The Ultimate Guide To Arched Doorways
A Classic Arched Doorway Entrance
If you’re thinking of installing a new door arch or wanting to fix up an old one, then this is the guide for you. From how doorway arches are made to picking out the perfect arch style, it’s got everything you need to know about doorway arches!
What is a doorway arch?
In simple terms, a doorway arch is an architectural feature that frames a doorway. The shape of a doorway arch can vary greatly depending on the style of architecture it belongs to, ranging from semi-circular arches to pointed or curved arches. Doorway arches are often used in large buildings such as churches, cathedrals and other places of worship as they add an aesthetically pleasing look while also providing structural support. They can also be used in smaller buildings, such as homes and businesses, to provide an extra layer of elegance or to draw attention to the entrance. Doorway arches are can be made out of various materials including stone, brick, concrete and wood, making them able to fit into any type of design scheme.
What interior styles are suitable for doorway arches?
When it comes to interior design, arched doors are often seen as a stylish and beautiful addition to any home. With their iconic arch shape, they can fit into different home styles, from traditional to modern. When looking for design styles that are suitable for arched interior doorways, the first place to start is with the overall aesthetic of your home. Traditional homes often feature more ornate designs and intricate details in their doorways, while modern homes may opt for a simpler look that emphasizes clean lines. Depending on the desired effect, you could also play around with different colors and materials to create an even more unique look. We've built arches for every type of home, from Gothic to Farmhouse and everything in between. No matter what style you choose, an arched door is sure to add character to any space!
Our Top 3 Arched Doorway Ideas
We've already established that arched doorways are a great addition to any home, but what kind of arch should you choose for your doorway? Luckily here at Archways & Ceilings we know something about that! From the classic barrel arch, to elliptical arches to gothic arches and more, there are plenty of arch styles to choose from. If you're looking for something a bit more unique, consider a gothic archway with intricate details and ornamental trim. For something a bit more understated but with plenty of character, you might want to consider an elliptical arch. For kitchen doorways and hallways you can never go wrong with a barrel arch. No matter which style you choose, these three amazing arched doorway ideas are sure to capture your guests’ attention and create beautiful memories for years to come.
The gothic doorway arch
The gothic doorway arch is a distinctive architectural feature commonly found in gothic-style buildings. It is characterized by its pointed shape and intricate decorative elements. These arches were commonly used during the medieval period, specifically in the 12th to 16th centuries in Europe. The gothic arch is known for its height, giving the illusion of reaching towards the heavens. This style of arch is often associated with religious buildings such as cathedrals and churches due to its spiritual symbolism. The pointed shape of the arch is said to represent the hands of God, welcoming worshippers into the divine realm. The decorative details found on gothic door arches often include intricate carvings of figures, foliage, and religious symbols, further enhancing the mystical and awe-inspiring atmosphere. The gothic doorway arch continues to be a prominent architectural feature in many historical buildings, serving as a lasting testament to the beauty and grandeur of gothic architecture .
Two Gothic Arched Doorways Being Framed- by Archways & Ceilings
The barrel arched doorway
The barrel arched is a classic architectural element that has been used for centuries. This type of arch features a rounded, curved shape that resembles the interior of a barrel, hence its name. It adds a sense of grandeur and elegance to any building, making it a popular choice in both residential and commercial architecture. The barrel arch is known for its strength and stability, as the curved shape helps to distribute the weight evenly and provide structural support. This type of doorway is often used to create a dramatic entrance or to highlight a particular area of a building, such as a grand foyer or a wine cellar. With its timeless appeal and architectural significance, the barrel arched doorway is sure to continue to be a prominent feature in building design for years to come.
Not to get into semantics too much, but around these parts we have the " barrel vault " which is actually a type of ceiling that is comprised of series of continuous (usually) Half-Circle Arches . So, if you're looking for only a doorway or entranceway you would order the Half-Circle Arch. But if you wanted that arch to continue down the hallway you would choose our Barrel Vault. But either way, we'll know what you mean!
A Barrel Vault Ceiling in a hallway with numerous arched doorways - by Archways & Ceilings
Modern doorway arches
Modern doorway arches have become increasingly popular in contemporary architecture. These arches add a unique and stylish element to any home or building. Unlike traditional arched doorways, modern arches often feature clean lines, bold shapes, and minimalistic designs. This minimalist aesthetic complements modern interior design styles, such as minimalism or industrial chic. While our archway kits are made up of wood, you can finish them in any way you want. From tile to stonework to metal or a simple coat of paint, it's totally up to you! This versatility allows architects and homeowners to choose the material that best suits their personal style and desired aesthetic. With their sleek and contemporary look, modern doorway arches have become a popular choice for individuals looking to make a statement with their home's entrance.
We don't offer a "modern arch" per se, but the Elliptical Arch or Soft-Segmented Arch would probably be the most "minimal" in design. It's all going to boil down to the location of the arched doorway, how big it is, and what materials and colors you use to finish it. If you're not seeing the exact arch shape you're looking for, simply contact us and we can work with you to create a custom archway!
A Soft-Segmented Arch Doorway opens into a foyer with a Groin Vault Ceiling and arched entries into other rooms - Archways and Ceilings
Common questions about doorway arches
Doorway arches are a popular and stylish design element that can be added to any home interior. They provide an attractive visual accent and can also be functional, depending on how they are used. Common questions about doorway arches include what type of arch is best for a particular space , how to measure and install the arch, and what materials are best for constructing the arch. The type of arch should be determined by the size of the doorway and the overall design style of your home. Measuring and installing a doorway arch involves some basic carpentry skills, so it's important to make sure you have the right tools and materials before starting. Lastly, materials suitable for constructing an arch range from wood to metal or even stone depending on your preference. Knowing these basics will help you make sure your doorway arch is both beautiful and functional in your home.
