Color in Design

Color is one of the fastest, easiest and most effective ways to truly enchant your personal headquarters. Color is the known psychological mood-setter and showcases your individuality by the sheer power of choosing color and color combinations that reflect you and instantly reveal and reflect your personality. 
Color also expresses emotion and the beautiful thing is that there are no rights or wrongs with color. It all goes well according to your color preference and personal taste. Many people are gaining a lot of confidence expressing themselves using color. Bold, soft, feminine, masculine, impacting, dramatic, cheerful, formal, elegant, dignified, peaceful, all is well with color. Colors are almost invariably associated with elements in nature, and it is only natural since our entire external world is displayed with vibrant shapes and colors. 



Why color matters?
Color plays a significant role in our visual experiences of a space. It is a subliminally persuasive force, it captures attention, relaxes, stimulates or irritates, and send powerful messages to our brain. 
There are many aspects of color: human associations to color, ranging from each individual color and their particular or general qualities and attributes; cultural interpretations and use of color. Designers, professional's and amateurs recognize the importance of right use of color. 
Color's first association is to nature. Sea and skies are associated to blue, Green to foliage and trees, Snow invariably linked to white and grey. We draw from nature as first inspiration and draw its pigmentation for the myriad of objects and artifacts that are trying to mimic from it for use in our lives. 
Colors are drawn from nature to dye textiles. looms and paint to give live to our interiors by the sheer power of color. 

Color as a design element is one of the most impacting elements that influence decor.


Color Theories
Color theory encompasses a multitude of definitions, concepts and design applications, enough to fill several encyclopedias. However, there are three basic categories of color theory that are logical and useful: The Color Wheel; Color Harmony, the context of how colors are used.
This blogger only includes colors as used for Design purposes, it excluded graphic or web designs, computer imaging, photography, theatrical use or cinematography or any of the other disciplines that use color and light. 

The Color Wheel

The most used and most useful tool for showing the full color spectrum. It is a color circle, based on red, yellow and blue, developed over time in the traditional field of art.This torus presents a logically arranged sequence of pure chromas, with variations in hues and tones.

First developed by Sir Isaac Newton in 1666, this circular diagram of colors has since then been studied by scientists and artists who have since developed numerous variations of this concept.

Color Harmony

The basic color theory for color combinations are: Achromatic, Monochromatic, Direct Complimentary, Split complimentary, Triadic, Tetradic and Analogous. 
Although these terms may not mean so much to occupants, every competent Interior Designer must be acquainted with them and be able to show their clients examples of these schemes and their client's inclinations when doing a client personality profiling. 

Achromatic, means sans-couleur, thus only black and white, and perhaps shades in between, very effective, contrasting and many times modern and often using lots of patterns. 
Monochromatic, or monotone, means uni-color, thus using many shades of the same basic color, like the popular beiges this scheme is very soothing and can never go wrong. 
Direct Complementary: Here two basic opposing hues are used and harmony is not necessarily the goal. Splits are used to achieve stimulating and exciting effects. 
Split complimentary:  the objective is to create a very colorful and lively space. The dominant color is complemented by two opposite colors from the wheel, for example yellow with dark purple and blue. 
Triadic: By using an equilateral triangle to select 3 directly opposing colors from the color wheel, for instance, red, yellow and blue, or green, purple and orange or any variation of this method. The goal here is to create a lively space using strong and contrasting hues.
Tetradic or double complimentary scheme is the richest of all the schemes because it uses four color arranged into two complementary color pairs. Most effective when using one dominant color and subduing the other three. 
Analogous colors: Are those adjacent to each other on the color wheel, for instance: green, yellow-green, and yellow. Or red, fuchsia and violet. Analogous color schemes are often found in nature and are pleasing to the eye. The combination of these colors give a bright effect on the area and are able to accommodate many changing moods. When using the analogous color scheme,one should make sure there is one dominant hue as a main color. 

In addition to these color combinations it is noteworthy to explain the neutrals and accented neutrals. Neutrals are the beige, browns, grays and blacks or somewhat variations from other colors with strong neutral tones. Accented Neutrals are using the above colors adding one strong additional color to set the tone for the space. 

It is valuable to add a note on warm and cool colors, since all these have a definite effect on the human psyche. Warm colors or receding colors, include reds, brown, yellows and oranges, these set very inviting and cozy atmospheres. 
Cool colors, or advancing colors, are very calming and soothing, these include blue, green, and purples, and have been known to slow breathing rate, relax muscles, lover blood pressure and body temperature.
The stronger the color, the more intense this 'cooling' effect tends to be. 

Color attitudes
Could you imagine our world if it was created colorless or achromatic, meaning only in black, grey and white?
Color is the impulse for visual experience and interpretation and is not the same for everyone. Color can also be very subjective, it does not have the same meaning for all individuals. It may evoke one reaction to one person and an entirely different reaction from another due to individual experience, cultural background and personal preferences. In addition there may be a positive or negative associations with color, and as outlet for emotions. 
For example; White in the Western world for instance is associated with innocence, weddings, snow, in some other cultures it is associated with mourning. 


