Those of you who are familiar with Japanese architecture will probably be aware of the shoji style. When it comes to sliding doors, the shoji door is probably one of the most famous examples in the world and these traditional Japanese structures are an important part of the country's culture and history. With origins dating from 4th century BC China, these screens have commonly been used as a room divider to provide privacy or to diffuse little around the room.
Traditionally these elegant doors were crafted from a bamboo frame that was filled with paper; it is those paper infills from where the term shoji originates. Despite having a history that spans thousands of years, it was not until international links with Japan improved during the 19th century that shoji became popular in the west. Since then, having featured in such movies as Memoirs of a Geisha and The Last Samurai, many people around the world have fallen in love with the shoji style and incorporated it into their homes.
Japanese Style Sliding Doors
When it comes to our range of sliding doors, we often find that this style is one of the most commonly sought after designs amongst our customers. If you are looking for a traditional Japanese style sliding door for your wardrobe, we can help you create a bespoke design to suit the decor of your room.
- Door Combinations: Depending on the size of your opening, we can create and install your wardrobe with a choice of 2, 3, 4 or 5 doors.
- Mix & Match Designs: It is common for this style to feature doors of the same design. However, if you would like something a bit different, we can help you to create a design that blends a natural wood effect finish with mirrored or coloured glass panels.
- Creating Light and Space: Traditional shoji doors were popular because they conserved room when compared to hinged door alternatives. The very thin paper would also diffuse light around the home. By incorporating a mirrored finish into the design for your doors, it is possible to replicate this effect in your own home.
- Brilliant Cut: Where you opt for a coloured glass door, our Brilliant Cut design allows us to cut stylish patterns into your door.
It does not matter if you are looking for a traditional country farmhouse feel or contemporary Japanese; we have an almost endless selection of designs to complement the look of any home.
If you would like to find out more about some of the many design options that are available, do not hesitate to call in and see us at our Norwich or Cambridge showrooms.