Gates can be functional and still make a bold artistic statement. Painting an old gate can give it a fresh look.

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By Maureen Gilmer

Highbrow designers call them portals. You also might hear them referred to as transitional spaces. In the language of the ordinary homeowner, they are, quite simply, gates.

Yet too often the gate is the last thing you consider when adding a fence to your home site. It should be among the first.

A gate is a functional outdoor doorway, but it also can be a bold artistic statement. The size, shape and material you choose for the gate can literally make or break the fence you have in mind.

If it's in a side yard that's visible from the street or front garden, then a creative gate becomes an important part of the house's facade. As such, its design should more reflect the architectural style of the building than match the fence boards. Or if the gate is a work of art, it can become a valuable accent to upgrade the overall landscape aesthetic.

Not all fences are the 6-foot-barrier type. Shorter fences, usually pickets or wrought iron, are fully visible when they enclose front yards. The little gates that open onto the entry walk to the front porch are a focal point themselves and worthy of special consideration. They must match the fencing material perfectly and should be a bit more decorative because of the high-profile location. Their role is to call attention to this point of entry.

Don't underestimate the importance of painted gates. You can upgrade an old, run-down gate or make over a raw-looking new one with color that will change its appearance completely. A bold effect is created when you paint with cobalt blue or crimson.

Or you can try faux painting techniques to give a wooden gate a mossy or rustic woodland patina. Use creative hardware to dress up an existing gate. Rather than standard galvanized hinges and latches, spend time hunting for more decorative options. The rustic appeal of hand-hammered iron hinges from a blacksmith is a timeless look. You'll find a wide choice of strap hinges and other accent hardware online at Wild West Hardware, www.wildwesthardware.com.

Rustic Gardens offers a surprisingly affordable selection of antique and reproduction iron gates online at arusticgarden.com.