained glass were also fashionable throughout the period. 

15. Create an Edwardian style statement with an ornate porch and door combo

Add flair to your kerbside with an ornate porch, this metro tiles and candy-cane pattern of exposed brick and plaster immediately draws the eye to the stunning front door, from Cotswood Door Specialist. The unassuming sage shade is brought to life with stained glass detailing.

16. Discover the benefits of sustainable doors with Accoya

It is important to choose a door material that is hard-wearing and is designed to last under continual use and when expose to the elements. Accoya is a particularly durable and stable timber which comes with a 50 year anti-rot guarantee, making it perfect for a wide variety of period home styles. Discover a wide range of Accoya door  at The Sash Window Workshop. 

For further inspiration explore:

• Front door designs with a more contemporary feel
• Buyer's guide to metal doors and windows
• How to choose replacement windows for period homes

Door knockers have been in use for centuries, from elaborate Georgian designs of Grecian goddesses to lion heads and more simple ring designs. Their popularity only waned with the introduction of the electric doorbell.

The knocker’s material and finish is key to identifying the period it belongs to: black-painted cast iron was common in early Georgian era, but was then gradually replaced largely by brass – burnished and unpolished in the latter Georgian period and then highly polished and shiny in the Victorian era. 

In terms of sourcing a door knocker for a period home, you have two options: buy original, reclaimed pieces or go for replicas. Reclaimed pieces are more likely to be unique (and are likely to cost a bit more as a result, with very ornate Victorian designs going for £100 or more), but there's nothing wrong with getting a replica, so long as it's made using traditional manufacturing techniques. 

Door knockers look best mounted centrally, at head height, on a muntin.

If the addition of a knocker isn’t enough to revive a tired old front door, then consider restoring your front door – or choose a new front door. 

Pick an imposing brass piece to recreate Georgian style

Georgian door knocker are all about ornate design and an unlacquered, burnished finish. This Solid Brass Lion with Ring Door Knocker is a fine specimen of Georgian-style door furniture, without the heavy price tag of an original piece.   

Choose a dainty brass knocker for a Regency home

The style of this solid brass Aged Nickel Knocker from Willow and Stone became popular in the early 1800s and is perfect for a door with slimmer panels. The elongated shape is perfect if you want to recreate an authentic Regency look. 

Go for a cast iron piece for a Victorian look

If you live in a Victorian property, your door will likely suit a heavier, black cast iron piece. The Kirpatrick Fox Door Knocker is as authentic as it gets, made using a malleable iron casting technique (which makes the iron less brittle) that was developed in the 1850s. 

Live in an Edwardian home? Choose a simpler design

The ornate and elaborate pieces that characterise the Georgian and Victorian periods gave way to simpler, more abstract designs in the late-Victorian and Edwardian eras. The Melton Door Knocker in Antique Brass from Jim Lawrence will complement any home, but especially the restrained red brick design and painted door of an Edwardian semi. 

Choose a nature-inspired knocker for a country home

Live in a cottage nestled among lovely greenery? A nature-inspired door knocker will help you complete the exterior look of your property. The Bright Chrome Hedgehog Door Knocker from Black Country Metal Works has our vote – so pretty and well-made. 

Want a versatile design? Go for a ring knocker

Want a more contemporary twist on a door knocker? You can't go wrong with a ring design. Originally popularised during the Victorian era, it will fit into almost any period home exterior design scheme. Our pick is the Ring Door Knocker in Polished Brass from John Lewis & Partners. 

Read more:

• Period character guide: door and window furniture
• How to maintain windows and doors in period homes

When it comes to maintaining period windows and doors, it's worth remembering that repairing tends to be far cheaper than replacing. With timber frame windows and doors, it can often be as easy as a lick of paint or replacing a sash cord; for metal windows the major issues lie with rust and faulty fittings; and for leaded windows, it's often about specialist repairs. 

Think that your old windows and doors might be in need of some TLC? Follow these expert tips to ensure they aren't getting neglected – and check out our dedicated windows and doors pages for all things related.

