French doors with side screens

The Bean Project in York centred around enhancing natural light and improving connectivity between internal spaces while maintaining a strong architectural presence. The homeowners wanted a solution that felt open and elegant but still provided structure and definition within the layout.

To achieve this, we installed a set of aluminium French doors with fixed side screens, creating a balanced, full-width glazed feature that elevates the room both visually and practically.

Design intent and configuration

The inclusion of side screens allowed the overall opening to be widened without compromising the proportions of the doors themselves. Rather than oversizing the French doors, the fixed glazed panels either side maintain symmetry and ensure the installation feels intentional and refined.

This configuration creates a strong sense of openness while preserving clear visual boundaries between spaces, making it ideal for separating living areas without blocking light.

Aluminium frames and glazing

Slim aluminium profiles were chosen to maximise glass area and achieve a clean, steel-inspired aesthetic. Compared to traditional materials, aluminium allowed for more consistent sightlines across the doors and side screens, resulting in a cohesive, architectural finish.

Glazing bars were carefully aligned across all panels to ensure continuity, giving the installation a bespoke appearance rather than that of a standard off-the-shelf door set.

Practical benefits

From a usability perspective, the French doors provide a familiar, intuitive opening while the fixed side screens enhance daylight penetration throughout the space. This combination makes the room feel larger, brighter and more connected, without sacrificing separation when required.

The side screens also contribute to improved acoustic separation and structural stability, while retaining a light and elegant visual presence.

Finish and detailing

The frames were finished in a classic black tone, complementing the interior palette and reinforcing the steel-look style. High-quality hardware was selected to match the frames, offering a solid feel and smooth operation in everyday use.

Toughened safety glazing was specified throughout the installation, ensuring durability, safety and long-term performance.

The result

The completed installation delivers a striking yet understated feature that enhances both the look and function of the space. The French doors with side screens create a seamless transition between rooms while maintaining strong visual structure and symmetry.

The Bean Project is a great example of how thoughtful configuration and slim aluminium framing can transform an interior, providing light, balance and timeless design.