Have you ever walked past a vintage home or building with antique double entry doors and wondered what was behind them? Because many contemporary homes utilize a single entry door, when double entry doors are placed on homes they automatically make passersby take notice. Add to it the decorative touches on vintage double entry doors, and your curiosity will truly be piqued. As the entry door is a signature piece for the entire front of the home, it draws attention, so why not make that count by adding double entry doors or arched entry doors to your home or period building.

Some double entry doors are very heavy and crafted from solid wood. Wooden double entry doors may also be paneled in a variety of ways. There might be a single panel on each of the antique double entry doors, for example, or several configurations of panels, with larger panels usually on the top part of the double entry door and smaller ones positioned beneath. Glazing may also be included in antique double entry doors to let in light. A more elaborate double entry door could have leaded glass or even stained glass as part of the glazing.

Arched entry doors make a dramatic statement about the style of your home. Arched doors may be single or double, and may be batten doors with small glazing pieces used. Wrought iron adds a decorative touch to these doors, and many intricate curved styles are seen, depending upon the period in which they were made as well as the country. The arch itself can help to define the architectural style of the home or building as well. A round arch typically is used in Beaux Arts and Mission-style homes, while a pointed arch is a classic shape identified with Gothic Revival homes and buildings.

Double entry doors for home or public buildings may be accented in several ways. A transom may be added to the top of the door. This helps to let light inside the building, making the entry area inside more bright while adding an elegant touch to the home exterior as well. Wrought iron can be added to a transom used for a basement doorway for security reasons as well. Many owners choose to add double entry doors for home or apartment buildings, and then complement them with side or overhead lights. This is framed glazing that is placed along the sides and top of the door, for example, to allow more light inside.

If a double entry door intrigues you, you can see photographs of them at architectural salvage websites.