There’s something romantic and rustic about a farm. Don’t you find yourself gazing with intrigue at barns in differing states of repair as you drive down the interstate and think there must be a story behind it?
It’s no wonder that integrating farm elements such as sliding barn doors into a home adds oodles of character as well as functionality. Sliding barn doors can be rustic and earthy, or modern and sleek. And they can be used both inside and outside. Here are some examples to inspire you!
First, this is a house down the street from me that was converted from a barn to a post-and-beam home. I adore the painting of a cow peeked out behind a sliding barn door.
Here’s another example of a sliding barn door adding character to a home – this one is about a mile down the road.
And here’s one I saw on vacation at Cape Cod this summer. I love how the out-building mimics the windows of the home.
Sliding barn doors are fabulous on the inside as well.
Here are two black and white examples from House Beautiful that I just love.
Do you think this one needs a pop of color? If so, what would you suggest?
Like something a bit brighter? How about this example from Southern Living? This was from the 2009 Texas Idea Home. Sure makes me smile as big as Texas!
Here’s a great example from the now defunct Cottage Living Magazine. Rustic meets whimsy with a bit of functionality thrown it to make it absolutely amazing. (Side note: I love how the pantry has shallow shelving – much easier to find things!)
If you like something more modern and less-barn like, check out these amazing examples from glass sliding doors at SpecialtyGlassDoors.com
Pretty amazing, huh? Here’s another one.
Ready to make your own sliding barn door? Here’s how (at ehow.com). This Old House also has a tutorial, including video and a cut list.
If you do attempt this project, please be so kind as to share it with the rest of us!