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For a timeless, elegant and surprisingly versatile entryway, look no farther than French doors. They’re gorgeous by their own right, but they’re also the perfect canvas for other stylish details, whether you’re updating a traditional home or putting your stamp on a modern one.

Here are eight makeovers that are fantastique. But first, check out our guide to French doors so you can confidently capture the perfect look and feel in your home.

Why do they call it a french door?

Let’s answer the biggest question first. Yes, French doors are French. They became popular in 17th-century France when, because electricity hadn’t been invented yet, lighting a room was a challenge. The glass found in French doors was a practical solution for dark spaces while also letting homeowners show off their wealth.

What is considered a French door? Double doors that meet in the middle and swing away from each other. They also should have top-to-bottom windows. Traditional French doors can be surrounded by intricate woodwork and often have several panes of glass, sometimes up to 10 per door. These may mirror the transom windows, those small panes framed above the door. Modern French doors tend to have fewer glass panes or even a single, uninterrupted piece of glass.

The material of the door can also transform its look from traditional to contemporary. Wood often keeps the door more in the classic category, while metals such as aluminum can add a more modern feel.

Where are french doors used?

French doors are a popular choice in homes that want to separate two interior spaces but still allow the rooms to feel connected and, like the originals, let light through. They can also be used as exterior patio doors, allowing homeowners to seamlessly extend their personal style to the great outdoors.

What is the best hardware for French doors?

Where you install your French doors will help determine what kind of hardware you need. For interior doors, you might be particularly interested in non-turning, also known as dummy or inactive, door knobs or levers. These are purely decorative and won’t lock or latch, an ideal option for transitions between a master suite and a large closet. For exterior doors, you’ll want additional security. Schlage has some helpful tips for choosing the right hardware and locks for your French doors depending on the level of security you’re looking for.

Once you’ve selected the type of hardware you need, you can focus on style. Schlage offers countless combinations of designs and finishes, so you can coordinate your hardware with the style of your home. Just as the French doors themselves can fit in any style of home, our wide selection of knobs and levers means you’ll find a look that suits your taste, whether it’s traditional, modern or somewhere in between.

Time for the makeovers

While French doors add loads of character to a home, they can quickly feel outdated if the details are neglected. We’ve gathered a few of our favorite makeover moments to inspire your French door updates.

Window dressing

We already know French doors let in extra light and make a room feel larger. But what about when you want more privacy? You still have tons of options. Hang draperies on the doors themselves or around them like you would a window. You could also try blinds or shutters. Renovated Faith shares a tutorial for DIY curtains. If you’re dealing with a smaller space – maybe you chose French doors to create a feeling of more openness – hang curtains as high as possible. By drawing the eye up, you’ll create an optical illusion that makes the room feel larger.

Schlage switch

We’ve shared this home office refresh many times before, but we’re still in love with the unique way Melissa of Polkadot Chair refreshed her space. Painting the ceiling was a bold but genius move and the hardware she added to her French doors is the icing on the cake. From the outside looking in, this space has instant wow-factor. If you need help choosing the perfect look, try our Style Selector. The Schlage How-To Center can also help with installation.

Painted beauties

A great time to paint is when you’re already removing your old knobs and levers. There are two ways you can go with paint – neutral colors that create a subtle transition from one room to the other or bold hues that turn your interior French doors into a can’t-miss statement piece. We love how Katie of Little House of Four chose to paint all of her interior doors, including the French doors found in her basement, a dark, charcoal grey. It adds uniformity and interest throughout the home.

Chic on the side

For those times you’re looking at your French doors and can’t quite put your finger on what looks off, try expanding your view. The problem might be the trim around the doors. Heart Filled Spaces removed their old trim and replaced it with sophisticated molding. The extra detail, either in the woodwork or with an added pop of color, could be the finishing touch that has you feeling like a Parisian native.

If you need more inspiration, check out our favorite doors on Pinterest. Then head to Instagram and show us how you put a personal touch on your French doors.

