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Beyond Basic: Exploring Trendy Interior Door Styles and Designs

Beyond Basic: Exploring Trendy Interior Door Styles and Designs

The doors in your home aren’t just about function; They are also an opportunity to make a statement and enhance the aesthetic appeal of your space. But with so many different types of interior doors on the market, how do you know which way to go? 

Whether you’re making improvements to your current home or building a new one entirely—there are plenty of resources for inspiration. You could explore interior door styles in display homes, browse through home design magazines, or let us do the hard work for you with our tips for trendy interior door styles and designs!  

As experts in the latest door hardware, and qualified locksmiths of over 25 years—we’ve seen our fair share of interior doors. We’re across the latest door trends and have a good idea on what works and what doesn’t.  

So, without further ado, let’s delve into the latest design ideas for interior doors

to get your home looking stylish, while functioning safely and efficiently for your family.

Breaking Down Traditional Designs

Out with the old, in with the new! Traditional door designs are taking a backseat as homeowners and designers embrace fresh new door types and styles. 

One shift is the move away from heavy, solid doors towards lighter and more transparent options. Glass-panelled doors, for instance, effortlessly blend the boundaries between rooms—allowing natural light to flow freely and creating an open, airy feel.  

Sliding barn doors have also emerged as a stylish alternative to conventional hinged types of interior doors. These rustic-inspired sliders not only save space but also add a touch of charm to any room. With various finishes and hardware options available, you can customise these doors to complement your interior theme seamlessly.

Interior Door Styles to Inspire You

Let’s explore some further interior door design ideas to hopefully ignite your creativity and inspire a home makeover: 

  1.     Minimalist Doors. Embrace the beauty of simplicity with minimalist door designs. Clean lines, sleek finishes, and uncluttered surfaces make these doors perfect for modern and contemporary interiors. Whether you opt for a flush door or a simple panel design, they’ll effortlessly elevate your space without overwhelming it.
  2.     Statement Pivot Doors. Make a grand entrance—or exit—with pivot doors. These doors rotate on a central hinge, creating a captivating focal point in any room. Choose bold materials like metal or wood to make a lasting impression. 
  3.     Nature-Inspired Bi-Fold Doors. Bring the outdoors in with bi-fold doors that blur the line between your living space and the surrounding nature. These folding doors create a harmonious connection, allowing you to enjoy the beauty of your garden or patio from the comfort of your home. Opt for natural materials like wood to enhance the organic feel.
  4.   Vintage Charm with Panel Doors. Traditional doesn't always mean outdated. Classic panel doors can add a touch of vintage charm to contemporary interiors. Experiment with different panel configurations, colours, and finishes to find the perfect balance between timeless elegance and modern flair.

The Importance of Installing Quality Hardware to Suit

Fallen in love with the idea of transforming your space with trendy interior doors? Don’t forget the unsung hero—door hardware! Your chosen hardware can make or break the overall look and functionality of your doors, so it deserves just as much attention. 

Investing in high-quality door handles, knobs and levers ensures smooth operation, durability, and a polished finish. Imagine having a beautifully designed door but struggling with a faulty handle or a squeaky hinge… it's a bit like wearing a stunning outfit with scuffed shoes! 

To avoid this fashion faux pas for your home, choose door hardware that not only complements your chosen style but also stands the test of time.  

Consider finishes that align with your overall design theme—whether it's sleek and modern or rustic and vintage. Chrome, brushed nickel, and matte black are popular choices that add a contemporary touch, while bronze and brass evoke a sense of classic elegance. Matching your door hardware to other fixtures in your home creates a cohesive look that ties the entire design together. 

Additionally, functionality should be a priority when brainstorming hardware ideas for internal doors. Opt for ergonomic handles, smooth-operating hinges, and escutcheons that enhance the user experience and make opening and closing doors an effortless part of your daily routine.

Let The Lock Shop Help Make Your Unique Door Dreams a Reality 

Looking for guidance on how to choose interior doors hardware to suit your overall style? Look no further than The Lock Shop and our wide selection of high-quality door hardware, including knobs and locks—providing excellent options for updating your doors. 

Contact our team today if we can point you in the right direction.

These Steps Will Significantly Improve Entry Door Security

These Steps Will Significantly Improve Entry Door Security

Your home is your sanctuary, and the first line of defence against unwanted intruders is your entry door. We all want a burglar proof front door, right!? 

