FRENCH DOORS: THE OOH LA LA OF OPENINGS
French doors: the ooh la la of openings
Luxury interior design often leans heavily on Gallic influences and one of the most popular trends from across the Channel are French doors. These are thought to have originated in France during the 16th and 17th centuries, when architects strived to achieve elegant proportions and maximum natural light.
In the UK, our love of French doors blossomed when the humble patio door fell out of fashion. To explain the difference, patio doors traditionally have a sliding mechanism, while French doors open outwards via a hinge system.
Of course, the bifold door is the opening de jour but if you’re aiming to achieve a high end interior design that’s underpinned by classic styling, French doors will lend authenticity and a sense of sophistication.
A set of French doors thrown open can frame a beautiful view in a way patio doors can’t, enticing people to make the transition from inside to out. They can also add a sense of drama and draw attention to attractive aspects. Here are four places where French doors would fit the interior design bill:
Orangeries
An orangery has long been a luxury design feature, originally added to a property at great expense to protect tender and exotic plants. Today, orangeries are an excellent way of adding another reception or dining room to a property. Orangeries are traditionally light-filled spaces, with a roof lantern, therefore French doors are the perfect partner.
Rear extensions
It’s natural to borrow a piece of the garden for a first-floor extension, so retaining access to the outside will become an integral part of the architectural design. If you have your heart set on an expanse of glass to the rear, you don’t have to forgo French doors. There are modern takes on the classic design – even if you’re following an Art Deco path. A set of black-framed, Crittall-style French doors can be seamlessly woven into your design.
Pantries & wine storage
French doors can be used inside instead of solid cupboard doors – perfect if the contents are too good to hide. Well organised pantries with exquisitely-labelled glass jars are in vogue and French doors will allow you to show off your organisational skills - especially if the shelves are lit with spot lighting. The same applies for wine storage, with racks of Chateau Lafite, Cabernet Sauvignon and Burgundy a real showpiece. Even a glimpse of glass-fronted wine fridges can make a bold design statement.
Internal partitions
Many interior design companies in London recognise that homeowners actually prefer to switch between open-plan living and separate rooms, and one way to achieve this is to specify internal partitions with openings. We would add the widest possible French doors between rooms so they can be opened to yield one fluid space, or shut to create more intimate, cosy rooms. Internal French doors can be solid for maximum privacy, or partially glazed to let natural light flow yet noise be contained.
The Rudolph Diesel Interiors team would be delighted to discuss how French doors could add a certain je ne sais quoi to your home. Please get in touch for design inspiration.