Opened or closed, a gate always says welcome. Its mere
presence offers an irresistible invitation to discover what lies beyond.
When it's well designed, like these are, a gate reflects the home's
architecture and withstands the test of time. Check out these
distinctive styles to glean some ideas for your own garden.
Change for the Better
David Ringelstein wasn't thrilled
with his existing fence and gate, so he turned to Jeremy Corkern of
Thomas Paul Bates Architecture in Birmingham. "Replacing the delicate
white picket with a more masculine cattle-rail style was smart," says
Jeremy. Along with a new fence, David gained three handsome new gates.
1. Greet Friends
A Williamsburg-inspired gate was chosen
for the main entry. The chamfered, or beveled, finials "are a great
place for the eye to land as guests head up the bluestone walk," says
Jeremy. Pickets within the gate, set at 45-degree angles, add another
decorative and historical touch.
2. Made for Me
Continuing the lines of the cattle-rail
fence, the second gate, located near the drive, is designed to be less
obvious to visitors so they head toward the main front walk instead.
This is the gate David uses each day going to his car. "Like the others,
it was built to withstand years of use," says Jeremy.
3. Courtly Courtyard
A new take on the Chippendale style,
the lattice on this gate is airy yet substantial. "David's neighbors had
built a brick wall along the property line, so we used it to create a
Charleston-style garden," says landscape designer Randy McDaniel. The
gate stops the eye at the end of the driveway and is as special as the
space beyond.
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Set for Life
Here are Jeremy's keys to building and
hanging a gate that won't sag. • Once you have your design, hire the best carpenter you can
find. If possible, visit other job sites to check quality.
• Posts should always be solid and made of the best wood your
budget can afford.
• Never hang a gate from a "wrapped"
post (one faced with boards), or sagging will occur. • Don't
skimp on hardware. For sources visit www.williamsburgblacksmiths.com, www.rockymountainhardware.com, and www.baldwinhardware.com.
• Save up,
and do it right the first time. If not, chances are, you'll have to redo
the project later.
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"Three Great Gates" is from the February 2008 issue of Southern Living.