Fortunately, as technology advances, so do the methods to enhance your home's security. Here’s our guide on how to make front door more secure and bring peace of mind to you and your family.

Upgrade Lock Systems 

Firstly, the foundation of front door security is a high-quality lock system. 

Consider upgrading to a lock that offers superior resistance to picking, bumping, and drilling.  

It’s worth looking at the following different options: 

  • Electronic locks. Forget stressing about the theft or loss of your physical keys—an electronic lock enables keyless entry to your home. These systems use codes, fingerprints, or smart cards for access, reducing the risk of unauthorised key duplication. This not only enhances security but also adds a modern touch to your entryway. Look at reputable brands like Carbine, Yale, Lockwood, Ultraloq, Assa Abloy, and Salto. 
  • Digital locks with smart lock technology. Sophisticated and convenient, smart locks allow you to control access to your home remotely through a smartphone app. You can grant temporary access to guests, receive real-time alerts, and monitor door activity. Some models even offer biometric authentication (like fingerprints) for an added layer of security. Brands like Samsung, Yale, Schlage, and Carbine are at the forefront of smart lock innovation.
  • Bolts. Installing additional bolts, such as slide bolts or surface-mounted bolts, provides extra reinforcement for securing your front door. These bolts are often placed at the top or bottom of the door, offering increased resistance against forced entry attempts.
  • Deadlocks. Deadlocks, which are separate from the primary lock and can only be operated with a key or knob, are a great idea if you’re seeking the most secure front doors. Opt for deadlocks with hardened steel bolts for maximum strength. When properly installed, these can significantly improve the security of your entry doors.

Reinforce Door Material and Frame

When it comes to how to secure front door, your locks are one thing. But if the quality of your door materials is sub-par—that’s an invitation for a determined criminal to pry it open. 

Assess your current entryway situation—do you need to work out how to reinforce front door further? You should consider: 

  • Ensuring your door is constructed with a solid wood core (these are generally encased in a layer of plywood or veneer), as this is the most sturdy and durable type.
  • Replacing or reinforcing any glass in your door—either by replacing it entirely with a more solid door, or by applying anti-shatter security film to the existing glass.
  • Installing a security screen door, like a Crimsafe, to provide an additional barrier. These screens are made from strong materials like stainless steel and are designed to resist impact and tampering. Of course you’ll want to install a high-quality security door lock on it.
  • Upgrading to a metal door frame, which adds an extra layer of protection against forced entry.

Smart Security Solutions

In addition to smart locks which we’ve already discussed, there are a number of other smart security measures you can take to reinforce your front door: 

  • Video doorbells. Enhance your entry door security with the installation of a video doorbell. These devices offer real-time video streaming and two-way communication, allowing you to see and speak to visitors at your doorstep, whether you're at home or away. Brands like Eufy, Ring, Nest, and Arlo provide reliable video doorbell solutions.
  • Motion-activated lighting. Illuminate your entryway with motion-activated lighting. Bright lighting not only deters potential intruders but also provides clear visibility around your entry door. Combine motion-activated lights with smart sensors for an energy-efficient solution that activates only when needed.
  • Home security systems integration. Integrate your entry door security with a comprehensive home security system. Connect your smart locks, video doorbells, and other security devices to a central hub for seamless control and monitoring. Many security systems also offer professional monitoring services for an added layer of protection.

Safeguard Your Home With Quality Door Hardware from The Lock Shop

Now you know how to reinforce an entry door, where do you go for hardware and advice? 

At The Lock Shop, front door safety is our speciality and we’re full of door security ideas! Choose from our wide selection of high-quality door hardware, including knobs and locks, providing excellent options for securing your front door. 

Our team is only too happy to guide you in the right direction. Contact us today if we can assist you with strengthening your fortress.

A Fresh Look Inside: Tips for Updating Interior Doors

A Fresh Look Inside: Tips for Updating Interior Doors

When it comes to home improvement, the focus often falls on projects like kitchen reno’s and bathroom makeovers. They are of course important—but what about our trusty interior doors? They cop a lot of wear and tear in our everyday lives, so don’t they deserve a refresh too? 

Not only do interior doors play a crucial functional role in our homes, but they also contribute significantly to the overall aesthetic.  

