Doors & Entries

Doors & Entries

Doors are one of the primary elements which create individual character in the exterior appearance of a building. Historically, the storefront entry was more than just a door. Its design and appearance reflected its commercial importance. The storefront door was tall in proportion, built of wood and glass, and looked substantial, yet inviting to the customer.

The typical downtown building often has two additional doors: a second door on the front facade permitting access to the upper floors, and a rear door used as both a service and customer entry. Compared to the storefront entry, these were traditionally modest in design.

Attractive entrances are essential and customers or clients should be made to feel welcome as they approach the door.

Fig. 19 – Doors & Entries

Guidelines:

Original doors should be retained, repaired and refinished. Attractive hardware, such as brass door pulls and plates, add visual value to the entrance and should be retained.
Where bare aluminum doors are to be retained, they should be painted.
Consider using subtle decorations on new and replacement doors. A handsome knob or pull, or an attractive molding can make a door special and inviting.
Rear doors 'should reflect the unadorned character of the rear facade. Avoid a highly decorated door that would look out of place. If rear doors serve customers as well as delivery, they should incorporate glass panels of an appropriate design.
New doors should be compatible with the character of the facade. Avoid fake "historic" doors which are incompatible.
Avoid mirrored or tinted glass in doors. Avoid" solid wood or metal doors except for service entries.
Avoid storm doors which are inappropriate in size, color, material and texture with the original door or which require replacement of the original door.
Avoid use of salvaged doors from a building of unlike historical style or use.