Barn Doors and Why You Should Consider Them For Your Next Project
Barn doors are not just for barns anymore. From cozy apartments to family houses, these doors are a stylish and functional element that can elevate any interior. Whether you’re renovating your home or just looking for a quick upgrade, a barn door can be a perfect choice. Here’s everything you need to know about barn doors and how to integrate them into your space (including 17 unique barn door ideas we found to help inspire you).
What is a barn door?
Before jumping into the vast selection of barn door ideas, we need to understand what exactly is a barn door.
Barn door is usually a wooden door or gate that hangs from a top-hung track and rolls along on rollers. It provides a unique style and practicality, making it a popular choice for many homeowners.
Can any door be used as a barn door?
While many doors can be adapted to a barn door setup, not all are suitable. Ideal barn doors are sturdy with a solid build to withstand the sliding mechanism without warping.
Can a barn door be used instead of any door?
Yes, barn doors can replace almost any interior door. They are particularly useful where there is limited space to swing a traditional door. Keep in mind that having a barn door in your home is supposed to be an accent piece, so try not to over do it.
Can barn doors be used for the interior?
Absolutely! Barn doors are increasingly popular inside homes, where they add a rustic touch or modern flair to living rooms, bedrooms, bathrooms, and closets.
How adding a barn door can elevate your space
Installing a barn door is a surefire way to add both character and functionality to your home.
Create a feeling of warmth
The natural materials typically used in barn doors, such as wood, can add warmth and texture to any room.
Functional and aesthetically pleasing
Barn doors are practical solutions for separating spaces while also serving as a striking design element.
Give a luxurious feel
With the right material and design, a barn door can add a touch of luxury and sophistication to your space.
How to Choose the right design for your barn door
It is important to consider the overall design aesthetic of your home and the functionality of the door. Since there are many barn door ideas you can choose from, giving some thought to what will serve your needs can go a long way. When you are working without a designer on a home project, you have to look at the surrounding space and decide on what works with what, in such a way that anything you add needs to have a reasoning behind it. Avoiding the urge to add an element that by itself may look great but when mixed with other elements in the room loses its charm, can have a big impact on the final outcome.
Modern barn door
For a sleek and simple look, choose a barn door with clean lines and minimalistic design. These can be black frames with a black track or white paneled door.
Contemporary barn door
Opt for a barn door with a bit of texture and modern hardware to fit a contemporary style. We have noticed designs include stained wood slab doors with different styled patterns, for example this contemporary light stain white oak bedroom door.
Barn door with glass
Incorporating glass panels can brighten up spaces and make them appear larger. Some trends that are coming back are reeded glass panels and different styles of obscured glass.
17 Barn door design ideas that will inspire you
Whether you are working with a designer or trying to navigate the barn door world on your own, you would need to hone down on what works for you and your style preferences, while staying true to the entire look of the space. We have assembled this list of 17 different barn doors ideas for you to have a good reference point to some of the possibilities.
Some of the references provided have a purchasing option. *We are not affiliated with any manufacturer or vendor listed here, feel free to use it as you see fit.
Modern Minimalist: Sleek and Simple
Classic Rustic Charm: Timeless Appeal
Classic rustic closet barn door
Industrial Chic: Metal and Wood Fusion
Elegant Glass Panels: Transparency and Style
5 Panel frosted glass white barn door
Bold and Dramatic Black Accents
Bright and Colorful: Doors That Pop
Yellow double Z 2 panel barn door
Mirrored Surfaces: Function Meets Fashion
Natural Wood Finishes: Bring the Outdoors In
Solid alder herringbone panel barn door
Patterned Designs: Geometrics and More
Modern geometric design barn door
Art Deco Inspiration: Bold and Ornate
Scandinavian Simplicity: Clean Lines, Neutral Tones
Vintage Reclaimed Wood: Eco-Friendly Elegance
Barn Doors with Custom Artwork
Custom hand carved fish design barn door
Chevron Patterns: A Dynamic Twist
Natural wood living room barn door
Craftsman Style: Detailed Woodworking
Transitional Designs: Blending Old and New
Traditional multi panel barn door
Elegant Pantry Barn Doors
Glass and manufactured wood barn door
Should you DIY or get a barn door from a professional
Budget
If you are on a tight budget, DIY might be the way to go, but consider the cost of tools and materials.
Time
Building a door yourself will require a significant time investment compared to purchasing a pre-made door.
Expertise
Consider your skill level; a professional can ensure that the assembly and craftsmanship is done correctly.
What is the “right” price for a barn door?
The cost of a barn door can vary widely based on materials, design, size and whether it is custom-made. Generally, prices range from a few hundred dollars to multiple thousands. Assess your needs and budget to find the best option for your home.
Is barn door the right choice for my renovation?
Barn doors can drastically enhance the functionality and look of your home. With the right design and installation, they can be a standout feature in any residence and take a regular remodeling to the next level.
One thing to keep in mind is when it comes to “special features” in a renovation: if it hurts your pocket too much, it’s probably not the right choice. Nothing wrong with an old fashioned hinged door to separate one space from the other.
On the other hand, if you have the tools, time & expertise (or at least enough time and willingness to learn) you can definitely let your creative juices flow and make a barn door that will truly be one of one. Still not sure? There are many professionals like interior designers, decorators and experienced general contractors/craftsmen who can help you get a better idea of what works for your unique situation. Feel free to get in touch with us here to get some additional information on your future project or leave us a message at 619-552-2923.