Colors and shapes.
And one more factor added to color: If colors added interest to your space, try some patterns and shapes!  
Shapes have to do with overall items in the space, while patterns are specific lines or curves in one item, like textiles. 
Shapes and patterns, natural, geometric, paisley, or sternly abstract like stripes, zig-zag or solids. All can benefit and add personality to your space and make it uniquely yours. Accessories, walls, window treatments, panels, doors and door-frames, textile, upholstery, window-coverings or any other surface, form of ornamentation can dazzle with a little bit of texture and patterns. There are techniques to effectively create harmony with different colors and shapes. And these are the 3 main rules of thumb: Scale, Shape and Color. 

Color Uniformity: One can mix scales and shapes as long as the colors are uniform and harmonizing. 
Mix Scale: use one large scale, like an oversized print, one medium and one small to balance the patterns. Three different patterns usually work well, I would advice caution using more. 
Mix Shape: Shapes can be geometrics: squares, stripes, circles, plaid, diagonal, zig-zag or they can be organic: florals, paisleys, jaquards, vernacular and of course we all know solid colors with perhaps visible texture, you may think of a plush, tube, ribbed.
The most pleasing mixes will include a linear pattern like striped or plaids, perhaps both but in different scales. Florals are very popular for country and feminine rooms. 


Gender differences in color.
Oh yes, genders make a good example of very different attitudes when it comes to color. Males tend to select dark and deep colors, and the well known tendency towards blue is now expanded with dark browns, greys, blacks, hunter greens, mauve and the so called 'masculine' colors. Again there are exception rules in personality and color choices. I'm sure you have noted the highly energetic neon green that creative, young and vibrant computer analysts or advertising designers love. 

Females lean toward a lot more open choices and wider selections in color. Again note personalities have a grave weight in client's preferences. 
As singles these preferences should not cause too much strain, but when discussing choices for couples it is important to note their different chroma-choices. As these will be primary considerations in making designs work for couples. Discover the color likes and dislikes for both, and exclude any dislikes in designs that are meant for their use. Sometimes it works to combine the two or several favorite colors and work them into the color technique. 



Age differences in color preference.
Oh yes, age matters in color choice. We all remember the pink fascination of young girls. For younger children their natural vibrancy and high energy call for bright colors, but especially through the ages of 6 to 9 there is an euphoric draw towards pinks and purples, also lots of sparkle and glitter. The fascination is explained by scientists and color experts as coming from being a new, novel and a "created" color and a desire to be 'different' and to 'stand out' in the youngsters view. 

In young boys there is no strong inclination towards any color choice, the cultural associations with blue are more given to them, then self chosen. Young boys seem to like a greater variety of colors that include the warmer colors, including pinks and reds, but some parents make the selection of blue for them.

In the older generation there seems to be inclination towards softer colors like pastels, especially if very advanced in age. Brain stimulus using bright colors tend to irritate the elderly.
The other choices are with earthy tones and darker tones.  

With adults, we know that the tendencies are purely by personality and cultural attitudes and these are as wide as the color spectrum itself. It is easier to note those choices of color that are disliked and work with a color palette that excludes them. Simply ask yourself how a certain color makes you feel or what you think of  any particular color.  
Some colors become 'trendy' and fashionable for a certain period of time, others are classic and timeless like the achromatics: black & white. Those regions that enjoy 4 seasons we note changes in colors choices as nature and weather change.   

The spectacular news is that there is no right or wrong with color. As long as you like it, it is ok to use any color or color combination. 


Traditional and Spiritual beliefs.
Many cultures have assigned colors to major events in life or to theosophical rituals.
Wedding known for white gowns in the western culture, in the Indian is a color for mourning.
For weddings the Hindi and Japanese use bright and shiny colors. 
The norm for funerals in the western world tie to the dark tones, black, dark grey, navy blue; browns may not be so common but be warned that red would be considered an offense in some regions as it signifies energy and blood. 

Purple in the western world is a spiritual color and in medieval Europe was very expensive to create the die, so was also accessible to the rich.



Metamerism, a phenomenon of color and light. 
Metamerism occurs when colors change when viewed in different light sources. When a particular color in a material, for instance, carpet flooring or walls, if displayed in a showroom lit by warm incandescent lighting would reflect a very different color then if it was installed in an office with cool fluorescent lighting. The type and quality of light, natural or artificial shall be very different depending on the source of light. it is said that it is distorted, I would say that it is changing. But if it has any effect on your desired results in exact hues, thus saying you like it or hate it, then definitely take metamerism into account. This will have a change in color especially with beige where cooler lighting is famous for sucking the life out of beige. 

A final word on color.
There is no right or wrong with color, but the caution here is that once the color is up and you are dissatisfied with it, it has to be done all over again. If you have doubts, ask for small samples and paint a small section of the walls with the several color choices. Wait a full day so that you can see the color during day with natural light and at night with artificial light.
Discuss color dislikes with the significant people who will share the space, and exclude any dislikes. 

And finally, ...
Harmony can be defined as a pleasing arrangement of parts, whether it be music, poetry, color, fashion, art or even cakes and all food presentations. 

