We spend so much time decorating the interiors of our houses. When we tackle the exterior we change the siding or shingles, paint and trim, and relentlessly landscape until the lawn is the right shade of green and the flowers are just so. But how often do we actually pay attention to the door that we’re walking through? Much less, it turns out, than we should.

Our exterior doors not only add or detract from our overall look and feel, but they represent the gateway between the outside worlds we’ve so carefully architected and our beautifully decorated nests. When it’s time to look at your exterior door, here are some of the most stunning examples we’ve seen for inspiration.

Non-traditional shapes make an interesting visual impact
Ask any child to describe a door and they’re likely describe a rectangle to you. But many innovative doors have other shapes, from elegant and stately curving archways to more abstract takes.

Arched doorways really stand out, especially when they are accented by stained glass or other glass features.

Photo Credit: Nicks Building

This is an understated and somewhat antique looking approach to an arched oak doors for your home that fit into a variety of settings, including urban buildings.

Photo Credit: Trustile

And here are some interesting abstract doors – incorporating everything from unique materials to shapes and accents.

Photo Credit: Wishka

Photo Credit: Kuhl Doors

What frames and accents the door is as important as the door itself. When we’re thinking about doors, we often overlook the idea of the entire door – including the frame – as an installation. The entire door space can create an artistic impact in your overall design.

This beautiful craftsman door features a striking frosted window with small ledge, and matching panels to either side that create a special look.

Photo Credit: Door

Here are some others with small details and bold frames that stand out for being unique or memorable.

Photo Credit: Art Factory

Photo Credit: Wishka

Photo Credit: Vision Glass

Double doors are distinctive
Some of the designs above were double doors. It’s not the first thought you have when picking an exterior door, but in addition to some practical advantages (bringing in a giant sofa, for example), the look is a stand-out. Here are some of our favorites:

Photo Credit: Art Factory

Photo Credit: Vision Glass

Don’t overlook the garage
When considering exterior doors, it’s easy to not give the garage another thought. But residential garage doors are another great way to work some flare into your home design. The good news is that the options for garage doors go way beyond the gray industrial versions you might be thinking.

Here are some great non-traditional multi-door options:

Photo Credit: Bay Area Overhead Door

Photo Credit: Sweet Marias

Photo Credit: Jay Andre Construction

Colorful garage doors are another way to lend individuality to your design efforts.

Photo Credit: Attention to Detail Greenville

Let a little light in
Finally, if you’re looking for doors that will let tons of natural light come streaming into your house and give you the chance to enjoy your yard or view more, there are plenty of beautiful French doors that will do the trick.

This floor to ceiling model is ultra clean in its look and lines, and almost brings the feeling of being outdoors right into the home (same effect screen door models – at The Screenmobile).

Photo Credit: North Jersey

Paneled French doors fold back to literally become a collapsible wall, which is perfect for summer barbeques on your patio or kids running in and out of the yard.

Photo Credit: Appliance in Home

There are also classic interpretations that blend seamlessly with a more traditional house design.

Whether you’re replacing your front door or looking for the perfect piece to integrate into a grand design, paying attention to your exterior doors will give you a leg up on achieving your overall desired effect.

Written by Jim Klossner