Experts agree that homeowners want their entry door to reflect them and their personal space. “Most homeowners want their entry to make a statement about the space you’re about to enter, whether grand or simple,” says James Dunn of Vintage Millworks Inc. “All homeowners are concerned about appearance as well as security, and appears to be equal whether it is a new home or a replacement door.”

     According to Lisa Huff of In Design, “Entry doors are becoming either larger, or are double doors or of unique design. It is the first impression your guests have of your home, so clients are pushing the envelope with entry doors.” Adding that whether it’s new construction or a replacement door, “clients still want something grand—usually with glass—that’s large or very unique.”

     Anna Aycock of Designs by Anna Aycock says, “Iron and glass seem to have the strongest appeal.” She suggests that homeowners select a door that is solid and weather resistant. “It needs to be well-insulated and guaranteed not to warp,” she adds.

     Aaron Walker with David Patton Construction reports that in his work on new custom homes, the homeowners are interested in entry doors that offer great curb appeal coupled with durability and energy efficiency. “We are seeing more exotic woods selected for doors that make a first impression and leave a lasting statement,” he says.  He adds, “We are seeing more high end metal doors with iron work that are relatively easy to maintain. Most of our metal doors are made with 14 gauge structural steel and solid iron, with an epoxy finish to protect them from the elements.”

     A homeowner’s ultimate goal in purchasing an entry door is to select one that is an architectural match with the style of their home, according to Katy Schuster-Luck of Central Woodwork of Nashville, Inc. “New construction homeowners tend to favor mahogany, oak, and other high end wood door systems. Those who are replacing an existing door are also interested in finding doors that are an architectural match, but tend to look at door systems that require less maintenance and are durable,” she says.

     Central Woodwork finds the most sought after entry door style is mahogany with true divided rectangular beveled glass panes and short  wood panels at the bottom of the door. Schuster-Luck says, “Single door entry systems and pair doors with an eyebrow arch are currently very popular. We have seen the trend move away from glass with brass accents, however decorative glass with  nickel or black came is desirable. Antique bronze steel doors with wrought iron grilled work and textured glass panels are rapidly gaining popularity in our market.”

There are a number of sources for entry doors in the Greater Nashville area including:

Central Woodwork
Nashville
615/ 244-0086