​ What to Consider When Choosing Your Barn Door Finishes

​ What to Consider When Choosing Your Barn Door Finishes

Oct 7th 2020

It's not just the Property Brothers or Chip and Joanna Gaines that are among HGTV's hottest stars — it's the buzzworthy design trends that've brought the network so much success. And barn doors — once the mainstay of country homes — are soaring in popularity, whether you live in a woodsy farmhouse in Virginia or a swanky townhouse on the Upper West Side.

Barn doors can lend a cozy, country-chic vibe to any space — without being bound to any particular design aesthetic. They can be classicly stylish with a Shaker appeal, surprisingly edgy with modern materials like glass, charmingly rustic with exquisitely weathered wood, or contemporary with an eye-catching bold pop of color. They're functional yet stylish with a nearly endless variety of finishings to customize and compliment your decor aesthetic.

What's Your Personal Design Style?

A barn door is a unique statement piece that can elevate the mood of any room. But good design isn't merely about good looks — it's also a feeling. And with so many elements to choose from, how do you decide between all the barn door finishes and materials to determine which is best for you?

Choose Your Textures

1. Rustic Wood

Robust and low-mainentance, traditional barn doors are sturdy and solid. This design aesthetic is a throwback to the pastoral countryside and can imbue your home with a natural coziness — whether you live out on a prairie or wish to bring these quaint, relaxed charms into a more industrial setting.

You can choose from a variety of wood grains. Knotty alder lends a country western or southwestern flair, while birch can be both refined and practical. Stain with our special Wood Finishes (such as slate gray or antique cinnamon red) to fill your space with your desired warmth and personality. For an even more authentic weathered look, be sure to opt for finishes that feature ingrained distress marks.

2. MDF

Shaker-style doors are produced with a solid, super refined medium-density fiberwood called MDF. They offer clean lines, straight-forward, elegant appeal and pair perfectly with both a traditional and contemporary design.

Keep the look classic with a white door. Or since this material offers a smooth paint surface, you can easily jazz it up with a splash of color.

3. Glass

It's crystal clear: adding glass modernizes the barn door appeal. It's smart and chic, with a touch of glam. We have a variety of textures you may select — from frosted privacy glass to peek-a-boo patterns which extend yet another level of luxe design finesse.

Glass doors can also elongate the feel of some smaller rooms by giving the illusion of more space and bringing in extra light. Ideal for barn doors that were installed as a space-saving alternative.

4. Hardware Finishes

The final, put-together look really "hinges" on the hardware! It's like the jewelry for your door and can provide the blingy, dressed-up touches. From sleek and elegant simplicity to a balance of rustic and hardy grit, the hardware you select will complete the look. After all, a key component is the exposed sliding track.

Decorative options include matte black wrought-iron accents (which pair well with a more traditional, somewhat masculine vibe) and stainless steel (modern contemporary).

Have questions?

If you'd like more information on any of our doors, including available finishes and options, contact us today! Our experts will help you choose the right door for your space.