Gloss black, navy blue, British racing green, pillar-box red or white always look smart. Recent trends for softer shades and matt or eggshell finishes work well for a modern twist.

If the door is new, ensure it is primed and undercoated before applying the final coat. Oil Full Gloss and Exterior Eggshell by Farrow & Ball are hard wearing in colours to suit a variety of styles.

Trust Green (No 35) would suit a Georgian door, while Green Blue (No 84) or Shaded White (No 201) could be successful on a Victorian door updated with sandblasted glass. Paints from International include one-coat Exterior Gloss in Poppy Red, Oxford Blue, Jet Black or Burgundy.

NEXT - CHOOSING A BESPOKE OR SALVAGE FRONT DOOR >>