12 Door Design Ideas by Door Type - Marvin Windows

When possible, the height of door trim should match the height of the trim on nearby windows. Adding a transom window above a door can help line up the topside door trim with those windows that stretch up to the ceiling.

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Even when designing a small home, make sure at least one door is large enough to accommodate larger pieces of furniture like desks and couches.

Swinging doors are the meat and potatoes of any new build or remodel project. And when it comes to exterior swinging doors here are some basic questions you need to think about. First, should you choose a left or right swinging door?

You need to think about traffic patterns when deciding which way a door should swing. Take a patio door for example: Imagine walking from your deck or patio into your home. Think about the path that most people will be traveling, probably into the kitchen. You want the door to swing in the direction where you’ll be able to walk past the door panel without having to swing it all the way open.

Unlike an interior swinging door, you need to determine if you want your exterior door to swing to the inside or out. Traditionally, most exterior doors are designed to swing in because inswing doors can accommodate storm doors, and they’re easier to open after a heavy snowfall. Because inswing doors are more common, they tend to cost a little less. That said, some people prefer outswing doors because they don’t occupy any indoor space when opened, and they offer more protection against a forced entry and airborne debris that could be generated by severe storms.

Swinging doors are available in huge sizes and can be combined with transom windows and sidelites to create open, airy, light-filled rooms. Some swinging doors can be combined with additional operating panels. And some products like the Marvin Ultimate swinging door allow you to combine operating panels of different widths for a truly contemporary flavor. To maximize views and natural light, products like Marvin Modern doors are specifically engineered to be joined with Marvin Modern windows to create vast, full-wall window and door assemblies that essentially function as one energy-efficient unit.

French doors can be recognized by their two-panel configuration but also by their thicker top and bottom rails. Nothing says “classic” like a French door, but your home doesn’t need to be a grand French Chateau or a cozy French cottage in order to benefit from this historic door. A French door can be appropriate for any number of traditional designs from farmhouse to colonial.

Like any swinging door, you’ll need to decide whether your French door panels will swing in to the home or out. But unlike doors with a single door panel, you will also need to decide which panel swings and how. You can decide to have both panels operate, which gives you the ability to create a large opening for maximum traffic flow and plenty of fresh air. Or to conserve space and improve security, you can choose one panel to remain stationary. If you go this route, a Marvin French door gives you the option to have the hinges of the operating door located on either the jamb or attached to the non-operating door panel in the center.

Any French door is going to make a powerful visual statement on its own, but adding an arch top is an impactful way to ramp up the wow factor. And while divided lite options are available for most any glass door, choosing a traditional, or totally custom grille design can fine tune your French door, so it perfectly complements your unique design vision.

A sliding door can serve as a practical space-saving solution. Because sliders operate in plane with the wall, only the space in front of the operating panel needs to be kept clear of furniture. Whereas a swinging door requires space for the panel to rest when the door is fully open. Most sliding door panels consist of a large pane of glass surrounded by a frame. This makes them a great option if you want to get the most out of amazing views and fill rooms with natural light. And sliding doors are no longer confined to the public living areas of a home. More designers and homeowners are taking advantage of the benefits of sliding doors in other rooms in the house, such as bedrooms and home offices.

Wind can be an issue that not enough people think about when choosing a door. If your home is located near the ocean, in an expansive prairie, or in any region prone to high winds, an exterior swinging door, opened by an elderly person or small child, could catch the wind and potentially cause them to lose their balance and fall. This would not happen with a sliding door.

Sliding doors didn’t start to become popular until the s. Compared to swinging doors, that makes them a relative newcomer to the housing scene. Because of this, some people consider sliding doors more appropriate for modern or contemporary designs. But products like Marvin Sliding French doors allow you to take advantage of the practical functionality of a sliding door while also presenting a more time-honored appearance. If modern is your thing, then you can fully embrace it by choosing a sliding door like a Marvin Essential patio door, which boasts narrow stiles and rails and inconspicuous hardware, giving it a sleek, minimalist appearance.

