Everything to Consider When Designing a Custom Entry Gate

Every architect knows that first impressions matter when it comes to a home. The profile and shape of the house, its façade complete with windows and a front door, and the color options all make truly unique homes stand out from all the rest. We tend to think that custom entry doors are the centerpiece of the home, and we wouldn’t be wrong, but there is one thing that makes a better first impression than any other exterior feature.  

We’re talking about driveway entry gates. 

Before a person sees a door, any windows or, depending on how large the property is, the house at all, they see the entry gate. It is the welcome mat to any unique home, and it leaves a lasting impression. That’s why designing something truly breathtaking and original is best way to make a statement. 

Ready to begin designing a custom entry gate? Here’s what you should consider adding to your design. 

Size and Shape

Starting with the size and profile of the gate, think about the mood or feel that you want your gate to give off. While the width of the gate is generally determined by the width of the driveway and the surrounding landscaping, the height can be directly determined by you. Taller gates can create a more dramatic entrance, but they are generally more aesthetically pleasing on narrower driveways. A good rule of thumb is that the height of the driveway gate should be proportional to the width of the driveway. 

When it comes to shape, there are two different places to begin: squared and rounded. When it comes to rounded shapes, there are two primary staring points: arches and scallops. Arches curve upward along the gate while scallops curve downward in a “u-shape”. Remember that nearly any shape can be achieved when you work with the right custom gate manufacturer. 

Gate Details

The details of the gate are what makes each gate truly unique. When thinking about custom details to add to your entry gate, consider some of the following options: 

• Inlays and cutouts: wooden gates that are built from the ground up can feature countless variations of inlays and cutouts. Whether you are designing the gate to have raised sections or embedded areas, the possibilities are endless. Work with your gate builder to work out a design that matches the style of the home. 
• Decorative elements: custom hardware, one-of-a-kind pieces and anything else are completely achievable. There are many things you can add to a custom gate to enhance the design even further, including finials, collars, hinges, handles, clavos, knobs and many other elements. Wrought iron pieces complement the look of wooden entry gates very well. 
• Pillars and Lighting: nothing caps off a gate and creates a better entryway more than custom pillars. These end caps frame a custom gate, connect it seamlessly to the wall or fence surrounding the property and allow designers to incorporate lighting elements and fixtures into the design. 

Sliding vs. Swing

The functionality of the gate serves both aesthetic and utility purposes. Some gates are located in cramped conditions, and sliding gates help save room while they are opening and closing. If space is not an issue, think about how the gate opens affects the entrance onto the property. Do you want the modern feel of a sliding gate, or the more traditional opening of swinging doors? 

Ready to begin designing a gate? Have a working design that is ready for production? The custom craftsmen at Cambek are ready to transform your dream project into reality.

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