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Contemporary vs. Modern Doors

Learn about the design differences between contemporary and modern iron doors.

A door is a door, right? Well, there’s ornate and traditional, and then contemporary and modern, but aren’t those the same thing? Not quite. The words “contemporary” and “modern” might seem synonymous, but there are some slight distinctions between the two. Choosing the right style of iron door for your front entrance can set the tone for your guests when they enter your home — make it a memorable experience by choosing a modern iron door.

Follow along as we discuss the ins and outs of contemporary and modern iron door designs, and touch on the details and nuances of each style. Understanding what makes these door styles unique can help you make more informed decisions when sketching your door design. 

What’s the Difference Between Contemporary and Modern?

According to Elle Decor, modern design refers to the specific time period from the start to the middle of the 20th century and has a recognizable aesthetic that emphasizes crisp lines, balance, and natural materials. To get even more technical, some designers differentiate between modern and mid-century modern. 

Adorable Home says that modern design was born at the dawn of the 20th century, inspired by the Modernist art movement that preceded it, reinventing our relationship with space and aesthetics. Modern homes then and now feature visual and functional simplicity with clearly defined lines and geometry.

Ladies chatting in living room

In the 40s and 50s, designers built upon the modern style adding more vivid colors and inspiration from nature to create the mid-century modern look. Color palettes often featured orange, yellow, green, and brown. 

On the other hand, contemporary is what’s happening in design at the present time, constantly changing to reflect popular styles, which can make it difficult to pin down. One of its major divergences from modern design is its more balanced and rounded approach. 

To give an example of where these currently overlap in the design world is the Modern farmhouse style. The goal is to create cozy but uncluttered spaces, accompanied by soft and neutral tones.

Examples of Modern Iron Door Designs 

In another blog post, we describe five ways to style a modern iron door. You can also browse our project gallery of modern iron doors for more inspiration. 

Simple and sleek doors can create an eye-catching entrance without too much grandeur. These designs are often minimalist and serve to complement the entryway surrounding it. Or, opt for sophisticated and smooth to create seamless transitions in your home, whether it’s your front door or the patio. 

Effortless and expansive modern iron doors give opportunities to share a bit of insight into your home design. If you’re concerned about privacy but still want an expansive door, we have a range of glass types to choose from that can obscure vision from the outside without sacrificing a beautiful design. 

If you’re looking for something a little more out of the box, consider an eclectic approach. Past clients have added sidelights or designed their door silhouette to come to a point at the top. Lastly, arched and elevated modern doors can bring a sense of elegance to any entryway. Whatever your vision is, our team of designers will work with you to make it happen. 

If you’re interested in learning more about modern iron doors, please contact us to schedule a consultation. Our experts are available to share more about the features and benefits, and walk you through our custom design process.

Close up shot of modern iron door with wooden table console in background

Frequently Asked Questions About Contemporary and Modern Iron Door Designs

What colors are best for modern iron doors?

Of our six finishes, Charcoal, Slate and Burnt Copper are the most popular finishes for modern iron doors. Considering that some of our clients who have chosen modern designs have exteriors with dark or black accents, Burnt Copper would be a great choice. Meanwhile, exteriors that feature gray and white tones or stone accents would be complemented by Charcoal or Slate finishes.

How do you modernize a front door?

According to our design experts, one way you can modernize a front door is to add color. This could also include adding plants and flowers to surround your door. Since modern iron doors are typically simple, adding a splash of color with some flowers could add a layer of beauty to your entryway. If your current door is very elaborate and busy-looking, consider a sleeker, more clean cut design and you’ll be on your way to designing a modern iron door.

Do modern iron doors add value to your home?

Absolutely! One benefit of having a modern iron door is its longevity. With little maintenance required, your door will look as good as the day you bought it for years to come. Iron doors enhance a home’s curb appeal and architectural style, which is great for the value of your home today and will remain a good asset if you choose to sell your home in the future.  <

Learn more about iron doors today.

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