Baltimore architect Michael Medick, who is on the design board for the American Institute of Architects, said the garage can be tied in with the porch for a more seamless look. Putting columns or even plants on both sides of the garage door is another way to minimize the scale of the door. More builders are using shed doors instead of doors of the retractable metal variety, said Binkley of Bloodgood Sharp Buster s architectural studio in Orlando. Other trends include using barn doors or doors that reflect the Craftsman era. Also, more houses are being built with two separate doors - one for each car.
Several companies specialize in making garage doors for period architecture.
And Designer Doors Inc. of River Falls, Wis., builds vintage-style doors that swing, fold or slide open. Designing for curb appeal. And more buyers are opting to push back the garages on their new homes. Three factors have started forcing builders to recess garages, according to architects at Bloodgood Sharp Buster. Neighborhoods have put pressure on politicians and developers to lessen the impact of the garage.