What's The Difference: Bedroom Vs. Closet Doors?

There are many types of closet doors, including sliding, hinged, and bifold doors. While the type of door chosen depends on various factors, such as the purpose of the room, the layout, and the amount of space available, the closet doors in a bedroom should ideally match in color and design to create a uniform look and make the room appear less busy. However, in certain cases, such as a difference in door panels, non-matching doors may go unnoticed.

Matching colour and design

Matching the colour and design of your closet doors and bedroom doors is an important consideration when designing your home. While it is not always necessary for the doors to match exactly, creating a cohesive look throughout your home can be achieved by paying attention to the colour, design, and style of your doors. Here are some factors to consider:

Colour

When choosing the colour of your closet and bedroom doors, it is essential to maintain a consistent colour pattern that complements the overall colour scheme of your room and home. Neutral colours such as white and brown are versatile and can be paired with any colour palette, making them a popular choice. However, if you prefer a bolder look, you can opt for coloured doors that contrast with the walls of your room. Just ensure that the colour of the doors aligns with the style and ambiance you want to create.

Design and Style

The design and style of your closet and bedroom doors should be chosen based on the purpose, layout, and size of the room, as well as your personal preferences. If you have limited space, consider space-saving options such as sliding, bypass, or bifold doors. These doors do not require a wide range of motion to open and close, making them ideal for smaller spaces. On the other hand, if you have a larger space, swing or hinged doors can add elegance and a classic touch to your room.

Additionally, the style of your doors can be used to create a specific aesthetic. For example, modern and contemporary spaces often feature sleek and minimalist sliding doors with smooth finishes or frosted glass panels. Traditional homes may opt for classic hinged doors with raised panel details, while a rustic or country-style home could incorporate barn doors. French doors, with their multiple glass panels, can add elegance and sophistication to any space, making them a versatile choice.

Panels

While it is not necessary for the number of panels on your closet and bedroom doors to match exactly, it is recommended to keep the difference to a minimum. A one-panel difference may not be noticeable, but a larger discrepancy, such as a 5-panel door paired with a 2-panel door, may be more apparent and disrupt the overall harmony of the design.

In conclusion, when deciding on the colour and design of your closet and bedroom doors, consider the existing colour patterns, the purpose and layout of the room, your personal style preferences, and the overall design aesthetic you want to achieve. By carefully selecting the colour, design, and style of your doors, you can create a cohesive and stylish look throughout your home.

Privacy and UV protection

Privacy Options

If privacy is a concern, solid-panel doors are a good option. Bypass doors, also known as sliding doors, are a popular choice for closets as they save space and provide easy access. Swing doors, or hinged doors, are another classic option for larger spaces, and can be customised with various hardware and accessories. Bifold doors are also a space-saving option, folding in half and sliding on a track, but they may not be suitable for young children as they can cause finger-pinching. Closet barn doors are a trendy option that can serve as a conversation piece and accent piece, but they require enough wall space. French doors, or double doors, offer a wide variety of panel and glass styles, allowing you to choose the level of privacy you desire.

UV Protection Options

To protect your belongings from UV damage, you can install UV protection film on your closet doors. This film allows you to see out while reflecting harmful UV rays. Alternatively, you can opt for blackout window films that block out most of the light and provide two-way privacy. If you want to let some light in while still providing a visual barrier, translucent films are a good option. They usually come in different patterns, colours, and shapes, such as birds or flowers. For a unique, custom look, you can combine different patterns and choose from a variety of decorative styles.

Combining Privacy and UV Protection

When choosing a closet door, you can consider options that offer both privacy and UV protection. For example, the French door style can be customised with different types of glass to provide privacy while still allowing natural light to filter through. You can also install UV-resistant window films on glass-panelled doors to enhance privacy while protecting against UV rays. Additionally, some decorative films offer standard UV protection while adding style and privacy to your space.

Space-saving options

If you are working with a small space, there are several space-saving options for closet doors. Bypass closet doors, also known as sliding closet doors, are a popular choice as they do not swing out into the room and allow for easy access to the closet interior. Bifold closet doors are another space-saving option as they fold in half and slide on a track, requiring less clearance than swinging doors. Double sliding closet doors are also a great choice for small spaces as they only take up a small amount of space. If you have a wide, narrow, wall-length closet, a double sliding closet door or a folding closet door will give you better access to the interior.

If you are looking for a door that does not take up any floor space, a sliding barn door is a good option. These doors slide horizontally on a track and can be customised to fit a wide range of styles. Pocket doors are another option that does not require any floor space as they slide into the wall. However, this option may require the restructuring of the wall and can be a bigger renovation project.

Curtains can also be used as a space-saving alternative to closet doors. A simple curtain hung wide and high can provide a pared-down, natural look to a bedroom. For a thicker fabric that could conceal storage, simply hang a rod across the closet and attach a curtain of your choice.

Design and style

When it comes to the design and style of closet doors, there are numerous options to choose from, allowing you to select the perfect door that complements the rest of your home's interior design. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a closet door:

Purpose of the Room:

The function of the room can guide you towards the most suitable door style. For instance, a bedroom may require a different door type compared to an office space or hallway.

Room Layout:

Consider the available space in the room for the door's opening and closing. This will help determine whether you need a door that folds, glides, or swings open. For example, a sliding barn door is ideal for areas with limited space, while a classic swinging door is suitable if you have ample space.

Interior Décor Style:

The character of your home's interior design can be a guiding factor. For instance, a modern home may favour sleek and minimalist sliding doors, while a traditional home might opt for classic hinged doors with raised panel details.

