An Architects Guide to Bifold Doors

When designing modern spaces, architects increasingly turn to aluminium bifold doors to create versatile, light-filled spaces. Whether you’re working on residential projects or commercial spaces, understanding the full potential of these innovative door systems can transform your designs.

Here’s everything architects need to know about incorporating bifold doors into their projects.

Why are Bifold Doors Popular?

Bifold doors have seen tremendous growth in the UK over the past decade. These versatile doors offer a perfect balance of functionality and aesthetics, creating seamless transitions between spaces. Their ability to maximise natural light and save space has made them a popular choice for both new builds and renovations.

Design Versatility in Modern Architecture

The versatility of bifold doors makes them an invaluable tool in modern architectural design. As an inherently strong material, aluminium allows larger glass panes and slimmer frames than traditional materials. This strength enables architects to expand their design possibilities for residential and commercial projects, creating impressive, large glass walls.

Internal bifold doors are increasingly specified for large homes and office spaces, offering flexible space division without compromising light or aesthetics. For commercial projects, these doors can create adaptable meeting spaces that can be quickly reconfigured as needed.

When it comes to external applications, bifold doors can be integrated seamlessly with curtain walling systems, creating stunning glass facades. Their opening ability makes them particularly valuable for projects requiring flexible transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces.

Applications Across Different Projects

The applications for bifold doors extend across various project types, each offering unique opportunities for innovative designs.

In residential architecture, they’re perfect for creating seamless transitions between living spaces and gardens. They are popular in open-plan designs where the boundary between indoor and outdoor living can be minimised. The large glass panes possible with aluminium can flood kitchens and extensions with natural light. Thermal break technology and high quality glazing ensure thermal efficiency, and the addition of integral blinds can give the homeowner more control over light and privacy.

Contemporary housing developments are seeing growing demand for bifold doors, but they are also used in renovation projects. These doors offer a way to modernise period properties, often replacing traditional French doors to dramatically increase natural light and functionality.

Commercial projects benefit from their space-saving design and professional appearance, while their configurations can be adapted to suit different width requirements and spatial needs. We’re seeing innovative applications in retail spaces where bifold doors can create flexible shopfronts. Restaurants and cafes particularly benefit from this flexibility, increasing their usable space during warmer months.

Modern office designs often incorporate internal bifold doors to create workspaces that can adapt to changing needs. The ability to fully open these doors creates expansive spaces that can then close to provide separate, private areas. This adaptability is valuable in offices and workplaces trying to maximise their available space. The sleek aluminium frames and increased light also add a modern aesthetic.

Customisation Options

At North East Bifolds, we offer extensive customisation options to help architects realise their client’s vision:

• Complete range of RAL colours and classic colour options, allowing a standard or unique appearance.
• Choice of handle finishes: black, brushed chrome, anthracite grey, and white
• Two threshold options: 50mm weathered for maximum weather protection or 15mm non-weathered for easier access
• Internal blinds available for privacy and light control
• Various panel configurations to suit different openings

Our colour options and attractive accessories make sure that every detail can be tailored to complement your architectural design.

Technical Specifications

Our aluminium doors offer exceptional thermal performance through quality double glazing and thermal breaks. This ensures they meet current building regulations while providing durability and functionality.

Key specifications include:

• Configurations from 2 to 7 panels, with widths ranging from 1400mm to 8400mm
• Maximum height of 3000mm
• High-performance double glazing as standard
• Thermally broken aluminium frames for improved thermal performance
• Watertight and weatherproof design
• Peace of mind with the EROS 3 Star Cylinder lock system

The durability of our bifold doors means they maintain their performance and appearance for years to come while requiring minimal maintenance.

Why Choose North East Bifolds?

As a family-run business with extensive experience in aluminium doors, we understand architects’ needs for quality and service. We work closely with installers and architects to ensure they have everything they need, from specification to installation.

Our technical team is always available to provide detailed specifications and advice to support your projects. We understand that each project is unique, and we’re here to help you achieve your design vision.

Partner With Us for Your Next Project

Aluminium bifold doors offer architects space-saving, natural light, contemporary aesthetics, great views, easy operation and more. Whether you’re working on residential or commercial projects, their combination of benefits makes them an excellent choice for their projects.

We manufacture our door systems from industry-leaders Schüco and Smart Systems. You can explore our whole range of aluminium doors and speak to our friendly team at our showroom. This is at – Ind Estate, North Crescent, Bifold House, Cold Hesledon, Seaham, SR7 8RD.

For support on your next project, you can:

• Call us on 0191 581 3987
• Email us at sales@northeastbifolds.co.uk
• Use our online contact form

We’re here to support your architectural vision with expert advice, technical specifications, and beautiful bifold doors.