1. Get the modern farmhouse look

Modern farmhouse style and barn doors remain popular, and there are plenty of ways to add an original twist to the look. Try a double sliding barn door or one that’s “living.” To keep it from looking country kitsch, stick with neutral colors and more modern and industrial hardware.

2. Add drama with black doors

A quick way to make a dramatic statement is by painting your doors black. The look is both classic and luxurious and will look like you spent a fortune on expensive doors. Finish the look off with either Satin Brass or Matte Black hardware. Here's one of our favorites from Our Uncluttered House, featuring the Schlage Georgian Knob with Camelot trim in Matte Black.

3. Coordinate with the trim

When it comes to painting your home, many homeowners believe the trim is off limits. Why not try something new and coordinate your door with the surrounding trim? We love how the door complements the walls and trim for a look that's anything but bland. You can easily copy this look on plain slab doors with DIY faux panels.

4. Go bold with color

Is your home mostly neutral? Give it an elegant splash of color by painting your interior doors a rich shade. This technique adds something fun without being over the top and it can even make a small space feel larger.

5. Try a DIY herringbone door

Try this DIY herringbone door for a look that’s even more unique. The project is more time intensive than the ideas above, but the result is worth the effort. Check out this great tutorial from Home Stories A to Z.

Let us know which is your favorite look on Facebook. And if you're looking for even more door makeover inspiration, check out our Adore Your Doors Pinterest board.

How smart are your smart home devices? These electronics often do more than you realize. Sometimes they can be used in ways you hadn’t before imagined – although still within the limits of the warranty – giving you additional convenience, ease or security.

Never miss an opportunity to make your smart home smarter. Here are some features of common smart home devices you might not be using. You’ll wish you knew about them sooner.

Make smart locks smarter

There are so many ways a Schlage smart lock can help you secure your home, it can be easy to overlook some of the most convenient and beneficial features. If you have a Schlage Encode™ Smart WiFi Deadbolt or the Schlage Sense™ Smart Deadbolt, try creating a virtual key for guest access. This step-by-step guide shows you how to create a virtual key with the Schlage Home app. Once you send the invite, your guest will receive a link on their smartphone asking them to activate the virtual key. They will then be able to lock and unlock the door using the Schlage Home app on their smartphone.

The virtual key is a great way to control who can do what with your lock. For example, you may want your spouse to have admin access so they can also manage user codes, but you don’t want your teen to be able to change those codes. A virtual key is ideal for the kids. They can get in the house without a physical key, and you’re still in control of your lock’s other features.

Note that guest virtual keys can only be used within Bluetooth range the door (about 40 feet) and when the guest has their phone’s Bluetooth turned on. If you’re using the Schlage Sense lock with Apple HomeKit™, you will not be able to use Schlage virtual keys. You can reset your lock to factory settings and re-pair it using the Schlage system setup to use virtual keys. If you have HomeKit, learn how to share access with other iPhone users at Apple Support.

How about a more basic trick? Try your Schlage smart lock somewhere other than your front door. They’re secure and stylish anywhere on your home, including side doors, the entry leading into the home from your garage or even a home office.

Keep an eye on the action

Our favorite alternatives for motion sensors are more about their location than their actual use. Originally intended to be placed near doors and windows, these cameras can also alert you when someone opens your mailbox. Install one inside the postal box and, if it’s compatible with your smartphone, receive a notification when the door opens. You’ll know whenever someone puts something in your mailbox … or takes something out.

A motion-activated camera can also be placed behind valuables. Burglars will typically look for the big-ticket items in the house first. Focus your camera on those spots and protect whatever that most prized possession in your house is, even if it’s inside a closet or a file cabinet drawer.

Need to know when a pet has wandered somewhere he shouldn’t? Place your camera near that room or entrance. If it also has two-way speakers, you can to tell Fido to get off the couch, even if you’re still at the office.

