French Doors Advice
Why Are French Doors Called French Doors? The History Behind the Elegance
Today, French doors are a common feature on homes across the UK, helping bring the outside in and make the most of the sun. But have you ever stopped and asked yourself, ‘Why are they called French doors?’ Well, it’s mostly on account of them being from France, but there’s more to it than that.
We’re going to answer the question ‘Why are French doors called French doors?’ as well as examine their history, modern uses and where you can find the perfect French doors for your home.
What Are French Doors?
French doors, or French windows, are tall double doors which typically open outwards with large glass panels in the centre. They allow easier access to the outdoors, better airflow during summer and let plenty of light in.
The Historical Origin of French Doors
Before we delve into answering ‘Why are French doors called French doors?’, let’s look at their history and origins.
Influence of Renaissance Architecture
Despite being called French doors, they actually originated in Renaissance Italy. Their clean lines and dual function as both doors and windows were characteristic of the style of the time.
French Doors in 17th Century France
During the 16th century, France and Italy were at war, meaning that the French were exposed to more and more Italian architecture. They took a liking to these doors, and although it took about 100 years to take hold, they became a popular style in France by the 17th century. In the 1600s, they were seen as a sign of wealth and refinement and beloved by King Louis XIV in particular, and are still a major feature at the Palace of Versailles as a result.
Spread of French Doors Across Europe
Over time, French doors began to spread across the rest of Europe, including to the UK, thanks in part to our close proximity but also through various wars throughout the centuries.
Today, homes across the UK are fitted with French doors, which are now made from a wide range of materials, from traditional wood to more durable aluminium or uPVC.
Why Are They Called French Doors?
The Connection to French Design
Now, what you’ve been waiting for, why are French doors called French doors? In short, because they were so popular in France during the 17th century, before the design was spread to the rest of Europe. Because other European countries adopted the design from France, they became known as French doors, despite their Italian origins.
How French Doors Gained Popularity Globally
After spreading from Italy to France and onto the rest of Europe, French doors began to take hold across the rest of the world. In part, this was thanks to the expansion of Western European empires during the 18th and 19th centuries, resulting in the British and French in particular exporting the style to their various colonies. Their association with wealth and success made them an aspirational feature and helped them spread faster.
Why French Doors Remain Popular Today
Benefits of Installing French Doors
Some benefits of French doors include:
- Better airflow during the summer
- Large glass panes allow plenty of light in
- Attractive, historically influenced design feature
- Easy access to the outdoors
- Constructed using modern materials for greater longevity and thermal efficiency
For tips on maximum thermal efficiency, make sure to check out our guide on choosing energy efficient doors.
Enhancing Home Aesthetics and Value
What made French doors so popular historically is partly what makes them so common today: style and association with luxury. Not only are they visually attractive, with large panes of glass giving you a direct view of the outdoors, but French doors are also associated with high-end, classically inspired architecture. As a result, having them installed in your home can even help raise its value, as buyers will pay a premium for such a desirable feature.
It’s important to choose the right French doors for your home, though – find out how with our guide to choosing the right French door size for your home.
Discover High-Quality French Doors Today
At Green Doors, we stock a huge selection of high-quality new and used French doors for sale. All are made using durable materials and come in a range of glazing types.
You can also browse our catalogue of other styles, including bi-fold doors, patio sliding doors, front doors, back doors and even windows. For more information about our products or services, reach out today by calling 01582 34 35 34, emailing sales@greendoors.co.uk or filling out our contact form.
Why Are They Called French Doors? FAQs
Do French doors actually originate from France?
Kind of, which is partially the answer to ‘Why are French doors called French doors?’, but their real origins are in Italy. The French adopted the style over the 16th and 17th centuries and from there they expanded to the rest of Europe and the globe, who knew them as French doors.
What’s the difference between French doors and patio doors?
While French doors could technically be used as patio doors, the main difference is how they open. French doors are exclusively a set of two largely glass doors that open from the centre. Patio doors, however, often open by sliding rather than swinging. You can find more details about the difference between patio doors and French doors in our complete guide.
Are French doors energy efficient?
Yes, very. Despite traditionally being considered inefficient, modern French doors are in fact very energy efficient thanks to the use of higher-quality materials and double or even triple glazing. More up-to-date French doors will also have tighter seals to keep out draughts.
Can French doors increase my home’s value?
Absolutely. French doors are a highly sought-after feature, and adding them to your home can help raise its value. Best of all, you can even buy French doors second hand, bringing down your initial cost and improving your return on investment, not to mention protecting the environment.
For more information about the best way to buy your French doors, read our handy guide.