If you’re in the market for a new garage door, there’s an array of styles to consider. Among the most timeless and elegant is the carriage house-style garage door. Combining classic charm with modern functionality, these doors are an ideal way to enhance your home’s exterior. With a variety of colors, materials, and hardware options, a carriage house door can be tailored to suit your home’s aesthetic and budget.
Here’s a guide to help you explore the many features and benefits of carriage house-style garage doors and choose the one that’s right for you.
What Is a Carriage House-Style Garage Door?
Carriage house garage doors offer a vintage-inspired look that dates back to when homes had separate structures to store horse-drawn carriages. While modern garage doors are designed for cars, carriage-style doors evoke the old-world charm of those original carriage houses.
You can easily recognize a carriage house garage door by its distinctive hardware and barn-like design. Unlike traditional garage doors, which often lack decorative elements, carriage doors come with bold, eye-catching handles, hinges, and accents that add a touch of elegance. Although these doors now open upward like typical garage doors, the hardware is purely decorative, maintaining the vintage look of outward-swinging carriage house doors.
Most carriage doors are made of wood or wood-like materials, and they often feature windows and decorative overlays in diagonal, horizontal, or vertical patterns. These details give carriage doors their rustic charm, while modern engineering ensures they remain durable and practical for everyday use.
How to Choose the Perfect Carriage House-Style Garage Door
When selecting a new garage door, there are many factors to consider—especially when opting for a carriage-style door. From color to hardware and insulation, customizing your door to suit your home’s design and functional needs is essential.
Here’s what to keep in mind as you make your selection.
Color Options
Color is one of the most important aspects of choosing a garage door. A well-chosen color can boost your home’s curb appeal, while the wrong choice can detract from its overall look.
For mid-century or modern homes, wood or wood grain finishes add warmth and sophistication. These natural tones enhance the exterior of your home by creating a welcoming, elegant appearance. If you have a more rustic or country-style home, white carriage doors offer a timeless, clean aesthetic that pairs beautifully with classic architectural styles.
For homeowners seeking a bolder look, darker colors like black, gray, or deep browns provide a modern twist on a vintage design, creating a striking contrast with the rest of your home’s exterior.
Hardware Customization
The hardware you choose can make or break the authentic look of your carriage door. Step plates, decorative hinges, and handles contribute to the traditional carriage door appearance. Metal accents enhance the visual appeal and create a sense of craftsmanship that ties the vintage look together.
Select from various hardware options to achieve the perfect blend of style and practicality. Whether you opt for large wrought-iron hinges or subtle metal pulls, these details will complete the overall design.
Style and Overlay Designs
Overlay patterns are another way to personalize your carriage house garage door. Carriage doors often feature crossbuck designs that resemble barn doors, but you can also choose from clean, simple lines or more intricate diagonal overlays to suit your home’s architecture.
Adding glass windows in different shapes and sizes can further customize your door’s look. Whether you prefer arched windows or square panels, these elements add depth and elegance to the design.
How Much Do Carriage House-Style Garage Doors Cost?
The price of a carriage house-style garage door depends on several factors, including the size, materials, and level of customization. Basic single-car garage doors can range from $4,000 to $6,000, while larger or more intricate doors, such as those for two- or three-car garages, will cost more.
Additionally, maintenance costs should be factored into your decision. Wooden carriage doors, while beautiful, may require more upkeep to keep them looking their best over time. However, investing in high-quality materials upfront can help reduce long-term maintenance costs, as durable construction will extend the life of your door.
Carriage house-style garage doors offer a timeless design that blends traditional craftsmanship with modern functionality. Whether you’re looking for an elegant addition to your home or need a door that offers durability and insulation, a carriage-style door can meet your needs while enhancing your home’s curb appeal.
Ready to find the perfect carriage house-style garage door for your home? Contact Portland Carriage Doors today for a consultation, and let us help you design a custom door that reflects your style and meets your functional needs. With various options available, we can help you choose the right door for your home, budget, and lifestyle!