Crittall-style internal doors have become one of the most sought-after interior design features in recent years. Loved by architects, interior designers, and homeowners alike, they strike the perfect balance between industrial heritage and contemporary elegance. Whether you’re renovating a period property or adding character to a modern home, Crittall-style internal doors can transform your space in a way few other features can.
In this in-depth guide, we’ll explore exactly what Crittall-style internal doors are, where they originated, why they’ve become so popular, and the many benefits they bring to your property.
Crittall-style doors are a modern, popular style of door known for their distinctive industrial-style black frames and horizontal bar grid pattern. Their chic, industrial style suits a wide range of architectural styles and homes. They offer a blend of classic heritage and modern design, providing security, durability and energy efficiency.
Traditionally made from steel, modern versions can be made using painted timber while retaining the same iconic appearance. Large glass panels are divided by narrow vertical and horizontal bars, creating a striking, architectural aesthetic.
The term “Crittall-style” originates from Francis Henry Crittall, the original manufacturer, whose steel-framed windows and doors became synonymous with this design in the early 20th century. He began producing steel-framed windows and doors, and popularity grew during the Industrial Revolution, thanks to their robustness and functionality, which allowed for a large amount of natural light needed in factories and warehouses.
Since then, the Crittall-style door has become an architectural icon, celebrated for its distinctive, sleek style and large glass panes in a grid-like appearance. They offer modern elegance and are a great way to maximise light in any space. They seamlessly fit most contemporary settings and interior design styles, blending functionality with aesthetic appeal, which makes them a very popular choice. They are endlessly adaptable and fit well in homes, apartments, shops, restaurants, hotels, bars, spas, museums and more.
Today, Crittall-style internal doors are inspired by this classic look but are available in a wide range of materials, finishes, and configurations to suit modern homes.
Common variations include:
As industrial architecture influenced residential design, these steel-framed windows found their way into homes, particularly during the Art Deco and Modernist movements of the 1920s and 1930s. Over time, they became a symbol of refined industrial style, functional, durable, and visually striking.
Today’s Crittall-style internal doors pay homage to this heritage while meeting modern performance standards, making them ideal for contemporary living.
There are many benefits to Crittall-style doors for your home, some of the main benefits include:
Maximise natural light
One of the biggest advantages of Crittall-style internal doors is their ability to let light flow freely throughout your home. Crittall-style internal doors are a great way to section off rooms and spaces, dividing larger rooms into different living areas while still maintaining a modern, open-plan feel and maximising light throughout your home.
Their design, which features a large number of panelled windows, divides spaces without blocking light or creating full separation, allowing a lot of natural light to flow through the house. This is especially beneficial in properties with:
Aesthetic appeal
Crittall-style doors have a timeless, chic and sophisticated look which adds character to any home. They’re sleek and stylish, and the black frame against the large glass panels is very striking, creating architectural interest. Few design features are as versatile as Crittall-style internal doors. They work beautifully in:
Their clean lines and neutral black or dark metal finishes mean they complement almost any colour scheme or interior style. Unlike some trends, Crittall-style internal doors have a timeless quality that won’t quickly date.
Versatile
Crittall-style doors are very versatile and can be used in various applications, including interior doors, interior partitions, patio doors, external doors, and to section off parts of your garden. In smaller homes, they help avoid the boxed-in feeling that solid doors can create. In larger properties, they help zone spaces while maintaining flow.
Creating defined spaces without closing them off
Open-plan living is popular, but it’s not always practical to have completely open spaces. Crittall-style internal doors offer the perfect compromise. They visually separate areas such as kitchens, dining rooms, and living rooms while maintaining a sense of openness.
For example, installing crittall-style internal doors between a kitchen and living area can help contain noise and cooking smells while preserving a light, airy feel.
Energy efficient
Installing good-quality timber and glazed glass doors can increase the energy efficiency of your home. Our made-to-measure timber doors are built with the highest quality materials and help retain heat in your home to lower energy bills, while helping to keep your home cool in the summer months. Installing internal Crittall-style doors can help insulate your home effectively and keep rooms warmer and cosier by closing off spaces to retain heat, while allowing your home to still feel modern and open-plan.
Increases property value
Crittall-style doors are incredibly popular, and a stylish interior design in homes is highly sought from buyers. On top of this, high-quality timber and glazed doors add to the property value due to their many benefits.
High-quality Crittall-style internal doors are often seen as a premium feature. They enhance the overall look and feel of a home, which can increase its appeal to potential buyers. While they are an investment, many homeowners find that they add both aesthetic and perceived value to the property.
Crittall-style internal doors are incredibly versatile and can be used throughout the home, including:
Sliding Crittall-style internal doors are particularly popular where space is limited, offering all the visual benefits without needing clearance for door swings.
The rise in popularity of Crittall-style internal doors is no coincidence. Modern homeowners are increasingly drawn to open-plan living, light-filled interiors, and architectural features that add personality without overwhelming a space.
Crittall-style internal doors tick all of these boxes. They allow rooms to feel connected while still providing clear separation when needed, which is perfect for busy family homes, apartments, and work-from-home setups.
If you’re looking for a way to enhance natural light, improve flow, and introduce a high-end design feature, Crittall-style internal doors are hard to beat. They offer a unique combination of beauty and practicality, rooted in architectural history yet perfectly suited to modern living.
From subtle room dividers to dramatic statement doors, Crittall-style internal doors truly are the perfect addition to almost any property.
Crittall-style internal doors have earned their place as a modern classic. Their industrial heritage, elegant lines, and practical benefits make them one of the most impactful interior upgrades available today. Whether you’re undertaking a full renovation or simply updating a single space, investing in Crittall-style internal doors can completely transform how your home looks and feels.
Every staircase is handcrafted using premium timber and finished to the highest standards. Whether you’re renovating a period property or upgrading a modern home, the quality of materials and craftsmanship ensures longevity and lasting beauty.
As a Liverpool-based workshop, Preferred Joinery understands the unique architectural styles and expectations of homes across the North West. Their local experience, backed up by years of satisfied client testimonials, makes them a trusted partner for residential staircase replacements.
If you’re searching for a feature that delivers on style, function, and long-term value, Crittall-style internal doors are a choice you’re unlikely to regret. Preferred Joinery have decades of experience making bespoke, made-to-measure Crittall-style internal doors. Our team of expert joiners create a wide range of timber doors, including internal and external doors, patio doors, French doors and bi-folding doors. We can make doors in any style or design, and every door is custom-made to order using the highest quality materials and hand finished.
Get in touch with our team today to get a quote for bespoke Crittall-style doors for your property. Call us on 0151 707 9999 or email info@preferredjoinery.co.uk.
Replacing your staircase is more than just a home improvement, it’s an opportunity to redefine your interior, add value, and enjoy a staircase crafted just for you. As staircase replacement specialists, Preferred Joinery offer expert guidance, exceptional craftsmanship, and a truly bespoke experience from design to installation.
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