Looking to open up space and make the most of your existing floorplan? Internal sliding doors and pocket doors are the perfect solution; adding a modern flair and optimum functionality to any property.

These ingenious alternatives to traditional hinged doors offer a plethora of benefits to create efficient (and stylish) spaces within your home. Explore the different options and discover the right design for your project.

What Is An Internal Sliding Door?

Sliding doors often conjure images of large glass panes that provide panoramic garden views. Or sleek closet doors that keep clutter out of sight. But did you know there’s more to this design?

Internal sliding doors, sometimes called barn doors, are a type of interior door that opens and closes by gliding horizontally along a track mounted on the wall. Ideal for creating open plan living areas that completely revitalise the way a space can be used.

Unlike traditional hinged doors that swing open on a hinge, sliding doors require no swing space, making them a perfect choice for tight spaces or areas where floor space is at a premium. This ultimately creates a more streamlined (and calmer feeling) environment.

What is a Pocket Door?

A pocket door is a type of sliding door that disappears into a cavity within the wall when opened. This design eliminates the need for a swinging door, which can take up valuable floor space.

Sliding pocket doors are commonly used in bathrooms, closets, laundry rooms, and other areas where space is limited. Are pocket doors a good idea? As with interior sliding doors, pocket door kits are an essential when it comes to achieving an uncluttered, minimalist look.

Take a deeper look at how to create a calm home with our actionable interior design tips. Plus, learn about how the house hushing trend could help you feel more relaxed at home.

Space Saving Superstars

Traditional hinged doors require a significant swing radius, often eating into valuable floor space. This becomes a major concern in compact apartments, hallways, or rooms with busy layouts.

Sliding doors eliminate this issue, gliding effortlessly along a track, reclaiming precious square footage. Pocket doors take it a step further, disappearing entirely into a cavity within the wall when open. This makes them ideal for smaller properties or apartments.

Flexibility for the Modern Home

Internal sliding doors offer more than just spatial efficiency.

They can be used to create a sense of openness in your home. Partitioning a large room into designated areas for work and relaxation becomes effortless.

Open the doors to create a bright and airy atmosphere, or close them for focused privacy. This flexibility is particularly valuable in open-plan living spaces, allowing you to adapt the layout to suit your needs.

Aesthetics with an Edge

Internal sliding doors and pocket doors boast a modern aesthetic that complements various design styles. They’re also great for drawing out character and introducing a sense of intrigue and personality. Think: ‘secret’ cinema rooms and libraries or ‘hidden’ ensuite bathrooms.

A sliding door system is easily customised too. Choose from frosted glass panels for diffused light and privacy, or opt for black Crittall style doors to create a statement piece with edge.

Pocket doors, when closed, create a seamless, uncluttered look, ideal for minimalist or contemporary spaces.

If you’re looking for utility room doors or walk in wardrobe doors, a pocket door system is best for simplistic impact.

Learn more about minimalist interior design and get ideas on how to decorate your utility room with our style guides.

Functionality In Focus

The benefits of internal sliding door systems extend beyond aesthetics and interior design trends. That’s because they help you make better use of your home too.

Sliding doors, with their smooth gliding action, are a breeze to operate, especially for children or those with mobility limitations. This is effective if you’re looking to achieve instant design impact without needing to compromise on the reality of everyday life.

Searching for home office doors? Pocket doors (when properly installed) offer excellent sound insulation, creating a more peaceful vibe within any home. Just what you need to boost productivity when studying or working from home.

Are Internal Sliding Doors A Good Idea?

When deciding if sliding doors or pocket doors are right for you, consider your space constraints and desired level of privacy. Sliding doors are ideal for creating flexible room dividers, while pocket doors excel in maximising space and achieving a minimalist look.

One of the main benefits of this type of door is the versatility of application. They can be used as room dividers, closet doors, bathroom doors, utility room doors or anywhere else a clean, crisp finish is required.

Overall, interior sliding doors are a sleek and stylish option, offering space-saving functionality, design flexibility, and a modern aesthetic.

Can a Pocket Door Be Installed in an Existing Wall?

Yes, you can install a pocket door in an existing wall, although you won’t be literally carving a pocket into the existing structure. There are two main methods to consider:

Create a new stud wall
This is the most common approach. You essentially build a new wall next to the existing one, with the pocket door frame incorporated into the cavity. This new wall will house the tracks and space for the door to slide into. Drywall is then added to the new wall to make it look seamless.

Use a pocket door system designed for existing walls
There are pre-made pocket door systems available that are designed to be installed against an existing wall. These systems are typically slimmer than a traditional stud wall, minimising the amount of space you lose in the room.

Pocket Door Installation: What to Consider

Wall type
Solid walls require more modification than stud walls, which can be partially disassembled to create space for the pocket.

Space requirements
Installing a pocket door will eat into some floor space, so make sure you have enough room for the new wall or chosen pocket door system.

Electrical wiring and plumbing
You’ll need to be mindful of any electrical wiring or plumbing that might be present in the wall before you start cutting.

If you’re not comfortable with DIY projects, it’s best to consult with a professional contractor to discuss the feasibility and installation process for your specific situation.

What Can I Use Instead Of A Sliding Door?

If you have the space, internal bifold doors are the most popular alternative to internal sliding door systems.

They feature large glass panels which help to boost natural light between rooms; providing you with all the wellness benefits associated with soaking up extra daylight and reducing those energy bills.

Interior bifold doors also open up the possibilities in terms of how you use your space; separating zones without interrupting the flow.

Browse our range of bifold doors and single bifold doors which offer a more slimline look in smaller spaces. Complement the look with exterior bifold doors for an alfresco experience.

Get Inspired To Buy Pocket Doors Online

Motivated to ditch traditional swing doors and embrace the world of internal sliding and pocket doors?

With their space-saving functionality, design versatility, and ease of use, sliding door systems are the perfect choice for creating a modern, efficient, and on-trend home.

Browse our selection of single pocket doors and double pocket doors to elevate your home interior. Order now for fast delivery and don’t forget to browse our collection of exterior sliding doors for a consistent finish throughout a property.