By Karen Kirk

May 2024

EXPAND YOUR KITCHEN & IMPROVE YOUR WELL-BEING WITH BEAUTIFUL GARDEN DOORS

The sun is shining brightly, and you can’t wait to get outside. As we all know, exposure to nature is linked to many physical and mental health benefits that contribute to our overall well-being.

With this in mind, if you’re thinking about a kitchen remodel this spring, think about your well-being and how you can create the illusion of space in your kitchen with patio doors. Not only do they let in more natural light and summer breezes, but they add architectural detail and provide easy access to and from the kitchen when dining and entertaining al fresco in the garden.

Depending on your space and where you live, there is a wide range of styles available to choose from including hinged French doors, sliding, and stacking glass patio doors that are offered in wood, fiberglass, or vinyl. Easily customized, there’s something for everyone. If you’re ready to expand your horizons why not open up your kitchen and make the most of great outdoors this season.

Check out how these patio door examples have transformed both small and large kitchen spaces into bright expanded living spaces to be enjoyed by family, pets, and friends all summer long.

orange stools in a kitchen with blk framed sliding patio doors

1.

Black framed windows are very popular right now. These black sliding doors are custom-sized to create a large open access to the garden. Large mullions on the glass don’t obstruct the view and lend a modern look that mimics the kitchen windows above the sink.

Shown: Themador 48-inch range

Via @decorpad

white hinged garden French doors

2.

It’s a classic! The romantic appeal of a French garden door is hard to resist. It’s a lovely option for kitchens with limited space. Today’s exterior French doors often arrive prehung in a wood frame, complete with sill and weatherstripping. This simplifies installation. Optional grilles and hardware can be added to round out your door style. pairs of the multipaned doors could be flung open to catch a breeze in summer while inviting in the sun year-round.

Via @thisoldhouse

white kitchen with Thermador appliances and 2 dogs by door

3.

It’s easy to see the benefits of a large sliding glass door in this fresh white kitchen featuring a full suite of Thermador appliances. The large glass sliding door offers great views to keep an eye on the kids and pets, plenty of natural light and easy access for pets and people to enjoy the garden patio.

Design: O’Hara Interiors

Photo: Spacecrafting Photography

wood bifold patio doors

4.

Bring the outdoors in with custom bifold patio doors. They stack back onto themselves out of the way leaving unobstructed access to the outdoors.

Courtesy: Pella Windows and Doors

open concept kitchen/living room with blue cabinets

5.

If you have an exceptionally scenic view like this stunning open kitchen/dining space, swinging (hinged), stacking or bifold patio doors are the best options to maximize the views and natural light. Be sure to discuss the best options for your space with your designer or supplier to be sure the style you choose suits your lifestyle. Don’t forget to ask about security and energy efficiency features offered for your patio doors.

Design: Carolyn Leona

Photo: Dustin Peck Photography

Tip: ENERGY STAR® - qualified windows reduce overall annual energy costs compared to standard products. Although windows and doors don’t directly consume energy like an appliance does, they can be a significant source of heat loss in your home.