Interior doors don’t often get a mention when talking about inspirational design. Generally, doors are thought of as purely functional for users to move from room to room, signal the end of one specific function of a room or to close off noise when needed.

To celebrate the launch of the new Formica® Door Collection, Formica Group uncover six interesting ways to use doors in interior design.

• Adding colour or contrast
The classic ‘adding a pop of colour’ not only makes an interior door a design feature but can be used in commercial settings to indicate where exits and entrances are for the visually impaired.

• In addition, a seamless transition between coloured wall panelling and a matching coloured door is fantastic in masking back of house workings or areas closed off to the public such as pot wash areas and stock rooms.

• The new Formica Door Collection used in conjunction with the Formica Laminate collection can achieve this with a multitude of matching colours.

• Setting expectations
As you’re entering a space, doors are great for giving a user an overall impression of the room ahead. A woodgrain door, for example, might lead you to prepare yourself for a neutral, calm and natural feeling space. A bright colour could suggest a strong, upbeat environment. Good door design prepares a visitor before they set foot in the room.

• A multitude of textures
Texture is paramount to the way in which a space feels and a variety of options when guiding clients through the design process is a must. Offering up three different textures, the Formica Door Collection creates depth and challenges preconceived ideas that laminate is only flat.

• Keeping a natural essence to the collection, textures include Naturelle, Linewood and Matte 58. The newly added Naturelle texture, which is available in four different colours, gives a beautiful impression of painted wood.

• Linking your space seamlessly
For environments making use of subtle trend tones, a well-designed door can act almost as an oversized accessory. By being intelligent with colour choices, a door can seamlessly tie in with the soft furnishings or other accessories to bring a sense of coherence, calmness, and overall a charming aesthetic.

• Strengthening brand identity
Aligning colours to a clients brand identity can be a good way to underline your understanding of their business and the design brief. The subtlety of a door in an on brand colour can create a space that feels unique to the client.

• With this in mind the Formica Door Collection features 188 laminates in a selection of eye-catching colours, nature inspired woodgrain and perfect patterns.

• Shape play
Pushing the boundaries by playing with the shape of a door is an unexpected design feature. A rectangular door is what most people would be expecting to see. When exploring the shapes of doors, Formica Group refer to having seen a rise in popularity with doors that are rounded at the top.

• Nina Bailey, European Design Lead comments: “People link more organic, scallop shapes with a sense of relaxation and a calming atmosphere. Something as subtle as softening off the corners can really emphasise a space.”

Explore the full Formica® Door Collection today.