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My Blue Front Door: Sherwin Williams Naval

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My blue front door color is Sherwin Williams Naval. This is the perfect navy blue for entry doors or a front door with sidelights, especially if the sidelights are white!
 
blue front door with sidelights sherwin williams naval
 
I wish I had a picture of my old entry doors. They were wood double doors in the barn style…with the “X” on the bottom and diamond mullions in glass on the top. They were the 1960 orginals and they were O-L-D. The first few years we lived here, snow actually blew in under the doors. As soon as I could feasibly manage it, I replaced those entry doors with a beautiful fiberglass front door with sidelights. When it was installed, the door was white. Of course, I couldn’t stand that and promptly painted it red. 
 
I looked back to the very beginning of my archives, but could not find a picture of the red door. That doesn’t really matter because my front door didn’t stay red for long
 
sherwin williams naval choice for blue entry doors
 
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Sherwin Williams Naval

Back in the spring of 2011, I gave my kitchen cabinets a fresh coat of paint and some updated hardware. I knew I wanted a section of cabinets painted an accent color and I thought blue would be perfect. What I didn’t know was that picking out blue paint is hard! After a great deal of thought, and trips to the paint store, I finally settled on Sherwin Williams Naval. When I saw it on my kitchen cabinets, I knew instantly I was going to have a blue front door as well. 
 

blue front door sherwin williams naval fall wreath

My Blue Front Door

When I published my Frequently Asked Questions, I shared that the most-asked question, for years, has been “What is the color of your front door?” I’ve answered it countless times, but I never mind.  Having a blue front door made such a difference in our home’s curb appeal and if I can help you do the same, I’m very glad. 

Here are details: Like I said before, the door was originally red. We applied a coat of gray primer followed by two coats of Sherwin Williams Naval in a satin finish. The actual product we used was Duration Exterior Acrylic Latex.

Our front porch faces east so it gets the morning sun. It is, however, shaded by the roof of our porch. We repainted the door once a few years ago…just one quick coat of Naval. The color has not faded at all and is super easy to clean. 

blue front door with garden wreath

Painting A Front Door with Sidelights

Painting entry doors can be tricky. If you have a front door with sidelights, it’s best to paint the sidelights a neutral color, and the door should be painted an accent color. Include any trim around the door as well. This will give your home maximum curb appeal by providing a contrast that catches the eye. In my case, the sidelights are white and I have a blue front door. 

blue front door tall black planters

Other Blues for Entry Doors

There are a ton of choices when it comes to navy blue paint. To choose the right one for you, simply use the process of elimination.

  • Visit your paint store and come home with several swatch strips. 
  • Look at the swatches outside at different times of day…because the light will change.
  • Start eliminating the ones you don’t like.
  • Consider the other colors on your home and if you have a front door with sidelights, consider the color of the sidelights. 
  • Finally, make a decision. If you make a mistake, it’s just paint.

Of course, my favorite navy blue (and not just for entry doors) is Sherwin Williams Naval. If you are looking for a classic navy paint, but aren’t sold on Naval, here are some other choices for a blue front door:

  1. Benjamin Moore Hale Navy
  2. Benjamin Moore Old Navy
  3. Sherwin Williams Indigo*
  4. Sherwin Williams Salty Dog*

*Some Sherwin Williams colors are available at Lowe’s as part of the HGTV Home Collection.

Most of the items found on our front porch can be found in my Amazon Shop.

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Thoughts from my friends...

  1. Hi Ann;

    LOVE your blog and your navy door. I am planning on painting my front door navy too. However, the door is on the south side of my home, with two huge maple trees in the front yard, which shade the front door. I am wondering if I should go with a slightly brighter navy? Please let me know your thoughts!

    • Hi Cynthia…our street is very shaded. We live in a wooded area and even though I don’t have trees in my front yard, they are all around me. My porch gets a little bit of morning sun but that’s it. I think it depends on what is surrounding the door. Your siding color, trim color, is there an overhang on your porch. If your siding is light then I think it would be OK to go with the deeper navy. Good luck with your decision!

