How to Choose Bifold Layouts That Work Every Day

A 4-1-3 gives you the best of both worlds. Most days you’ll use the end sections as French doors for quick in-and-out access.

Designing with bifolds isn’t only about span and sightlines. The panel layout determines how the space works from breakfast through to late-night lock-up. Our Lawford project, Split Opinion, shows why the right configuration matters: a 4-1-3 Smarts aluminium bifold in the kitchen-diner and a 3-panel set in the living room.

Pick a layout for daily life, not just open-day photos

A 4-1-3 gives you the best of both worlds. Most days you’ll use the end sections as French doors for quick in-and-out access. When the weather plays ball, fold everything back for a wide, uninterrupted opening. If the room needs a single everyday door, plan it into the stack that’s most convenient from your circulation route.

  • Decide which side the traffic door should live on before you place furniture
  • Check stack direction so folded leaves don’t clash with lights, sockets or blinds

Coordinate finishes inside and out

This home uses Agate Grey externally with white internals, keeping the exterior calm and the interiors bright. Smarts aluminium bifolds make dual-colour easy, so kitchens and living rooms stay light while the outside reads as one consistent scheme with stormproof uPVC windows.

Balance character with performance

A farmhouse vernacular doesn’t rule out modern glazing. Pair Smarts aluminium bifolds with Solidor composite doors (front solid, rear half-glazed) for security, thermal performance and a consistent look. A Juliet balcony upstairs adds daylight and interest without complicating the footprint.

Plan thresholds, blinds and hardware early

  • Thresholds: choose weathered vs. low thresholds based on exposure and step-free needs
  • Blinds: integral or surface-mounted? Decide before final sizes are signed off
  • Hardware & access control: match finishes across doors and windows for a composed look

FAQ: Bifold choices, answered

What is a 4‑1‑3 configuration?
Four panes stack to one side, three to the other. The two end panes act like French doors for daily use.

Can I have a traffic door in a different layout?

Yes. Many bifold sets can include a hinged traffic door. Your opening width and panel sizes dictate the best option.

 

Are aluminium bifolds warm enough?
Modern thermally broken aluminium with high‑performance glazing delivers strong U‑values and year‑round comfort.

Bifolds or sliders?

Bifolds give a fully open wall; sliders give larger uninterrupted glass when closed. If daily access is key, include a traffic door in the bifold design.

Ready to Plan Your Bifolds?

If you want a layout that looks good in photos and works in daily life, think about panel configuration early in the design process.

  • Choose a configuration that matches your lifestyle
  • Coordinate finishes for a cohesive look
  • Plan practical details before you order

Contact Windows Etc for expert advice on bifold door layouts and installation.