The two-panel door—especially when the upper panel is replaced with glass—is easily one of the most versatile steel door designs out there. It’s simple, adaptable, and surprisingly transformative.
Depending on the glass style, the exterior color, and the hardware finish, the overall look and feel of the door can shift dramatically. You can make it feel modern, traditional, industrial, or minimal—just by tweaking a few components.
This project is a great example of how a small steel door can make a big visual impact, especially when designed with intention.
A Contemporary Take on a Classic Layout
For this home, we went with a more contemporary approach. The upper panel was replaced with a clear glass insert featuring flowing, abstract linework in metal—a design that walks the line between artistic and modern without being too aggressive. The gray finish on the door’s exterior added a cool, clean look, while the satin nickel lockset complemented everything without overpowering it.
Though the door was on the smaller side compared to the scale of the house, it changed the entire facade. The difference it made was massive—if I had taken a “before” photo, you’d see just how dramatic the transformation really was.
Note to self: always take before photos. Lesson learned.
The Importance of Light (and Good Timing)
While I didn’t manage to get a shot of the original door, we were lucky with lighting when the job wrapped up. The timing was just right to grab a few great finished shots with soft natural light hitting the facade. That kind of light makes a big difference in how the textures, shadows, and hardware pop in the photos.
One of these days, I’ll manage to wrap up a job right at golden hour and catch that perfect warm light—just in time. Until then, this one still came out looking pretty sharp.
Final Thoughts
This project is a reminder that you don’t need oversized slabs or flashy finishes to make a strong impression. A well-thought-out steel door, even at a modest size, can completely transform the curb appeal of a home. It’s all about proportion, texture, and detail—and knowing how to make them work together.