In visual experiences, harmony is something that is pleasing to the eye. It engages the viewer and it creates an inner sense of order, a balance in the visual experience. When something is not harmonious, it's either boring or chaotic. At one extreme is a visual experience that is so bland that the viewer is not engaged. The human brain will reject under-stimulating information.
At the other extreme is a visual experience that is so overdone, so chaotic that the viewer can't enjoy it find it irritating and can't stand viewing for too long. The human brain rejects what it cannot organize, what it cannot understand. The visual task requires that we present a logical structure. Color harmony delivers visual interest and a sense of order. 

In summary, extreme unity leads to under-stimulation, extreme complexity leads to over-stimulation. Harmony with color is a dynamic equilibrium and a very important aspect of successful designs.

I would love to invite you to read my next blogger which will come out mid-January.
Thank you very much for reading

Curb Appeal

What is Curb Appeal?

Curb Appeal is something realtors have known for a long time and is the industry jargon for the first impression that passersby make when they drive by your street and house. The curb appeal of your home makes a good impression from a distance. The handsome design elements of your home, a welcome entry, well maintained front yard, harmonious outside colorscheme, alluring focal points, signature details with atractive and personalized outdoor accessories, architectural character, well designed landscaping, effective nightscape and lights.

Homes that stand out create presence in the neighborhood and demonstrate creativity, innovation, and charm. At the same time they increase not only the real estate value of the house, but also the zoning market value of the neighborhood and area. That is why in some areas real estate is more expensive then others.

What would be a good reason to upgrade the curb appeal of your home? Well, there are many. Pride of place, an innate drive for high quality of life, equity value, personal expression, creativity, leverage and social status.  It is always  a good idea to upgrade your home even if you don't intend to sell it. But, whatever your motivation, Let me show you how.

The main points are these:

1. ARCHITECTURAL CHARACTER
2. DESIGN ELEMENTS, STYLE
3. ACCESS AND PATHWAYS
4. ENTRY DOORWAY
5. COVER AND SHELTER
6. LANDSCAPING
7. ELEVATIONS
8. NATURAL AND ARTIFICIAL LIGHT
9. COLOR
10. COST & BUDGET

1. ARCHITECTURAL CHARACTER
First of all, understand the character of the setting and site of your home. It is advisable to evaluate the original architecture and identity of your house, by studying its features and materials; the roof and roof-shape, wall height, chimney, cupola's, projections, an additional wing, recesses, arcades, balconies, porches, architectural details, windows, bay-windows.

Many times it is desirable to stay true to the original architecture of the house at others to enhance or emphasize certain elements. There are features that can look outstanding if improved with color and light but also by allowing their visibility from a distance. Identify the visual character distinguishing your home, like the overall shape, materials, craftsmanship and decorative details and the district, region, city, neighborhood and country. Then accentuate the attractive features with color, light or placing or reducing landscape to allow their visibility.


2. DESIGN ELEMENTS & STYLE
Understand the setting and design context. Can they be considered as an example of a historical period? Is it an entirely modern concept? Is it a themed concept that reflects your personality and cultivated taste?
Often homes are related to a specific architectural style, such as Gothic revival, farmhouse, arid-zone coves, one-story bungalows, Meditteranean or Art Deco. Look at the roof and roof shape, chimneys, pediments, cupola's, projections, recesses, arcades, balconies, cornices, porches, windows, bay-windows and empty areas, these are the distinct character features of your domicile. Can these elements be emphasized as part of the appeal of your personal abode? 

3.ACCESS AND PATHWAYS
Pathways leading to the front entry are an important element and a variety of interesting design features and techniques can be employed to create a stellar curb appeal. First and foremost have safety in mind. I recommend to select a slip resistant walkway, one that does not retain water on the surface and whether brick, concrete or tile, make sure it is well lit. 
Depending on the distance and elevation between property line and entry, make the steps as gradual as possible, thus making the height no more then 4.5 to 5 inches tall and the steps as deep as possible and ensuring that they are clearly visible with light and/or border rims. 

Symmetrical balance is very appealing mostly with formal and low front lawns. I find assymetrical best suited for a warmer welcome.The most inviting pathways are curved leading to the front door and have a plateau surrounding the entry. The more formal entries have a straight, direct and non-deviating pathway.


4.ENTRY DOORWAY
To create dazzling and inviting entry ways and front doors we need to become acquainted with a few industry secrets. A good and well-known technique are the over-sized and well-lit entryways with adornments on the sides. Special character on the otherhand, is achieved when considering not only the door in itself and all the surrounding elements but by selecting special signature choices that reflect your individual attributes and utilizing your home as an outlet for their expression. Many functional elements such as unique door knockers, bells, peepholes, mail-slots, house numbers, mailboxes and special signs can be incorporated in very singular ways.

Larger elements such as arches and curves send a subtle, soft and warm visual message, while straight lines, columns and cathedrals a more stern and formal one. The more foliage, the more romantic, the less flora or perhaps clean unsprouting stems the more these are considered as modern and sleek. The door itself should allow ease of entry by its size and the orientation of the door-swing. Most main entry doors are given focus through their design, color, elaborateness in ornaments and are differentiated from all other doors, sometimes by contrast and with embellishments and beauty. Nowadays we find all sorts of strikingly beautiful patterns for wood, glass and metal entry doors matching or complementing them with equally beautiful hardware sets. The overall combination of all these different elements of design, texture and materials creates a synergy that come together in salient entries.


