When we were designing our custom new front door with Simpson, I knew I wanted to incorporate as much glass as possible to bring in natural light. Light has this magical way of making a home feel warm, open, and instantly more inviting.

But of course, more glass also meant we had to think about privacy. Even though we don’t live on a super busy street, we do get a fair amount of foot traffic, and our front door sits pretty close to the sidewalk.

I’ll be honest, I’m not usually a fan of traditional privacy glass like frosted or heavily textured options, so that narrowed things down for us. I also thought about adding a textured vinyl film over clear glass, but the styles I loved didn’t offer complete privacy. I had a feeling we might need an extra layer, especially at night.

Once the door arrived, I was pleasantly surprised. The glass we chose actually provides a really good amount of privacy from a distance. During the day, unless someone presses their face right up to it, you can’t see into the house. At night, you mostly see silhouettes.

Still, I couldn’t stop thinking about curtains on the door, and I completely fell in love with the idea. Curtains soften everything. They add charm, character, and that cozy, lived-in feeling I’m always chasing. And when we close them, we get that extra bit of privacy too.

Sometimes the most practical decisions can still be beautiful.

A smart lock that doesn’t look like one.

A Touch of European Inspiration

In Europe, curtains over doors are quite common, especially in older homes. Heavy drapes are often used to provide protection against drafts and cold air during the winter months. While our curtains aren’t as heavy, I love how they echo this old-world charm. They add a layer of texture and warmth that makes the space feel even more inviting.

Would You Consider Curtains Over Your Front Door?

Adding curtains over your front door might not be the first solution that comes to mind when thinking about privacy, but it’s certainly a stylish one. Curtains are versatile, functional, and add a decorative element that can enhance the overall look of your entryway. Whether you live on a busy street or simply want to add a touch of charm, curtains could be the perfect addition.

What do you think? Are curtains over the front door something you’d consider for your home? I’d love to hear your thoughts!