How do you build an arched doorway?
Building an arched doorway is something that can be done by an experienced DIYer, but like always - it depends. There's a few factors that will come into play, like your level of expertise, the location of the doorway arch, what kind of arch you want, and so on. To start, you will need to measure and mark out the opening for the arch in the wall where you want it to be installed. You will then need to cut out the opening using either a drywall saw or a jigsaw. Once this is completed, you can begin constructing the frame of your arch using wood or metal laths. You will then need to attach them together and secure them into place with nails or screws. Next, fill in any gaps with mortar before applying plaster over the entire structure. Finally, use sandpaper or a sander to smooth out any edges and give your arch its desired shape and look. With these steps, you can create an attractive arched doorway that adds character and charm to any room in your home.
Luckily for you, here at Archways & Ceilings we make Prefabricated Archway Kits that are easy to assemble, even for a beginner. Simply choose the type of arched doorway you want, send us the measurements, and we'll ship you the kit! Or you might be interested in the Universal Arch Kit , which is perfect for adding a simple arch anywhere.
Does an arched doorway need to have a door?
An arched doorway does not necessarily need to have a door, in this case we'd probably call it an "arched entryway" instead. But we're not ones to split hairs, so if you tell us you want an arched doorway and it doesn't have a door, we'll know what you're referring to. An open arched doorway (or arched entryway) can be used for both aesthetic and practical purposes, providing an inviting entryway into another room without the need for a door. Depending on the layout of your home, you could even use an archway as part of a walkway between rooms, creating an interesting visual experience as you move from one space to another. Alternatively, if you want more privacy or security in a particular area, then using a door in the archway is also possible. Ultimately, it depends on the individual's preferences and needs for how they want to use their arched doorway.
A massive arched kitchen entrance with smaller arched entrances off to the sides - Archways and Ceilings
How do you make a perfect arched doorway?
Creating a perfect arched doorway is an art form that requires precision and skill. If you're handy around the house and know how to use common carpentry tools, this would be the steps in a nutshell. First, you must determine the size of the arch and mark the center of your door frame. From there, use a compass to draw a semi-circle on each side of the center point. Carefully cut out each side of the arch with either a jigsaw or a handsaw. Once both sides are cut out, you can then connect them together using additional pieces of wood. To ensure accuracy, use clamps to hold everything together while you secure it with nails or screws. Finally, fill any gaps with putty and sand them down for a smooth finish.
Or if you want to save a bunch of time and energy, you can order a perfectly constructed arch from us! The ordering process is amazingly simple and to get started we just need some basic measurements. And of course if you have any questions or aren't sure what you're doing, don't hesitate to reach out to us for help!
A perfectly framed arched doorway opens into smaller arched entrances - Archways and Ceilings
Are arched doorways out of style?
Are arched doorways out of style? It is impossible to definitively answer this question as trends in interior design come and go. While arched doorways may have been popular in the past, they are often seen as more traditional or antique designs. In recent years, a more modern aesthetic has become popular, with straight-lined and clean designs taking precedence over elaborate styles. But of course some timeless classics like farmhouse design will always work with a doorway arch. Just think about those beautiful farmhouse wooden doors encased in a magnificent archway with ornate moldings!
It's important to note that arched doorways can still be found in many homes today and can be used to create a unique look and feel to any space. Whether arched doorways are in or out of style ultimately depends on the individual’s preference, and the overall design of their home. But if you want a totally biased opinion, we don't think arched doorways will ever go out of style!
How high should an arched doorway be?
When determining the height of an arched doorway, it is important to consider both aesthetics and practicality. Generally, the ideal height of an arched doorway will depend on the ceiling height in the room. If possible, it is best to make sure that the arch reaches at least five or six inches above the top of any door frame. This helps to create a sense of greater space, as well as allowing for more light and air flow through a room. However, if this is not possible due to low ceilings, then a shorter arch may be necessary. To determine the best height for your arched doorway, it is important to take into consideration both practicality and beauty, ensuring that you choose a design that suits your home’s style and layout.
How do you calculate the arch used in the doorway?
Calculating an arch is a relatively simple process. First, measure the width and height of the opening. Then, divide the height by 2 to determine the radius of the arch. Next, draw a right triangle with one side equal to half of the width and calculate its hypotenuse using Pythagorean theorem. This will give you an approximate arc length for your door. Lastly, measure that distance from each side of the opening and mark it on both sides with a pencil or other marking device before cutting out the arch shape.
Although, there's a much simpler method that doesn't involve any intimidating formulas or complicated math. And that is by using one of our archway kits! Just take some basic measurements and then we do all of the heavy lifting. We've made the process as simple as possible, letting you focus more on design and décor!
How to get the basic measurements for a Gothic Arched Doorway - Archways and Ceilings
Wrapping It All Up
Arched doorways add a unique and beautiful touch to any room. They are the perfect way to make a grand entrance or create a dramatic statement in any home or office. An arched doorway gives an antique, classic feel to a modern space, while also adding architectural interest and charm. Arched doorways can be used indoors or outdoors, and they come in many different styles, sizes, materials, and colors. Whether you’re looking for an original piece of art or something more traditional, an arched doorway is sure to bring interest and beauty to your home. With the right style and design, it can even become a focal point of the entire space. Arched doorways are timeless and will never go out of style, so get started on your next project today!