A few weeks ago we noticed our front door could use a fresh coat of paint. With dogs coming and going and daily traffic, the finish had become scuffed and worn. For some time we’d been considering a softer color for the door. Now that the paint colors in our home are beginning to flow more cohesively, the stark black that had been on the door felt a bit too harsh for the direction we’re moving in.
I’ve always liked black doors, but since I’d been wondering whether black was the right fit here, I decided to experiment with a softer tone. We had leftover paint from our kitchen cabinets—Benjamin Moore Kendall Charcoal—which already worked well with the home’s palette, so it made sense to start there. Using a color that was already part of the house ensured the door would coordinate with existing finishes and furnishings.
The result surprised us in the best way: we love it. The softer charcoal tone still provides depth and contrast but feels warmer and more inviting than the previous black. It’s a subtle change that makes a noticeable difference in how the entry reads against the rest of the house.
Update: I also changed the rug in the entry to an indoor/outdoor option that works well with the new door color and holds up to everyday use.
The trim around the doorway is painted Dove White by Benjamin Moore, and the nearby walls are Studio Taupe by Behr All-In-One. Those neutral tones help the charcoal door feel cohesive rather than overpowering.
Take a tour of this house and my other spaces to see more of how these colors play together.
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