Decorating with doors!

We just built a house, and I have to say that I didn't think about the doors that much. We have pretty standard doors. I have been so inspired by some photos of creative ways to use old doors to add character, or just serve as great decoration.

All from Pinterest

These photos are great examples of how to incorporate a vintage door. The top photo is wonderful. Placing old doors with patina and character on the wall serve as big art pieces. In the other two photos stripped down old doors have been incorporated as closet doors, and serve as utilitarian decoration as well.

Architectural salvage companies are one source, and auctions are, of course, another. Keep an open mind, and consider doors to cupboards as well, as long as you can buy the cupboard for a cheap enough price to justify dismantling it.

For some examples at auctions I went to my two favorite auction houses for architectural items - Copake Auction in Copake, NY, and Kamelot Auctions in Philadelphia. To the left, Copake a grouping of doors of various sizes. I love the tall and wide one on the right. Would be great wall art. The lot sold for $165 off an auction estimate of $100 - $200.

This charming grain painted door is circa 1840, and has lots of character. This sold at a Copake auction for $95 off an estimate of $200 - $300. Wouldn't this make a much more interesting closet door than the standard? 

This set on 19th century wood doors with leaded glass panels is quite elegant. They are 107" tall, and would make a wonderful entry to a dining room or closet, or interesting decoration. These sold at Copake for $175 off an estimate of $150 - $250.

Kamelot Auctions has regular auction specializing in architectural salvage. I picked a recent one for examples, and had to limit myself to three! This pair of Victorian (circa 1880) arched top wood doors stand a stately 102".  These sold for $50 off an auction estimate of $100 - $300.

I love these Art Nouveau doors! These have such lovely lines and curves. These are described as entry doors and have beveled and etched glass. These sold for $400 off an auction estimate of $400 - $600. 

Now these are a splurge, but worth it. These are mid-century modern entry doors with a coppered surface, and a wonderful design carved in to the doors. These would be such a unique piece for an entry or as interior doors. Or even just mount them as wall decoration. These sold for $2,200 off an auction estimate of $1,000 - $1,500. 

 

Antique or vintage doors can bring great character to your decor. Use them as doors, or use them as art! They would be good fun to search for at auction!