Door Knocker
A front door knocker adds a striking touch to your home’s entryway and lets guests know they’re welcomed to your home. It’s also an opportunity for you to express your personality and style to visitors. There are many knocker options available that range from traditional to modern and from highly ornate to whimsical, so you’ll be able to find one that suits your aesthetic. The style you choose should match the overall design of your home, whether it’s a simple, geometric style that complements contemporary homes or a more intricate knocker with designs that evoke historical styles such as Victorian-era architecture.
The history of door knockers is long and varied, with some of the earliest examples being thought to date back to Ancient Greece, where slaves were chained to rings on doors in order to greet visitors. These days, however, the knocker has become a symbol of hospitality, and there are countless choices for homeowners to personalize their homes with this type of door hardware.
When selecting a front door knocker, there are several things to keep in mind, including the size of your front door, your personal style, and the materials used to create the knocker. Cast iron is a popular choice for this type of adornment, as it’s durable and holds up to weathering. It’s also available in a variety of finishes to suit any taste. Other popular materials for door knockers include steel, bronze, and brass. If you want a door knocker that will make a statement, consider choosing one made of stainless steel or brushed chrome in a bright finish.
Choosing a Front Door Knocker
Decorative knockers can be crafted in a wide variety of shapes, with some of the most common being ovals, rings, and gongs. Ovals and rings are easy to coordinate with most door styles and can be found in a range of finishes from polished nickel to oil-rubbed bronze. Gongs, on the other hand, often feature detailed embellishments such as scrolling and fleur de lis. These types of decorative knockers can be especially elegant, and they’re a great fit for country and Victorian-style houses.
If you’re interested in a more rustic look, there are many door knockers that will be right at home on coastal homes and beach bungalows. Starfish and mermaids are just two of the many nautical-themed options to choose from, with each offering a unique touch to your entranceway. Similarly, beachy accessories such as seashell door knobs and wall hooks are an easy way to complement your front door knocker with a coastal theme.
If you’re looking for a front door knocker that’s sure to create buzz, check out this cheerful brass bumblebee. It will work well on traditional colonial and eclectic bungalow doors, as well as midcentury flat-panel doors. To complete the look, pair your new knocker with matching hardware in a similar finish such as the coordinating Schlage(r) Century handleset and mailbox or porch light.