Let your phone locate your lights

A century ago, Walter Schlage earned a patent for a deadbolt that turned on a light when you unlocked the door. He figured that if you were entering a room, you’d also want to be able to see where you were going when you got in. Unfortunately, this invention didn’t take off, but the idea is alive and well today. One current version is controlling your home’s lights with geofencing.

With the right compatible devices – smart lights, plugs or switches – you can have the lights turned on when you are within steps of your front door. The location detector in your phone signals that you are home, triggering a reaction that turns on the lights without you having to do a thing. Cnet.com has more details on how to automatically turn on your lights when you get home.

Plug in to energy management

Smart plugs are a simple and increasingly cost-effective way to turn a “dumb” device into a smart one. If you’re someone who chooses smart devices to make your home more green, look for a smart plug that also gives feedback about how much energy you’re using. The WeMo Insight Smart Plug works like any other, but it also sends real-time reports to your phone. You’ll receive energy usage data for whatever device is plugged into the WeMo.

Remember that smart plugs aren’t just for lamps, either. Think outside the box. What devices do you use every day that could benefit from more smarts? What about your coffeemaker? A heated blanket? Something in the bathroom?

Simplify climate control

Thermostats tend to be a “set it and forget it” device, at least until the seasons change. For maximum comfort and energy savings, though, you might want to make it part of your smart home automation and routines. There’s the popular “vacation” routine, which can automatically change your home’s temperature, lock the doors and turn on a random light schedule to make the house appear lived in. But have you tried a “party” routine?

When more people are in the house, for example during a holiday gathering, the guests’ extra body heat will help keep the house at a comfortable temperature, even if you turn down the furnace. So create that party routine and trigger a series of events – adjust the thermostat, start the music and set some mood lighting – with a single voice command or push of a button in an app.

Different smart thermostats are compatible with different technologies and other smart devices. Be sure to do your research beforehand so that everything will work together as seamlessly as you want.

If you’re wondering which smart locks are compatible with these devices or with the technology you already have in your home, try our Get Help Deciding Tool. Answer a few simple questions and we’ll recommend the Schlage smart lock that’s right for you and your lifestyle. You can also find more technology tips and tricks at Schlage.com/blog.

1. Quality construction

Is this a “thing”? We’re making it one because a quality door is one of the most important considerations for securing your entryway. Even the strongest lock won’t protect you and your belongings if your door and the surrounding frame is warped, crack or weak. Be sure to evaluate your door periodically so you can fix any problems before they compromise your security.

2. Secure handleset

Score a double victory with Schlage handlesets for your front door. You get style – we offer a variety of designs and finishes to match nearly any home – and security in one package. Our handlesets are graded Best in Security, Durability and Finish by the BHMA, so you can be confident in your door hardware’s form and function.

3. Deadbolt or smart lock

Some handlesets include a deadbolt as either a two-piece or a single 3/4 trim. If you get to choose a separate lock to pair with it, there are a few deadbolt options. Single-cylinder deadbolts require a key on one side and a thumbturn on the other for locking and unlocking. Double-cylinder deadbolts need a key on both sides, which offers great security but also can pose risks in an emergency situation if you need to exit the locked door quickly. These are regulated in some areas, so be sure to check with your local codes before choosing a double-cylinder lock.

Schlage handlesets also pair beautifully with smart locks like the new Schlage Encode™ Smart WiFi Deadbolt. Regardless of which electronic lock you choose, you’ll get keyless convenience and, in most cases, the option to manage access remotely via your smartphone or home automation system. Use our Get Help Deciding Tool to learn which smart deadbolt is best for you and your family.

4. Video doorbell

Video doorbells are gaining popularity because they let you see who’s on your porch even when you’re away from home. Keep an eye on packages, see when the kids get home or decide if it’s worth getting off the couch for the magazine salesman, all from your smartphone. Your Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt pairs with the Ring Video Doorbell 2 for additional convenience and security.

5. Peephole

It’s old-school, but they’re still around because they work. If you already have a traditional door viewer, consider upgrading to a video version. The Ring Door View Cam attaches to your existing peephole without the need for wiring and offers a live feed of your porch.

