As passionate crafters of custom front wood doors, we love the look of entrance doors that have stood the test of time.
Whilst golden limescale and impressive architecture of Oxford earned it the name of ‘City of Dreaming Spires’, our attention is grabbed by the impressive bespoke wooden front doors. We admire the skills, techniques and finishes which add character and integrity to the architectural design. There is no doubt in our minds that magnificent wood doors add the finishing touch to many historic buildings.
Carved Wooden Doors
The Bodleian Library is a great example. The vast collection of books held inside is protected by grand wood-panelled exterior doors. The main entrance is particularly notable, as it features the painted crest of all the Oxford colleges. That unique detailing clearly welcomes all students through the doors. Hinson Custom Made can offer you panelled options to add to the kerb appeal to your home.
Wooden Doors of Significance
The Sheldonian Theatre first opened in 1669. Since then, all Oxford University students pass through the doors on at least two occasions. The first is a tradition known as the Matriculation Ceremony, where new students officially join the university. The second is for their Graduation Ceremony.
Before the students can graduate, they need to pass though what we feel must be the most imposing set of arched wooden doors. On Oxford High Street sits the Examination Schools. The public cannot enter these external doors; you may be relieved, as they are where all official university exams are held.
Prison Doors
The Saxon Tower is Oxford’s oldest building, dating back to 1040. If you climb the tower for views over the city, you will pass cell doors from Bocardo Prison, a neighbouring building. When in situ, these solid wood doors held captive the Oxford Martyrs – protestant men who were trialled and burnt at the stake for heresy. Quality timber ensures that these wooden doors have stood the test of time.
Blue Coffee House Doors
The Grand Café in Oxford, stands on the site of England’s first coffee house. Head through the blue, glazed wooden doors and you can still enjoy a choice of coffees, yet, it is best known for its high tea. Hinson Custom Made offers glazed external wooden doors as an option. We comply with building regulations to promote energy efficiency, security and fire safety for glazed external and internal doors.
A Historic Wooden Door featuring Political Graffiti
The interior of Christ Church college features a wooden door with the words ‘no peel’ nailed into them. This historic message is believed to be the first example of graffiti. The wooden door was marked in protest to the re-election of Sir Robert Peel, Prime Minister from 1841- 1846. He was a famous graduate of the college, but there are no photos of him on the walls .
College named after Door Ironmongery
Another Oxford University institution, Brasenose College, was named after an unusual door knocker. Dating back to the 11th Century, this bronze, snout-shaped, door knocker was a door feature when the college opened in the 16th Century. During its long history, this item of ironmongery was stolen, recovered and is now on display in the college’s dining room. When we craft a hardwood door, you can choose from our wide range of ironmongery, or supply your own.
High Quality Wooden Doors
If you are looking for inspiration for bespoke front doors for your self-build, a walk around Oxford provides a wealth of examples of inspiring wooden doors. Homes, businesses, museum collections and universities are all protected by strong, durable entrances. Many date back hundreds of years, showing that investment in quality materials and craftsmanship can last a lifetime. We love the variety of shapes, styles, detailing and ironmongery, which give these bespoke doors their charm.
Where can I buy Bespoke Wooden Doors?
Hinson Custom Made apply both traditional joinery skills and modern tools to create bespoke front doors for homes and businesses. We also craft made-to-measure interior doors. If you are looking for anything other than a standard fitting, get in touch on 01908 516333. We are happy to arrange a site visit and/or prepare a quote.
With great attention to detail and an understanding of traditional techniques, we craft windows and doors for heritage and contemporary buildings in our Milton Keynes workshop. Rather than composite doors or solid wood, we usually work with the highest quality engineered wood, as this delivers stronger results than even the most impressive oak door.
All work is carried out to the highest standards and we ensure compliance with building regulations. Our installation team will ensure that your custom front wood doors are professionally hung.
We apply protective coatings to all wooden doors. Our range of external finishes include specialist timber stain, varnish or paint. Whether you like to retain the natural grain or want to match the exact shade of blue used on Oxford’s Grande Café doors, we offer the finish you desire.
