If you regularly find yourself scrolling the endless listings of Zillow, you’ve probably picked up on a few things that tend to catch your eye. Maybe you’re more drawn to the stateliness of a well-manicured Tudor, or consistently bookmark anything with a Craftsman exterior (you just know the bones are going to be good). But whether it’s a sturdy Colonial or a cool mid-century home transporting you to Palm Springs, one feature stands present and prevailing in every real estate listing: a front door.
It may seem like a simple, straightforward feature, but you should never underestimate the power of a great front door—or its selling power. Last fall, Zillow partnered with Thumbtack to narrow down five DIY projects that add value to your home.
According to the research, painting your front door could add up to $6,000 to your home’s value. Not just any paint color though; black registered as the most attractive hue for potential homebuyers.
Image by Kristin Kilpatrick.
A quick Pinterest search for “front door” backs up their data. Without specifying a color, your feed is filled with glossy back doors flanked by flickering lanterns, effortless potted greenery, and a cheery doormat (this is Pinterest, after all). The good folks at Domino also recently rounded up six dark-hued shades for an instant exterior upgrade. A trendy Agean Teal or a blush pink door might catch the eye, but black’s timeless appeal is forever a safe, stylish bet.
For some inspiration, feast your eyes on 10 elegant black doors making an exterior statement across the country.
Feature image by Nikole Ramsay.
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A stark, striking contrast courtesy of Paul Bates Architects makes a case for black as the best front door color.
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Hunter green shutters are the perfect compliment for a jet black New Orleans entryway.
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Amid the colorful, West Indies-inspired community of Rosemary Beach, a touch of black paint makes a striking impact.
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Even when tucked behind historical columns and a killer Charleston garden, a glossy black front door still makes a lasting impact.
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Pair your glossy black front door with a flurry of hydrangeas for maximum curb appeal.
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Simple and serene in Nashville, Tennessee.
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We’d like to think a bold, glossy black paint job works beautifully in a retail setting as well.
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In Palm Springs, where a pop of color is the standard, opting for a black front door is an act of design rebellion.
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Add some topiaries and a touch of snow to up the front door drama.
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The only thing that could rival a black front door’s eternal chicness is an ivy-covered façade. Together, they’re simply unstoppable.
