Finishing around an electrical panel in a basement

I am remodeling my laundry room and used 2x6 studs. The electrical panel is mounted to the cement wall and is only the thickness of a 2x4. I am beginning to drywall now and realized that it is going to be difficult to finish around the panel and keep access open to the top if I ever need to get to it.

I would like to make or buy a door to hide the panel but am not sure what is out on the market. Anyone have suggestions to finish off a recessed electrical panel? When I get home I will post some pictures to give a view of what I am looking at.

 

Most people use a cabinet type door and face frame to cover the panel which works well. You could also use a full sized door if you want more access. Access to panels is always a good thing.

Just make sure you have the proper clearances. (30" wide and 36" deep in front)

 

I've painted or stained lots of doors that concealed an elec panel. Anything from a cabinet grade door and frame to just a piece of plywood with hinges.

 

Assuming there is normal ceiling height your main concerns as mentioned are 36" in front and 30" side to side. As long as the panel door opens 90 degrees, from what I've read, that 30" can start on one side of it and finish 30" to the right or left; i.e. you do not need 15" centered on the panel.

I'm doing mine soon and the panel will be recessed. because my 2X4" wall will extend a bit in front of the panels so I intend on either a large picture on hinges or, more likely, a cabinet (maybe a picture isn't legal because it hides it) perhaps like a cabinet for a dart board.