Although most people associate bi-folding doors as features of residential homes, extending the living or dining space into the garden, they are becoming more and more popular in commercial premises too. 

There are many good reasons for this, starting with the fact that, just like houses, the floor-to-ceiling glass allows as much light to enter the building as possible. As there is no wooden or plastic frame surrounding the glass, which would block some of the light, the space can appear brighter and lighter. 

At the same time, bi-folding doors that are used to separate the outside with the interior of the building can be opened during the warmer months. As there is a seamless transition between the two spaces, due to there being no step up from the floor, it makes the space seem much bigger.

This is ideal for coffee shops and restaurants, as many customers enjoy sitting outside and having an al fresco experience during the spring and summer months. Having bi-folding doors allows this to happen, as there is no separation between the inside and outside. 

This allows eateries to serve many more people than if they only had their indoor space available.

During the colder months, they could still utilise this extra space by investing in outdoor heaters and a retractable cover. So if it is cold or rainy outside, they can keep customers warm and dry, while still benefiting from the additional seating. 

They aren’t just good for coffee shops, however, as retailers are increasingly using them to make the most of pavement space outside. 

What’s more, they are a good option for meeting rooms, as it helps to expand the room to neighbouring areas if more space is required, such as if a big conference is being held. 

Therefore, office managers can have the benefit of segregated spaces for smaller meetings, to create breakout zones, or to maintain privacy when confidential information is being shared, as well as more open-plan spaces when they want a larger group of workers involved.