Saving Space with Sliding Doors: The Modern Solution for Compact Living
When it comes to interior design and architecture, optimizing space is often a top priority, particularly in smaller spaces or areas with unconventional layouts. One of the most effective ways to save space without sacrificing functionality or style is by installing sliding doors instead of traditional hinged doors. While a standard 900mm hinged door requires approximately 1270mm of clearance to open fully, a sliding door system eliminates this need, providing flexibility for furniture placement and allowing for a more open feel. Beyond their practicality, sliding doors also bring a sleek, modern look that enhances contemporary interiors.
Where to Use Sliding Doors
Sliding doors are incredibly versatile and can be adapted to various areas in both residential and commercial spaces. Here’s a look at some of the top sliding door applications:
1. Pocket Sliding Doors
Pocket doors are among the most popular sliding door systems. They operate by sliding into a compartment, or “pocket,” within the wall, making them practically invisible when open. Pocket door kits come as a comprehensive solution that includes all necessary components for installation, making the setup easier and helping reduce labor costs on site.
At SDS London, we offer several customizations for pocket doors, allowing you to tailor the system to your specific needs:
Soft Close Mechanism: Prevents slamming, offering a smooth and quiet closing motion.
Fire-Rated Options: Available for both single and double doors, providing added safety in residential or commercial settings.
Architrave-Free Systems: For a minimalist, flush look.
Oversized Door Support: Accommodates doors up to 2700mm in height.
Simultaneous and Automatic Systems: Ideal for larger installations or increased accessibility.
To explore the range of pocket door systems we offer, visit our pocket door kits page.
2. Wall-Mounted Sliding Doors
If you’re looking to replace an existing door without extensive renovations, wall-mounted sliding doors may be the perfect solution. Wall-mounted doors are especially beneficial in tight spaces where swinging doors would have limited clearance. Our Saheco range supports door weights from 50kg up to 140kg and includes a soft-close feature for a smooth and controlled closing action. With wall-mounted profiles, there’s no need for additional pelmets or covers, resulting in a clean and streamlined look.
For more details, check out our Saheco range.
3. Cabinet Pocket Doors
Pocket doors aren’t only for rooms—this concept can also be applied to cabinets and wardrobes. Cabinet pocket doors, or pivot sliding systems, open like traditional hinged doors but slide back into the cabinet itself. This innovative system is particularly popular in kitchens and wardrobes, as it removes the door projection from the room entirely, freeing up valuable floor space and creating a clutter-free, modern aesthetic.
Our Hawa Concepta Pivot Sliding System offers flexibility in sizes, accommodating single doors up to 900mm x 2850mm and double folding doors up to 700mm x 2600mm per door. For further details, take a look at our Hawa Concepta range.
Why Sliding Doors?
Sliding doors offer more than just space savings; they provide design versatility, ease of use, and a minimalist appeal. Whether you’re redesigning a home, outfitting a commercial space, or creating a functional yet stylish kitchen, sliding door systems adapt to your needs while enhancing your environment’s aesthetic.
For assistance with choosing and installing the right sliding door system for your space, reach out to the experts at SDS London. We’re here to help you make the most of your space with solutions that reflect modern design and smart functionality.