10 Smart Tips for a Successful Basement Renovation in Calgary
Planning a Calgary basement renovation? Discover 10 expert tips for designing a functional, comfortable basement reno to add value.
KATRA CONSTRUCTION BLOG
Interior doors are one of the most overlooked elements in a home renovation. Many homeowners spend time choosing flooring, cabinetry, lighting, and finishes, while doors are often selected at the last minute simply to complete the project.
At Katra Construction, we often encourage homeowners to take a closer look at interior doors during the planning phase of a renovation. Doors can have a surprisingly large impact on the character of a home. They influence how rooms connect, how light moves through the space, and how private or quiet certain areas feel.
In many Calgary renovation projects we work on, interior doors become their own design moment. Whether it is a bold black door, a sliding barn-style door, or a traditional French door connecting living spaces, thoughtful door choices can add personality and functionality to the home.
Below are some of the door styles and materials we frequently discuss with homeowners when planning a renovation.
Interior doors are sometimes treated as a purely practical decision, but in our experience they can contribute significantly to the overall design of a home.
We often remind homeowners that doors appear throughout the house. When they are thoughtfully selected, they can create consistency and visual interest from room to room.
Many Calgary homeowners choose to upgrade interior doors by considering:
At the same time, we are always mindful of home renovation budgets. Interior doors can become expensive once supply, installation, and painting are included. In some cases, we recommend repainting existing doors instead of replacing them entirely. A fresh coat of paint and updated hardware can give older doors a noticeable boost without significantly increasing renovation costs.
Different door styles can improve both the functionality and the design of a home. The right option depends on the layout of the house and how each space is used.
Sliding doors, including barn-style doors, are often a good solution when space is limited. Because they slide along a track instead of swinging open, they can free up valuable floor area.
We commonly recommend sliding doors for:
They also create a strong visual feature, particularly when paired with wood finishes or black metal hardware.
Pocket doors are another space-saving solution that we frequently suggest when renovating smaller areas of a home.
These doors slide inside the wall when opened, making them ideal for:
In renovation projects where we are opening walls, anyway, installing a pocket door can be a practical improvement that homeowners appreciate every day.
Arched doors are becoming more popular again, particularly in custom renovations or homes that already have architectural character.
We occasionally work with homeowners who want to introduce an arched opening or an arched metal door to create a unique design feature. These doors can add softness and architectural interest that standard rectangular doors do not provide.
French doors remain one of the most versatile interior door styles. Because they include glass panels, they allow light to move between rooms while still providing separation when needed.
At Katra Construction, we often recommend French doors for:
They can help maintain an open feel while still defining different areas of the home.
Glass insert doors are another option when homeowners want to brighten interior spaces.
Depending on privacy needs, homeowners may choose:
We often recommend these doors in hallways or between kitchens and living spaces where additional natural light can make the home feel more open.
Hidden doors are less common but can create a distinctive architectural feature when designed well. These doors are often integrated into millwork or wall panelling, so they blend seamlessly into the surrounding wall.
Although they require careful planning and custom carpentry, hidden doors can be an interesting option in certain renovation designs.
White doors are still the most common choice, but more homeowners are exploring colour as part of their full home remodel design.
Black doors are something we see more frequently in modern renovation projects. They can create contrast and add a sense of structure to a space, especially when paired with light walls and simple trim.
In some homes, we recommend using a subtle colour on interior doors to add character without overwhelming the room. Muted greens, blues, or warm neutrals can create a softer design statement.
Another way to add interest is through the design of the door itself. Panelled doors, shaker-style doors, or doors with decorative detailing can elevate the overall look of the home.
When discussing door options with homeowners, we also talk about the construction of the door itself. The material and structure affect durability, sound control, and overall quality.
Hollow core doors are the most common and affordable option. They are lightweight and relatively inexpensive but provide limited sound insulation.
Typical installed cost in Calgary:
Approximately $200 to $400 per door
Solid core doors contain a dense internal material, making them heavier and more durable. At Katra Construction, we often recommend solid core doors for bedrooms and offices where sound control is important.
Typical installed cost in Calgary:
Approximately $400 to $800 per door
Solid wood doors are considered a premium option. They offer excellent durability, sound insulation, and a more luxurious feel.
These are often selected in higher-end home renovation projects or custom homes.
