Updating Our Entry Part 1: Door Hardware Options I Love
This post may include affiliate links in which we earn a commission, as we are supported by our users. All opinions expressed are always our own and any commissions earned are of no cost to you. Thanks for your support!
As any homeowner knows, turning your house into a home is a process. While Charlie and I tried to complete many projects before we moved in, the past 3 years (almost to the week!) have held many adventures, long nights and working weekends. Even when we think we have almost gotten everything how we like it, we find another area to tweak and project to undertake. Most recently, that adventure has led us to updating our front door and entry. As our home is a gem from the late 1970s (originally fit with popcorn ceilings, bathroom wall tile and living room paneling), it has a storm door that just about has given its all. While you’ll have to stay tuned for updates on the antique door we found to replace our existing metal door and storm door, as well as the process of refinishing it, I did want highlight a few awesome hardware finds I have been searching through. As we have been trying to make this process fairly cost effective, I have been scouring for attractive and substantial door hardware pieces that will work for our new door and bring some sophistication to our entry.
During our home projects, we have always sought to strike a balance between splurging and saving. Ideally, I love to splurge on a favorite item once it has gone on clearance, but especially in the days of supply chain storages, that is not always an option. Seeing this, here are 6 awesome entry door hardware sets at various price points that I have been loving and that certainly will bring beautiful interest to your front porch.
Save – Hardware Options Under $200
1. – The first find is our one and only clearance item. Rejuvenation has beautiful hardware sets that typically far exceed $200; however, this Templeton Crystal Octagonal Knob / Knob Exterior Door Hardware Latch Set is significantly marked down, making it a wonderful choice. Coming in a classic oil-rubbed bronze finish, the Templeton Hardware Set is a beauty. Made of solid brass, I absolutely love the gentle curves of the backplate and the elegance of the crystal knobs. For being under $200, you definitely wouldn’t sacrifice on style with this one.
2. – Going with a more traditional approach, our second option is the Baldwin Traditional Single Cylinder Keyed Entry Door Knob Set & Deadbolt Combo. While it comes in many different finishes, I believe it looks particularly classy in the polished nickel finish. Similarly, the arched back plate gives it a classic feel, while still providing an update.
3. – My last favorite find for entry door hardware under $200 is the Schlage Addison Front Entry Handleset With Georgian Knob and Deadbolt Combo. While this piece also comes in a variety of finishes, I have found that the Schlage matte black finish seems to be the most attractive finish. While it might just be my preference, I felt that their antique brass is more of a dull green brown, the chrome is just basic and the polished brass a little shinier than I typically prefer. Having seen this handleset in person, I believe it provides a lovely balance between contemporary and traditional styles, which certainly gives it a feel of costing far more than $200. Honestly, if you were to combine the two Emtek styles from the ”Splurge” section below, I believe you would arrive at this Schlage handleset, but for about $150 – $250 cheaper!
Splurge – Hardware Over $275
4. – The first splurge entry hardware set has to be one of my absolute favorites. Just under $300 and crafted by Emtek, this Hamden Single Cylinder Keyed Entry Handleset strikes a lovely balance between contemporary and traditional styles. Much like the Schlage Addison Handleset above, this Emtek handleset is marked by clean lines. Beautiful in any of the 8 finishes available, I particularly love Emtek’s polished nickel and French antique gold finishes. Likewise, unlike the “Save” options, this Emtek handleset can come with several different interior handle styles to provide whichever interior look you most prefer. I personally love the rectangular crystal knob, however Emtek offers dozens of other options as well.
5. – Also available in a myriad of finish options (14 to be exact!), the second splurge hardware set is the Baldwin Manchester Single Cylinder Handleset. Providing a more traditional or even old European aesthetic, I love that this handleset, in my opinion, adds interest and elegance without being fussy or over the top. If you are looking for a solid handleset to enhance your entry space and provide a European feel, this option is certainly one I would recommend.
6. – The last handleset option that I have been eying is the Emtek Jefferson Single Cylinder Keyed Entry Handleset. Shown here in their French antique gold finish, this entry hardware is a statement for sure. Unlike most of the other options shown, I love how the backplate extends the entire length between the deadbolt and handle base. This seems to provide a clean highlighted entry point, making a subtle statement. Like the Emtek Hamden Handleset, this option also provides many different interior handle styles, which to me is a huge perk for choosing an Emtek product.
Final Thoughts
While we are still working on everything coming together for our front door update (stay tuned for the reveal!), I have absolutely been loving these entry door hardware options. Some findings have been quite shocking regarding their price, however as the jewelry of your entry, it is easy to see how such an addition could be an investment. Either way, if you are thinking about replacing your front door, or even just your hardware, I hope these options can inspire your home, regardless of whether you decide to save or splurge!
Happy searching!
