8 ways with sliding doors

Space is at a premium in many homes as property gets more expensive and we look for ways to kit out smaller bedrooms and living rooms. Sliding doors allow a room to appear more spacious as they won’t extend out when opened and are a sleek and modern update to any space.

For understated chic choose walnut or teak-effect sliding doors. Add a mirrored panel on one of the sliding wardrobe doors to reflect light around the room. Maximise space by positioning fitted sliding doors in the alcove space either side of the chimney breast.

Pale wood sliding doors can act as a simple division between rooms, such as a bedroom and en-suite bathroom. It creates an unfussy spa-like element, with a clear and chic division between spaces.

In a small boxy bedroom a mirrored wardrobe panel will double the size of the space. Add a freestanding wardrobe that has sliding doors so they won’t extend out into the bedroom when opened. Allow plenty of storage space with baskets and extra shelving for folded garments and footwear.

Make a statement in your bedroom by adding coloured glass or high-gloss sliding doors. If you are looking to maximise space in your bedroom then use the area behind the sliding wardrobe doors for more than just hanging clothes. Create divisions for shoes and accessories – add an internal light that reacts to the sliding doors opening.

Bring a teenage girl’s room to life with sliding doors decorated with wall stickers to reflect their favourite interest. Sliding doors are a great way to store teen clutter and hide unsightly bits and bobs.

Coloured glass sliding doors

Make a feature of your kitchen storage with a bespoke coloured-glass sliding divider. As well as defining storage and dining areas, the blue hue makes an uplifting addition in a contemporary neutral space.

For made-to-measure coloured glass doors, contact The Door Stop.

Jali wardrobe doors

If your preference is for ethnic design, Indian-style fretwork doors are a beautiful option for bedroom storage. This wardrobe is an authentic piece of furniture, but you can reproduce and update the look by creating your own built-in storage with ornate panels from Jali.

You may want to find a registered tradesman to help you with installation, though.

Japanese sliding doors

Taking inspiration from a different part of the world, these Japanese-style sliding doors have a smart, minimal feel. Here, specially constructed panels create privacy between bedroom and bathroom areas, but also difuse light helping to create a peaceful atmosphere.

Luxaflex manufactures Japanese sliding panels which can be used as room dividers. Check their website for your nearest stockist.

Bathroom sliding doors 

Smart blue doors add to, rather than detract from, this peaceful ice-white bedroom. Dividing off the en-suite bathroom, the sleek glossy finish references the water-based space beyond.

Try The Door Workshop for a range of coloured sliding doors.

Stencilled sliding wardrobe doors

Customise plain sliding wardrobe doors to suit the space they occupy. This teen girl's room benefits from a travel-inspired Parisian theme in striking pink and black.

Try recreating this with basic doors from B&Q and either stencilling or applying wall stickers for a unique fascia. The Stencil Library has all manner of designs, while Rockett St George offers  easy-to-apply decals.

Wallpapered sliding doors

Disguise your sliding doors by papering them with the same wallpaper used on the surrounding wall. The classic leafy design used in this spa-style bathroom really creates a sense of escaping to a secret retreat.

Before you start the job, though, ensure there's enough room in the wall recess to accommodate an extra layer of paper.

Palm Leaves wallpaper is a Cole & Son design.

Rustic folding doors

Nothing says country style quite like stripped wooden doors - and these folding doors are no exception. Acting as a neat little room divider in an open-plan living area, they are as pretty as they are practical.

Try Doors & More for internal folding and sliding doors in classic wood finishes.

Kate & Wills sliding wardrobe doors

Make a statement in your bedroom with coloured glass wardrobe doors. Or you could go a step further and prove you're a true Royalist with these special sliding doors featuring Kate & Wills.

Kate & William sliding wardrobe doors from Spaceslide.

Now that's dedication to the Royal cause!