The Faux Window DIY That Gives Any Front Door A Stylish Upgrade On A Budget

Love the idea of having a window on your front door? The presence of a window can make an entryway feel more open and inviting, not to mention significantly enhance your home's curb appeal. It can also hide or replace faded paint, dents, and other wear and tear on your front door. That said, a new single-entry door can cost hundreds, even thousands. So, if you're on a tight budget, a faux window addition may be the perfect DIY project for your front door. This stylish upgrade, made with a semi-transparent panel and trim pieces, allows you to create a door that reflects your personal style without spending a ton and can even complement your home's design.

Unlike a real window, which is permanent and likely requires costly modifications to the existing door to accommodate it, a faux window gives you more flexibility to change the look as you please. Plus, by doing the project yourself, you have complete control over the design, materials, and every aspect of the door upgrade. But what materials do you need to create a faux window for a door, exactly? In the Instagram video below, this DIYer reveals how you can build one with simple materials from your local department store for under $100.

Instagram's Trevor Staley, aka The Idea Dad, wanted a new look for his door but wasn't trying to spend over $1,000 for one. Instead, he purchased a semi-transparent panel and trim pieces from The Home Depot to create the illusion of a window. Pure genius. If you have some experience with home improvement projects, this could be a fun one for you to do, too. All you'll need is a tinted panel or sheet, like this OPTIX acrylic sheet, and wood trim like this DecraMold unfinished panel moulding, both available at The Home Depot for around $44 and $8, respectively, at the time of this writing. You'll also need paint, preferably the color of the current door, and nails and screws to secure it. 

Once you have all of your materials, you can decide on the size and look of your faux window. Consider taking a look at several front door designs of your favorite HGTV stars for inspiration on window shapes and paneling styles. For example, you can cut and trim the panel to make a chic rectangular "window" with multiple panels, or a singular statement door-length piece. The Instagram user painted his window trim the color of the door, which created the look of a real installation. You can do the same as well as decorate your door with a charming wreath and other welcoming accessories to enhance your home's front porch.