5.COVER AND SHELTER.
Overhang, covers and port corchères are essential details if in your climate zone there is a lot of precipitation. When included overhangs become the design element you avail yourself of to gain some extra points in terms of curb appeal. Covers are mainly to protect from weather, especially if there's frequent or high volume traffic but an added value is the chance to employ them as designed elements of the front facade. They can be extended from property line to front door, or hanging directly over the entry. The variety in shapes and techniques should give you plenty of choices in mouldings, cornices, crowns and arches or vine arches, pergolas, awnings, plexi-glass to invite style and attention. With smart implementation, covers make stunning and very attractive in addition to protected entries.
Choose a style that fits in well and again you may opt mainly for formal and elegant or warm and personal. Design the cover raised at least 10 feet and with an area of 6 feet or larger extended from the front door, this way you can add many smaller interest items later without cramping the space. If you have uneven landscape or hills, many innovative and creative ideas derives from unusual settings and make even more interesting settings for entries and covers.   Plus remember those long goodbye's that ride out outside the front door? They all take place in the front, right?



6.LANDSCAPING.
There is the common idea that in order for a house to have spectacular look it must have full forest-like and lush landscaping. Yet we have seen many examples of very attractive homes in the city or dessert where little or no plant-life is visible at all. Having a garden with full plants means you have the time and are willing with the up keep in maintaining the garden. Successful curb-appeal does not absolutely require plants or to have attractive landscaping. Sculptures, urns, pergola's, low lawns, with gravel, sand or rocks may work as well. The key aspect is to have a balanced, clean and manicured front yard that looks complete, finished and with light and color appeal. The best designs in landscaping combine nature and culture. 

Landscaping, is the largest segment if you have a large lawn, also because of its prominent  site in the front of the house.  If you decide on landscaping, design the entertainment / activity areas with direct access first then the pathways leading to them. If you enjoy privacy but desire a front porch or a secluded area that are not directly in view, include them now, and finally design the landscaping around these. Should the climate in the vicinity permit and your preferences are to have a plant garden, make a list of the plant types that are suitable for this type of climate and then check off those that you like, based on ground and potted plants, leaf size, shape, color, height and width. Start with the larger items, like trees, then hedges, shrubs and flowering plants. Add additional outdoor elements, such as fountains, pools, statues, columns, pedestals, mirrors, or others to add interest and variety. Finally run pencil lines for the irrigation system. Make sure to have good contrasts for daytime and nighttime. 

7.ELEVATIONS.
Elevations and levels in areas add interest whether they be sunken or raised. Most exterior elevations of a home are by raising the entry at the front porch and sunken in the rear. Elevations can extend  an inviting and warm welcome by offering delightful paths, interesting visual elements,  perhaps even some animals, birds, fish, views of the surroundings, perhaps even pleasant breezes and scents from your front lawn to the door. There are a few different styles for elevations, some plateau, other rolling curves, steep straight up steps or flat. Layering is the most effective way to showcase varied plants and garden features and many times capture the eye before the front door does. It allows for several elements to be displayed at the same time.


8.NATURAL AND ARTIFICIAL LIGHT.
Light helps to set the ambiance and it is no secret that light effects at night help you display a spectacular show if you can avail yourself of just a few clues to produce magnificent night-scapes. 
There are two suggestions I'd like to reveal to you, and these are to consider the lights permeating to the outside and the lights at the exterior side that highlight your house's architectural features. There are two reasons to light up outside, one is for safety and clear vision of paths and the other is to add visual beauty and interest to special features. What needs to be lit? For safety: walkways, steps, doors, exterior entertaining areas and porches. For visual interest: walls, special architectural details, like water pools, fountains, statues and  trees and some plants so that they become visible at night. 

And if light in itself is an attractive feature, do not underestimate the shadows that create interesting contrasts when falling in the right places in the evening time. Nowadays with so many options in solar powered energy even less of a concern in terms of energy consumption. For exteriors usually low intensity, low voltage is used for the smaller light pools. Remember that the indoor lights permeating to the exterior may already cause a dramatic effect. But taking this aside for a while, mind the height of your home and its walls, and special features to accentuate. In addition to this again safety and prevention of accidents by emphasizing steps and changes in level.
One more tip, is to remind you of special occasions and festive seasons where you may want to scale up the display a notch as to regular seasons where a more even light use is more appropriate.  It would be smart of have outlets, and hooks  laid-out  so that it becomes easier to add festive lights later.

Daylight
Natural light has a lot to do with the sun-orientation and it's intensity. There is not much to be done with natural light during day-time, except to adjust to its orientation, create shade and to filter and reduce its strength. Another aspect is the wind-flow and direction to cool off from those beaming sun rays for ease of vision and human comfort with high temperatures or to create windbreakers for strong gusts especially in extremely low temperatures. 
Toldo's, hedges, pergola's, arbors and trellises all available in a myriad of designs



9.COLOR
Moods are set with color. Outdoor color schemes are usually very subtle and many effects can be created with the combination of color with light. Light or Dark colors are not right or wrong, these too match personality and architectural character and many homeowners today have gained more confidence in choosing house colors. The traditional white and light colors are being replaced with bold dark blues, greens and browns and even daring red shades and the whites that were once perceived as the norm and safe choices are gradually receding and more favored are tinted neutrals that play off landscaping and other building materials. These are increasingly being used as are mid-tone values of neutrals. But in truth all colors are fair game: stark whites, contrasts, matching color blending in with the landscaping, monochromatic complimentary, analogous or triasic.
If you want your home to stand out, step outside the convention and be the first or only terracotta house in the block. Important is the the overall theme has to be harmonious. 