      • Ann, Thank you SO MUCH for your quick and detailed response to my post!!! I am happy to hear about your home and the shade, and that naval worked for you. In fact, it didn’t only “work” for you, the door is a brilliant color on your home!!! I don’t know if you are aware of it, but the naval front door color choice was affirmed on a Home Front interview with the Sherman Williams color consultant in the Washington Post. My home has almost the identical brick as yours (with perhaps a little darker charcoal in parts). My brick detail in front goes maybe 2/3 up the side of the front of the home, and there is white siding above the brick. My roof is a medium dark charcoal. However, both the roof and the brick are multi-colored which is one reason it was crucial to choose a front door color that did not add too much variation, but still stood out. When I saw your door, it seemed like the perfect choice. I got a sample pot of naval and painted a medium canvas with it. Due to all the shade, from the street it appears to be the color of the roof. Up close you can see that it is navy. With your new input, I am defiantly going to paint the door naval, as soon as the rain period in the midwest is over. Thank you SO MUCH for your input! I LOVE your blog and your photos!!! ~ Cynthia

  2. I always enjoy your front door and porch posts because I love decorating my front porch too. Does the front of your house have shutters and if so, what color are your shutters?

    Thanks for sharing, Louise

  4. I love reading your blogs. Your taste is so refreshing and you can tell alot of love goes into your home projects.
    I really liked reading your story about the beginning of your House. What you have done is make it into Your Home!!! As always …thank you for sharing.

  7. Love the color of your door! Had a deep tan door in one house, and a fiberglass door in the last home that was stained to look like wood. I loved it – but the front door got lots of sun and it faded fast. I was always touching it up. Do you have sunlight issues with your door ? We have a similar color blue door now in our new apartment – not sure what brand or color – but we LOVE it. You can see it on my blog. And the best part is it is indoors so no sun fading it ! Was not sure about downsizing and apartment living, but we are loving it! Thanks for all your great ideas, printables, a wonderful blog!

  9. Hello. I know this is an old post, but I just came across your blog (lovely) when trying to find a color for my friend’s brick ranch. He really fell in love with your front door color. My question is, however, what color gray are your shutters. Love the way they coordinate, however, I don’t see the color listed. I’d appreciate it, thanx in advance!

  11. I love the front door, I have a navy one as well. Are those fern planters navy as well or are they black. It’s hard to tell.

  12. Hi. I am redecorating my front porch and as much as I don’t like the brick it isn’t something I can change. So I started my search for decorating ideas. I love the front door color, but I’m really interested in the pots with the ferns. Are the ferns real or artificial? Where did you find the pots?

  13. Ann, I love your home — it’s just beautiful; and I really admire your decorating style and your imagination. Yours was one of the first “blogs” I discovered and it’s been a favorite from day one.
    Thank you for allowing us to follow along.
    Best to you from a fan in NC

  15. I am trying to decide on exterior colors and love your navy blue front door. What finish is your door – semi-gloss, satin? Also, what is the color of your shutters currently? Thanks!

  18. I enjoyed reading the story of how you came to be On Sutton Place. I truly adore your home and your style. I have no doubt that I would feel right at home if I were to ever visit. I would love to have two tall planters flanking my front door. I’m sure it’s been awhile since you purchased yours, but may I ask where got them?

  19. I love it! Of course…you probably knew that I would. ;) I think that I fall more deeply in love with our front door each time I look at it. :) Congrats on a beautiful home to drive up to and live in. Home is such a blessing. k.

  21. I love the ferns AND your blue front door! I’ll have two in college for next year…and then one for the three years following that…it’s already been three years…I know EXACTLY how you feel! I just keep reminding myself that this is a marathon, not a sprint! xo

  22. I am sure you dont have any ‘buyers remorse’ now! Your home is gorgeous Ann! Your home is a perfect example of how to update the exterior of what one might say, ‘typical houses’, because now, I bet it’s a stand-out in your street! Love the navy doors too, I think I actually like it better than the red. You guys are right to hold off on some improvements on your home for your kids college – their your best investment yet!CHEERS!

  23. I'm in Fergus Ontario Canada. Thank you for sharing pictures of your home with us. You've inspired me to go to our local Sherwin Williams first thing tomorrow to pick up "Naval" to repaint our front doors!

  26. Your door colour is gorgeous. I liked both but thought the newer colour is more fitting! I've got this linked to my doors post too today, well done!