So, if you’re looking around your digs thinking it could be time to update doors, look no further! Here are our top tips to upgrade interior doors and transform your living space—one entranceway at a time.

Assessing Your Interior Doors

You’ve made the decision to start updating interior doors. What’s the first step? 

Assess the current state of your interior doors. Pay close attention to their condition. Are they solid and secure, or do they show signs of wear and tear? Consider whether they complement the overall design and ambiance of your home and what may be the best solution to improve them. 

You may decide you need to look at: 

  • Updating door hardware 
  • Installing new hinges
  • A fresh coat of paint
  • A full sand back, paint, and finish
  • Adding decorative finishes or architectural elements such as moulding, plywood, or even wallpaper
  • Perhaps a complete door replacement

Design Trends and Inspirations 

Staying abreast of design trends can be a source of inspiration for your interior door makeover. From sleek and modern to rustic and traditional, there are endless styles to explore.  

Glass-panelled doors, barn doors, and even bold colour choices are gaining popularity. White doors with black hardware can also make a striking statement. But while aesthetic appeal is crucial, remember it is equally important to choose a design that harmonises with the existing theme of your home. 

And if you want to upgrade door knobs, the good news is, at The Lock Shop, we offer a variety of contemporary styles that will seamlessly integrate the latest hardware technology within your chosen design.

How to Upgrade Your Interior Doors

Some ideas on how to update old doors include: 

Repainting. Simple and effective—it’s amazing what a fresh coat of paint can do! Choose a colour that complements your home's palette or go for a bold statement colour for a touch of drama. 

Trending colours for 2024 include pastel shades, saturated shades like fuchsia and emerald, and dark tones. And if you’re looking to upgrade door handles to suit, at The Lock Shop, we offer a variety of knob finishes that match various paint colours, ensuring a cohesive and stylish appearance. 

Updating Knobs and Locks. Which takes us to replacing door hardware! Upgrading your interior door hardware can make a significant difference in both look and functionality. Swap your outdated knobs for modern, stylish ones that align with your design vision. Why not consider a striking matt black like our Legge L95MFS Narrow Mortice Lock Kit? Alternatively, a classic silver look can look great, like the Lockwood 3782 Aluminum Double Door Cylinder Kit. 

And if you’re changing the locks, you may want to keep things looking aesthetically pleasing by installing an escutcheon—an attractive keyhole cover that will offer protection against damage from keys, as well as prevent draughts and accumulation of dust. 

Adding architectural details. Elevate the visual appeal of your doors by adding architectural details. Crown moulding around the door trim can make your room look more elegant and inviting, transforming a plain door into a stunning focal point.

Decorative panels are another way to add texture and visual interest to a door, whether you opt for raised panels, recessed panels, or a combination of both.


Adding a statement piece to your front door. A big, bold door knocker is a great way to help give your home street appeal. And if you’re looking at replacing front door hardware—what about a functional and stylish new door entrance set from one of the top quality brand names we stock, such as Brava, Gainsborough, or Lockwood? 

Adding smart door technologies. Additionally, consider investing in digital locks for a contemporary look with enhanced security and convenience. Depending on your choice of lock, these can offer keyless entry, remote access, and even integration with smart home systems, providing a futuristic touch to your living space.

Upgrade to High-quality Knobs and Locks at The Lock Shop

Looking to make a door update? It’s a rewarding endeavour combining both functionality and style! 

Here at The Lock Shop, we offer a wide selection of high-quality door hardware, including knobs and locks, providing excellent options for updating your interior doors.

Contact our team today if you’d like some guidance on finding the most suitable door hardware for your needs.

Bolting an Infloor Safe and Other Alternatives

Bolting an Infloor Safe and Other Alternatives

 

When it comes to safeguarding your most valuable possessions, investing in a reliable safe is a wise decision. However, simply owning a safe is not enoughsecuring it properly is the key to ensuring your personal or business property is not at risk of theft or destruction.   

A common question we get at The Lock Shop is, “Do I really need to bolt a safe to the floor?”—and our answer is, yes—absolutely! 

Whether it’s to secure valuables, confidential documents, firearms, or sentimental items—bolting a safe to the floor is what will give you peace of mind that your assets are properly protected. And you can’t get much more protected than an in-floor safe, which also has the benefit of being hidden underground and out of sight. 

