If you were asked to picture some of the most prestigious homes globally, it's likely your image will include a black front door. Led by 10 Downing Street's black door, this is the color of power – and it's a fact that's not lost on Charli XCX.
While Charli may be synonymous with Brat Green, the exterior of her Los Angeles home is notably more understated, yet sophisticated. The singer curated an English-inspired home, paying tribute to her British roots, in the heart of Hollywood, featuring a brick façade reminiscent of a Cotswold cottage.
Her black front door color is similarly traditional, setting an authoritative tone that estate agents favor. However, despite feeling like a seemingly safe choice, it can be seen as an unlucky choice in some cultures, as experts explain.
'The color feels deliberate, almost calculated, because black absorbs light instead of bouncing it around. Visitors pick up on that. They expect a tidy entryway, clean hardware, and a home that runs on schedule,' comments Jon Wade, a real estate expert and the Broker Owner at The Steamboat Group.
'That first hit of confidence is why I often point nervous sellers toward a can of deep charcoal when they ask how to lift curb appeal without a full repaint.'
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Backdrop's darkest color is described as a deep, velvety true black that can elevate any space. It's designed for use outside use, so you get the look with ease – and know that it will stand the test of time.
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These glass wall lights are a great choice for modern homes, adding a polished and refined look to your home exterior. They look especially striking alongside a black front door – just like Charli's.
Alongside being an impactful way to elevate curb appeal, Jon says that black front doors give the impression of authority, whether you're looking to sell your home or not.
'Buyers arriving for a showing sense reliability before they even step inside, and that psychological head start matters when they are comparing two listings with identical square footage,' he says.
'One quick example: a three-bed I sold last fall had nothing but asphalt shingles and beige siding to look at, yet the jet-black slab with brushed brass pull stopped traffic long enough for us to start a bidding war in forty-eight hours.'
The flip side? While this color transcends front door trends, Jon warns that it may carry negative connotations. 'Some cultures fold black into mourning rituals, so I check with clients who follow strict feng shui guidelines,' he says. 'If north-facing, the color supposedly invites prosperity; in other compass directions, it can feel heavy. A wreath of fresh cedar or a pair of planters with bright annuals usually softens the edge and keeps the entrance from sliding toward somber.'
In the end, replicating Charli's example comes down to your beliefs and what you want your front door to say to the world. As Jon reassures, it has an air of sophistication, 'and just enough mystery to make passersby wonder what else you've upgraded inside.' If this hue works for you, this could be your cue to follow suit.
