Easy makeovers for your front door, doormat

Spring has sprung, and the time has come again to freshen up your home after a long winter. Makeovers can be easy without the need for any major renovations. Most homes, modest or opulent, occasionally need a fresh eye and a little elbow grease. A door is much like a face: With a little work, people will be wondering where your house went on vacation.

Starting at the front of your home, the front door, lighting, doormat and even the hardware can define and change your home's character. Depending on the architecture, the color of the door could be bold or demure. A strong vibrant color suggests impact and confidence. A home with a distinct type of architecture, such as neo-Mediterranean, might be tied to an earthy color palette that includes rust, oxblood red, beiges and brown for the door. Other types of architecture can be more liberal with their color selection for the door. No reason not to try a delicious lemon yellow or a tantalizing tangerine.

Lanterns or lighting fixtures can add a lot of curb appeal. Generally, these fixtures are available at your local home improvement store at budget-friendly prices. These fixtures and iron works are typically painted in black or rust red, but I have seen the most amazing lighting fixtures and irons painted royal blue - leave it to the Italians to make the simplest things look stylish. A big trend in outdoor fixtures are finishes, such as brushed nickel and oil-rubbed bronze.

Underfoot is yet another place to make a splash. If under cover and not subject to excessive humidity, an area rug can be placed outdoors. Dhurries, sisal mats and even painted cloth mats are good selections. Where moisture is present, outdoor mats made from recycled plastics and rubber are available in many designs to give an entrance a design splash.

Changing your door's hardware can add the finishing touch to your front-door makeover. Door hardware includes everything from door handles and hinges to kick-plates and address numbers. After painting your door, you may realize something is still not looking fresh. Door hardware takes a lot of wear and tear; therefore, it should be replaced every five to 10 years.

There are some simple rules for selecting door hardware, especially if older persons are living in the home. Select a lever handle in lieu of a rounded knob. Handles make it easier to push and open a door, rather than grabbing and turning a knob. Place viewers and peep holes at a height where everyone can see outside. Finally, if replacing address numbers, make them large enough for visitors, passers-by and even someone from an automobile on the street to see. The simpler the font, the easier for all.

One last tip: A pair or a cluster of colorful pots filled with flowers and greenery make a door say welcome. If room allows, a chair or a bench is a welcoming gesture and also a great place to rest a heavy bag when opening the door.

• Joseph Pubillones is the owner of Joseph Pubillones Interiors, an award-winning interior design firm based in Palm Beach, Fla.

© 2015, Creators.com