Checking windows and doors for problems

The first and most simple rule of maintaining windows and doors is to inspect them regularly, both inside and out and, as soon as they show signs of needing it, giving them a coat of paint. 

Preparation is important so make sure all surfaces are sound and any loose paint has been removed, but be careful when using hot air guns to strip paint as the heat can easily crack glass. 

Check for rot and infestation, and that all joints are firm. If the corner of a window needs strengthening, a simple solution is to use a metal angle bracket.

Replace missing or defective putty in windows with traditional linseed oil putty, again taking care not to damage the glass. 

Replace glass in sash windows: it needs to be of the same thickness and weight as the original, otherwise the sash will have to be rebalanced. Original panes with just a small crack across the corner are unlikely to cause problems.

Rattling sashes can be drawn tighter together with a cam action fastener.

Sticking windows may be caused by overpainting, swollen or distorted frames, loose joints or seized sash pulleys. Tallow or beeswax applied to the edges of sashes may help them to run while oil will ease pulleys. 

If windows or doors are sticking, beware of planing the edges, especially in damp weather, because the problem may be due to swollen wood. Other possible reasons include structural movement, shrinkage or a failed lintel.

Broken or fraying sash cords should be replaced and this is relatively easy to do from inside. Always repair both cords on each sash and ensure the new cord is strong enough for the weight of the window.

Damaged, worn or loose hinges: ensure hinges are not binding and, where necessary, oil or adjust them. At the same time, check that locks and other ironmongery is in working order. 

Remove doors from their hinges for painting to enable all edges to be properly primed and finished, including the bottom and the letter plate opening. This helps to minimise moisture penetration and swelling. 

Maintaining timber doors and windows

Many original doors have survived because the pine used to make them before the Second World War was slow grown, resulting in highly durable timber. A variety of different hardwoods were also used, including oak and mahogany. Internally, softwoods were occasionally ‘grained’ to resemble hardwood.

Find out how to maintain and repair timber windows in our dedicated guide.

Maintaining and restoring metal doors and windows

Potential problems include the fracturing of cast iron because of impact or casting flaws, and the distortion of wrought iron or mild steel following forcible closure of casements where there is paint build-up. 

Use our expert guide to maintaining your metal windows for lots more information.

Caring for and repairing leaded windows and doors

Leaded lights can last for hundreds of years with only minimal care. Loose or leaking glass may be re-sealed within the leadwork using glazier’s putty – a mixture of linseed oil, whiting and white cement. Broken or cracked glass can be replaced on a small scale by bending back the flanges of the cames to insert new pieces, and re-sealing. Sometimes lead or copper strips are used instead, to repair cracked glass in leaded lights.

For much more information, see our guide to maintaining and restoring leaded light windows.

More materials used in windows and doors

Veneer: A thin decorative layer of hardwood was sometimes applied to flush panelled internal doors, especially in the 1920s and 1930s when it fitted well with the Art Deco look.

Glass: Clear and coloured glass was often used in Victorian doors within an upper panel or in separate panels or ‘side lights’ to either side. In internal doors, glass helped provide light between rooms.

Careful repairs, regular maintenance and measures to improve thermal efficiency by reducing draughts can help ensure original doors serve well into the future.  

General repairs

Repairs to doors, door frames and door cases should be made on a like-for-like basis using matching materials and construction techniques.

Action:

• Use the point of a penknife to locate areas of rotten wood, paying particular attention to the bottom of the door and frame 
• Cut out decayed or damaged areas and joint or patch in new timber 
• Glue loose joints with an exterior-grade adhesive 
• Overhaul items such as hinges and latches
• Use brass or stainless-steel screws  
• For complicated repairs employ a good joiner 

Check the condition of sills and the bottoms of sash boxes for rot. Sills may often be repaired by cutting the rotten face back to sound wood and then screwing on a new piece. There should be a drip groove on the underside of the sill.

Problems with metal windows include rust, distortion, paint build-up and failed hinges and fittings. Use wire brushes to clean off rust and then prime as soon as possible. Specialist steel window companies or, in the case of wrought iron windows, blacksmiths can make repairs.

