Internal Pocket Door Systems

Find out more about Internal Pocket Door Systems

Internal pocket door systems are a clever way to save space and add a sleek, modern touch to any room. Unlike traditional hinged doors that swing open and take up valuable floor area, pocket doors slide horizontally into a cavity within the wall. This design is especially useful in smaller spaces like bathrooms, closets, or narrow hallways where every inch counts.

The system consists of a door, a track, rollers or glides, and a frame that fits inside the wall. When you open a pocket door, it disappears completely into the wall, creating a seamless look and freeing up the space that a swinging door would otherwise occupy. This can make a room feel larger and more open.

Pocket doors aren't just about saving space; they also offer a unique aesthetic. They can be made from a variety of materials, including wood, glass, and metal, and can be customised to match any decor. Whether you're renovating an existing home or building a new one, internal pocket door systems are a stylish and practical choice.

Internal Pocket Door Systems FAQs

What is an internal pocket door system?

An internal pocket door system is a type of door that, instead of swinging open on hinges, slides horizontally into a compartment or "pocket" within the wall. This design is a clever solution for maximising space, especially in areas where a traditional swinging door would be cumbersome or impractical. The system essentially comprises the door itself, a track along which the door slides, rollers or glides attached to the top edge of the door that fit into the track, and a supporting framework installed inside the wall to create the pocket.

When the door is fully open, it disappears entirely into the wall cavity, creating a seamless transition between rooms and freeing up valuable floor space. This can make a room feel more open and less cluttered. Pocket doors are particularly useful in tight spaces like bathrooms, closets, pantries, or narrow hallways where every inch counts. They're also a popular choice for modern homes seeking a minimalist aesthetic.

Beyond their space-saving benefits, pocket door systems can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to a home's design. They come in various materials, including wood, glass, and metal, and can be customised to match any decor style. Whether you're renovating an existing home or building a new one, an internal pocket door system is a practical and stylish alternative to traditional doors.

Where can pocket doors be used?

Pocket doors are incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of locations throughout a home or building, wherever space-saving and design aesthetics are a priority. One of the most common places to find pocket doors is in bathrooms. Bathrooms, especially smaller ones, often struggle with limited space, and a swinging door can take up valuable room. A pocket door slides neatly into the wall, freeing up space for fixtures and movement.

Closets are another ideal location for pocket doors. Whether it's a bedroom closet, a linen closet, or a pantry, pocket doors allow for easy access without the obstruction of a swinging door. This is particularly useful in narrow hallways where a traditional door could block the passageway. In open-concept living spaces, pocket doors can be used to create flexible room divisions. They can be installed between a kitchen and dining area, or between a living room and home office, allowing you to close off the space for privacy or open it up for a more expansive feel.

Beyond these common applications, pocket doors can also be used in more unconventional ways. They can be incorporated into custom furniture designs, such as entertainment centres or built-in shelving units, to conceal storage areas or media equipment. They can also be used as entry doors to small rooms like powder rooms or laundry rooms, where a standard door would feel cramped. Ultimately, the possibilities are endless, and pocket doors can be adapted to suit a wide range of architectural styles and design preferences.

What are the benefits of using pocket doors?

Pocket doors offer a range of benefits that make them a popular choice for homeowners and designers alike. One of the most significant advantages is their space-saving design. Unlike traditional swinging doors that require clearance to open and close, pocket doors slide neatly into the wall cavity, freeing up valuable floor space. This can make a room feel larger and more open, which is especially beneficial in smaller homes or apartments where every square foot counts.

Beyond space-saving, pocket doors offer enhanced accessibility. They eliminate the need to navigate around an open door, making it easier for people with mobility issues to move freely between rooms. This can be particularly helpful for wheelchair users or those who use walkers or canes. From an aesthetic perspective, pocket doors can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to a home's design. They create a clean, minimalist look by disappearing into the wall when open, providing a seamless transition between spaces.

Pocket doors also offer flexibility in room design. They can be used to create adaptable living spaces that can be easily reconfigured to suit different needs. For example, a pocket door between a living room and home office can be closed for privacy during work hours and opened for a more expansive entertaining space. Furthermore, pocket doors can contribute to noise reduction. When closed, they can help to dampen sound transmission between rooms, providing a greater sense of privacy and quiet. Whether you're looking to maximise space, improve accessibility, enhance aesthetics, or create flexible living spaces, pocket doors offer a versatile and practical solution.

What materials are pocket doors made of?

Pocket doors can be crafted from a variety of materials, each offering its own unique aesthetic and functional characteristics. Wood is a popular choice, prized for its natural beauty, warmth, and versatility. Solid wood doors offer a substantial feel and excellent sound insulation, while hollow-core wood doors are lighter and more budget-friendly. Wood can be stained or painted to match any decor.

Glass is another common material for pocket doors, offering a sleek, modern look and allowing natural light to flow between rooms. Glass doors can be clear, frosted, or textured to provide varying levels of privacy. Metal, such as aluminium or steel, is often used for the frame and hardware of pocket doors, providing strength and durability. Metal frames can also be paired with wood or glass panels to create a contemporary aesthetic.

Composite materials, such as medium-density fibreboard (MDF) or particleboard, are also used in the construction of pocket doors. These materials are engineered to be stable and resistant to warping, making them a practical choice for high-humidity environments. Composite doors can be painted or veneered to mimic the look of wood. Ultimately, the choice of material for a pocket door depends on factors such as budget, style preferences, and functional requirements. Whether you prefer the classic warmth of wood, the sleekness of glass, or the durability of metal, there's a pocket door material to suit your needs.

Are pocket doors difficult to install?

The difficulty of installing pocket doors can vary depending on several factors, including your DIY experience, the complexity of the project, and the type of wall you're working with. Generally, installing pocket doors is more involved than hanging a traditional hinged door. This is because it requires opening up the wall, framing the pocket, and ensuring the track and hardware are properly aligned.

For experienced DIYers with carpentry skills, installing a pocket door might be a manageable project. However, it's essential to have a solid understanding of framing, drywall, and hardware installation. If you're not comfortable with these tasks, it's best to hire a professional carpenter or contractor. One of the main challenges of pocket door installation is ensuring the pocket frame is perfectly square and plumb. Any misalignment can cause the door to bind or stick. Additionally, working with existing walls can present unforeseen challenges, such as hidden wiring or plumbing that needs to be rerouted.

In new construction, installing pocket doors is typically easier because the wall can be framed specifically for the door. However, in existing homes, it may be necessary to remove drywall, relocate studs, and potentially modify electrical or plumbing systems. While pocket door installation can be a rewarding project, it's important to assess your skills and the complexity of the job before diving in. If you're unsure, consulting with a professional can save you time, money, and frustration in the long run.