French Doors with Side Windows

What is the Origin of French Doors

The name “French doors” originated in France during the 17th century. These doors were initially created to allow natural light to flow into rooms while maintaining a sense of separation between indoor and outdoor spaces.

The French were pioneers in the use of large, glazed doors, often featuring multiple panels of glass, which became known as “French windows” or “French doors” due to their widespread use in French architecture during this period. They were often installed in places like salons and dining rooms to create an elegant connection to gardens or patios. The design, characterised by its dual doors with glass panes, became synonymous with French style and was later adopted by other European countries, solidifying its place in architectural history.

Over time, the term “French doors” stuck and continues to be used worldwide to describe this classic and stylish door design.

Side Windows Allow for More Light

Double Glazed French doors, while elegant and functional, have a limited width due to their design, which typically consists of two hinged doors that open outward. This can sometimes restrict the sense of space, especially in larger rooms or when homeowners want a wider opening to seamlessly connect their indoor and outdoor spaces.

To overcome this limitation, side glass windows, or sidelights, are often added to either side of the doors. These side windows can be full-length, extending all the way to the floor, or they can be positioned on dwarf walls, providing a balanced aesthetic while maintaining the structural integrity of the doorframe. By incorporating side windows, French doors can be effectively widened, offering a greater flow of natural light and enhancing the overall openness of the room. This not only improves the view and adds visual space but also creates a more grand and open atmosphere.

French Doors for a Traditional Style

Although sliding doors or bifold doors could fill the space, French doors still remain popular for a traditional look. Lots of people like them for the ease of opening. Modern bifold and sliding doors are very easy to open, but only twenty years ago, they were heavy and could come off tracks, so French doors were cemented as the easiest to use.

First Choice for Developers

French doors are often the go-to choice for house developers due to their simplicity and timeless appeal. Their design is straightforward, consisting of two hinged doors that open outward, making them easy to install and integrate into most floor plans. This makes them a cost-effective solution for developers who need to strike a balance between functionality and aesthetics. Because of their versatile and classic design, French doors are often chosen for key entry points like patios, garden rooms, or dining areas, and they are frequently included as standard features in new homes. The simplicity of French doors allows developers to offer a high-quality, visually appealing option without extensive customisation, ensuring that the doors suit a wide range of architectural styles and remain an attractive, cost-effective choice for many properties.

Modern French Doors

Although French doors are often associated with traditional style, this perception largely comes from their classic pairing with tie-back curtains and a dwarf wall on either side, which has been a popular feature in more traditional homes. However, the look of French doors can easily be tailored to suit both modern and classic interiors, depending on factors like size, materials, and window dressing.

In modern settings, French doors can be designed with larger panes of glass and minimal framing, offering a sleek and contemporary appearance. Materials like aluminium or slimline uPVC, with their slim profiles and modern finishes, can make French doors appear much more up-to-date.

The window dressing also plays a significant role in defining the style—opting for minimalist blinds, shutters, or no curtains at all can enhance the modern feel, while heavy drapes or traditional tie-back curtains evoke a more classic look. Ultimately, French doors are versatile, and how they are styled can drastically influence their look, making them equally at home in both modern and traditional spaces.

See below for this very modern treatment of French doors. This house belonging to Colin Jackson boasts fabulous views over Cardiff Bay. Colin Jackson is a former athlete who specialised in the 110m hurdles. During his splendid career, he won a silver medal at the Olympics (1993), became world champion twice and became a Commonwealth champion twice. He has also set a world record of 12.91 seconds for the 110m hurdles.

French Doors with a Difference

We recently installed this stunning pair of Aluminium French doors in this kitchen with extension. The structural wall between the French doors needs to stay, making it unsuitable for a long run of large patio doors.

Working with our customer’s dream, we designed a modern and stylish installation of aluminium French doors featuring astragal bars, which create a classic grid-like design. The French doors are complemented by side panels and top glazing, extending the glass area to maximise natural light. The slim aluminium frames add to the contemporary look while maintaining structural strength.

The setup seamlessly blends indoor and outdoor spaces, creating an open and airy feel in the room. The overall design is both functional and aesthetically pleasing, making it an excellent choice for a modern home.

Can You Add Side Windows to a Set of French Doors?

