Located in Edinburgh, this 19th century property has been extended to create a light filled contemporary living space with a direct connection to the patio and garden. The addition combines modern zinc, stone and glass with the traditional architecture of the existing house, creating a clear yet considered distinction between old and new.

Two minimal windows® sliding door systems were combined in a bi-parting open corner configuration, allowing the extension to open from two adjoining sides. The result is a strong example of open corner sliding doors in Edinburgh, using large glass panels, slim aluminium framing and flush threshold detailing to create a generous transition between the new living space and outside.

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Project Overview

The glazing strategy centres around two minimal windows® sliding door systems that meet to form a bi-parting open corner at the rear of the extension. This configuration provides wide views through two glazed elevations and allows the living space to open directly onto the patio and garden.

The largest sliding system measures approximately 4353mm wide by 3053mm high and comprises one fixed pane and one sliding pane. An adjoining system measures approximately 2015mm wide by 3053mm high, also comprising one fixed and one sliding pane. Together, the two systems create the open corner arrangement.

When the sliding panels are closed, the large expanses of glass maintain clear views towards the garden. When opened, the moving panels draw away from the corner to create a broad, uninterrupted connection between the interior and outside.

Design Intent

The extension was designed as a distinctly contemporary addition to the 19th century property. Its zinc roof, Witton Fell stone and large areas of glass create a considered contrast with the original architecture while retaining a balanced relationship between old and new.

The open corner configuration was selected to give the new living space a light and transparent character. By opening two adjoining sides of the extension, the sliding doors create flexible access to the patio and allow natural light and views to become central to the interior.

For architects, developers and private clients considering open corner sliding doors in Edinburgh, the project demonstrates how minimal windows® systems can support a contemporary extension while responding sensitively to the materials and proportions of a period home.

System Engineering

The extension was designed as a distinctly contemporary addition to the 19th century property. Its zinc roof, Witton Fell stone and large areas of glass create a considered contrast with the original architecture while retaining a balanced relationship between old and new.

The open corner configuration was selected to give the new living space a light and transparent character. By opening two adjoining sides of the extension, the sliding doors create flexible access to the patio and allow natural light and views to become central to the interior.

For architects, developers and private clients considering open corner sliding doors in Edinburgh, the project demonstrates how minimal windows® systems can support a contemporary extension while responding sensitively to the materials and proportions of a period home.

Performance

The sliding doors incorporate clear toughened double glazed safety glass with a Low-E coating. This specification supports thermal performance while maintaining natural light and clear views through the large glazed areas.

All frames are finished in RAL 7016 Anthracite Grey matt, complementing the zinc roof, stone facade and wider material palette of the extension. A marine grade finish was specified to provide additional durability within Edinburgh’s coastal environment.

Flush threshold detailing creates a level transition between the internal floor and patio, supporting comfortable everyday movement while maintaining the minimal appearance of the open corner. The doors are operated using discreet two point lever locking handles.

Outcome

Edinburgh City House demonstrates how open corner sliding doors in Edinburgh can transform an extension to a period property by creating a wider connection between the interior, patio and garden.

The bi-parting configuration allows two sides of the living space to open at the corner, reducing the physical separation between inside and outside. When the doors are closed, the large glass panels preserve natural light and garden views while the slim framing remains visually recessive.

For architects, developers and private clients planning a contemporary extension, the project provides a clear example of how minimal windows® sliding systems can combine large panel sizes, open corner functionality and coastal durability within a carefully resolved architectural design.

Technical Specification

  • System: minimal windows® sliding door systems
  • Configuration: Bi-parting open corner
  • Largest system: Approx. 4353mm wide x 3053mm high, 1 fixed pane and 1 sliding pane
  • Adjoining system: Approx. 2015mm wide x 3053mm high, 1 fixed pane and 1 sliding pane
  • Panel weight: Approx. 247kg per panel on the largest system
  • Glass: Clear toughened double glazed safety glass with low-emission coating
  • Frame finish: RAL 7016 Anthracite Grey matt with marine grade finish and flush threshold
  • Locking: Two point lever locking handles

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