Take a photograph of your home both during daytime and evening and appreciate its features, then decide which features merit attention so that color and light are best reflected on them. Heavily wooded gardens make colors look darker due to shade and bright colors look better in sun-intense areas and too dramatic for the northern hemisphere. Darker colors also make the house look smaller, but more substantial, this is especially important for small lots. 
As easy as color is to instantly improve curb appeal, don't forget that mistakes in choice have to be entirely redone.  If you enjoy cheerful and sunny colors, choose darker hues like deep mustard yellow or dirty yellow, bright canary may not be the right choice for exterior walls, but perhaps the door or the door frames, maybe some flowers or accent tiles. For walls the colors are always more subtle. 

A few more ideas on color and paint works. Consider the unchanging colors of the roof, shingles, bricks, slate, stone veneers. Another is that it is best to 'hide' unattractive elements such as gutters and other imperfections and body trims by blending the same tones and not use a different color for these functional elements. Accentuate interesting architectural details. 

Lastly, Don't be afraid to be 'you' Did you ever notice that flamingo-pink or the bold rustic house that is different but just looks so perfect?



10.COST & BUDGET
I suggest to make a list of wishes and wants first, boldly and with no apologies as to what you would like to have, then upgrade or downsize on budget. Simply because there is no limit to what could be spend on home improvement and in this way you will find yourself naturally giving first choice to your prime preferences according to budget and taste. There is never a minimum, only a maximum and you know how much this is. 

The main thing is to have a true sense of satisfaction after the facade is completed. Invariably you always find it was well worth it and that the money was well spend and the value of your home is always increased.
If some elements are beyond your reach they can always be included later. Just make sure the most essential elements are included in the first phase of development. It would be more costly to add irrigation systems after the entire facade is finished. Another variation is to stretch  the changes over a period of time, say 6 to 9 months or allot a percentage, say 15% each time on the major elements, then purchase the smaller items last.
Also, you don't have to eliminate all choices, you may reduce some to a smaller size or place them elsewhere. Would the sculptural fountain look better in a corner, centralized or in the backyard?



A final note....
.. about curb appeal. It is important that the design honors the original architecture and that the house is true to the owner's personality and that it blends in well with the surroundings. 

How to evaluate your home for it's curb appeal? Here are a few questions to ask: How long has it been since the last overall maintenance was done? Is the overall appearance, the windows, color, doorstyles outdated? These only look good with period style houses. Is the facade 'tired'? the gates and doors hanging, the windows or gutters sagging or warped and portuding? Has it fallen in disrepair and damage? Is your front yard well maintained, or does it look like a dessert or an abandoned lot? Are the plants sheared and manicured, roots crawling, pots shining and undusted? Is the entry inviting, with light and color? Is the roof discolored, peeled or missing some tiles, or shingles?

Finally I want to add, curb appeal has nothing to do with the size of your house or it's cost. It has to do with a finished and complete look, no matter how elaborate or simple. And don't forget about your own likes and preferences.  Inwardly you know what styles you would be inclined to, incorporate them into the overall design. If you admire them from pictures of other homes, you can create a miniature detail from these. Be creative and have confidence into your ability to make a spectacular welcoming and inviting presence with your home. Lastly, with these few guidelines, let me also say that there is no fixed rule, and if there were, there are always exceptions to them, go with your inner guide into what feels right, and then as you plan and execute them you will find yourself refining and modifying, always improving the initial concept.

Being different can pay off richly. Do you want to match the look of the other 30 homes that have a sago palm in the front porch? Be yourself, If you love plants but live in an arid zone, this too could be a feature to stand out as the oasis in the neighborhood. Or same with a lighted metal cactus in the middle of the winter season. 
Houses that were once unassuming, barren and exposed to the street, with unadorned yards. with the addition of simple architectural features and new landscaping, they have achieved privacy, grace and better defined entryways that benefit the neighborhood as well as the homeowner. Assuming you have no desires for absolute privacy, prefer no high walls and courtyard, I suggest that in the next few months,  you add some pizzazz and deliberately ask for some attentions from drivers by and be the one to stand out from the curb!

