Celebrities tend to be on the cutting edge of trends, and their homes prove the point. That's why we often turn to the A-listers for inspiration, taking note of their interior design choices – whether they're a bit ambitious or achievable for all, their ideas nearly always impress. But one celebrity design trend that's bound to catch on – and one that's perfectly in reach for homeowners everywhere – is painting the front door blue.
Recently, Robert Downey Jr., Reba McEntire, Reese Witherspoon, Jeff Goldblum and Minnie Driver have joined a growing group of celebrities that are turning to this calming, cool color for their homes' front entrances – and we're loving the results. Plus, experts say the shade can help boost curb appeal, and has a soothing impact on your home's overall aesthetic. If you're looking for a new front door color, the celebs just might have identified one of the best hues on the block.
'The blue front door trend among celebrities is a testament to the timeless appeal and versatility of this color. Whether you’re looking to enhance your home's curb appeal or create a serene interior sanctuary, blue offers a wide range of benefits. Its ability to pair with various colors and styles makes it a favorite for homeowners and designers alike,' says Nina Lichtenstein, founder and principal designer at her eponymous firm.
The celebrity blue front door trend
Blue goes with a wide range of design styles and color palettes, so it's no surprise that celebs across the entertainment industry are taking on the stunning hue. From Reese Witherspoon's light and bright blue front door, pictured above, to Reba McEntire's dark and moody take on the trend, it's clear that just about any shade of blue will do.
Witherspoon's bright blue door, complete with an arched window and paneling, complements a historic brick home with a black outer entry. Meanwhile, Jeff Goldblum selected a deep, vibrant blue for his back door, which is surrounded by lush greenery. Robert Downey Jr. and Minnie Driver, on the other hand, paired a light, subtle blue – Downey Jr.'s including a standout windmill feature, which is decked out in rustic gray shingles.
When paired carefully with the rest of your home's exterior, and considered in relation to the interior too, a blue front door can act as an inviting and exciting first impression. This is why, according to color experts and interior designers.
What's the impact of your front door's color?
'I have always viewed front door colors as a reflection of the people that live within the home. Front doors are the fingernails of the house, small but very animated, something that everyone sees. And, by being smaller, they are not expensive to paint – so let your true color shine through. And if that color is blue, all the better!' says Jay Kallos, senior vice president of architecture at Ashton Woods Homes.
Painting your front door isn't just an aesthetic choice – it's an expression of your personality. When friends or family come to visit, it's likely the first thing they'll notice, and it'll be one of the only impressions your home will have on passersby. But perhaps more importantly, if you're trying to sell your home someday down the line, your front door's color can have an enormous impact on marketability.
'Curb appeal directly impacts the value of your home, and your front door is the place where people linger the longest, waiting for you to welcome them into your home – especially new friends (or home buyers) that do not know where the friend’s entry is or feel uncomfortable using the casual entry their first time visiting ... Allow your front door to pop and say something about you and your family. Have fun with it,' Kallos continues.
'Color plays a significant role in curb appeal and resell value. The right choice can evoke positive emotions and create a welcoming atmosphere,' adds Alice Moszczynski, interior designer at Planner 5D.
Why is the color blue so appealing?
When you discover that your front door color impacts important metrics like curb appeal and marketability, picking out a shade can start to feel overwhelming. But when we look to celebrity front doors for inspiration, a solid set of classic hues makes the front-door decision much more manageable. Interior designers say that A-listers picking blue is no coincidence – the benefits of this color, in all its variations, make it a clear choice for the front door.
'A blue front door is more than just an aesthetic choice; it’s a statement. Blue, a color often associated with tranquility, trust, and wisdom, brings a sense of calm and welcoming warmth to the entryway of a home. For celebrities, whose lives are often chaotic and in the public eye, the serene and grounded feeling that a blue door can evoke might be particularly appealing,' says Lichtenstein.
'From a design perspective, blue front doors create an inviting focal point that draws the eye and enhances curb appeal. This pop of color can set the tone for the rest of the home’s decor, suggesting a thoughtful and cohesive design scheme from the moment you step onto the porch. As a designer, I find that blue is a frequently requested color among homeowners. Its ability to adapt to various styles – from coastal chic to modern minimalism – makes it a go-to for many projects,' she continues.
Chris Reinke, vice president of research and development for doors at Masonite, says that a blue front door can be 'a simple yet impactful way to set the tone for a peaceful atmosphere even before entering the house.' He suggests Sherwin-Williams' 2024 color of the year, Upward, for a 'serene and welcoming first impression for your home.'
'This breezy blue creates a feeling of tranquility and relaxation, setting the tone for a peaceful atmosphere even before entering the house,' he continues. Kallos adds that aside from celebrity homes, the combination of very pale blue front door shades and bright white home exteriors is having a moment for designers and homeowners across the board.
'It gives the door a little character but remains soothing and is tonal with the white main body. An Aleutian or darker shade Downing Slate front door is equally beautiful, with the mid-toned blues giving your door a little more pop, pulling it out of the shadows of a welcoming front porch. Going darker, Sherwin-Williams Loyal Blue or their almost black Navel give your door some interest and depth while not hitting you over the head with it,' says Kallos.
'I believe that blue symbolizes hope. Powdery blues like Craig & Rose’s Pompadour and Fresco Blue evoke the promise of a new day. Blues will lean towards softer, warmer, and more muted tones, providing a sense of gentle comfort needed for the year ahead,' says Flora Hogg, interior designer and color consultant for Craig & Rose.
Blue is also appealing as a natural complement to nature, picking up on the hues found throughout the great outdoors. Hogg adds that the color family represents 'both bodies of water and the vast skies, making it a color that resonates with everyone.' It fits in easily alongside greenery, landscaping, and natural materials like brick and stone, making for a straightforward and beginner-friendly exterior design scheme.
Moszczynski recommends taking a look around the neighborhood before making the leap – though it's lovely to express yourself through your home's design, standing out from the crowd too much can detract from the look.
'I'd recommend blue for the front door and other exterior features if it complements the overall style and color scheme of the house. It can add a refreshing pop of color and create visual interest without overwhelming the facade. However, it's essential to consider factors such as the architectural style of the home, surrounding landscape, and neighborhood aesthetics before making a decision. If your neighbors are all neutral, it might look out of place,' says Moszczynski.
The celebrities are on to something when it comes to blue front doors – calming, eye-catching, and perfect for boosting curb appeal, the soothing shade is headed for classic status.
