Are your interior doors giving “bland builder basic”? You’re not alone.
Most newer homes come with flat, hollow-core doors that are functional, but far from fabulous. The good news? With a few affordable upgrades, you can turn those basic doors into beautiful architectural details that give your home character, charm, and a high-end feel.
Here are four easy ways to upgrade your interior doors, no major renovation skills required!
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1. Add Trim or Molding for a Custom Look
One of the easiest (and most dramatic) ways to upgrade a flat door is by adding trim or molding to mimic the look of a panel door. All you need is some inexpensive trim, wood glue or a nail gun, and a bit of paint. I used box trim molding throughout my house. It was a huge improvement to my living room!
Get the Look
Hand held miter shears and pre-cut molding make this project a piece of cake!
2. Swap Out Basic Door Hardware
Those plain round doorknobs with shiny chrome finishes? They’re dating your whole room. Swapping in more stylish hardware can elevate the entire space.
Budget-friendly picks:
Antique brass knobs for instant charm
Crystal knobs for a vintage feel
Cremone bolts for french doors and cabinets
Most knobs can be swapped out with just a screwdriver. It’s a one-hour project with major impact! Click the images below too shop.
3. Paint It Something Unexpected
Who says doors have to be white? A contrasting color can create a focal point and add personality without overwhelming the space.
Pro tip: Paint your door and the trim the same color for a seamless, built-in look. Want to go bold? Try a moody color like deep olive or charcoal for instant drama.
Final Thoughts
Upgrading your interior doors is one of those small-but-mighty DIYs that makes your home feel finished. Whether you’re going for vintage charm or elevated traditional, these simple updates can make a huge difference.
So next time you walk through that boring door, imagine the potential it holds!
Need more DIY ideas for your builder-grade home? See how I updated my bathroom without remodeling.
