The Old 38 Inch Baby Gate is Now a Dinosaur
We have all tossed around the phrase “size matters”. We see it used in TV ads, in news papers, and most often as a joke amongst friends.
When it comes to baby gates and pet gates today, it seems that size truly does matter.
The old standard gate which is still in use today would expand to a width of 38 inches. These gates were set up most often in a doorway.
The old 38 inch standard baby gate still applies, as the average doorway today is still about 34 inches … doesn’t it?
We are now seeing a very different demand in the gate marketplace today. The average gate that is purchased today, extends from 38 to 50 inches.
We know that doorway sizes have not been changing, so what is causing this change in the standard? I believe that it is mostly a phenomenon of the movement toward open concept homes.
Although there are still doorways througout the house, we usually only find actual doors for bedrooms, bathrooms and perhaps a stairway door.
Newly constructed homes or older homes that are remodelled find new ways of creating separation from one room to another, without detracting from the open concept of the home.
These could be archways or half walls where the opening between rooms is much wider than the old standard door frames.
This change in home design also creates a very different approach to home decor. Adjoining rooms need to have a flow to them and yet provide distinct design features.
The opening between these adjoining rooms needs to enable the decor flow from one design to the other.
The new standard in baby gates and pet gates is not only a new width requirement, it must also enable this design flow between adjoining rooms.
The requirement for gates that are architecturally more pleasing to the eye, is being addressed by many gate manufacturers.
When considering a baby gate or pet gate purchase, it is important not to focus only on the functionality of the gate.
Yes, this is still critically important and must be part of the formula for gate selection, however you also need to consider that your gate will likely be a fixture in your home for several years.
Start by identifying your dimension requirement, and how you want the gate to operate.
Next choose the color that would best enable the design flow between your adjoining rooms. Then think about whether an enhanced gate design would add to or detract from your your decor.
Thinking through all of these considerations will result in a much simpler buying experience, and a better chance that you will be pleased with your gate once you have installed it.
Gate manufacturers are doing a good job of trying to address these needs, but I think they could even go one step further with a broader selection of color options or wood stain options.
It would be great if a manufacturer was to step forward and offer a design-a-gate service. How about if a gate manufacturer allowed you to create your own unique gate that matched your width, height, color and design requirements.
The designer gate may be many years away, but it doesn’t hurt to dream a little.
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