Thanks so much for your attention, see you again for the next blog. All about homes.
Please post comments and I also appreciate suggestions for blogger articles.
e-mail: eubiezen@gmail.com

All about Doors

In the previous blog, we've discussed (in a nutshell) the main considerations when designing the main entry.
In this edition, we shall see the important features of the door itself to make your Front Entry, appealing, attractive and in well-working condition. I shall detail all the ins and outs of material, hardware and maintenance to make it last for a long time and also call to your mind and imagination those attractive features that add value to your home, make guests feel welcome and allot you the style and privacy level that suits your needs and liking.
It is a relatively easy task to select the right door, both for it's beauty, durability and purpose. Once the correct steps are pointed out, any home-owner can become his/her own design consultant and be a better informed patron when making purchases or executing the task. But there are a few steps to take. The primary is that forethought needs to be given to consider the functionality of the door, and not the aesthetics. The looks and appeal of any door, is of secondary importance compared to its daily use.
There are exceptions to every rule, provided that the appropriate function requires it.

Some may argue that a door is mainly to invite guests, I hold the premise that it should entirely suit the needs of the homeowner first and accomodate the less regular users to a comfortable level.
Personality profiling of course would make clear, the occupants needs and inclinations.

Design is a complex field that intertwines many disciplines, this blog is to touch base on the main issues and to give you useful tips for this project.
First of all, the door's function is transition from outside to inside, thus its purpose is to block off elements and define the limits of public and private, in short a psychological and physical boundary. This is easily expressed by contrasting colors, different styles and formality in transition and also accessories in different degrees of subtelty.

Let's now consider the steps toward door choices.

1 - DOOR TYPE
The first consideration about doors, is to make a distinction between Exterior and Interior doors. The make, materials and sturdiness are not of the same category. Exterior doors, need to withstand precipitation, sun and light, abbrassion of particles, temperatures, and the daily wear and tear.
The particular distinctions about doors, are combinations wood/glass - metal/wood - glass/metal. and in solid doors, the relief on it, from raised panels to intricate carvings.

Let us not ignore that a front door is to access your property and residence so safety standards and the locktypes preferred are according to zoning and personal standards. It is also the first impression of you, like the eyes and face, the first thing people notice and make their impressions. If pride of ownership is of any importance to you, the front entry is the place to start to give your home curb appeal and make a striking effect on visitors and passersby, not to mention realtors.

2- SIZE OF ENTRY WAY
Is a double or single entry desired? Not only the length but a sizeable area surrounding the immediate entry, inside and outside for safe and comfortable entry and exit and give the possibility for single or double doors either with or without side panels. All these should tie-in with the overall architectural dimensions of the complete structure. One can see in commercial projects how a greater space is required for trafficflow. Although in residential spaces there would not be the same volume of traffic, the immediately adjacent space does serve for the functionality of reception: like nooks and closets, coat- and maybe shoe-racks, umbrella, key-hides, letter mailers, storage and sometimes a chair for brief visitors or putting on or taking of shoes.
The doormate and the dustwiper is mostly found outdoors and rugs a less conspicuous one, serving as a welcome item that psychologically makes the transition from outdoors to indoors.

3- ENTRY AESTHETICS
Now we are ready to consider the beauty and personality of the entryway. Because it is so important that the design reflect the character of the occupants while at the same time blend in with the architecture of the residence, here is where aesthetic appeal becomes the focus of the design. Commence with the easy questions, Do you want a warm look with wood, or do you prefer a modern design with contemporary colors?  Would you like a themed entry that reflects you, travel a favorite place, or lasting memories.
We shall come back to aesthetics, when all the other considerations are discussed. Start with a list of likes and dislikes in color, bold or soft; in style, either modern or traditional. Do you like to attract attention? Like unusual things? Do you enjoy many small items of interest or a clean look? How friendly and considerate are you willing to be towards visitors? And,.. write these down.

4- MATERIAL SELECTION.
Is it preferable that the entryway have an open or closed view? Materials such as accrylic and glass provide an open view or partially blocked view, whereas, wood and metal do not, and give complete privacy by entirely blocking the entry view and sealing off temperature. Blocked views also give the psychological sense of safety and seclusion.
For those designs that include foyers, vestibules and veranda's, complete blocking of view may not not be essential and even a display view desireable. Additionally we must consider the look and finish of the material surface. It may not be necessary for the door to be mahogany wood, if it will be covered with bright yellow high gloss paint. Thus before selecting an expensive door, decide first if color is desired or the exposed natural character of the prime material. Durability: It is important to select a door that is made of sturdy durable materials that will stand the test of time.

Another note on materials is this. Wood communicates warmth and a natural feel, while glass gives a more modern and colder, thus more distant, feel. Metal, sends vibes of strength, stability and security, many times of light weight, but of course are temperature conductors. If polished, shiny surfaces of high luster send out a subtly message of delicate sophistication. While matte or opaque of closeness and friendliness.

5- FINISHING
In terms of finishings, the possibilities are quite varied. In color, they are limitless, but this factor is weighed in last. The color scheme harmonizes into to the existing design plan. When selecting strikingly contrasting color it is to emphasize the focal point, either the isolated door or the foyer. Finishes otherwise are to beautify and protect the natural material for durablity and ease of maintenance by reducing moisture, stains or damage or other factors of the elements. The exception to this rule are woodstains, that fulfill both of these functions, while maintaining a partially exposure of wood by covering the original color, but allowing the woodgrains to show. This technique offers flexibility when colorscheme is a predominant consideration but the warm texture of wood is desired.
One more note about finishings, Today there are beautiful metal paints, that can add allure to any door or doorframe.