  29. I love your door in red AND in blue. Sometimes change just to change is exactly what is needed! Thanks for the inspiration!

  30. The front door color is beautiful!I love the wreath can you give a tutorial. I have double front doors and they are painted Benjamin Moore Essex green so I would probably need to change up the color scheme. But I absolutley love the door color and the wreath. Beautiful!!

  31. I remember being here on your blog, now!! I saw your front door and was wowed by how great it looked. Great job, Kathysue

  32. I am in the same boat with the house sentiments, the drive and are walkway are next. My hostas are currently being attacked by moles and they are new this year. Yours looks wonderful.

    Thanks for inspiring me.

  36. Looks gorgeous–wow those ferns really add pop and the planters are fabulous. Stop by and link up if you have time!
    Mary

  37. Your front entrance is just lovely! I love the switch from your red door to navy, so striking. Navy is a classic color that never goes out of style. The potted ferns just add to that welcoming feel. Thanks for sharing! :)

  39. Your home has great curb appeal, and the new navy blue door is very sophisticated, especially with the ferns.

  40. So pretty! Love the color and LOVE the wreath. Very nice job. We also have a blue door, but yours is slightly darker. I may give the darker color a try!

  44. Ann this looks so beautiful and fresh and inviting!! Your curb appeal is beautiful. Love the blue, perfect choice. Kathysue

  45. Ann, Your home is so beautiful and has so much curb appeal. I can tell that you and your husband have put so much love and hard work into making it a warm and inviting home. I absolutely love the navy door and the planters with the ferns.. OMGosh. sooo pretty. I need a new door decoration and may just copy yours if you don't mind.
    Thanks for sharing your beautiful home.
    Babs

  46. OH! I just love this Ann! You have the touch for sure and it looks gorgeous. Your whole house and landscaping are so beautiful and totally my style (my house is stucco…not my favorite!). The blue door looks perfect and the wreath is incredible. I'm drooling here! :-)
    Vanessa

  48. I LOVE the blue. Don't get me wrong, red doors are great, but this is so much better and more unique! Great job.

  50. Your front door looks great. And the wreath and planters show if off beautifully. Your whole house has great curb appeal.
    Have a great day.
    Sue

  52. A labor of love, your home is gorgeous and the new blue door looks mighty pretty!
    Love your wreath too…wonderfully done!
    Cindy

  53. I love houses like yours and have dreamed about having one just like it. No wonder you are so proud of your achievements: you have created a beautiful home. Congratulations.

    Best wishes for a lovely week,
    Natasha.

  54. Your house is just beautiful! I love how pretty you've made everything, including the new blue door. As you said, it's been a ton of work, but it sure looks like your hard work has paid off!

    Have a great day!
    Pam

  55. Hello there Ann with no -e-! :) I'm so glad you're my newest follower, I'm honored. It is kinda funny you just found a Goodwill dresser too, but I agree $60 seems a little steep for Goodwill! My dresser was so bad when I bought it that I was thinking $15 seemed like too much. (to the point I drove all the way home…then of course, you KNOW I went back! lol)
    Your house is very nice and I LOVE your new blue door color, it looks wonderful!
    Have a great week!
    missy

  56. So glad that you received my painting safe and sound, adore it, and liked it better in person!
    I can't ask for anything more than that!!
    Have a great week,
    Barb

  57. I love the color you picked for the front door. The wreath is one of the pretties I've seen. Your home looks like a model home with the landscaping done so beautifully.

    Dee

  58. Your home truly looks like a haven. You can see the love and pride you have in your home. The new color of the front door is eye-catching, especially with the wreath and the ferns. Your rug compliments all of the colors you've used and adds some fun to your entrance.

  60. Your house is beautiful & the navy door is breathtaking! I've been itching to paint our door a striking color…but wimped out and stuck with the same old boring brown!

    Great job!

  62. LOVE the blue door! The door mat is pretty too. I need to get DD2 a new one. Very pretty entrance.
    Dropping by from Met Monday. I hope you'll come see the safari nursery.

    Allison
    Atticmag

  63. I liked the red a lot, but I really love the blue. What a fantastic change (love the doormat as well)! I always enjoy changing colors and swapping out items. I just wish I could convince my husband that this sort of thing needs doing occasionally.

