What Is a Dutch Door?

A Dutch door has been associated with country decor in the past, but today's manufacturers have designs that can fit in with any setting and style of home. There are enough variations available to give you the opportunity to design a Dutch door just the way you want it.

History

The Dutch door did originate in Holland. It was first developed in the 17th century as an entry door and then became popular as a kitchen doorway as well. In the day before screen doors were invented the Dutch door became a favorite of farmers. The top could be opened to let the air in and the bottom closed to keep the animals out. Their popularity waned for a while, until the 1950s and the influence of TV shows. Single panel doors took over in the 1960s, but the Dutch door is once again making a comeback.

Description

Dutch doors are divided in the middle. It is possible to open just the top, just the bottom or both halves at the same time. The top can be solid or it can be made in a wide variety of styles including one pane of glass or multiple panes of glass. It can also be mostly solid with small panes of glass just at the top.

Uses

Dutch doors were originally just used as entry doors. Dutch doors are now used in many different ways. In addition to the entry, Dutch doors are used in the kitchen entry, in stables and in offices. They are also used in nurseries, play rooms and in mechanics' shops to allow the customer to talk to the mechanic without actually getting access to the work area.

Materials

Wood is the traditional material for Dutch doors, but some manufacturers are offering other options. Some manufactures are offering a roll down screen that allows you to open the top to let in the air and keep the bugs out. Dutch doors are also available in steel instead of wood.

Advantages

An exterior Dutch door gives you that advantage of being able to open just the top to talk to someone such as a delivery person or salesman without giving him a way to enter the home. It will also keep your dog inside while you have a conversation. As a matter of fact, it is recommended by the ASPCA for just this purpose. An interior Dutch door lets you keep young children confined in a room and lets you keep an eye on them at the same time.