We live in a village worker’s cottage that dates from around 1900. It has been considerably extended and we would like to change the entrance door to one whose style is in keeping with the property. Where should we look?
ED, Farnham, Surrey.

A four-panel door or a planked door would be suitable. Advice from the Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings (SPAB), is to acknowledge the door as a modern addition, even to carving its date discreetly on the back; choose a style that refers to the vernacular traditions of the area in a simple, contemporary way; and have it made by a local joinery. SPAB can give you a list of conservation joiners. David Jeffery, a conservation joiner and SPAB committee member who works in your area, suggested an oak door in random-width planks, finished with beeswax and turpentine, as appropriate for your extended cottage. You can contact him on 01794 367422 or 07715 003105. Alternatively, try period joinery specialist Deacon & Sandys. A bespoke planked door in solid oak (pictured) costs around £1,550.

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