Count Us In: 9 of the Best Door Numbers

When it comes to decorating, it’s all in the details, as the old saying goes. And this is true of the exterior of your home as well as the interior.

The best door number signs can give any front door a lift, making the perfect finishing touch, just as an exquisite piece of jewellery can make an outfit.

House numbering dates back to mid-18th century Europe, when it took off in Madrid, London, Paris and Vienna, among others. Then, in March 1768, King Louis XV of France stated that all French houses outside of Paris hang door numbers, primarily to track troops living in civilian homes.

Discover the best outdoor tiles to make your patio or porch truly pop

And, over time, the ultra-charming traditional blue and white French door plaques became a recognisable cultural symbol, spotted on so many rues all over the country.

The French door plaques are so popular, in fact, that artisanal company Franco-file has been creating the enamel numbers for us Brits since 1995, so you can get your own slice of French style.

Keeping along the classic lines, John Lewis has a lovely ceramic oval plate door sign that's pretty without being twee, while Samuel Heath offers contemporary polished chrome door numbers that are modern yet still timeless.

See the best outdoor sofas for stylish lounging here

If your door number style is more of-the-now, there's an array of chic options to choose from. Etsy is always a lovely source of handmade inspiration, and the copper Art Deco-inspired offerings from Refined Inspirations are trend-led yet timeless.

Another beautiful Art Deco option comes from Pushka Home. Its slender, brass door numbers are edgy but elegant and work beautifully set against painted doors.

Whatever your style, ditch the dull digits and keep reading for our roundup of the best door numbers, because bad numbers should never happen to good doors…

A white ceramic door sign is traditional yet clean, and would suit any style of home. This little beauty is handpainted by artisans in Wales. Size: 16.5cm x 12.5cm

Add some cool, contemporary chic to your door with this steel house number plate. Available in 12 colours, you can opt for everything from a classic stylish black to 'Funky Orange' and 'Hacienda Yellow'. Size: 20cm x 20cm

Bringing the original vintage typography by celebrated Danish designer Arne Jacobson to life, this bold, Bauhaus-inspired laser-cut aluminium number will make any front door cool. Size: 10cm high for a large number

Inspired by a font similar to that used by the Scottish artist Charles Rennie Mackintosh, these modern house number plates are truly design-led. We love how they boast a secret fixing system so you can't see any screws on the front. Size: 150mm x 150mm for a two-digit number

Timeless, elegant and luxurious, antiqued brass numbers are perfect for adding style to contemporary and period properties alike. Size: 6.8cm high

Like the perfect gin and tonic, these stunning Art Deco door numbers are slimline and refreshing. The beautiful brass pops on any colour or wooden door. Size: 15cm x 5cm x 0.6cm

Like the perfect gin and tonic, these stunning Art Deco door numbers are slimline and refreshing. The beautiful brass pops on any colour or wooden door. Size: 15cm x 5cm x 0.6cm

This artisan door number is hand polished to achieve a beautiful lustrous gleam. Choose from nine different finishes, from satin chrome to antique brass. Size: 84mm x 53mm x 5mm

Funky and fun, these door numbers give a modern twist to Art Deco style. Available in a copper, silver or matte black finish. We'll take one of each. Size: 8in x 6in for two digits