
A beautiful front door can transform the look of your entire home. Here’s how to choose lighting, paint colors, and accessories that stand up to the elements.

Nothing has a bigger impact on a front door than fresh paint, which boosts curb appeal and provides protection from the elements. First buff the door with 220-grit sandpaper, and then prime it so the paint adheres better. According to Pat Sandor, a how-to expert at The Home Depot, “a smoother finish, like a semi- or high-gloss, will help prevent moisture from creeping in and forming mildew.” Choose a cheery color—bolder is better!
Shown from top: Ebbtide (SW6493), sherwin-williams.com; Martha Stewart’s Peony Orange (MS032), valspar.com; Folly Green (76), farrow-ball.com

Add ambience with a hanging lantern or nautical-style sconces. Materials such as unfinished copper or brass look even better with patina, says Gale Singer, president of Circa Lighting. Another tip: Use frosted bulbs for softer light and less glare.
Shown: Compton Sconce in Chrome (left), $285; wayfair.com. Charleston 1-Light Outdoor Pendant in Oil-Rubbed Bronze (right), $219; ballarddesigns.com

Make sure guests (and mail carriers) can find your home with house numbers that are easily visible and have a coastal vibe.
Shown from top: Eames House Numbers in Paprika, $38 each; heathceramics.com. Neutraface Address Numbers in Satin Stainless Steel, from $65 each; customhousenumbers.com. Surfboard Address Plaque, from $72; oceanstyles.com

Extend a warmer welcome with planted pots. Check out local nurseries for low-maintainence plantings, such as succulents, that thrive in your plant zone.
Shown: South Seas Planter in Verde, $84; campaniainternational.com

Door knockers, mailboxes, and pretty wreaths are like jewelry for front doors. Add one or two—but don’t overdo it.
Shown from left: Mail/Welcome Basket in Natural, $36; peterborobasket.com. Anchor Door Knocker, $100; michaelhealy.com
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