What mood do you want your house to convey? Whatever color you choose for your front door, know that there is power in its message. (Photo: Shutterstock).
Susan Eastman, Live West Realty
What your front door says about you
“Curb appeal” is a popular phrase used in real estate for describing a house on the market. The overall vibe a house presents from the street view is important because it is the first impression and asks, does a buyer want to go inside and see more? 26
The impression that a door can make is powerful and revealing. A bold color like orange or yellow suggests the homeowner is confident, humorous, a go-getter, even sunny in disposition and the interior will probably reflect that. Darker hues such as navy blue or black suggest a classic esthetic, someone who is sophisticated, grounded, possibly conservative. Lighter greens and blues intimate someone who likes the outdoors, is casual, positive and healthy, and the interior will probably be comfortable and inviting.
It’s interesting to go back in time to learn that door color has symbolism beyond making a good first impression. Red doors in particular have a vivid history and are still one of the most popular colors in all its variations.
In Biblical times, a red door was to protect against the Angel of Death. Israelites sacrificed a lamb for the first Passover to get protection from God and smeared its blood across the front door. Another explanation was that the blood protected the house from the plague.
In the Middle Ages, the cathedral’s doors on the east, west, north and south sides were painted red to make the sign of the cross. Churches often had red doors to represent the blood Jesus shed for the world, as well as symbolize a safe place, a sanctuary.
In early America, a red door was the welcome sign for weary travelers needing food and shelter. During the Civil War, it signified a safe refuge for runaway slaves heading north.
In Ireland, red doors followed both folklore and rebellion. They were believed to protect a home from evil spirits and ghosts. During the Victorian era, the Irish were ordered to paint their doors black to honor Queen Victoria, but they thumbed their noses instead by painting their doors red and other bright colors.
Ever heard of “getting out of the red?” It comes from Scotland, where painting your front door red meant that you’d paid off your mortgage. And Chinese culture believes red represents health, abundance and positive energy. Painting your door red was a sign of welcome and having harmony in your home.
What mood do you want your house to convey? Whatever color you choose for your front door, know that there is power in its message.
What door colors say about you:
Red: One of the most common choices, it means “welcome.” It says that you are vibrant, warm, inviting and probably have lots of food in your fridge.
Black: Classic, traditional, elegant, sophisticated. Like the ubiquitous little black dress, this color looks good on all houses.
Orange: Fun, not shy, exciting. Works on modern and mid-century modern houses. Its owners like to entertain, undertake challenges, and get things done.
Blue: Depends on the hue. Light blue is more casual, friendly, sincere. Royal blue is positive, extroverted and prosperous. Dark blue is more orderly, calm and grounded.
Green: Suggests health, wealth, safety, and someone who loves the outdoors.
White: A safe choice suggesting the owner likes things tidy, clean, even spa-like.
Purple: An uncommon color choice for a front door. It’s related to spirituality and royalty; it suggests that you are open minded and sophisticated.
Brown: Classic wood can look rich, rustic or earthy and may suggest the owner is warm, reliable, practical, even private.
Yellow: Yellow entry doors are bright and inviting and belong in the homes of people with an upbeat, positive disposition.
By Susan Eastman. Susan is a Realtor with Live West Realty in Boulder. Call 303.589.6845, e-mail [email protected] or visit livewestrealty.com.