Typical installed cost in Calgary:
Approximately $800 to $1,500 or more per door
When planning a home reno, it can also be helpful to understand the components that make up a door system.
These include:
Door Jamb
The frame that is installed within the wall opening.
Casing
The decorative trim surrounding the door frame.
Door Stop
A narrow strip that prevents the door from swinging too far.
Hinges
The metal fittings that attach the door to the frame.
Threshold
The base section between rooms, sometimes used where flooring materials change.
These details may seem small, but they contribute to both the durability and appearance of the door.
Interior doors can also be much more than a simple flat surface. At Katra Construction, we often encourage homeowners to think about the detailing of the door itself, especially during a complete home renovation. The style of the door panels and millwork can subtly influence the character of the entire home and help create consistency from room to room.
Shaker Doors
Shaker-style doors are one of the most versatile and commonly recommended options. They feature a clean frame with a flat centre panel, creating a simple and balanced look. Because of their understated design, Shaker doors work well in modern, transitional, and even traditional homes. Many homeowners appreciate that they add structure and detail without feeling overly decorative.
Routed Wood Detailing
Routed doors include subtle lines or patterns carved directly into the surface of the wood. This type of detailing can add character to an otherwise simple door while maintaining a refined appearance. Depending on the design, routed detailing can create clean geometric lines or more decorative patterns that complement the style of the home.
Flat Panel Doors
Flat panel doors feature a smooth centre panel surrounded by a frame. They tend to have a clean and contemporary look and are often used in modern renovation projects. At Katra Construction, we sometimes recommend flat panel doors when homeowners want a minimalist style that still provides some definition around the edges.
Recessed Panel Doors
Recessed panel doors include panels that sit slightly deeper within the frame of the door. This creates depth and shadow, which adds architectural interest throughout hallways and living spaces. Recessed panel doors are a classic option that works well in both traditional homes and updated renovation designs.
Custom Geometric Detailing
In more customized renovation projects, homeowners sometimes choose unique routed patterns such as geometric or hexagonal detailing. These doors can become a distinctive design feature and help reinforce the architectural style of the home. While they are less common, they can add personality and craftsmanship when used in the right space.
Interior doors can represent a noticeable portion of a home renovation budget, particularly in larger homes with many rooms.
Typical renovation costs may include:
Door supply:
$100 – $700+ depending on material
Installation labour:
$150 – $400 per door
Painting or finishing:
$100 – $250 per door
Hardware:
$50 – $200 per door
For some homeowners, repainting existing doors can provide a significant visual improvement without the cost of full replacement.
Interior doors may seem like a small part of a home remodel, but they appear throughout the home and contribute to how each space feels and functions.
At Katra Construction, we encourage homeowners to think about doors early in the renovation process rather than leaving them as a final detail. The right door style, colour, and material can enhance both the design and the everyday functionality of the home.
With thoughtful planning, interior doors can become more than just a practical feature. They can add character, improve privacy, and contribute to the overall experience of the space.
Contact us if you need help planning your home renovation.
Tana Wheatcroft is a Partner and Lead Project Manager at Katra Construction in Calgary. She works closely with homeowners planning full home renovations, kitchen renovations, bathroom remodels, basement renovations, and exterior improvements. Through the Katra Construction Blog, Tana shares practical renovation insights to help homeowners make informed decisions and plan successful projects.
In many cases, yes. Solid core doors provide better sound insulation and durability, which can make a noticeable difference in bedrooms and offices.
Yes. Black doors continue to be a popular design choice because they create contrast and add architectural interest.
Interior door replacement typically ranges from $300 to $1,200 per door installed, depending on materials, hardware, and finishing.
Yes. Repainting interior doors is often a cost-effective way to update the appearance of a home during a renovation.
Interior doors are best considered early in the renovation planning process so they can be integrated into the overall design and budget.
Katra Construction is a full-service renovation contractor with over 20 years’ experience in Calgary and surrounding areas. Our team provides premium contracting services with an emphasis on integrity, quality, and value. A Calgary home renovation contractor like Katra Construction can provide valuable support and expertise throughout the entire renovation process while minimizing headaches along the way.
Schedule a consultation with our Owner|Project Manager, Tana Wheatcroft, or connect with us through our Contact Page.
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