We’ve constantly got our finger on the pulse of what homeowners want from their properties, and our latest research tells us that gardens and patios are still hugely aspirational features - 80 per cent of homeowners aspire to having a forever home surrounded by garden and 65 per cent would love their property to have a patio. As outdoor living becomes more and more desirable, it’s important to understand how to create a more seamless transition between the home and garden.
We know that more than half of the homeowners chose the room with the best view as their favourite in the house, so with this in mind, here are a few considerations for the best way to open up your house and maximise space.
Realise the Home’s Potential
Whether you have a converted barn or three storey town house, bi-folding and sliding doors will transform your property, allowing the simplest of transitions between the inside and out. Not only do they break down the visual barrier with the outside, but they allow you to unlock the full potential of your living area and create what is now commonly known as the ‘third space’ – fantastic for parties, summer BBQs or family gatherings.
The aluminium we use in Origin Aluminium Bi-fold Doors is extremely strong, yet weighs 67 per cent less than steel, which allows us to have very slim sightlines for a beautifully framed panoramic view. The doors don’t just offer a link to the garden, but also ticks all the building requirement boxes for energy efficiency, safety and security.
Image: Read the case study
Colourful Transition
Making sure you have your colour schemes on point will go a long way to linking the inside and outside spaces. Our powder coated aluminium allows you to choose completely bespoke doors and windows customised with any colour. The interior and exterior frames can be different colours; so, whilst the external frames can match the outdoor fixtures and fittings of the house, the interior can be a different colour to match the décor of your room.
We have hundreds of colours and special finishes available, ranging from bright primary shades to candy pastels and deeper earthy tones, so don’t be constrained by the traditional white, grey or black.
Fantastic Foliage
The idea of opening up the home is so that we can see more of the beautiful outdoors and make the most of our gardens. With the hit and miss British weather, the trend of bringing the outside in by incorporating plants inside the home, has generated a resurgence in house plants. Finding ones that can link and match with your outdoor theme will make the move between the inside and outside seem more natural, and allow the ‘third space’ to feel like part of both the house and garden.
Remember that some plants are more adapted to growing outside, but geraniums, rosemary, thyme, hibiscus and myrtle are just some of the names suitable for both indoor and outdoor environments. Some species of tree can happily thrive in pots and make a statement feature in any room.
Image: Read the case study
Perfect Patio
Creating an outdoor area that links the house to its surroundings is a great way of easing yourself and guests into the garden, and patios have enduring popularity thanks to their versatility. Create a unifying look by matching the style and tone of flooring both indoors and out.
Having this space will allow you to be outside, whilst still having the comforts of home nearby. It provides you with an entertaining area, and can be decorated in a style that suits both your interior décor and outdoor theme. To make it work in both sunshine and showers, don’t miss our 13 tips for beautiful patio coverings to learn more about protecting yourself from the elements when outside.
Stay Level
Ensure you have as small a step as possible from the inside to the outside, with a weathered threshold, so that when doors are open, the transition between the two areas is very smooth and feels like one space. Not only is it more pleasing to the eye, but it’s also practical and functional for children and disabled access.
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For more information on Origin's bespoke bi-folding doors see our service page.
