Gracing the front of my childhood home in Virginia was a brass pineapple door knocker. It was the quintessential symbol of hospitality and is still a favored icon among southerners. In terms of curb appeal, such devices have been and continue to be a preferred way to add personality to a front door.
In Australia, the pineapples come crushed in cold alcoholic beverages more so than hanging on a front door. It is hard to say what takes the place of the southern American symbols of hospitality here. Perhaps it is simply the open door itself, letting the fresh breeze glide through and guests come and go as they please. Regardless, it is clear that the overall first appearance of a home is just as important here as it is in the States.
Here are a few of my favorite front facades from “back home” as well as some that I have grown to love here. What does “curb appeal” mean to you? What is your favorite symbol of hospitality?
The South:
Regal details on the Belfield House door, Lexington, VA
An all-time favorite, Charleston, SC
A beloved past client’s door, reminiscent of the Hollywood Regency era, Chevy Chase, MD
Front doors of the historic Lee Chapel, Lexington, VA
Love the lacquered double doors of Draper James in Nashville, TN
The most beautiful robin’s egg blue door at The Georges boutique hotel, Lexington, VA
Sydney:
The tree completes the curb appeal in Paddington, NSW Australia
Neoclassical doors of the historic Elizabeth Bay House, NSW Australia
The lantern is too small (can’t help but notice) but otherwise perfectly manicured
Classic. Woollahra, NSW Australia
Interesting mix of wood shutters and slate-blue paint. It works. Woollahra, NSW Australia
This one in Glebe, NSW Australia stopped me in my tracks
Persimmon at its best, Woollahra, NSW Australia
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