Italian roots, Greek symmetry, Roman style – the history of French doors
The wide and enduring appeal of French doors is easy to appreciate.
They have a timeless elegance. There is a certain romanticism in throwing open French doors onto a sunbathed terrace, or in people-watching through the windows of a Parisian café.
It’s easy to get carried away!
From a practical perspective, their classic, simple design suits a huge variety of properties. The fully-glazed nature of French doors allows light to flood in, and there is the versatility of having one or both doors open.
The origin of French doors
The history of French doors dates back to the 16th Century, starting with the Italian Wars that took place between 1494 and 1559. Italy was experiencing the Renaissance, with new innovation in painting and sculpture, literature and music, science and philosophy and, of course, architecture.
The French returned victorious, and with some new design inspiration.
Renaissance architecture
Renaissance architecture is very much inspired by the ancient Romans and Greeks, paying homage to geometry and symmetry.
Ratios of height and width were carefully proportioned, giving a sense of harmony. Design features such as columns, lintels are arches are synonymous with renaissance style.
Renaissance influence on window and door design
Tall, rectangular windows, often set within semi-circular arches or fanlights, are very much rooted in the Renaissance. They allowed light to flood into buildings.
Balconies were often part of the architectural design, so it’s possible to see how this style of window transitioned into doors.
After the French returned from the Italian Wars, they took inspiration from Renaissance architecture, with their distinctive features being used in buildings across the country. The French evolved the design to incorporate multiple panes of glass, separated by mullions (vertical and horizonal bars).
Throughout the Baroque period of the 17th and 18th centuries, French windows continued to grow in popularity. Windows developed into doors, used both externally and internally as a practical entrance, but importantly to let in plenty of natural light.
Contemporary French doors
Today French doors are as popular as ever. Their simple, elegant style is versatile enough to fit with homes of every era and style.
Traditionally they would have been made from wood or iron, today modern materials have evolved so that timber French doors, contemporary aluminium styles or those made of PVCu combine the benefits of light with insulation and energy efficiency.
If you would like to enjoy the timeless style and natural light of French doors in your home, our expert team are on hand to help you choose the perfect option.
To book a design consultation, please call us on 01444 45 71 45.