The two basic types of scenic doors are bi-fold and multi-slide. Both doors can leverage stunning views and create enormous openings that can transform an indoor room into an outdoor oasis. Neither a bi-fold nor multi-slide is inherently better, but there are differences. For example, as a bi-fold door is pushed open, each door panel folds flat up against the next panel, and when fully opened they all stack up against the edge of the opening perpendicular to the wall. When a multi-slide door is opened, the panels stack up next to each other in line with the opening, so if there is no pocket to hide the multi-slide panels (more on this below), there will always be one full panel positioned in the opening. There will be multi-slide panels sitting on both sides of the opening if the door opens both ways. So, if your scenic door is going to be open more times than not, a bi-fold door might be the one for you.

Depending on the product you select, Bi-fold door panels can either stack up on the outside or inside of the home. The natural flow of traffic in those areas will dictate which side is best. Besides the obvious features like size, color, and materials, there are several other ways to customize your bi-fold door. First, you will need to pick a configuration, meaning how many door panels there will be and which way they will move. They could open up to the right side, the left side, or they can be split so some open left and others open right. Marvin Ultimate bi-fold doors provide up to 90 configurations to choose from and Elevate Bi-Fold doors offer up to 28 configurations.

You also have door sill options that range from flush, to low-profile, to higher but more energy efficient. And finally, you will need to decide where the “traffic” door will be located. Most high-quality bi-fold door manufacturers offer a traffic door, which can be used like a standard swinging door on those days when the weather isn’t nice enough to open all the panels or if you just need to let the dog out

Like bi-fold doors, scenic multi-slide doors are available in massive sizes and any number of configurations, but there are a couple features that distinguish multi-slide doors from bi-folds. The biggest difference of course, is the way they open—each door panel slides alongside the one next to it as they get pushed up to the edge of the opening. One of the main advantages of multi-slide doors is that when closed, each panel stile (the vertical part of the frame) is stacked in front or behind the stile of the door next to it instead of side-by-side as is the case with bi-fold doors. So, if you want to see as much of the outdoors as possible when the door is closed, then a multi-slide door might be the best choice for your home..

If your wall is long enough and you want the door panels to hide when they are open, you can have pockets built into the walls to conceal the panels, which gives the illusion that the door opening is a natural and permanent portal uniting indoor and outdoor spaces. Another benefit to multi-slides is that you can opt for an automatic open and closing system. Watching these larger-than-life panels slide along on their own accord is an impressive sight and a hard feature not to show off.

Maybe the most distinguished of all the scenic doors is the lift and slide, which operates similarly to a multi-slide. The primary difference is that, as the name implies, lift and slide door panels lift up off the sill before they are slid open or closed. This lifting action makes lift and slide doors easier to operate and more energy efficient and here’s why: On a standard multi-slide door, the panels need to be in contact with the sill at all times or wind and water would blow right underneath them. This contact creates just a bit of friction, which gives the panels some resistance when opening and closing them. When you want to open or close a lift and slide door, a lever lifts the door panels up off the sill so even the largest panels can be pushed open or closed with very little effort. And when the doors are closed and the lever is pulled to lower the door, the entire weight of the panels is resting on the sill, which creates a super-tight, weather-resistant seal. Because of the relative ease in which the Marvin Lift and Slide panels can be moved, they can be configured to fill colossal openings up to 12 feet tall and 56 feet wide.

Your front entry door is the one opening into your home where choosing a different color or material, distinct from the windows and other doors, is not only acceptable but often desirable. Your entry door is the perfect tool to boost your home’s curb appeal and presents an opportunity to flex your creative design muscles. If you add a transom or sidelites into the mix, there are literally thousands of decisions you can make, but it is wise to stay within your design lane. A large, all-glass door with all-glass transom and sidelites might be the perfect solution for a mid-century modern home but would likely look out of place on a traditional craftsman-style home.