6. Lighting

Lighting is another opportunity to combine style with security. Fixtures can easily be matched to your home’s architectural style. No matter what they look like, a well-lit home is less likely to be targeted by intruders. You’re also less likely to stumble in your entryway if you can see where you’re going. Consider solar-powered lights for energy conservation and motion-activated lighting for even greater convenience and security.

7. House numbers

It’s hard for guests to feel welcome at your home if they can’t find it. Likewise, delivery people and emergency responders, should you need them, will appreciate you making their jobs easier. Large, clear house numbers are both helpful and gorgeous. HGTV offers a variety of style ideas to choose from.

8. Welcome mat

Don’t drag in all the dirt and damp from the outdoors. They don’t have to be flashy, but if you’re looking to make a style statement with a doormat, try layering one with a larger outdoor rug or DIY a mat with your favorite welcome message.

9. Personal statement

Your front door makes a first impression on anyone who comes to your home or even just drives by. It’s your chance to say something about who you are. Consider a wreath, a welcome sign, a hanging basket with flowers or even your family’s initials stenciled directly onto the door.

10. Eye-catching color

Painting your door can be trickier than you think. We suggest choosing a color that complements the rest of your home’s exterior and highlights architectural details. Once you’ve picked the hue that makes you happy, update your door hardware in a finish that keeps the gorgeous style going.

If we were creating a list of don’t-haves, the number one item would be a fake rock. It won’t fool anyone and you’re putting your home’s security at risk. Here are better options for when you need to hide a spare.

Whether you’re looking for electronic solutions or design tips for your front door, Schlage has it all. You can also ask us for tips, advice and inspiration on social media. Find us on Pinterest, Instagram, Twitter and Facebook.

Door hardware

A door knob or lever that just isn’t up to snuff can bother you more than you’re willing to admit. Maybe it’s just not the style or finish of your choice. Maybe it sticks or pops off in your hand. If that’s the case, why are you living with those frustrations? It’s so easy to change them out. Whether you’re installing a smart lock or mechanical interior door hardware, all you need is a screwdriver and a few minutes. The most important rule here is to NOT use a power drill. You’ll strip the screws and, unfortunately, void your warranty.

You can find complete installation instructions for all Schlage door hardware and smart locks in our How-To Center. Interactive instructions are also available for the Schlage Encode™ Smart WiFi Deadbolt and Schlage Sense™ Smart Deadbolt in the Schlage Home app.

Door hinges

Installing door hinges is a breeze, too. Tip #1: Leave your door in place. Just replace the hinges one at a time. To do that, grab your screwdriver again. If you want to use a cordless drill, you can do that here (but not when installing your lock). Use this step-by-step guide to learn how to install door hinges.

Faucet

Some people blanche at the mere thought of a plumbing project. Family Handyman takes you through replacing your kitchen faucet. Don’t be intimidated by the number of steps. About half of those are simply getting you ready for your new look, shutting off the water supply and removing the old fixtures.

Like door hardware, a new faucet can do wonders for the overall look of the room. Choose styles and finishes for both that complement each other, and you’re well on your way to a kitchen that’ll be almost too pretty to cook in.

Soft-closing drawers

Have people saying, “Nice kitchen!” instead of “Ouch! My fingers!” when you install soft-closing drawers. You can find soft-close side-mount drawer glides at most home improvement stores. Everything else – a drill, screwdriver, tape measure and level – you probably already have. Check out Better Homes & Gardens for a simple five-step installation guide. We’re willing to bet that you’ll love these so much, you’ll want to add them in the bathroom, home office and everywhere else before you know it.

Medicine cabinet

Whether your family has grown or your makeup collection has, storage in the bathroom is often in short supply. To install a medicine cabinet, simply find a small wall-mounted cupboard and collect the rest of your supplies: bolts, drywall anchors, a stud finder and a drill. You might also want a measuring tape and level to make sure you get it perfect. It’s an inexpensive project and relatively low on the skill-level scale. Find the full tutorial at DIYNetwork.com.

