Choosing the Right Door Types for Small Homes

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In Australia, small homes are a popular choice for many reasons. They can be more affordable, easier to maintain, and a great fit for a minimalist lifestyle. But when it comes to doors in a compact space, every inch counts.

Looking for the perfect door types for small homes? Sliding doors, French doors with glass, and light wood tones all create a spacious feel. For your front door, consider glass inserts and lighter colours to maximise light and space. And for trickier installs, get a pro to help.

The right doors can make a big difference in how spacious and functional your small home feels. Here's a guide to choosing the perfect interior and front doors to maximise comfort and flow in your cosy abode.

Interior Doors for Small Spaces

When it comes to interior doors, there are several space-saving options to consider:

Sliding Doors

These champions of efficiency glide effortlessly along a track, eliminating the need for a swinging door that takes up valuable floor space. Perfect for closets, bathrooms, and laundries, sliding doors open up sightlines and make small rooms feel larger.

Pocket Doors

The ultimate space-savers, pocket doors disappear entirely into the wall cavity when open. This makes them ideal for tight hallways, ensuites, or anywhere where floor space is at a premium.

Bi-fold Doors

Often used for wardrobes and pantries, bi-fold doors consist of hinged panels that fold flat against the wall. They offer a wider opening than a single sliding door while maintaining a compact footprint.

French Doors

Don't be fooled by their name – French doors work well in small spaces! Opt for doors with clear glass panels to allow natural light to flow between rooms, creating an illusion of more space.

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Accordion Doors

These folding doors function similarly to a bi-fold door but with more panels. They're a great option for wider openings, such as doorways between rooms or closets. Accordion doors are typically made from lightweight materials like vinyl or PVC, making them ideal for areas that don't require a lot of soundproofing.

Curtain Doors

For a softer touch, consider curtain doors. These fabric panels hang from a track and can be easily drawn open or closed. Curtain doors are a space-saving option for doorways that aren't used frequently, and they can add a touch of personality to your home.

Choosing the Right Material

The material of your interior doors also plays a role in how spacious a room feels. Here are some popular options:

Glass

As mentioned earlier, glass panels in doors can help open up a space and create a sense of airiness.

Light-coloured wood

Lighter woods like oak or ash reflect light and make a room feel bigger.

White laminate

A budget-friendly option, white laminate doors offer a clean, modern look that complements small spaces.

Frosted glass

Frosted glass provides privacy while still allowing light to pass through, making it a great choice for areas like bathrooms or bedrooms.

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Mirrored glass

Strategic use of mirrored glass can create the illusion of more space by reflecting light and visually expanding the room.

Hollow core doors

These lightweight doors are a good option for closets and other non-essential doorways where soundproofing isn't a major concern. They can help save on floor space due to their lighter weight.

Front Doors for Small Homes

Even your front door can be optimised for a small home. Here are some things to consider:

Door Style

A simple, clean-lined door with minimal detailing creates a more spacious feel. Avoid bulky hardware or raised panels that can visually crowd the entryway.

Glass Inserts

Similar to interior doors, a small glass insert in your front door can allow more natural light to enter your home. This can make a big difference in the entryway, which is often the first impression guests get. Consider frosted or tinted glass for privacy while still allowing light to come through.

Consider a Sidelight

If you have extra space on either side of your front door, adding a sidelight can be another great way to bring in more light and make your entryway feel more open. You can choose a single sidelight or double sidelights for a more grand entrance.

Door Colour

The colour of your front door can also impact the perceived size of your home. Lighter colours like white, cream, or light grey will reflect more light and make the entrance appear more spacious. Bold colours can work too, but choose them carefully to avoid making the entryway feel closed in.

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Think About Hardware

While doorknobs and handles are essential, they shouldn't overpower your small front door. Choose sleek, modern hardware in a finish that complements the door colour.

Door Material

Just like interior doors, the material of your front door can affect the feeling of spaciousness. Glass or fibreglass doors with glass inserts can help bring in more light. However, if security is a major concern, a solid wood or steel door may be a better option.

Getting Help with Door Installation

If you're considering installing new doors in your small home, particularly space-saving options like pocket doors, then consider hiring qualified door fitters through a service like ServiceSeeking.com.au.

The professionals on ServiceSeeking.com.au can help you with all aspects of door installation, from measuring and ordering doors to ensuring a perfect fit. This not only saves you time and effort but also guarantees a quality job that will last.

So, when it comes to choosing the right doors for your small home, remember to consider both functionality and style. With a little planning and the help of the professionals on ServiceSeeking.com.au, you can find doors that optimise space, enhance flow, and complement your small home perfectly!