Steel, fiberglass, and wood are the most common materials entry doors are made of. Metal is usually the least expensive of the three. Fiberglass is a stable and energy-efficient material, but many people prefer the unmistakable beauty of natural wood grains. If natural wood best meets your design parameters, consider a door with an engineered core and a natural wood veneer. Solid wood doors are beautiful but can be prone to warping and don’t offer the stability and efficiency that engineered products deliver. Regardless of what material you choose, it’s always a good idea to protect your entry door with a porch or overhang of some kind. In fact, your door warranty may depend on it.

In the realm of interior design, the choice between a “sliding door vs swing door” can significantly impact the functionality and aesthetics of a space. As we explore these two popular door styles, we ask an important question: how do sliding doors compare to swing doors? Which option is best for your space and lifestyle?

In this guide we provide the answers, clearing up every consideration you need to make and helping you decide the best fit.

What Are Sliding Doors?

Sliding doors glide horizontally along a track, either mounted to the wall or recessed into it. Some are even fitted with rails and rollers for better functioning. Since they don’t need room to swing open, they’re a favorite for tight spaces or sleek, modern interiors. 

You’ll spot them in bedrooms, closets, patios, and offices. Here are some popular types:

• Pocket Sliding Doors: Slide into a recess inside the wall; disappear completely when open.
• Bypass Sliding Doors: Feature two or more panels that slide past each other, commonly seen in closets.
• Barn Doors: Mounted on a track above the doorway, adding a rustic vibe.

Pros of Sliding Doors

1. Space-Savers: Ideal for areas where you need furniture placement near doors, hallways with no swing space, or, generally, places where maximizing floor space utilization is your top priority

2. Minimalist Aesthetic: Clean lines and an uncluttered appearance that will suit any contemporary interior, especially minimalist designs.

3. Indoor-Outdoor Flow: Glass sliding doors open up your home to patios or gardens, creating a bright, airy vibe that feels like there’s no barrier at all.

4. Versatile Designs: From frosted glass to mirrored panels and solid wood, there are endless styles and finishes to match your taste.

5. Smooth Operation: They’re easy to automate, and particularly helpful for individuals with mobility challenges or in homes with smart technology integrations for better convenience.

Contact us to discuss your requirements of hospital room door. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.

Cons of Sliding Doors

1. Maintenance Needs: Door tracks easily collect dirt, which results in squeaky noises or jamming if not cleaned regularly.

2. Energy Efficiency: They might not seal as tightly as swing doors, which can lead to drafts—though this can be fixed with proper weatherproofing.

3. Privacy Concerns: Glass sliding doors (even with frosted glass) might need additional curtains or blinds to maintain privacy.

What Are Swing Doors?

Swing doors (aka hinged or single-action doors) are the classic doors you see everywhere. Hinged on one side, they open inward, outward, or both ways if they’re double-action. Common types include:

• Single-Hinged Doors: The most familiar option, opening in one direction.
• Double-Hinged Doors: Swing both ways, often found in commercial spaces.
• French Doors: A timeless, elegant pair of outward-opening doors.

Pros of Swing Doors

1. Easy Maintenance: Since swing doors are most commonly available and have a fairly simple mechanism of operation, the components are less likely to fail, and you can easily find replacements.

2. Better Insulation: These doors usually form a tighter seal when closed, which helps with insulation and reduces noise transfer.

3. Higher Security: Several compatible locking mechanisms are available, which provide excellent security, making them most reliable for external entrances.

4. Affordable: Often more budget-friendly, both in terms of door kit material (available in a wide range) and installation cost. 

5. Versatile Styles: Whether you want a rustic wooden door or a sleek metal design, swing doors come in endless styles to match your aesthetic preferences.

Cons of Swing Doors

1. Space Requirements: They need clearance to open, which can limit furniture placement or block pathways in smaller rooms.

2. Maintenance: Hinges can loosen or squeak over time, especially in high-traffic areas. The door itself also gets damaged by swinging open or slamming it shut with force.

