Adding a customized gate to your property is a great way to increase curb appeal and upgrade the exterior of your home. From driveway gates to courtyard gates, this blog will outline styles, materials and motifs you can consider for this upgrade.
As Scottsdale real estate experts, we regularly share home improvement tips on this site. Make ScottsdaleRealEstate your source for real estate and community information for the Scottsdale area.
Here is an example of functional and beautiful driveway gate in North Scottsdale:
Wrought-iron gate in Scottsdale
If you do want to add or change an existing gate at your home, and you live in a neighborhood with an HOA (homeowners' association), be sure to get the proper approvals, if necessary.
A whimsical Southwest style gate
Composition:
- Wooden Gates – for fences and gates, the wood look is timeless. It can have an old world look, but wood is also associated with contemporary organic living. Cedar (golden), Redwood (pink-red which ages to gray), Mangaris (red-brown) and Ironwood (chocolate-brown) tend to be the most popular. Solid wood gates are also great for privacy. Note: These materials look great, but don't always hold up well to the the sun in Arizona, or termites.
- Wrought Iron Gates - wrought iron is another great look that can range from rustic to contemporary. On top of its aesthetics, wrought iron is great for safety, weather-resistance and durability. Like the wrought-iron look? If you like the look of wrought-iron doors then stick around, because we have some articles coming in the future discussing exactly that! If you’re looking for a seamless transition between two spaces, a wrought-iron gate is great because its openings increase visibility and allow you to see through it on both sides.
Mediterranean style wrought iron gate
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Asian – with an emphasis on clean lines and sleek, naturalistic aesthetics, Asian-styled gates are great for modern or far east inspired homes
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Cottage – one of the most popular gate styles, the cottage look is simple and timeless. This style works best with English Colonials, Victorian and English farm houses.
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Craftsman – with smooth wood panels or lattice work, craftsman gates focus on the workmanship involved in fashioning the gate. This style works best with bungalow, craftsman and Art Deco inspired architecture.
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Modern – usually comprised of iron and glass, these gates emphasize clean lines and intricate patterns
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Spanish/Mediterranean/Southwest – wooden posts and boards paired with rustic, dark hinges (like hammered strap hinges) generally characterize this look for houses styled under the same name
Function:
- Biparting – two doors meet in the middle and swing open in each direction
- Sliding – retract in one direction (do not swing on either side) and are often used on steep driveways
- Single Swing – opens inwards, and therefore needs plenty of space to swing through in one direction
The best part about a gate is that it can be used to fit your specific needs. Install a gate on your driveway, in your garden or around your pool. There are no rules as to where a gate can be placed or how it should be used.
If you’re ready to take your garden to the next level, or add the gate you’ve always wanted to the entrance of your Scottsdale property, pull some inspiration from this post and find a designer whose designs will best reflect your tastes.
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