Sliding French doors with side screens
The Raferty Project in York focused on opening up a key living space while maintaining strong architectural definition. The brief was to introduce larger glazed openings to maximise natural light and improve flow, without losing the clean lines and structured feel of the interior.
To achieve this, we installed a set of sliding French doors with fixed side screens, creating a wide, balanced glazing arrangement that feels both refined and practical.
Design intent and layout
The chosen configuration combines the visual symmetry of traditional French doors with the practicality of a sliding system. By allowing the central door panels to slide smoothly behind the fixed side screens, the design delivers generous clear openings while retaining full-height glazing across the width of the wall.
The addition of side screens was key to the overall composition. Rather than reducing glass area to accommodate door movement, the side screens maintain uninterrupted sightlines and ensure the installation feels proportionate within the larger opening.
Aluminium frames and glazing
Slim aluminium profiles were specified throughout, providing a crisp, steel-inspired aesthetic while keeping frame widths to a minimum. This allowed the glazing to take centre stage, flooding the room with daylight and creating strong visual connections to the adjoining space.
Glazing bars were carefully aligned across the sliding doors and side screens, ensuring consistency and symmetry across the entire installation. This attention to detail gives the system a bespoke, architectural feel rather than that of a standard sliding door.
Functionality and everyday use
From a practical perspective, the sliding French door system offers smooth, effortless operation and is ideal for areas where space efficiency is important. The doors glide neatly across the fixed side screens, removing the need for swing clearance and allowing furniture layouts to remain flexible.
The side screens also improve acoustic separation and thermal performance while preserving the open, light-filled character of the space.
Finish and detailing
The frames were finished in a deep, understated tone that complements the surrounding interior finishes and enhances the steel-look aesthetic. High-quality hardware was selected to match the frames, providing a solid, premium feel in daily use.
As with all Alu Elite installations, toughened safety glazing was used throughout, delivering durability, safety, and long-term performance.
The result
The Raferty Project delivers a refined balance between openness and structure. The sliding French doors with side screens create a strong architectural feature that elevates the room, improves natural light, and enhances flow without compromising on practicality.
The finished installation is both elegant and functional, perfectly suited to modern living while remaining sympathetic to the character of the York property.