In the case of glass, the finishings would be mostly films applied to the panels for safety to prevent shattered glass in case of accidents. In fact, these are required by law and incorporated in manufacturing and building codes. Another often overlooked possibility is colored glass and mirrors, also etched glass, frosted and patterned glass, that allow clear or color, partial or complete lightflooding while retaining some degree of privacy.
Choices for finishings are: highgloss, semi-gloss, sateen, eggshell and matte. For the type of covering: paint, lacquer, shellac, varnish, wax, and drying oils, with varying degrees of hardness and sheen on the finished surface for durability and ease of maintenance.

5- SAFETY & SECURITY.
Safety is accident prevention, while security calls into mind prevention of losses. Two things come into play here. First the crime rate in the zoning of your home and the valuables that need all time protection.
Consider good locks and bolts not only for your main entry, but for all exterior doors and windows. Here there is space to discuss only the locks and bolts for doors. New technologies that are popular nowadays are the keycode, since it needs no key, access can be granted over the phone, plus it can be easily changed when there's a breach of security, always retrievable if lost. Another is thumbprint a flipside is that any computerized mechanism are made with sensitive electronics. Although factory tested, it is a nuinsance not to have entry, even if once. Most modern locks have a dual system for access. If you are more comfortable with key, then only style is a consideration. About the makes, do not be intimidated by prices, the sturdier the material, the more expensive it tends to be. The cheaper, the more breakable, even for metal.

6-SAFETY
Accidents are always unintended, their prevention can be planned. With the door itself, whether glass, metal or wood. Make sure the hinges are sturdy and especially for families with small children, doorswings that hold off finger crushing closes. Clear glass panels are a delight to look at, to prevent collision and place some decorative decals to announce approximation.

7-FRAMES
Door frames in various widths and style can add character in the overall theme, and not always need to match the door color. The thinner, the more sophisticate and delicate, the thicker the more masculine and rustic. The best examples are greek pediments, but there are many different motifs and styles: romanesque keystones, corner embellishments, patterns and thickness. This is where a themed entryway becomes the easiest way to add visual interest, when there is otherwise a limited budget. 

8- DOORSTYLES
In terms of doorstyles, right choices are limited to two or three that qualify for Front Entrance. Excluded from this category are Dutch-doors. (no offense intended to my Dutch countrymen) For entrydoors triple or even quadruple doors are very appealing, making the front entry inviting. Most of the time, side panels allow at least partial view and fill light into the room. Single or double; swingdoors, sliding doors, French and Palladio style are all ok.

9- DOOR ORIENTATION.
Is there enough room for the door to swing in, out or sideways? Do you prefer for the door to open to the left or to the right? Front entry doors usually have marked frames designed for safety and restrict the door from opening to the opposite side. Naturally the hinges go on the opposite side and placement of other surrounding items are dependent of this simple matter. Note if home occupants are left- or right handed.

10-AESTHETIC APPEAL
Did you notice that some houses stand out from a distance? Can people easily find your house when directed? This is called Curb appeal, something realtor have known for a long time. You can achieve this by being bold in making an entry statement to your home, selecting a dazzling door, adding striking color, light effects, accessorize and give your main entry a stylish and a complete and finished look. More then getting the attention of the neighborhood, you are enhancing your home and increasing its value. 

11-CONVENIENCE ITEMS
Did you notice that the hardware is designed to enhance the appearance of the door. You may also want to decide in advance if you want a doorknocker, peepholes, mailslot, and openings or storage boxes for bulkier packages, doorbells, communication devices, signs and dogwarnings.

12-NIGHTLIGHTS
One more category is lighting. A overhanging general light, or ambiance light, the main features that need to be noticed at night, steps and changes in level and obstructions. Inevitably indoor light will bleed out to exterior, and enhance the view. Outdoor light aside from the entryway are to illuminate the core features, the pathway and vegetation.

13-ORNAMENTATION
Decorative items may be reduced when incorporated in embellishements in the architectural features themselves, such as the sidepanels, the frames, pediments and overhang. Or added as separate items,,to the outdoor or indoor space immediately adjacent to the main entry. Items such as pedestals, urns, plants and planters, flowering shrubs, sculptures and sentinels, statues or statuettes, message signs, mirrors, spheres. a focal item for added interest. Ornamentation is the main method of personalization, may be themed or abstract. can be clustered if smaller items, or may be one large scale item.

One last note, the beauty of the indoors, is extended and matched to the outdoor space. Entry way is the focal point of this transition, but a balanced interior / exterior in decor and weight are always desired.
Please log on to our next blog for expert tips, valuable advice and key points detailing design principles to make your home a success, and a Paradize.

Does your home bid 'Welcome' ?

The entrance and entryways to your home can have a dramatic effect on people. Visitors and those living at home. Not surprisingly, ... it is one of the most impacting 'remakes' that you can do to your home. The Main Entry Door is a relatively simple remodeling job, that you can do to improve the appearance, curb-appeal and real estate value of your precious nest. It takes relatively short time to redo, if you know what effect you want, it can be done in one or two days. Cost?? not that pocket breaking.

So, what are the things to consider to redo the entry to my house? It is a matter of simply picking a strikingly appealing new door and have a carpenter installing it right?? ... WRONG.

