The importance of entryway design and its ability to make a strong first impression is often discussed across the interiors industry. However, before you reach an entryway, you pass through a front door, so perfecting this feature is arguably even more critical.
Naturally, we take inspiration from celebrities where we can, including Glenn Close, whose rustic, unpainted front door color complements her Montana farmhouse beautifully. Leaving a door unpainted, whether it's intentional or not, is often debated among real estate agents, who note that context is key to its sucsess.
In the case of Glenn's countryside home, the unpainted style enhances the property's rustic exterior. Crucially, it feels purposeful, thereby enhancing its curb appeal and foreshadowing her interior design choices. However, as some real estate agents warn, in the wrong context (and if not maintained), it can risk looking unkept.
We sat down with an agent who shared how to stay on top of the unpainted look and ensure it always feels intentional.
Shop the rustic outdoor furniture edit
This garden bench looks so much more expensive than it really is. Woven with rust-and weather-resistant materials, this is sure to be a long-lasting fixture on your patio for comfortable lounging.
Crafted with a mix of kiln-dried solid and engineered wood, this beautiful wooden table has a striking organic shape. I love how it adds a hint of warm wood to any outdoor scheme.
This beautifully shaped side table or foot stool would complement an outdoor design perfectly. I love the highly visible grains for an extra natural feel.
'An unpainted wooden door sends a clear message: warmth, authenticity, and care. It gives a home that natural, welcoming vibe that passes a quick eye test from the street,' comments Brett Cobb, the owner and founder of Premier OKC Home Buyers in Oklahoma. He notes that this choice taps into a growing design trend that remains prevalent.
'A raw wood finish plays into trending preferences since natural materials and minimalist design remain big in 2025, and wood doors are right at the heart of that movement,' he notes.
As mentioned, when working with an unpainted door, maintenance is key. Brett recommends using a quality wood and a solid sealant (like this one from Amazon) and ensuring you apply a fresh coat every few years.
'If you're drawn to that unpainted look, start with quality wood and a solid sealant. Raw wood ages beautifully when sealed properly, but if neglected, it can warp or look drab under weather stress,' he says.
'A fresh stain every few years keeps it vibrant and protects it from sun and rain. And don’t paint it. The beauty lies in letting the grain show. Add classic hardware like brass or black iron, simple lighting, and a matching planter or wreath to amplify charm without overpowering.'
Would you ever follow Glenn's example? Or do you prefer a bolder colored front door? Let me know your thoughts in the comments.
