Don't ask me what it is about doors

To me, architectural details are like catnip. The latest fixation is doors -- usually screen doors. The designs on them must meet strict criteria. First and foremost, do they match the style of the house or are they just thrown up there? Next for consideration, is the design done in a fetching manner or just a boring cliché? Last, and certainly to my mind, are they translatable to a mosaic design? The last is probably the most important even though realistically the mosaic will never materialize. 

Full disclosure:  I make it a habit NOT to trespass to get better pictures, so you'll have to click on the photos to make them larger to see detail. That said, let's move on....

This craftsman style house has seen a bit of a metamorphosis since it was purchased fairly recently. There is one enduring feature from the original inhabitants, however, and that is the sunburst wood and screen door. While sun motifs are in no way unusual, this one is striking because of the materials used and going up the door and not to the side.

Occasionally an actual front door will present some design element that is less ho-hum than the normal plain wood or wood and glass combo. This one stands out in its simplicity and complexity at the same time. Half circles intersecting should be no big deal, but the textured glass gives it more depth.

OK - admittedly hard to capture the true pattern of the security screen. Very geometric, but intricate none the less. Add that to the (wait for it) tile porch, and it's a winner.

This screen door is a particular favorite because that's an immediate and automatic mosaic design in the making. In fact, given the scrolling on my front wall, I think you can see where this is a done deal (in a year or ten).

This door is just classy. Double door with nice arch (a particular fondness), and curved stairs picking up on the arch motif. Curlicues to boot.

And today's last selection is not particularly elegant, but somehow the simple utility of the design appealed to me. That and the wonderful busts on the landing. Of course the steps and landing should be tiled with beautiful cobalt blue accents to match the house, but then who made me the arbiter of good taste? No one, that's who. But still -- tile the doggone porch and steps!