No, you typically cannot add side windows to existing French doors because it is unlikely that the original lintel above the doors was designed to support the additional width required for the extra glass panels. French doors are usually installed within a standard-sized opening, and adding side windows would involve widening the structural opening, which requires modifications to the supporting framework. Without the appropriate structural support, such as a wider lintel, the stability of the wall above the doors could be compromised.

If you’re considering a wider configuration that includes side windows, the best approach is to plan for a new installation with a properly sized lintel and structural adjustments. This ensures the safety and durability of the new setup while allowing you to enjoy the aesthetic and practical benefits of French doors with sidelights.

Can I Replace my French Doors and Side Windows?

Yes, French doors with side windows can be replaced with updated versions of the same or with bifold doors or sliding doors for a fresh and modern alternative. Both bifold and sliding doors are excellent options for creating a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces, while also maximising natural light and views.

Bifold doors are ideal for larger openings as they fold neatly to one side, allowing the entire space to open up and create a wide, unobstructed transition. This can be particularly appealing if you want to enhance the sense of flow between your home and garden or patio. Sliding doors, on the other hand, are perfect for achieving expansive glass panels with minimal framing, offering uninterrupted views and a sleek, contemporary look.

When replacing French doors and side windows with either option, it’s important to ensure that the existing lintel and structural opening can accommodate the new configuration. These replacements can not only modernise your space but also provide improved functionality, energy efficiency, and a striking visual upgrade.

Can I Remove the Dwarf Walls for Full Length Windows?

Yes, you can remove dwarf walls and replace them with full-length windows, but this process typically requires structural considerations. It may not be possible to create the exact look of the wall border above the dwarf wall and the inside will need to be plastered and decorated. Bear in mind that you may be left with a gap in the flooring too.

You may have to replace the unit as a whole because the new windows may not match the old doors.

Can I Replace a Window with French Doors and Side Windows?

Yes, you can replace your windows with French doors and side windows, but this project typically requires structural modifications to create a suitable opening. Windows are generally installed in narrower and shorter openings compared to doors, so converting a window space into an opening for French doors and side windows will involve extending the height and possibly widening the space.

A key consideration is whether the existing lintel above the window can support the wider or taller opening. In many cases, a new lintel may need to be installed to maintain the structural integrity of the wall.

Replacing a window with French doors and side windows can dramatically improve the look and functionality of a room, providing greater access to outdoor spaces, more natural light, and a stylish upgrade. It’s a particularly popular option for transforming living or dining rooms into more open and inviting spaces with a seamless indoor-outdoor connection.

Can the Side Windows on French Doors be Designed as Openers?

Opening windows in the side windows of French doors need to be part of the original design; they cannot be retrofitted later. It is common for side windows to include small top-opening sections, known as top lights, or for the top half of the window to open. These designs allow for ventilation without needing to open the main doors.

uPVC or Aluminium

The choice between uPVC and aluminium French doors depends on your priorities. uPVC is more affordable and offers excellent thermal insulation, making it a practical choice for budget-conscious homeowners. However, aluminium French doors provide a sleek, modern look with slim frames that maximise natural light and views.

Aluminium is also more durable, resistant to warping and fading, and ideal for larger installations. While uPVC suits traditional styles and smaller budgets, aluminium is a premium option for those seeking a contemporary, long-lasting solution.

If you want Patio doors that are too big to be made with uPVC but your budget doesn’t stretch to matching aluminium, you can mix and match uPVC windows with aluminium patio doors.

Why Choose Heath Windows and Doors for Your French doors with Side Windows?

Choosing Heath Windows and Doors for your French doors with side windows means partnering with a trusted Cardiff-based company renowned for its expertise, premium products, and exceptional customer service.

With years of experience in delivering bespoke home improvements, Heath Windows and Doors ensures each installation is tailored to your needs. Our commitment to quality means you’ll receive durable, energy-efficient products that enhance your home’s looks, comfort and value.

Local homeowners consistently praise our professionalism, attention to detail, and friendly service, making us the top choice in the region. See our reviews on Google and Allchecked. When you choose Heath Windows and Doors, you’re not just upgrading your property—you’re investing in a reliable, customer-focused experience from start to finish.

Get in touch to book a free home visit. Call 02920650854, email enquiries@heathwindowsltd.co.uk or use our quote request form.