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HGTV hosts Dave and Jenny Marrs showcased a front door renovation technique on ‘Fixer to Fabulous’ that uses brass inlays instead of replacing the entire door. The couple applied brass strips in a starburst pattern to an existing double door, creating a mid-century modern aesthetic. This method offers a cost-effective alternative to custom doors, which can cost between $3,000 and $15,000.
Dave and Jenny Marrs, hosts of the HGTV series Fixer to Fabulous, have popularized a front door renovation technique that avoids the high cost of custom door replacement. In Season 6, Episode 5, the couple transformed an existing double front door by adding brass inlays in a starburst pattern. This approach provides a high-impact aesthetic upgrade using metallic accents rather than purchasing a new door, offering a viable solution for homeowners seeking curb appeal on a budget.
The renovation took place during a two-part episode where the Marrs focused on enhancing the home’s exterior entryway. According to Jenny Marrs’ blog, the couple sourced brass strips from a neighbor’s barn to create the inlay. Dave Marrs executed the installation, setting the metal strips into the wood to form a starburst design that aligns with mid-century modern styling. This technique allows homeowners to retain their existing door structure while achieving a custom look.
The financial implications of this method are significant when compared to traditional renovations. Custom wooden front doors with bespoke inlays can range in price from $3,000 to $15,000. By retrofitting an existing door with metallic accents, homeowners can achieve a similar visual effect for a fraction of that cost. The report notes that while some decorative trims are intended for interior use, adhesive brass kick plates and exterior-rated metals offer durable, budget-friendly alternatives.
Color coordination also played a key role in the project’s success. The Marrs selected Sherwin-Williams Thunder Gray for the home’s siding to complement the new door design. Jenny Marrs noted on Instagram that the dark paint tone accentuates the natural stone and the metallic details of the door, demonstrating how exterior color choices can amplify the impact of hardware upgrades.
Cost Savings of Retrofitting vs. Replacing
This development is significant for homeowners facing limited pre-hung door options or high replacement costs. The brass inlay technique demonstrates that significant aesthetic improvements do not require structural changes or massive financial outlays. With custom doors costing up to $15,000, the ability to retrofit an existing door offers a practical path to improved curb appeal. This method also highlights the value of DIY-friendly upgrades that can be executed with basic tools and materials, such as brass strips and adhesive hardware.
Furthermore, the project underscores the importance of cohesive design elements. By pairing the metallic inlays with a specific paint color, Thunder Gray, the Marrs showed how hardware and color palettes work together to create a unified exterior look. This holistic approach helps homeowners avoid disjointed renovations, ensuring that small changes have a lasting visual impact.
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Marrs’ Renovation Style and Materials
Dave and Jenny Marrs are known for their work on Fixer to Fabulous, where they frequently combine mid-century modern aesthetics with practical renovation techniques. Their approach often involves repurposing materials or using specific accents to define a home’s character. In this instance, the use of brass strips from a neighbor’s barn reflects a trend toward sourcing unique or reclaimed materials for decorative purposes.
The choice of starburst patterns aligns with the couple’s preference for geometric and retro-inspired designs. This episode, part of a two-part series, focused on balancing budget constraints with high-design goals. The use of Sherwin-Williams Thunder Gray is consistent with their broader strategy of using dark, rich tones to highlight natural textures like stone and metal, a common feature in their portfolio of home makeovers.
“We went to our neighbor’s barn for brass strips, just what we needed to inlay into the door for a little extra pizzazz.”
— Jenny Marrs, via her blog
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Durability of DIY Metallic Accents
While the brass inlay technique is visually appealing, the long-term durability of DIY metallic accents on exterior doors remains a consideration. The source material notes that some decorative trims, such as the Gold Metalized Brushed Finish Molding Trim, are intended for interior use and may not withstand outdoor conditions. Homeowners must verify that any materials used, including adhesive kick plates or inlays, are rated for exterior exposure to prevent weathering or detachment.
It is also unclear how widely this specific starburst pattern can be replicated without professional woodworking skills. While Dave Marrs is an experienced renovator, the precision required to inlay metal strips into wood may pose challenges for novice DIYers. The report does not specify the exact tools or techniques used for the cutting and setting of the brass, leaving some ambiguity about the difficulty level for average homeowners.
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Implementing Metallic Door Upgrades
Homeowners looking to replicate this look should first assess their existing door’s condition and material. If the door is solid wood, it may be suitable for inlay work, whereas hollow-core doors might not support the necessary modifications. For those seeking simpler alternatives, adhesive brass kick plates or exterior-rated metallic trims offer a less invasive option. The report suggests pairing these metallic elements with dark paint colors, such as navy, steely blue, or gray, to enhance contrast.
Future projects may see a rise in retrofitting existing fixtures rather than replacing them, driven by cost savings and sustainability trends. Homeowners are advised to consult with professionals if structural changes are required or if they lack experience with metalworking and woodworking tools. Ensuring proper surface preparation and using weather-resistant adhesives will be critical steps in achieving a lasting finish.
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Key Questions
How much does a custom front door with inlays cost?
According to the report, custom wooden front doors with bespoke inlays can cost between $3,000 and $15,000. This price range reflects the labor and materials required for a professionally crafted door.
Can I use interior trim for exterior door upgrades?
The source material cautions that some decorative trims, such as the Gold Metalized Brushed Finish Molding Trim, are intended for interior use and are not suitable for long-term exterior applications due to weather exposure.
What paint color did the Marrs use for the siding?
Dave and Jenny Marrs used Sherwin-Williams Thunder Gray for the home’s siding. This dark shade was chosen to complement the natural stone and accentuate the brass details on the front door.
Is the starburst pattern difficult to replicate?
While the report does not specify the exact difficulty level, the precision required to inlay brass strips suggests it may be challenging for beginners. Dave Marrs is an experienced renovator, and homeowners should assess their own skill level before attempting similar inlay work.
Source: rss
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