When Were Front Doors Invented?

For over a millennium, front doors have been keeping people protected and heated. However, have you ever questioned where the idea of a front door comes from? And how it has developed into the stylish portal we use today?

Let us take you back to ancient Egypt. The Egyptians would use hinged wood in their doorways. The pieces of wood would have no design pattern, and the hinges would go across the door. But, the earliest recorded front doors are said to be the ones created for King Solomon’s Temple.

The temple doors were made from olive wood. The dense consistency and rich colour would offer a fine texture appearance. However, the first automatic door was created in the 1st century AD. The door was designed by a Greek scholar known as Heron.

Did You Know, Many Front Doors Used Today Are Direct Influences Of The Past?

Throughout history, different eras have given us different door designs. For example, the Tudors designed front doors for two reasons. Firstly, to captivate and influence their guests. Secondly, the Tudors designed their doors to prevent unwanted people from entering their homes. The Tudors would employ leading craftsmen to create extravagant and elaborate oak front doors with unique designs. However, during the early 17th-century front doors were plain, imposing, and often enhanced with ornate brackets and pillars.

The following century, known as the Georgian era, signified the introduction of regally designed front doors. Georgian doors would fill the entrance of the property, allowing little natural light into the home. Although Georgian doors were well designed, they consisted of basic panels and were dull in colour. However, more impressive Georgian homes would often have double doors decorated with ornate accessories.

By the early 19th century, townhouses were flourishing, and plain front doors were everywhere. Terraced housing dominated the 19th century, with timber doors replicating the more elegant mahogany style doors. However, during this time, front porches started to gain popularity and creative door designs became fashionable. Dynamic designs with flamboyant panelling became the trend. Furthermore, in 1849, letterboxes were added to front doors, and manufacturers had to rethink their door designs. 

Things certainly changed in the 20th century, as the mass production of softwood front doors began. Colour trends went from dark greens to more dynamic colours. Accompanied by traditional stained glass designs with some that are as popular today. Plus, doors being the central point of the property became popular during the 20th century and are still trending today.