Here are two ElectraChime Metro doorbells. The top two photos show a Metro executed in rift cut white oak with Minwax Classic Gray Stain beneath three coats of satin urethane for a Philadelphia townhouse. The lower two photos show a Metro in natural walnut installed in a newly constructed home in Colorado Springs. The juxtaposition of the ultra modern Metro with the traditional Spanish arches and plaster is stunning, don't you think?
Jeff S. writes from Michigan:
The house was built in 1936 in Grosse Pointe, MI. I believe it originally had a buzzer that was located in the breakfast room/kitchen and was relocated during the kitchen remodel 30 years ago to a back hallway. The dogs have not caught on that the chime means someone is at the door….a lot less barking. I think the chimes add a classy sound and certainly look better than the old plastic chime box from the 80’s that was there.
This ElectraChime Coronet was ordered unfinished and painted to match the white trim of this entry in a Colorado Springs home. A wise choice against the intricate wallpaper. I like how the tubular bells shine.
There are no rules as to where to hang a longbell door chime, just a few best practices.
It's a good idea to mount a long bell doorbell where it will be heard in the rooms where you spend most of the hours when you might expect visitors. A location near your front door is desirable as this allows your callers to hear the door chime as they push the doorbell button. This provides feedback that you have indeed been summoned. Ideally, your chosen location treats your guests to the sight and sound of your still resonating long bell doorbell as they enter your home.
In general, a spot between 72 and 78 inches above the bottom of the finished floor to the top of the case is about right if your ceiling height is eight feet. You may choose to mount your chime at higher or lower to suit your taste.
If you are lucky enough to have a door chime niche, The location for your door chime was made for you by a thoughtful designer.
At left a vintage, never used, Kensington by Rittenhouse Long Bell door chime has a commanding presence in a Chicago area home. Meanwhile, an ElectraChime Empire tubular doorbell graces a niche in Minnesota.
Here is an ElectraChime Empire door chime keeping watch in a Mid-Century Pacific Northwest home. This million dollar view definitely warrants this stately doorbell.
This client chose a simple case and three nickel-plated brass bells. Look closely and you'll find the homeowner curled up with a good book.