Slim Sliding Doors in Weybridge

The architectural concept for Oatlands Close focused on improving the connection between the existing house and its long, angled rear garden. Rather than creating a conventional rear extension, SOUP Architects developed an asymmetrical composition that stretched across the width of the site, taking advantage of the plot's unusual geometry and directing views into previously underused parts of the landscape.  

The new extension houses an open-plan kitchen and dining area, while a separate garden studio creates an alternative destination within the landscape. Exposed brickwork, sedum roofs and a restrained material palette help tie the architecture to its surroundings, while large areas of glazing ensure that natural light and garden views remain central to the experience of the home. 

The extension required a substantial glazed opening that could maximise views of the garden while preserving the clean architectural lines of the building. The architects wanted the glazing to feel recessive, allowing the garden and carefully framed views to take precedence over the door system itself. 

The project also required a flush transition between the internal floor level and the external terrace, alongside hidden head and base details that would contribute to the minimalist aesthetic. Structurally, the location of the door opening required coordination with the building's steelwork, resulting in bespoke detailing to position the sliding doors exactly where the architects intended.  

The minimal windows® sliding door system was selected to provide the large, glazed opening required while maintaining exceptionally slim sightlines and minimal visual interruption. 

The installation comprises a three-track, three-panel sliding door measuring 5.9m wide and 2.7m high, with one fixed pane and two sliding panels. The 21mm vertical sightline and frameless head and base details allow the glazing to sit quietly within the architecture, directing attention towards the landscaped garden beyond.  

To maintain the flush threshold demanded by the design, the system was installed with a bespoke sub-frame drainage base. A decorative external pressing was also introduced to conceal the head detail where recessing into the building finishes was not possible. In addition, the head frame was strapped back to align with the structural steelwork while preserving the architect's preferred positioning of the glazing within the extension.  

The result is a highly refined sliding door installation that supports the overall architectural ambition of the project without drawing attention away from the surrounding landscape. 

The completed Oatlands Close project demonstrates how carefully integrated glazing can transform the relationship between a house and its garden. The use of slim sliding doors in Weybridge allows the extension to function as a natural continuation of the landscape, enhancing daylight, views and spatial openness throughout the home.  

Widely recognised for its architectural quality, the project received multiple industry awards and was longlisted for RIBA House of the Year. It remains an excellent example of how minimal windows® systems can support bold contemporary design while responding sensitively to site conditions, existing architecture and the needs of family living. 

For architects and homeowners exploring large sliding door installations within contemporary extensions, Oatlands Close provides a compelling reference for combining generous openings, precise detailing and a strong relationship with the landscape. 

• System: minimal windows® sliding door system 

• Configuration: Three-track, three-panel sliding door 

• Size: 5.9m wide x 2.7m high 

• Panel arrangement: One fixed pane and two sliding panels 

• Sightlines: 21mm vertical interlock 

• Threshold: Flush threshold with bespoke sub-frame drainage base 

• Head detail: Strapped-back head frame aligned with building steelwork 

• Finish: PPC RAL 7037 Matt ("Dusty Grey") 

• Locking: Type 2 thrust lever handle 

• Additional detailing: Decorative external pressing concealing head frame 

Project Partners 

• Architect: SOUP Architects 

• Structural Engineer: BTA Structural Design 

• Landscape Architect: Rosalind Millar Landscape Design 

• Contractor: Verve Concepts 

• Photographer: Andy Matthews 

Location 

• Oatlands Close 

• Weybridge, Surrey 

• Winner: RIBA South East Award 2018 

• Winner: RIBA South East Small Project Award 2018 

• Winner: British Homes Award 2018 

• Longlisted: RIBA House of the Year 2018 

• Featured By: Dezeen 

• Featured By: RIBA Awards Programme