 

Why Should You Bolt An In-floor Safe?

While an in-floor safe is substantially more discrete and secure than an above ground one, it still needs to be bolted properly. Otherwise, with enough time and determination, a cunning criminal could potentially remove it and open it elsewhere. Yes, we’ve even heard of them smashing through concrete to get to the goods! 

Bolting it to the floor adds an extra layer of security, making it significantly more challenging for burglars to make away with your valuables. And when it comes to securing a gun safe for example, you certainly don’t want to be taking any chances. 

A secured in-floor safe can also be highly effective in protecting your items from natural disasters like earthquakes and floods, which is particularly crucial for important documents, heirlooms, and other irreplaceable items.

 

Steps To Bolting an In-floor Safe 

Firstly, DIY in-floor safe installation can be a tricky beast, and we strongly recommend hiring a professional for the job. If you do decide to DIY, please note this is a general guide only, so ensure you undertake thorough research beforehand. 

You’ll also need to check with your insurer that DIY installation meets their requirements.  

So, how to bolt a safe to the floor? In many cases, you’ll be bolting your in-floor safe at the time of installation, so we’ve included the full steps as follows: 

CHOOSE THE RIGHT LOCATION

Check the floor surface is strong enough to hold your in-floor safe, and that it will be fully accessible in the chosen location, with the door able to be opened properly. Popular choices include inside wardrobes, under staircases, under beds, and the centre of a garage.

CHECK CAREFULLY FOR UNDERGROUND HEATING, CABLES, OR PIPES

Ensure you’re well away from obvious pipe locations such as bathrooms and kitchens. If in doubt, drill a small hole into the floor to investigate with a coat hanger.

TRACE AROUND YOUR SAFE TO MARK OUT THE HOLE AND CUT IT

Allow around 100 mm out on each side. To bolt a safe to a concrete floor, you’ll need to use a demolition or electric jack hammer. For wooden floors, a diamond blade saw may be enough

REMOVE SOIL

Allow 100 mm of concrete to surround your safe then pour some concrete into the bottom. Ease your safe in (ensuring it is lower than the top of the slab), and continue pouring slowly around the safe so the concrete gently brings it in line with the top of the slab. Allow the concrete to dry. Be very careful not to let any water come in contact with your in-floor safe as they are not waterproof.

There you goyou’ve just learned how to attach a safe to the floor in the most secure way possible!  

 

Alternative Security Measures

Now you know how to install a safe, what are some alternatives to an in-floor one? 

The following safes are also great options for protecting your prized possessions above ground – provided you bolt them to the floor in a similar fashion: 

A fire and theft safe, which boasts some of the most resistant fire and burglary prevention qualities available on the market. 

A deposit safe, perfect for businesses, with a convenient deposit drawer to allow anyone to place cash or important items inside without having to open it. 

A laptop safe – sized and designed specifically to hold laptops and other media devices.  

And if you’re looking for an alternative to bolting a safe to the floor—Some additional steps you can take to fortify your home or business security include:

  • Installing surveillance cameras, motion detectors, and alarms to deter criminals, and capture footage in the event of a breach.
  • Reinforcing entry points with strong, durable doors and windows with digital locks to make it harder for intruders to gain access.
  • Investing in smart locks, doorbell cameras, and automated lighting systems to enhance security and provide real-time alerts. 

 

Secure Top-Quality Safes at The Lock Shop

At The Lock Shop, we’re all about delivering security solutions to keep your valuables safe, including educating on how to secure a safe to the floor. 

From cutting edge in-floor safes, to laptop safes ensuring data and device security, to specialised gun safes, deposit safes, and more, we cater to a spectrum of safety requirements. Reach out to our team and let’s discuss securing a safe to perfectly suit your needs!

Window Security Options To Invest In

Window Security Options To Invest In

It goes without saying, we all want a home that provides a safe haven for our family. That’s why home security is of utmost importance! 

And it’s not just doors we need to think about; Windows can also serve as a discrete entry point for criminals if not secured appropriately. 

Further, windows can pose a danger to young children who could accidentally fall through one and be significantly injured.  

Fortunately, these days you don’t need to invest a lot of money nor effort to ensure you’re securing windows effectively and protecting your most valuable assets.  