  66. You have a beautiful home and property. A lot of hard work has been done! I love the new colour of the front door. What a change! Your wreath is gorgeous. Have a great week.

  67. Ann, that navy blue door and the wreath you made are stunning!! And, yes, yes, yes, the homes can be great character builders. You have done a beautiful job with yours. blessings ~ Tanna

  69. Your new front door is great! I love the wreath you did! All your hardwork has paid off – your landscaping and exterior look great!

  70. Ann your home is gorgeous, and such great curb appeal! I love the blue door. Thanks for joining the summer paint party. Have fun!

  72. So beautiful! Your home has lots and lots of curb appeal. The landscaping is just perfect too. SO fun stopping by to visit!

    Kindly, Lorraine

  76. Absolutely Beautiful Ann!! Your landscaping is gorgeous and I LOVE those planters with the ferns in them they look beautiful! Your front door looks great! Martina

  78. You have obviously put a lot of work into the exterior of your home. Your blue door is beautiful and your wreath is FABULOUS! I love it!
    Your home has a great deal of curb appeal now, you must be very proud of it.
    Hugs, Cindy

  79. Ann~ your home is beautiful! It's definately a home when you put all your hard work into it to make it your own; what a great accomplishment!

    I love the blue door, and the wreath is gorgeous! I have a blue door too! :)

    Jodi

  81. Your home definitely has curb appeal now! I love your home and the new front door color. I am wanting me some nice blue paint somewhere. Maybe the living room when we get around to that redo. Thanks for visiting and following me at the Johnson Home, it always makes my day to have new friends.

  82. It sure is gorgeous now! And that front door: you picked the absolute best color. So tranquil for those who enter. Wish I was good at making wreathes. That one is a beauty!
    Brenda

  83. What a showstopper! I love the blue, the doormat, the wreath, and the ferns! It's so fresh and summery. You must be really pleased!

  84. Your home is absolutley beautiful. I mean that. Once again I am loving the Hostas. The blue door was a fabulous change. I really can't put into words how great your home looks. I am glad you are so proud of it because you should be.

  85. Ann, you are not alone. A new doormat would totally make my day, too ;) I LOVE the blue door. Your wreath really pops against it. It's nice that your house lends itself to changing door colors… it's fun to switch things up from time to time. Nice job!

  86. you know,,, i love a red door,, but this blue is so classy, really elegant looking, your home is just lovely,, all work hard work was worth it I'm sure,

  87. Your home and landscaping are gorgeous. Fabulous curb appeal. I love the blue door, it is so pretty and the wreath looks stunning. I need to redo my wreath, thanks for the inspiration. Hugs, marty

  88. I love, love your blue front door….so glad you found a color. I will have to remember the color you used. Your home is beautiful and you can take such pride in everything you've done. It's so worth it, isn't it. You are so lucky to have a handy hubby because mine isn't and it really hinders projects unless I want to do it on my own. Anyway, such a great blue front door!!

  89. You have one beautiful home and you can tell a lot of love has been put into it! I love the new color of your door but what really took my breath away was the wreath you made for it, such a great job on it, really pretty!

    Rondell

  90. You have really done an amazing job! It looks wonderful!!
    My age? Oh well, at least my kids know the song from my singing it. I guess that I should change the title of that post!
    I hope that your painting arrived and that it is what you expected.
    Have a great weekend,
    Barb

  91. You have created great curb appeal! And I just love the navy door. It contrasts so nicely with the brick and the white trim. And all the little details just work so nicely together – the wreath, the ferns, the mat, etc… Great job!

  92. Ann –
    Your home looks very nice – I love the new look to the door – wow! I know what you mean about curb appeal as I have none as well. Yours looks really nice – welcoming and sweet. Your investment and work paid off! I am wondering how you get the name of your blog on the bottom of all the pictures you post – would love to know how to do this if you have a moment!
    Stacey of Embracing Change

  93. I love the new naval blue door and matching welcome mat. I think it makes you perfectly normal that that mat made your day. :)

  94. I like your new door colour very much.
    We once had a house that looked a lot like yours – it was just the best family house!

  95. Truly gorgeous. You must be so proud. I love the door color. We painted ours a bluish green to match the flagstone steps. Yours is really elegant and the striped door mat is so fun.

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