How to Design a Balcony Door

Measure all the balcony area. Designate how much width to allow for door space, so you can decide whether to have one door or two. Determine whether the doors will open outward or open inside the room. Plan to install a door that complements surrounding doors and windows on the house facade so it does not overpower an entrance, for example.

Choose a door style. Select a wooden door with ornate carvings, for example. Plan to install double French doors or metal doors with beveled glass. Make a choice that complements both the interior and exterior of the house. Use home design books to gather ideas before making a door selection.

Give the door additional flair. Add fixed panels of glass on each side or install large pots of greenery near the door. Include appropriate light fixtures to draw attention to the balcony area. Buy lantern wall lights to install on each side or use high-tech stainless steel sconces if the house has many high-tech features. Look at ways to add an arch over the door if there is sufficient room.

Use security features. Buy a motion detector light if the balcony is accessible from outside. Keep in mind that a balcony can provide easy access for unwelcome visitors. Buy deadbolt locks for a balcony door system for added protection. Keep areas lighted underneath the balcony at night to make the door space safer.

Paint or stain the door to blend with the home's architectural style. Paint the door a bright color in some cases, such as a balcony door used on a beach home. Use the same color of paint or stain as the wood trim or house siding in most cases. Use colored pencils to experiment with using any bright or contrasting colors. Draw the balcony space on a sketch pad and try various colors to see what works but make sure any bright colors will fit well with the neighborhood.