The Bedroom Door Conundrum: In Or Out?

Whether a bedroom door should open inwards or outwards is a topic that has sparked much discussion. While there is no definitive rule or code dictating the swing direction of bedroom doors, most bedroom doors tend to swing inwards. This is largely due to practical and safety reasons. Inward-swinging doors are less likely to disrupt the flow of traffic in hallways and can be easily barricaded from the inside in case of an intrusion. They also offer better security as the hinges are on the inside, making it harder for burglars to tamper with them. Additionally, in the event of a child accidentally locking themselves in the bedroom, an inward-swinging door can be pushed down more easily. However, there are exceptions to this convention, such as unique floor plans or structural conflicts. For instance, if an inward-swinging door bumps into furniture or blocks a light switch, it may be more practical to have it swing outwards. Ultimately, the decision lies with the homeowner, who should consider the specific layout and needs of their bedroom and house.

No code dictates the direction of a bedroom door's swing

However, there are instances when outward-swinging bedroom doors may be preferable. For example, if an inward-swinging door bumps into a dresser, blocks a light switch, or makes a toilet inaccessible, it may be better for the door to swing outward.

Inward-swinging doors are safer and more secure

Inward-swinging doors are generally considered safer and more secure for bedrooms. Here are several reasons why:

Safety

In the event that a child accidentally locks themselves in the bedroom, inward-swinging doors are easier to break down by pushing against them. This can be crucial in emergency situations, making it easier to quickly access the room.

Security

Inward-swinging doors are also more secure against intruders. With the hinges on the inside, they are less likely to be tampered with. If the hinges are exposed on the outside, it creates a security weak point that burglars can exploit to gain entry. Inward-swinging doors also allow for the door to be barricaded from the inside, providing added protection in the event of an intrusion.

Traffic Flow

Most bedroom doors lead onto a hallway, and inward-swinging doors do not disrupt the flow of traffic within this space. Outward-swinging doors, on the other hand, could encroach on a relatively narrow hallway and increase the chances of the door opening directly into the path of someone walking by.

Aesthetics

Inward-swinging doors also offer a better view of the bedroom when the door is opened, enhancing the sense of space and showcasing the room's decor and design. This is especially important for bedrooms, which are often considered a personal haven within the home.

Feng Shui

According to the principles of Feng Shui, the bedroom is the most important room in the home and the door should always open inwards. This is believed to be more welcoming, pulling positive energy into the room.

Outward-swinging doors may be better for small spaces

Outward-swinging doors are a great option for small spaces, and there are several reasons why. Firstly, they save space by not intruding into the room when opened. This is especially beneficial in tight areas like hallways or corridors, where an inward-swinging door could obstruct foot traffic and create a cluttered look.

Secondly, outward-swinging doors can provide better access to the room. For example, if you have a light switch near the door, an inward-swinging door could block access to it. Outward-swinging doors also allow for a clear view of the room upon entry, creating an "ahh" moment when you see your space.

In some cases, outward-swinging doors may be safer, especially in an emergency. For instance, if a child accidentally locks themselves in a room, an outward-swinging door can be pushed open more easily than an inward-swinging door. This is also beneficial for older individuals who may fall and need assistance.

Lastly, outward-swinging doors can be more convenient in certain situations. For example, if you live in an area with heavy snowfall, an inward-swinging door could be difficult to open due to snowdrifts.

While outward-swinging doors offer these advantages in small spaces, there are also some considerations. Outward-swinging doors may be less secure, as the hinges are exposed and can be accessed from the outside. Additionally, they may not be ideal in high-traffic areas, as they could accidentally hit passersby.

Inward-swinging doors are more aesthetically pleasing

Inward-swinging doors are also more secure. The hinges are on the inside, making them harder for intruders to access. This is especially important for exterior doors, as outward-swinging doors may be easier to break into due to the hinge being on the outside. Security hinges are available for outward-swinging doors, but they are more expensive.

Inward-swinging doors are also more practical in terms of space. They are less likely to obstruct hallways or walkways and can provide easier access to light switches. However, this may depend on the layout of the room, and sometimes outward-swinging doors may be necessary to avoid bumping into furniture or blocking a toilet, for example.

Inward-swinging doors are also safer for children. If a child accidentally locks themselves in a room, it is easier to break down an inward-swinging door by pushing it forward. Additionally, inward-swinging doors make it less likely that someone will accidentally open the door into another person.

Finally, inward-swinging doors are better suited for extreme weather conditions, such as snow or hurricanes. Outward-swinging doors can be blown open by strong winds, causing damage to the inside of the home. Inward-swinging doors also allow for the installation of storm doors, which provide additional protection against high winds, rain, and extreme weather.

Feng shui philosophy favours inward-opening bedroom doors

In feng shui, the position of the bed in relation to the door is very important. Ideally, the bed should not be aligned with the door, as this is known as the "coffin position". Instead, the bed should be in the "commanding position", which means that you can see the door from the bed, without being directly in line with it. This position is said to promote positive energy and success in the world.

When a bedroom door opens inwards, it allows qi to flow more easily into the room and towards the bed, which can enhance the positive effects of feng shui. Inward-opening doors also provide a better view of the room when entering, creating a sense of "ahh!" and offering a better appreciation of the decor.

There are also practical considerations that favour inward-opening bedroom doors. For example, inward-opening doors are less likely to obstruct narrow hallways and walkways, and they reduce the risk of accidentally bumping into someone in the hallway when exiting the room. Inward-opening doors can also enhance privacy and security, as the hinges are on the inside, making them less vulnerable to tampering. Additionally, if a child accidentally locks themselves in the bedroom, an inward-opening door can be pushed down more easily than an outward-opening door.

While there may be exceptions, such as unique floor plans or structural conflicts, the standard for bedroom doors is to swing inward. This configuration promotes a good flow of qi, enhances the positive effects of feng shui, and offers practical benefits that contribute to a harmonious living space.

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