Staying on Track...

Some things endure the test of time because they are practical and utilitarian… and sometimes those things create a fascination because of their simplicity and practicality. Such is the case with sliding barn doors…

Several years ago, I lived in Massachusetts and one of the things that I really loved about the 150+ year old farm house property that we bought was the three level barn ...and its massive sliding doors...one in the front and one on the lower level on the back side.  Every time I used my strength to push open those doors I felt respect and a part of its history.  That impression has stayed in my memory… as well as the desire to use it as a design element in an interior.

A couple of years ago I did a project for a complete office renovation for a building that the interiors had been destroyed by fire.  I had the opportunity to include some “sliding barn doors” into one of the offices for a storage closet.  Back then, the higher end hardware was not as available as it is now, and was (and still is) pricey compared to hardware that is available through suppliers for farm and ranch needs.  What I purchased for the project came from a ranch supplier, in a choice of raw steel… or raw steel… so I had it painted in a dark bronze.

 T. Symington & Co. Interiors

I love the look and the possibilities for their use.  When I get the opportunity, I will make use of their style and strong character again.  

According to what is hot at the Las Vegas market that was recently held… “Rough Luxe” and “Farmhouse Chic” are strong looks for the upcoming season.  Not that I’m complaining, because I have been incorporating elements from both of those styles into my interiors for years … but I don’t see that it is anything “new” or surprising, since it is also a current style that we bloggers have been discussing for quite some time now.

Anyway, the sliding barn doors are certainly an element that can add a lot of character to just about any interior… including  “Rough Luxe” and “Farmhouse Chic”.  In fact, some not so typical elements are needed in order to keep the styles from looking worn out and unoriginal.

Here are some great examples that I wanted to share with you…

  Image Daryl Carter

 Image Brooklyn Home Company

 Cliff Spencer Furniture Maker

 blondiensc.typepad

 thathomesite.com

 Sunset

 Max Levy Architect

 Greene Partners

 Cliff Spencer Furniture Maker

 Feldman Architecture

B

Barbara Bestor Architect