With these guides, choosing the perfect look for your door hardware and other fixtures might end up being the most difficult task on your to-do list. But never fear. Find design inspiration on Pinterest and Instagram.

What is a passive house?

The basics of the passive house are pretty simple – control the temperature, control the air flow. When you can do those things, you’ll reduce massive amounts of wasted energy. So how’s it done?

Passive house designers focus on both the building materials used, like all-around insulation and triple-glazed windows, as well as the architecture of the home itself. The home’s design considers everything from thermal grounding to ventless dryers to minimize residual heat loss and redirect natural energy sources where you need them most.

The forethought and extra building expense upfront literally pay off in the long run, however. Once the details of the design are complete, you can sit back and relax. Enjoy the savings that comes from reduced heating and cooling costs. A typical passive house uses up to 90 percent less energy than existing traditional homes, and that has major impact on your wallet.

Why would I want a passive house?

We all love to save money, but it’s not just about the numbers. It’s about feel, too. Passive homes use heat emitted from the sun, appliances and human occupants to help regulate the temperature. When the home is insulated correctly, that’s typically enough heat to keep a house at a comfortable temperature. Imagine reading your book by the window in the winter without being cold or reaching for a third sweater. And with strategically placed windows and the right appliances, you could even cook in the summer without sweating over your casserole.

It’s more than that, though. Temperature control in a passive house is also about maintaining consistent temperature. No more unnecessary strain on your heating and cooling system as it tries to keep up with swings in weather.

You’ll also enjoy improved air quality. Because ventilation is different in passive homes in an effort to make it air-tight, you have systems that are constantly filtering out air pollutants and allergens. Some passive home owners have reported sleeping better, likely because of the improved carbon dioxide levels at night. You might also notice fewer smells in the home. And, because there’s less moisture getting into the walls and creating a breeding ground for mold, passive homes may be particularly ideal for allergy sufferers as well.

How can I get a passive house?

Be prepared to pay for it initially. Realtor.com reports that for a single-family home, construction costs range 10 to 15 percent higher for passive homes compared to traditional. The good news is that you’ll recoup that expense quickly thanks to lower heating and cooling costs.

When considering a passive house, keep certain architectural elements in mind. South-facing windows can make the most of the sun’s energy, providing maximum natural light and reducing heat loss without having to use costlier lamps and furnaces. Extra-thick walls enhance insulation allowing for greater temperature control as well. And overhangs with certified windows can help with cooling. This architect’s home featured on Houzz shows how it’s done while also proving that you can still enjoy the outdoors even with an “air-tight” passive house.

Most passive homes are new builds, but that doesn’t mean your house has to look ultra-modern. Whatever your style, you’ll need to find a designer that specializes in and is certified to create passive homes. The North American Passive House Network is a good place to start to find one.

Passive homes, perhaps more than other, more traditional homes, are the perfect example of how details make a bold statement. Planning out every element of your home, from the technology to the style, can make a major impact on how you feel about where you live. Find more tips at the Schlage blog to transform a house into your perfect home.

1. Nanoleaf

If you haven’t heard of Nanoleaf, it’s worth a look. This smart lighting is touch-activated, offers remote control and can be incorporated into your favorite scenes. It’s customizable from a style perspective as well. Sold as individual canvas blocks, you can mount them in various shapes and designs. Want art work that also sets a mood for dinner parties? Create artistic lighting in your dining room. Looking for something whimsical and interactive for the kids? Place panels in the shape of their favorite animal on their bedroom wall. We’re not saying Nanoleaf is a necessity, but it looks pretty fun.

2. Arlo Pro

The HomeKit-compatible Arlo Pro is a step toward improving security in your smart home. It’s a battery-operated, wireless security camera with audio. Use the Arlo app to keep an eye on pets, kids and other activity in and around your home. The Arlo Pro is also weather-resistant, making it great for outdoor security monitoring, and comes with night vision and motion sensors.