Just like designing an entire room, project and residential space, the entry door requires some considerations about what the home owner's likes and preferences. Not only the door is important, but some basic features surrounding the area of the entry / walkway and even the courtyard leading towards the main entry. External weather conditions and also daily habits need to be considered. Then, at last after the thinking through phase, you are ready to choose the style and features, material, color and hardware of the door itself.

The main factors that your decisions should be based on are: A) Weather and Natural Elements B) Safety and hazzard issues and C) personal choice.

For instance:

1) PRIVACY: Side panels for viewing arrivals thus having some control of the amount of privacy desired when people are comming to your house. We all have those instances when we know it is best not to be 'in' and since it is your home, it is your right to accept visitors or avoid them entirely or postpone them for a more opportune time.

2) LIGHT; the amount of natural light that filters into your foyer if you have one. Some people are morning people and are away from home at the times when the sun is flooding in. Others have a perfect scenery at sunset and would love to enjoy the view. Sun orientation as well as artificial light need be a consideration when you are planning your main entry way.

Another aspect of light, is the lack of it, is shade and shelter from elements a required element?

3) HEAT: spectacular entryways do not necessarily mean glass doors. Perhaps it is best to consider a heat blocking entryway or one that provides psychological security and blocks off views. We all know that 2 pm or 4 pm heatwave that comes in if you have a lot of light permeating glass as main entry. There are myriads of ways to block views, or hot or cold weather. The best way is insulation and selecting door panels that absorb or reflect temperature. First consult the region you live and also the solar path. AutoDesk offers a link that can help you check the amount of sun-light that your home will be exposed to yearround.

4) PRECIPITATION; Does it rain or snow a lot? Is there strong windgusts with the accompanied air-borne particles? Rain will drain to the lowest level, but did you plan for this? or will it shower away the recent fertilizer or gravel that you just put in?  If you live in an area that snows, is there space to walk either before or after you shovel it aside?
The last thing you desire is a puddle of water in front of your doorway. Gutters will solve with problem, but for entryways it is best to design them to be nicely tucked out of view.

5) WIND: Same as with precipitation, wind gusts carry with them a lot of air-borne particles, dust, pollen and if strong enough can blow items in the immediate opening. Depending on the region that you reside, these are considerations to take into account.

6) ALTERNATE ENTRY: How often do you use the main entry yourself? Do you prefer the easy-use kitchen side-door? Is the main door used primarily to receive visitors? So here it is, your daily habits as well as your wide circle of friends you entertain must be weighed in. If the repairman or the delivery man comes in, he may not have to use a formal entry-method.

7) VISITOR FREQUENCY; Do you like to entertain a lot, do your children's friends clap in and out all the time? Do family members, friends, or co-workers drop by with sufficient frequency?
If these people linger for 20 minutes or less, and not necessarily stay as real visitors, but are important enough to be treated in a friendly manner, you may want to create a 'waiting area' or formally named a foyer. A few benches, or chairs with a nice painting or picture may do. The degree of formality depends on the home type, not all residences have a full room as foyer.

8) WALKWAY; do you wish to include the walkway leading towards the entry as part of the story you tell the people that you allow to your home? Do you need overhang, pergola or awnings covering the walkway to your front-door? If yes and you have the budget, go for it. Just know that all of these items can be added later, just as long as you plan the idea entry and include all features, you know you will have the most appealing welcome of the neighborhood.
9) FLORA: Do you love plants? Do you like to take care of them? Garden maintenance can take up many hours of that Sunday you wanted to take it easy and need to be done on a regular basis. What's the use of a nice looking mini-garden if you don't keep it pristine, if defeats the purpose of a 'designer's entry'
If you like to have some vegetation but don't like the upkeep, try a fountain, some sculptures or over-sized urns instead, they can act like welcoming sentinels to your guests and add voguish flavor to your home.

10) SAFETY: Is there need for Artificial lights for nocturnal arrivals. Any possiblities for slips and falls? Are you using slip-resistant tiles? What areas should be well-lit? In a time where you can be held for the blame of anything that may happen on your property, you do want to take precautions for avoiding accidents. And even if your neighbor or friend may not sue you, you still will have to comfort the ouches and smoothen out an awkward arrival.

11) SIDE-WINDOWS: Do you have or wish to have side panel view? Windows can be for view and/or ventilation. Windows are versatile enough that you can filter, masque, frost, permeate or partially permeate views. If you prefer non-opening windows, all that need be considered are the shape and if they should fit into the whole entry scheme or not, just like Palladian windows. If you enjoy soft breezes and cooling off, there are a selection of shutters, hung, double-hung, slide, pivot opening windows that can allow the double function of view and ventilation.

Well, now that you've weighed in all these important considerations, now we are ready to look at style, color, material, look, and all the other aspects that have to do with the looks of the door.

Just check out my next blog where I shall detail all the ins and outs about the main focial point of your front façade of your home; the front door. Questions?? Just post them on this blog in the "comment" section and Paraizo-Disegno will be sure to offer you ample advise and solutions.

Paraizo-Disegno in Verita ..... at your service.

Paraizo Disegno in Veritá