If you’ve ever been the victim of a home invasion, or an accident involving windows, you may be seeking advice on how to secure windows from break in. The good news is, we’ve put together a guide on how to secure windows that could just be the peace of mind you’re after to keep your family safe! 

Firstly, you’ll want to do a thorough assessment of the windows in your home to identify any weak points. 

There’s a plethora of window security options to suit every scenario, but you need to be clear on which type of lock best suits each window style. Do you have sliding windows, double-hung windows, or casement windows? What types of locks are currently on them, and do they require an upgrade for enhanced security? 

It’s also a good idea to check in with your insurance company because your policy will likely require you to have specific types of window locks installed.

 

Reinforcing Window Glass 

Before we delve into locks, let’s address the vulnerability of standard window glass.  

A more secure option to consider is laminated glass. Unlike traditional glass, this consists of multiple layers that are sandwiched together with a durable interlayer, usually made of polyvinyl butyral (PVB). This design makes it more resistant to breaking, preventing burglars from easily shattering the glass to gain access.  

You could also consider reinforcing your existing glass with security window filma transparent layer applied to the surface that firmly holds broken glass together in the event of an attempted break-in. 

Or if you’re not too worried about aesthetics, consider installing a secure metal grille outside the window.

 

Window Locks & Latches 

If you’re looking at how to secure windows without bars, a window lock or latch is definitely the best option. The type of lock you require is going to depend on the style of window.  

Keyed Sash Locks

Keyed sash locks are a great option for double hung window security because they secure the upper and lower sashes together via an easy swivel action. This prevents intruders from easily prying open the window.  

Window Pin Locks

Adding window pins to your double hung windows is another effective choice as they restrict the movement of the window, making it more challenging for burglars to lift it from its frame. 

Push Locks

Suitable for either double hung, sliding, or awning windows, push locks offer the security of a robust bolt that simply needs to be pushed in to lock, and opened by key. 

Hinged Wedge Locks

Another good one for double hung windows, a hinged wedge lock restricts how far a window can be opened, making it more difficult to force it open. 

Casement Fasteners and Stays

With their wide-swing openings, casement windows are wonderful for funnelling fresh breezes into your home. But don’t forget your casement window security! Casement fasteners and stays are effective locks specifically designed for hinged windows, providing an extra layer of security by restricting the movement of the window when locked.

Sliding Window Locks

Sliding aluminium window locks are perfect for sliding windows. Made from durable aluminium, they simply slip over the window trackusually without the need for screws or other hardware - providing a reliable barrier against intruders. 

Lockable Window Winders

Window winders are great for increasing air flow with awning windows, but if you’re going for a manual onmake sure it is a high quality lockable version to maximise safety. 

Electric Window Actuators 

Installing an electric window actuator takes your home security to the next level. No need to teach the kids how to lock a window from the inside; Powered by electricity and designed to control your windows with a touch of a button, actuators not only reduce the risk of accidents; they also allow you to close all windows at once if you're concerned about someone breaking into your home. Plus, they’re available as both button-press systems or with smart home integration and automation capabilities. 

Importantly, any lock you choose for your home should be fitted and installed by a professional for maximum security. Forget having to spend loads of time trying to learn how to install window locksleave it to the experts! 

 

Window Alarms & Sensors 

After more window protection ideas? Once you’ve sorted the mechanical security of your windows, you may feel more confident installing window alarms or sensors as a final barrier to scare off intruders. 

Window alarms are small devices that attach to the window frame and trigger an alarm when the window is opened. Some models even come with vibration sensors that activate the alarm if someone attempts to break the glass. These audible alerts not only notify you but also act as a deterrent, discouraging burglars from proceeding with their break-in. 

Window sensors, commonly used in home security systems, detect changes in the magnetic field when a window is opened. When the window is closed, the magnetic field is uninterrupted, but once the window is opened, the sensor triggers an alert. Many modern window sensors are integrated with smart home platforms, allowing you to receive notifications on your smartphone and even remotely monitor your home's security. 

 

Safely Secure Your Home with The Lock Shop’s Quality Range of Window Locks 

Your family’s safety is The Lock Shop’s priority, which is why we offer an extensive range of window locks from reputable brands you can trust, from Whitco to Lockwood.  

If you’re seeking advice on how to secure your windows from insidewe’re here to assist! Contact our expert team today for guidance to suit your personal security needs.