Doorway Alternatives

Architectural Elements

• Install extra molding around door frames, rather than leaving them as plain rectangular holes, to add visual interest to the space. Stock molding comes in many designs, from simple and chic to ornately carved pieces. Custom sections made by woodworkers allow you to have a hand in the look and feel of the molding. To change the look of the doorway completely, stay away from the conventional rectangular shape completely and have arches instead.

Extra Features

• Alternatives to conventional molding include using other materials rather than wood to frame a doorway out. For example, inset tiles that contain colors found in both of the adjoining rooms or use stencils to create a mural like you are entering into another land. Other options include using metal to trim out the doorway for industrially themed rooms. Install clear or stained glass panes around the doorway frame to let light filter throughout the spaces of your home.

Custom Doors

• Install pocket doors to save space and create a more open feel to your home when they are not in use. Tim Carter, nationally syndicated home improvement newspaper columnist states, that pocket doors "will give you an average of 10 square feet of floor space than a traditional hinged door" For a more conventional solution, install custom carved wooden doors or French doors. Paint stock prehung doors to match the rest of your decor to save money.

Unconventional Doors

• Other alternatives to add color to your doorways include hanging curtains that complement the rest of your fabric choices in the space. Hang bead curtains made from glass, plastic or wood for extra texture. Another example of an unconventional doorway treatment is to create a custom bookcase that slides over the threshold to conceal it completely when not in use. Usually installed on rollers, the bookcase slides over against the wall next to a doorway when you need to get through.