3. Schlage Sense™ Smart Deadbolt

Schlage’s go-to electronic lock for those with HomeKit, the Schlage Sense Smart Deadbolt puts convenience at your fingertips and provides peace of mind. The Schlage Sense lock is compatible with HomeKit straight out of the box, at which point you can control the lock with the Apple Home app, create scenes and use Siri when you’re within Bluetooth range. To make sure the door is locked or unlock it from anywhere for trusted friends and family, all simply from your smartphone, you’ll want to connect the deadbolt with an Apple TV^®, iPad^® or HomePod^®.

Learn more about the Schlage Sense Smart Deadbolt at Schlage.com or see how to get the most out of your HomeKit-friendly lock on our blog.

4. Eve Room Indoor Air Quality Monitor

Air quality is a growing concern in many cities, especially if you have kids. The Eve Room Indoor Air Quality Monitor can detect volatile organic compounds – emissions that come from everything from cleaning chemicals to cooking vapors and even humans – and lets you know when to turn on an air purifier or take other steps to cleanse the air. It also detects humidity and temperature, which can affect your health. If you like the Even Room Indoor Air Quality Monitor, the company produces a number of other smart HomeKit-compatible devices, including window contact sensors and irrigation controllers.

5. FIBARO Flood Sensor

It’s not unreasonable to worry about flooding in the basement, but what about other areas of the home? The FIBARO Flood Sensor can also detect leaks under sinks or near the washer, and, because of its HomeKit-compatibility, it’ll send a notification when you need it most.

Some of these products were reviewed on the podcast, Home: On. You can catch the full podcast at the Digital Media Zone.

Don’t be afraid of bold colors

Sometimes we crush on a bold color, but the idea of painting an entire room that bright hue gives us cold feet. If that’s the case, turn your attention to accessories. Throw pillows and blankets as well as curtains, rugs and even flowers are great ways to use your favorite color without going all in.

Introduce yourself to new finishes

All you want is that little something shiny to show off to your friends. Switching to stainless steel appliances is nice, but it can get pricey. Look to door hardware and cabinet pulls for a more affordable upgrade you can also install entirely on your own. You might be surprised what a difference a small change can make. Schlage has a wide variety of styles and finishes to update any door. When you mix metallic finishes, you can really transform a room. Extra shine here, a bit of contrast there, and before you know it, you’ll have a look so unique you can’t wait to show it off.

Replacing coffee table or chair legs are another great way to add your favorite finish.

Don’t be fooled into thinking that metallics have to be actual metal, either. Some fabrics, like these pillows, have a sheen that give a metallic look with a cuddly feel.

Care for your cabinets

It might be time to open your heart to some cabinetry updates that don’t require gutting the entire kitchen or bathroom. Again, this is the perfect opportunity to swap out the hardware with a cabinet pull that’s more your type.

You can paint them, of course. These two-tone kitchen cabinets are going to be popular in 2020. We also like them because you can test a paint first. Maybe you choose to leave your upper cabinets as they are and only paint the bottom ones in a complementary color – a fashionable look with less commitment.

If you like the idea of open shelves, this is your chance. Remove the doors and, for a few extra sparks, line the inside with your favorite temporary wallpaper.

Finally, we love this idea from Cherished Bliss to add trim to the cabinets. It could match the existing cabinet finish, or you could add a touch of intrigue with a contrasting color for the detail work.

Find a winner of a backsplash

Tile can feel like a big step, but there’s hope for even the biggest commitment-phobe here. First, we say leave the floors alone and focus on a backsplash. This is another place to try removable wallpaper. For something that has more texture and the look of a traditional backsplash, try peel-and-stick tiles.

If you already have a tile backsplash and can’t figure out how to kick it to the curb, know that it is possible to paint over it. A Beautiful Mess shows how. You can choose a single color – maybe that bold one you couldn’t commit to earlier – or stencil a pattern like My Blessed Life for more visual interest.

Beadboard is another option. Easy to install with glue or liquid nails, you don’t have to remove your existing backsplash first for this one either.

