It’s never too early to start thinking about spring—warmer weather, new garden plantings, and home-improvement projects. And while pretty planters have their place, when it comes to setting the stage for a stylish welcome in the South, choosing the right front door color is key. “Painting a front door a bright color is a way of giving a house a stamp of personality,” says Charlotte, North Carolina, interior designer Barrie Benson. To help narrow the rainbow, we asked five talented Southern designers and architects to weigh in on their go-to hues.
Color: Gentleman’s Gray 2062-20, Benjamin Moore
“I have always seen blue as a timeless choice for front doors. This particular color changes a lot in different lights and against different colors, so it can be both bold and restrained, fun and classic.”
Olivia Brock, Torrance Mitchell Designs
Color: Ryan Red 1314, Benjamin Moore
“Growing up, my favorite interiors were often behind glossy front red doors. Plus red doors have so many fabulous meanings. For instance, some say that during the American Civil war it was a sign of safe refuge during the underground railroad. With this red, make sure you make time for plenty of coats. The more the better.”
Barrie Benson, Barrie Benson Interior Design
Color: Monkey Puzzle 238, Farrow & Ball
“I live in a 100-year-old Colonial revival bungalow that I recently painted creamy white, and this rich black green just felt right for the front door. It’s traditional and somewhat formal in feel and I like the surprise when you step inside and see what I think is a nice contrast.”
Chenault James, Chenault James Interiors
Color: Dark Walnut, Cabot
“I like this stain as it’s not too red and can therefore work with many color palettes. It also works as a great neutral base for blending with other stains if the project demands a deeper tone or color.”
Kevin Clark, Historical Concepts Architecture & Planning
Color: Marblehead Gold HC-11, Benjamin Moore
“I think yellow front doors are unexpected yet sophisticated. Nothing too bright, but a color with some pizazz. And I love this historic hue.”
Angie Hranowsky, Angie Hranowsky Design Studio
For more inspiration on making a memorable entrance, check out our gallery of welcoming front doors and these porch ceiling colors.
NOTE: For a true color match, pick up a paint chip or sample. Computer monitors and phone screens are calibrated differently, and may show variations.