Consistency with Existing Doors:

Maintaining a consistent door style throughout your home can create a sense of unity in its design. However, it is also acceptable to mix styles based on your specific needs. For example, you might prefer a mirror on the inside of a bathroom door.

Privacy Considerations:

Certain spaces, like bedrooms, may require solid panel doors for added privacy, while other areas could benefit from the openness that glass-paneled doors provide.

Lighting Preferences:

Consider whether you prefer natural light to enter the closet through glass or frosted glass panels.

Storage Requirements:

If your closet houses bulky items, a larger door might be more convenient for easy access.

Door Types:

There are several types of closet doors available, each offering unique advantages:

• Bypass/Sliding Closet Doors: These doors slide horizontally on a track and overlap, saving space and providing easy access to the closet. They usually have two or more panels made of various materials such as wood, glass, or mirrors.
• Swing/Hinged Closet Doors: These are classic swinging doors with one or more panels that can include glass or mirrors. They offer a wide range of styles and finishes, providing easy access to the closet and adding elegance to the room.
• Bifold Closet Doors: Bifold doors fold in half and slide on a track, making them space-saving and ideal for smaller spaces. They come in various styles and finishes, allowing for customization to match the room's décor.
• Closet Doors with Mirrors: These doors serve a dual purpose, offering a full-length mirror while also functioning as a closet door. They can make a room appear larger and brighter, reflecting light and creating the illusion of more space.
• French Closet Doors: French doors, also known as double doors, open from the centre and often feature multiple glass panels, allowing natural light into the room. They provide a wider opening and add elegance to the space.
• Sliding Barn Closet Doors: Sliding barn doors operate on a track and are known for their rustic yet contemporary appeal. They can be customized to suit various styles and are perfect for adding a unique design element to your home.

Design Ideas:

• Bi-fold Doors: Decorate or paint bi-fold doors to create a personalized look. You can install wood moulding in geometric shapes for a modern contemporary feel or add wallpaper coverings with attractive prints.
• Chalkboard Paint: Apply chalkboard paint on closet doors, providing a fun and interactive surface for kids to doodle on.
• Curtains: Instead of a traditional door, consider using curtains as a versatile and space-saving alternative. Hang a rod across the closet and attach a curtain of your choice to provide a natural or concealed look.
• Metal Sliding Doors: Opt for metal sliding doors to give a masculine or industrial vibe to the space.
• Louvered Closet Doors: Choose wooden louvered doors to add warmth and allow for air and light circulation in the closet.
• Mirrored Closet Doors: Install mirrored doors to make your bedroom appear more stylish, chic, and brighter.
• Frosted Glass Double Doors: Frosted glass doors are a popular choice for those who want to conceal storage spaces while adding a fresh and contemporary look to the bedroom.
• French Closet Doors: Install French doors and add moulding to frame them, creating a timeless and elegant look. Paint them with a glossy white colour to enhance their chic and classic appeal.
• Simple White Doors: Paint white doors with pops of colour, unique patterns, bold geometrics, or colourful stripes to infuse whimsy and creativity into the space.
• Single Panel Door: Similar to a typical bedroom door, this type of door may take up more space but can be used as a decorative surface, such as hanging a mirror to brighten and enlarge the room.
• Sliding Barn Doors: To achieve a rustic vibe, install sliding barn doors, either as pocket doors that slide into the wall or by using a closet door roller kit to hang the doors.
• Wallpapered Closet Doors: Use wallpaper to enhance the look of your closet doors inexpensively and easily. With endless patterns, colours, and designs available, you can easily update the style of your doors without permanent alterations.

Materials and finishes

The materials and finishes of closet doors and bedroom doors can vary depending on several factors, including the existing space, room layout, design style, privacy needs, lighting preferences, and storage requirements. Here are some options to consider:

• Wood: Wood is a classic and versatile material for closet and bedroom doors. It can be used for various door styles, such as bi-fold, bypass, swing, or French doors. Wood can be stained or painted to match the colour palette of the room and can also be paired with glass or mirror panels for a more modern look.
• Glass: Glass closet doors, such as French doors or sliding doors, are a popular choice for those who want to create a bright and airy space. Frosted glass is often used to provide privacy while still allowing natural light to filter through. Glass doors can also be layered with wood frames for a traditional look or paired with metal for an industrial vibe.
• Mirror: Mirrored closet doors serve a dual purpose by providing a full-length mirror and making the room appear larger and brighter. They can be customised with different frame styles and finishes to match the overall décor of the space.
• Metal: Metal sliding doors are an excellent choice for a masculine or industrial look. They are often used in small spaces and can be paired with other materials, such as wood or glass, for a unique design.
• Chalkboard Paint: For a fun and functional option, consider painting your closet doors with chalkboard paint. This is a great idea for kids' rooms, providing a space for creativity and expression.
• Curtains: If you're looking for a space-saving alternative to traditional doors, curtains can be a stylish option. A simple white curtain can provide a pared-down, natural look, while thicker fabrics can offer more privacy and conceal storage areas.
• Wallpaper: Wallpaper is an easy and inexpensive way to enhance the look of your closet doors. With endless patterns, colours, and designs available, you can easily personalise your doors and update the style of your bedroom.
• Barn-Style Doors: Barn doors are a popular choice for those who want to add a rustic or country feel to their space. These doors can be pre-drilled and ready to assemble, making them a convenient option for single doorways or closets.

Frequently asked questions