Sorry, but your bifold doors are dated and clunky! Interiors expert declares the staple of every middle-class kitchen officially over – and 7 timeless alternatives to replace them with
Not all design trends can weather the test of time – and the era of bifold doors has been declared officially over.
An interior designer has urged homeowners to replace this ‘dated’ and ‘clunky’ kitchen feature with a more modern style, adding that bifold doors ‘tend to overpromise’ and under-deliver.
Bifold doors feature several panels that fold up against each other, like an accordion, and have become a staple of middle-class homes.
Helping to save space and creating an indoor-outdoor feel, they became a must-have kitchen feature.
However, it’s now time to retire them, according to interiors expert Jordana Ashkenazi.
‘If there’s one feature I see again and again that instantly dates a kitchen, it’s bifold doors,’ she told The Daily Mail.
‘As an interior designer, I can almost pinpoint when a renovation was done the moment I spot them. They had a huge moment, but because they became such a default choice, they now feel very of their time rather than timeless.’
Her gripe is actually with the panelled design that was once hailed as a game-changer for smaller spaces.
Not all design trends can weather the test of time – and the era of bifold doors has been declared officially over
When open, the panels stack up and steal valuable wall space. When closed, all those frames break up the view and interrupt the light.
‘Over time, they can start to feel clunky and tired, which isn’t ideal in a space as central and expensive as a kitchen,’ Jordana explained.
This coupled with the high costs of maintaining bifold doors means there has never been a better time to consider future-proof alternatives that are also cheaper to install.
Slimline sliding doors
According to Jordana, large-format sliding doors with minimal framing are far more elegant and timeless.
‘They allow for bigger panes of glass, cleaner sightlines and better flow between inside and out, without the visual clutter that bifolds often create,’ she explained.
Crittall-style glazing…that goes beyond black
Minimalist Crittall-style doors and glazing are still incredibly popular, but the look has evolved.
While Critall-stule doors remain a popular alternative, Jordana suggested experimenting with varied layouts and patterns for a more refined look
But it’s no longer just about heavy black, steel frames, Jordana said.
‘We’re seeing beautiful bronzed, champagne, pewter and softer metal finishes, as well as varied layouts and patterns that feel warmer and more refined.
‘Arched Crittall-style glazing is also becoming increasingly popular and adds a lovely architectural softness to a kitchen space,’ she suggested.
Fixed glazing with a single statement door
Using fixed glass panels alongside one generous door feels calmer and more considered.
You still get the light and the view, but without compromising wall space or kitchen layout. ‘It’s a win-win,’ Jordana said.
Pocket doors with architectural detailing
Pocket doors are a brilliant alternative where space allows. They slide neatly into the wall, completely disappearing when open.
You could also give your kitchen a more modern upgrade by installing pocket doors that disappear into the walls completely
These can also be designed with Crittall-style glazing and even beautiful arched forms, depending on the pattern and layout you choose, ‘making them both practical and visually striking’.
Classic French doors, when done properly
Well-proportioned French doors with slim profiles and good glazing never really date, making them a safe bet if you’re looking to upgrade your kitchen.
They bring symmetry, softness and charm, and when detailed correctly, they feel elegant rather than fussy.
Pivot doors as a design statement
Pivot doors are a more architectural, high-end option. Because they rotate on a central axis rather than traditional hinges, they become a feature in their own right.
When paired with slim frames and large panes of glass, they feel luxurious without overpowering the kitchen.
Pivot doors,which rotate on a central axis rather than traditional hinges, become an interesting design feature in their own right
Floor-to-ceiling fixed glazing with a hidden sliding door
Finally, Jordana recommends full-height glazing – combined with a concealed sliding door – for a premium look that feels seamless and almost gallery-like.
‘The door disappears into the architecture when open, leaving clean lines and uninterrupted views.’
