Door hardware sets the tone for your entryway (this is not a place where you want to scrimp); here are our picks for both traditional and modern front doors.

All the options listed below are made from solid brass, unless otherwise noted, but you can often choose from multiple finishes. There is no single standard in terms of dimensions, so pay attention to the size, configuration, and door width requirements (if you are updating your entry set, here is some helpful advice).

N.B.: If you want to keep your current lock and just replace the exterior hardware, then look for "dummy exterior sets."

CLASSIC

Above: Crown City Hardware's Classic Square Bevel Entry Set is a reproduction of a ubiquitous entry set found on homes dating from 1900 to 1940. It is available in four finishes (shown in oil-rubbed bronze); $159.99. The accompanying Premium Grade Entry Mortise Lock is sold separately for $219.99.

Above: Also from Crown City Hardware, the Signature Series Small Bungalow Entry Set is a reproduction of a set from the early 20th century; it comes in four finishes (shown in oil-rubbed bronze); $349.99. The accompanying Premium Grade Entry Mortise Lock is sold separately for $219.99.

Above: The Grandeur Georgetown Entry Set, with plain round knobs, is available in five finishes including satin nickel (shown here); $170.90 to $207.90, depending on the finish, at the House of Antique Hardware.

Above: Baldwin's Georgetown Estate Single Cylinder Mortise Entry Set hearkens back to colonial times. It is available in 18 finishes, including satin nickel (shown here); $765 at Door Hardware Center.

Above: Baldwin's Detroit Entry Set is available in 18 finishes, including satin nickel (as shown); $765 at Door Hardware Center.

MODERN

Above: The Nanz No. 6716 Thumblatch has a Bauhaus-inspired handle and is designed to be used with a lever (like the the Nanz Door Lever 2096) on the interior. An appropriate entry lock is also required. Contact the company for pricing and ordering information.

Above: The Omnia D12368AC Double Cylinder Deadbolt Entry Set with Plates is available in five finishes, including polished chrome (shown here); $237.75 to $285, depending on the finish, at Handsets.

Above: Baldwin's Denver Entry Set is available in 18 finishes, including satin nickel (shown here); $765 at Door Hardware Center.

Above: Rocky Mountain Hardware's Round Metro Entry Set, in solid bronze, is available in a wide variety of finishes; $725 for the full set.

Above: The Manchester Entry Set is available in five finishes; $245 at Knobs, Etc.

Above: Architect Cary Bernstein is not a fan of escutcheon plates; in the contemporary residences she designs, she favors the FSB Morrison 1144 Lever Handle and Lock Set, by British designer Jasper Morrison. It is available in brass, aluminum or stainless steel; $615 for the full set. Visit FSB for a listing of local dealers.