Doors have always changed throughout history. A quick look at old pictures from centuries ago will reveal doors that you may have never seen before and possibly never will see. Some doors have withstood the test of time and become part of the history along with the buildings they open to. Today, most of us are familiar with the traditional door – a large rectangular shape often made of wood with a turning knob or handle to swing the door inward or outward. Not much to them.
Of course, we are also familiar with a lot of the embellishments that can come with a door. Windows, grills, ornate decorations, bold paint colors, knockers, and so forth. Many people are comfortable with today’s doors and their designs. But there are other doors coming that seek to bring change. Contemporary doors still act the same, but can have several different elements that make them a part of the modernist style.
Contemporary doors may start by being made of wood – but some may skip wood altogether and be fashioned from fiberglass. Fiberglass has shown itself to be more capable than wood in its durability and energy efficiency. They require less maintenance, can hold up against dents and dings better, and hold in heat during winter and cool air during summer much better.
These types of doors are not just focused on being strong. They also tend to highlight specific things, such as simple lines or use stark contrasts to angles. Modernism has these same kinds of architectural aspects, and the doors follow those concepts. Handles may not be round, but instead have a bar shape. There are very few curves used in contemporary doors, but when they are used, they often intersect the angles of the door in surprising ways.
Most contemporary doors do still swing open on two hinges that are attached to the doorframe. However, some designers are taking things to the next level. Architect Jonathan Feldman has forsaken the traditional hinge and instead crafted a door that opens on an off-set pivot. The pivot goes through the entire door at its edge and the door simply swings open like any other. The goal? Not only for a modern look, but to also bring the outdoors indoors, maximize views and give additional light. Though these doors are not common now, it shouldn’t come as a surprise if more of them pop up if current modern door tends continue into the future.