Transforming a dowdy home from the '80s or '90s is a great project for a first-time renovator. Although these types of houses may be lacking in contemporary style, they're generally fine from a structural perspective. This makes renovating them more of an exercise in the improvement of aesthetics than a major and costly construction project.
There are many projects that can bring a dated home into the 21st century. One of these is creating a better flow between the interior and exterior living spaces of the home. This attribute is almost ubiquitous in modern home design but was an unfortunate oversight in previous decades. If this is something you'd like to incorporate into your renovation project, then here are two ways you can go about it.
1. Add French doors
French doors are not an inherently modern feature, but they have an enduring popularity that transcends fashions and trends. They feature two glazed door panels that swing open from a central point and are usually accompanied by fixed glazed panels on one or both sides. This allows an abundance of natural light into your home whether they're open or closed.
They're an excellent option for connecting your home's exterior to your outdoor living space if you'd like to create an elegant and classic look with your renovation. They work incredibly well when they're connected to a patio or courtyard area, conjuring images of cloistered gardens and rustic European style.
2. Add bifold doors
If you're looking for a sleek, contemporary and minimalist style, then bifold doors are an excellent option. This style of door is a common feature in modern home design because of the versatility and simplicity of form and function. They work wonderfully to connect open-plan living spaces with decks, patios or balconies.
Bifold doors are made up of a series of glazed, floor-to-ceiling frames that open and close along a sliding track. The separate panels are hinged, which gives them the folding quality that their name implies. The panels can be opened individually or tucked away altogether along the adjacent walls to completely open up your living space to the great outdoors.
Timber bifold doors have been the most commonly available option for many years, but aluminium frames are gaining in popularity. While timber is a naturally beautiful material that has high insulation value, aluminium bifold door frames require less maintenance and aren't as heavy as their timber counterparts.