Painting doors and windows

Doors are easily scuffed and knocked, while windows tend to need regular maintenance, at least outside to keep them in good condition. Touching up the odd scrape can help, but external doors and should be repainted every three to five years.

Action:

• Prepare all surfaces carefully, making sure they are sound and any loose paint has been removed; 
• Ensure the door’s bottom and other areas of bare timber, such as within the letter plate opening, are thoroughly primed and painted to minimise moisture penetration that could cause swelling; 
• Where major renovation is required, external doors are best taken off their hinges to enable all edges to be reached; find out how to paint doors in our step by step guide.
• Hardwood internal doors may be treated with beeswax polish if appropriate;
• After new heating systems have been installed, allow doors to acclimatise before painting;
• Find out how to paint timber windows in our step by step guide.

Combatting draughts and heat loss around doors and windows

While overhauling doors and windows, it is worth draughtproofing them at the same time. As well as the various DIY solutions available, specialist window repair companies can install inconspicuous but effective ‘brush’ strips in grooves routed out along the edges of the sashes. A special silicone system is available for draughtproofing metal windows.

Energy-efficiency measures to avoid draughts and heat loss should be considered with external doors.

Action:

• Add draught strips to the edges and top of the door or around the frame;
• When overhauling doors, install draught strips into the bottom edge; 
• Use a movable ‘sausage’ draught excluder made of fabric that can be laid at the bottom of doors;
• Install portiere rods with curtains on doors; 
• Consider installing aerogel insulation faced with plywood within the internal panel; recesses of thinly panelled external doors; 
• Disguise the panel edges with timber beading; 
• Check that letter plates are secure. Fit weighted fabric or a wooden flap over the inside of the opening to minimise draughts; 
• Fit escutcheon plates with covers over keyholes inside and out.

Find out more about insulating your home with our dedicated guide.

Stripping paint from doors and windows

Paint layers built up over years cause detail to be lost or chipping to occur. However, removing paint can be time consuming and may reveal defects such as past repairs, rot and beetle attack. 

Paint can be carefully removed with a scraper and liquid or paste strippers. Hot air guns are another option, but be careful not to scorch the wood or allow the heat to crack any glass within the door. 

Think before having doors commercially stripped by dipping in hot, caustic baths as this can result in shrinkage and distortion and may loosen joints and raise the grain of the timber.

Contacts

• Arc Reclamation - large stock of period doors 
• Deacon & Sandys - bespoke oak doors 
• Georgian Group - advice leaflet on doors 
• Jim Lawrence – portiere rods 
• Liberon - waxes and polishing products 
• Proctor Group - aerogel insulation 
• Reddiseals - supply draughtproofing seals 
• Strippers Paint Removers - manufacturer of specialist paint removers
• Victorian Society - useful booklet on doors 

Read more:

• How to restore your front door
• How to restore wood doors
• How to repair internal doors
• Choosing new doors and windows for period homes

We realise that the thought of ever venturing outside again may seem like a long off dream but we promise, the sun will shine eventually and when it does you will want your home and garden to be fully ready for all the barbecues, the garden parties and yes, maybe the occasional solo alfresco G&T. 

We reckon the perfect way to make the most of your home during the warm summer months (ah remember those?) is to ‘bring the outside in’. We know this is a bit of a cliche now, but really who doesn’t want the extra light and the illusion of more space? And patio doors are a great way to achieve this. 

So if you are planning on fitting patio doors then Kloeber have loads of gorgeous designs to suit any style of home, just check out these ideas for inspiration… 

1. Go for a modern look with bi-fold doors

Bi-fold doors are a great choice for creating a flow between your patio and your indoor spaces. They are easy to use, budget friendly and when open they are completely tucked away, something you don’t usually get with sliding doors. 

The Kloeber KustomFold aluminium bi-fold doors are sleek and contemporary. The slim frames, don’t really interrupt the expanse of glass so you still get a lovely clean look. Plus you can choose from any RAL colour (over 200) and you always have the option to choose a different colour for the inside and outside of your doors. 

