Architecture/Garage doors

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Expert: - 7/28/2010


Question
I am redesigning my house that only has 35 ft frontage.  This basically leaves the front of my house composed of a two-car garage.  With this said, it is very important that I find the right garage door. My style is mostly Asian decor but I also like contemporary and prarie style features.  I live in a neighborhood where all the newer houses built on knockdown properties are mostly Artisan type architect.  I am searching for a very unusual garage door that will make my home stand out.  I like the white illuminated transparent type doors but they are kind of boring.  I would like to modify these to look more Asian somehow.  Any suggestion on how I can do this or where I can find an unique garage door?

Answer
Hi Pam,

I have modified basic wood doors (just a flat door) by attaching trim or paneling to them and that can be a very cost effective way of dressing up a door. There are manufacturer's of aluminum and glass doors that are quite stunning (but also expensive). Have you looked at the major brands like Clopay http://www.clopaydoor.com? A stained wood door is quite nice (and actually last time I priced one it was less expensive than the fiberglass Clopay door).  Use a good wood sealer like Sikkens if you use a natural wood door.

Hope this helps.

Nazim Nice
Principal / Architect
http://www.motion-space.com
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Nazim Nice

Expertise

I am a Seattle Architect and can answer architecture and design related questions. Ask me about material suggestions or usage. Ask me about design options - what is good design and what is bad. Ask me about choosing exterior house colors and furniture layout options. Ask me about detailing and assembling houses or components in the home. Ask me about green design or materials. Ask me about choosing an architect, the architectural services, basement remodels, second story additions, and whole house remodels. Ask me about garage design, bathroom remodels, laundry and mudroom design, family room additions, and roof deck additions.

Experience

Over 12 years of practice in the Architectural field including three years of internship plus 5 years of school. I have taught at the Knowlton School of Architecture at the Ohio State University and lectured at Carnegie Mellon University. I currently own and run the Seattle Architecture Firm, Motionspace Architecture + Design PLLC.

Organizations
National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB, Seattle Architects | Motionspace Architecture + Design. More information at our blog the (un)common house. Lumen ID Custom Engraved Switch Plates with Labels.

Education/Credentials
BArch from Carnegie Mellon University & Andrew Carnegie Scholar

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