3. Aesthetic Fit: While swing doors can be styled to look modern, they’ll most likely lack the sleekness and innovation of sliding door designs, making them less suitable for minimalist or ultra-modern designs.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Between Sliding and Swing Doors

Deciding between sliding and swing doors isn’t just about looks—it’s about function and fit for your specific needs. Here’s what you should think about:

1. How You’ll Use the Door (Residential, Commercial, etc.)

Think about how the door will function in your space. Sliding doors are fantastic for creating an open, airy vibe—perfect for patios or shared spaces. But in high-traffic areas, they might not cut it since their panels don’t always open wide enough for quick, easy access. Automating them could make them more practical in these situations.

Swing doors, on the other hand, offer immediate, full-width openings, making them great for places where accessibility matters most. They’re a go-to for entryways, bedrooms, meeting rooms, or even server rooms in offices. And for busy spots like commercial kitchens, double-hinged swing doors that open both ways add extra convenience.

2. Space-Saving or Statement-Making?

If space is tight, sliding doors win hands down. They don’t need any clearance to open, so you can arrange furniture however you like without worrying about a swinging arc. Pocket sliding doors, which disappear into the wall, are a smart choice for narrow hallways or compact bathrooms.

Swing doors, however, shine in larger spaces or where a more traditional look is key. While they need room to open, their classic design often adds charm and warmth to a room.

3. Security and Privacy Features

Swing doors take the lead for security. With options like deadbolts, advanced smart locks, and sturdy materials, they’re tough to beat—especially for exterior doors where safety is a priority. They’re also great for privacy and sound insulation, making them ideal for bedrooms or offices.

Sliding doors can be secure too, but they might need upgrades like high-quality locks, tempered glass, or reinforced frames. Adding a security bar or extra features can help, but they’re less private especially glass versions. Installing curtains or blinds can address this, though it might increase costs.

4. Durability and Maintenance

Sliding doors require a bit more TLC. Tracks need regular cleaning to keep them running smoothly, and rollers or tracks might need replacing over time. The materials—whether aluminum, wood, or glass—also affect durability.

Swing doors are sturdier and easier to maintain. Hardwood or metal options are especially robust, and they don’t rely on tracks or rollers. Hinges might loosen or squeak with heavy use, but simple fixes like tightening or oiling them are usually all that’s needed.

5. Installation Costs and Time

Sliding doors can be trickier and pricier to install, especially if wall modifications or recessed tracks are involved. Retrofitting them into an existing space takes extra effort, which can add to the cost.

Swing doors are easier on your wallet and quicker to install. Standard sizes are widely available, and even custom designs aren’t too hard to manage. Most swing doors can be installed in just a few hours, which keeps labor costs reasonable.

Summary of Considerations: Sliding Door vs Swing Door

Conclusion: Making the Right Choice

Choosing between sliding and swing doors ultimately depends on your specific needs, preferences, and budget.

• If you’re working with limited space or want a modern, sleek design, sliding doors are a fantastic choice. They’re perfect for patios, closets, and contemporary interiors.
• If durability, privacy, and a classic look are more important, swing doors are a better fit. They’re versatile, easy to install, and often more secure.

Think about how you use your space daily and which features align with your lifestyle to make the best decision for a sliding door vs a swing door.

At Mannlee, we have a range of both sliding and swing doors available, manufactured masterfully to meet your needs. Get in touch today for a quote or personalized recommendations for your space!

FAQs

Which is Safer, a sliding door or a swing door?

Sliding doors are safer in tight spaces as there is little collision risk, while swing doors offer stronger locks for better security. However, modern sliding doors with tempered glass and advanced locks match or exceed swing doors’ safety. 

How many years does a sliding door last?

A tempered glass swing door can last up to 10 years, a solid wood swing door can last around 15 years, and a metal swing door can endure 30 years or more. However, regular maintenance, like lubricating hinges and repainting, and environmental factors such as sunlight, humidity, and temperature changes, significantly impact the door’s longevity.

Are swing doors cheaper than sliding doors?

Yes, swing doors are generally cheaper to install due to their simpler mechanisms and fewer material requirements. However, the overall cost depends on the materials and customization, if needed.