Don’t let the word “renovation” cause you to break out in a cold sweat. Try one of these commitment-free décor hacks and see how it can transform your home. There are also plenty of other fish in the inspiration sea on Pinterest and Instagram.

Schlage Custom™ Eller lever with Collins trim in Matte Black

The straight lines in this pairing, along with the Matte Black finish, creates one of the most modern looks on this list. An Eller lever with Collins trim goes perfectly with Scandinavian design, so think of adding it when you are drawn to minimalist décor and furniture with clean silhouettes. The finish gives a pop of visual interest in neutral-colored rooms and especially against a bright white door.

Schlage Custom™ Hobson knob with Collins trim in Matte Black

The Collins trim becomes a bit more classic when paired with the glass Hobson knob. Because of the mix of styles, try it in a room with a more eclectic transitional vibe. Large windows and well-lit rooms will show off this pairing to its best advantage when the gleam catches the details of the knob.

Schlage Custom™ Whitney lever with Camelot trim in Aged Bronze

We’re getting even more traditional now thanks to the curves of the Whitney lever and Camelot trim. Use this pairing if your home also has wrought iron scrollwork like that found in stair rails. It also looks great with other Colonial touches.

Schlage Siena knob with Wakefield trim in Oil-Rubbed Bronze

For a truly traditional feel, try this oval-shaped combination, especially if you have a Federal-style home like those found most frequently in Virginia. In the Oil-Rubbed Bronze finish, it is particularly well-suited for homes with Old World character and stone accents.

Schlage Custom™ Alexandria knob with Camelot trim in Satin Brass

The highly detailed glass Alexandria knob with a trim in Satin Brass gives this pair a truly traditional look. Use it on Victorian-style doors and in rooms with decorative molding to help continue the classic feel throughout your space. This couple is perfect for ornate homes.

Schlage Georgian knob with Addison trim in Antique Brass

When you need something understated but don’t want boring (because who does?), you can’t miss with the Georgian knob and Addison trim. They’re both simple and versatile yet have a sly elegance about them. With their traditional roots, try them in rooms with crown molding – a nod to the Georgian architecture that inspired these hardware designs – as well as ornate windows and stained woods.

Schlage Custom™ 3/4 trim Century handleset with Latitude lever in Bright Chrome

For homes with a contemporary exterior, try a Century handleset. The Latitude lever for the interior side of the door will continue the modern aesthetic inside and complement the clean, rectangular lines of the exterior grip. You’ll want to use this duo with simple, minimalist décor. And the Bright Chrome finish will positively pop against a dark-colored door.

Schlage Custom™ Plymouth handleset with Andover knob in Aged Bronze

If you’ve chosen a Plymouth handleset, we recommend the Andover knob for the interior side of the door. This pairing is typically a good fit for transitional homes, but the Aged Bronze finish inches it closer to the traditional end of the spectrum. Because of this, we like this handleset and knob on Colonial homes with six-panel doors and neutral colors.

Of course, these aren’t the only pairings we offer. See our complete list of styles at Schlage.com. And if you need more inspiration for giving your home a look you love, find us on Pinterest and Instagram.

1. Find inspiration in something that already exists

Do any of these apply to you?

• I already have a polished nickel (or other finish) faucet I love.
  
  
• Everything is brass. I want to change things up but can’t afford to replace every fixture.
  
  
• I’m doing a complete makeover and have picked out a must-have statement piece such as a lighting fixture, door hardware or cabinet pulls.
  
  

When mixing metals, it's best to start with the pieces you can’t live without – or the ones you have to live with – as a guide for the rest of the hardware in the room. Then comes the fun part.

2. Create a match

3. Choose a complementing contrast

4. Pull it all together

Mixing hardware finishes is an easy way to make a statement. At Schlage, our designers make every effort to create a wide- range of styles and finishes that match your personal taste. Not sure what your look is yet? Try our interactive Style Selector or find more inspiration on Pinterest.