2. Save space and add light with sliding doors

Sliding doors are fully shaking off their 1960s vibes and are increasingly becoming a really popular choice for adding a load of light and opening up a space. Kloeber’s UberSlide doors have super thin, basically invisible frames, that result in a really clean look that doesn’t distract from anything else going on the in room. 

Obviously, with sliding doors there are no sections to fold back as you would have with bi-fold doors so they are a great option in a smaller space.  

3. Choose on-trend metal framed French doors

‘Crittall’ style is very on-trend at the moment, and we are pretty much obsessed with black metal framed windows. The Kloeber aluminium French doors nail this look and what we love about this design is that you have the option to choose a slimmer frame for a more contemporary style. Plus the slimmer frames match Kloeber’s aluminium bi-folds so you can mix the two if you want more than one set of patio doors. 

4. Prefer a traditional style? Go for timber frames

Metal doors and windows may be having a bit of a moment right now, but if you prefer a more traditional look, opt for timber framed patio doors. Kloeber KustomFold timber frames are available in solid engineered softwood, hardwood and oak and can be can be stained or painted in any RAL colour. 

Outdoor connection

With summer round the corner, thoughts turn to ways of getting a greater use and pleasure from outside spaces. Bi-fold doors are the perfect link between indoors and out. 

When closed, the full-height panels fill the space with natural light and allow you to take in the views outside. When open, they offer more uninterrupted enjoyment of the garden than other glazed doors. Sliding doors, for example, typically have a fixed panel to slip behind, so might only open up 50 per cent of the space. With a pivot door, it turns in place so the opening is divided. Large bi-fold doors, on the other hand, can concertina back to a compact size and be tucked away to one side.  

Versatile style

Bi-folds can match or contrast with the architecture of your home – whether you have a period property or modern town house.  

Aluminium frames are stronger so can carry larger and heavier pieces of glass on thinner frames. The metal doesn’t rust, flex or twist and isn’t affected by heat, which  makes it particularly good for homes more exposed to the elements. Its sleek appearance results in a contemporary look that suits a new build or stands out against an older property.

Timber bi-folds offer a more traditional style and work particularly well in period homes. Made from engineered hardwoods, they can be laminated for extra strength and to reduce expansion and warping. They can also be stained or painted to suit your scheme.

If you want a value option, PVCu bi-folds are available, though they don’t tend to be as strong as aluminium so frames would need to be thicker, and they can be prone to warping, affecting their thermal efficiency.

Seamless transition

With bi-folds drawn back, rooms can feel extended out into the garden. There are two types of threshold available at the base for the doors to run along. Non-weathered is when the track is flush to the floor and weathered or rebated is when there is a small lip on one edge to make the closed doors weather tight. 

You can increase the perception of a continuous space by using similar materials, such as stone, tile or wood, on the floor and the terrace outside.

Room dividers

Bi-fold doors aren’t only for links between the house and garden, they also work inside as a way to separate spaces. Unlike walls, they can let light flow between rooms, then when you’re entertaining, can be pulled back out of the way, turning it into one open-plan area.  

Quality and efficiency

The quality of a bi-fold door is determined by components you do not see from the outside. This includes stainless steel moving parts, such as rollers, but most importantly the engineering of the profile’s inside. This is where the thermal break is located which will determine the door’s energy efficiency and prevent condensation from happening.

Where to buy

Solarlux has 35 years experience in making and installing bi-folding doors. Made in Germany, they are custom designed for an exact fit and are simple to operate. Even ones filling the maximum opening can glide quietly and smoothly back with a flick of the wrist. Solarlux’s latest innovation The Bi-Fold Door is precisely engineered to have the slimmest sight lines on the market and a Uw value as low as 0.8 W/m²K, meeting the specification required for passive houses. The tight seal round the doors means that, when closed, the system is impermeable to cold, high winds and rain. For more details go to solarlux.co.uk