The cosmopolitan city of Leeds provided the backdrop for our advert, where we selected two homes; one modern; one traditional, to have brand new Solidor doors fitted ahead of filming. This allowed us to capture the stories of two very different characters arriving home to their personal sanctuaries.

The IRL homeowners designed their dream doors online from our wide selection, and as replacements for their current low-quality ‘composite’ door (modern), and original, wooden door – with a major draft issue! (traditional). Shop the doors they chose here which were expertly fitted by local firm Alexander Windows.

To create the ideal atmosphere for the ‘I’m home’ moments, we needed to replicate the characters’ transition from their hectic days to the comfort of home. And this meant an early start for everyone so we could begin filming at dawn to capture ‘dusk’ for the final edit! Mother Nature delivered our rather pessimistic weather requirement of ‘cloudy & overcast’ and gave the wind-machine a helping hand, adding a few gusts right on cue.

For the outside shots it was relatively easy, the weather delivered; both homes were real; as were the freshly fitted doors, so the next challenge was the inside shots. Real families live in both houses, with real-life renovations happening; this meant the bathroom scene had to be filmed in the kitchen! But the talented stylist worked their magic to create the cosy, intimate corner perfect for a soak – with the help of cushions, foam board and bubble wrap, then all topped off with some real bubbles! Who knew?

Wondering what all the cameras were for, and then determined to get in shot, a bunch of inquisitive school children were hanging around the set on their way home from school. As a distraction, group marketing director, Jon let slip that it was Taylor Swift on set, which sent ripples of excitement through the huddles, all of them trying to catch a glimpse! I’m sure they were even more impressed to hear it was a door advert…

Our TV ad airs on Channel 4 (and all associated channels) from 26 December to 2 January, so keep a look out! And if you’ve been inspired to replace your front door with a Solidor door, then head to our online door designer to create your ‘I’m home’ feeling.