CARRIAGE DOORS THROUGHOUT HISTORY

The earliest known examples of carriage doors date back to medieval times in Europe, where they were commonly used on large estates and castles. These doors were typically made of wood and were designed to be both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Wood doors have historically been associated with high-end homes and luxury properties, appealing to those looking to make a statement with their home design. 

During the 18th and 19th centuries, carriage doors became more popular in North America as settlers built homes and farms in the countryside. These doors were often used on carriage houses, which were separate structures used to store carriages and other vehicles. Today, most refer to these structures as garages, carports, shops, or barns. 

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the advent of the automobile led to a decline in the use of carriage doors due to their interior door swing-open style. This functionality was also difficult in winter months as snow would often prevent owners from using the doors at all. The invention of the overhead door came to light in the early 1920's and has evolved and grown into the residential and commercial standard we know today. Since that time, and due to expense, materials and weight, carriage and wood garage doors have not been the standard choice for most homeowners in years past.

However, these doors have experienced a resurgence in popularity in recent years, particularly in the realm of residential design as a decorative feature. Modern carriage doors may be made from a variety of materials, including wood, metal, and glass, and can be designed to fit a wide range of architectural styles while operating in an overhead fashion to suit the needs of most homeowners. Many examples of today's carriage doors can be found on residential garages as a nod to the past all while adding a warm, luxurious feel to a home's exterior. 



If your home is in need of a curb appeal update, consider your garage door a large influence on the overall picture. Not sure where to start? Check out our other blog post "Why Is Curb Appeal So Important" for ways to get inspired and create the home exterior of your dreams.