The 5 ways of using sliding doors in modern homes

In modern house designs, sliding doors can add an array of benefits to the home. Not only do elements of functionality improve, but also aesthetics can be heightened, both internally and externally. 

Best of all, there are a variety of sliding doors that homeowners can choose from. This means that different types of sliding doors can be used in internal and external spaces to accentuate the space and improve flow. 

However, with so many different varieties of sliding doors, looking at professional or DIY installation can feel overwhelming. Rather than trying to implement all the trending designs into your home, opt for varieties that will complement the overall style of your home. 

1. Internal sliding barn doors

One modern and currently trendy option of sliding door is that of sliding barn doors. These statement pieces are typically crafted using a solid timber look complete with a matching or complementary tracking system. 

Whether your space is small or large, single and double sliding barn doors can be created in order to add drama to rooms within your home. Sliding along the wall when open, they make a great entrance to a dining room, living room and even theatre room. 

Depending on the overall style of the home, you can customise the hardware to create cohesion with the rest of the home. For example, in a Hamptons style home, sliding barn doors will often feature handles and tracking systems in a matte black colour. 

2. Sliding wardrobe doors

Sliding wardrobe doors are a great way to make seemingly rudimentary spaces in the home both functional and stylish. In a dual wardrobe, one section may be finished with a mirror while the other is painted in a colour that fits with the palette of the room. 

In a single wardrobe, you may choose to have a sliding mirror or just the colour. Sliding wardrobes complete with mirrors can make spaces feel larger. Additionally, for people who love tidy spaces, sliding wardrobe doors can help house and hide clothes and boxes.

3. Cavity sliding doors (internal pocket doors)

Cavity sliding doors, also known as internal pocket doors are great space savers within the home. Typically comprised of a single sliding panel that goes into a hollow cavity in the wall, consider internal pocket doors as invisible when open and privacy creators when closed. 

This is because, when opened, you can move freely throughout spaces in the home. On the other hand, when closed, this variety of sliding door can effectively separate spaces such as laundries, butler’s pantries and smaller bathrooms. Offering an element of privacy. 

4. Bring the outside in with sliding glass doors for your patio

External sliding doors add elements of functionality and also improved aesthetics. For example, picture a wall of glass that lets light in, provides great views and makes you feel at one with your environment. All while allowing you to easily transition from the indoors to the outdoors. 

Flooding spaces internally with natural light and offering a seamless way to entertain or enjoy outdoor living, external sliding doors are space enhancers. This is especially important when you consider the Australian lifestyle is centred around outdoor gatherings and barbecues. 

While external sliding doors make a valuable addition to both your home and lifestyle, there is one key factor to consider- insects. The Australian landscape is one of great beauty and the compromise is things like insects.

Rather than being afraid to open up your sliding glass doors because of a potential mosquito invasion, complete your installation with the addition of retractable fly screens. Rather than taking away from your view, these fly screens will help add to the functionality of sliding doors.

With the ability to be installed with a discrete cassette or track system, homeowners can have highly functional and aesthetically pleasing external sliding doors. Best of all, retractable fly screens won’t pose a trip hazard when carrying out a tray of drinks or the meat for the BBQ.

5. Stacker doors that slide

Another great variety of sliding doors is stacker doors that slide. Highly versatile, they can be used as wall-to-wall internal room dividers. Additionally, stacker doors that slide can provide great access to your outdoor living or dining areas. 

In regards to internal stacker doors, there is the ability to create distinctive zones within the home that offer privacy such as living and dining, game room and office. However, by simply sliding the stacker doors open, you can enjoy the feeling of open plan living. 

Made to measure, stacker doors can be customised in terms of materials, styles and finishes. This ensures that whether you are opting for internal or external stacker sliding doors, there is a sense of cohesion. 

With stacker doors, there is also the ability to fit external varieties with fly screens. This ensures that stacker doors that slide can be used to their full potential without the issue of insects coming into the home. 

Choosing the right sliding doors for your home