Thinking outside the corner

Using corner sliding doors and corner windows to add a contemporary feel

Architects, builders and renovators are always on the lookout for variations in products which will give their designs an ultra-modern look and feel. With the ongoing focus on creating indoor-outdoor living spaces, doors and windows are often the key to enhancing the interplay between the two areas. With this in mind, Carinya have two specialised products which are increasingly being used to enhance modern living areas: corner stacking sliding doors and silicone butt joint corner windows.

Corner stacking sliding doors

In most modern homes sliding doors are commonly used to open up a living space, with the standard sliding door normally consisting of one opening piece and one fixed piece, spanning a single space or single wall. These are appropriate and work well in many situations but may not always achieve that complete open space effect.

By incorporating corner stacking doors, the need for a corner post can be eliminated, and access to the outdoor area is significantly expanded. Coupled with recessed track options, the result is a seamless transition between the two spaces, giving a particularly contemporary look.  

Not only does this type of arrangement create a more expansive vista, in many situations it serves to better incorporate the outdoor area into the entire living space. For example, a current design trend is to locate living, dining and kitchen areas around a central courtyard. In this situation the corner stacking door really comes into its own – as the doors are opened, the frameless effect creates a truly uninterrupted living area.

Using a corner stacking system doesn’t mean you have to miss out on any of the other features of Carinya products. Insect screens or security screen doors can also be easily accommodated, and incorporated into the design along the way.

Silicone butt joint corner windows

Traditionally homes have been constructed around a standard layout comprised of separate windows on each wall. In cases where windows do meet at a corner, they have generally been required to be joined by mullions, vertical elements which provide structural support. These have the ultimate effect of dissecting the view into sections.

Advances in glazing and building technologies means seamless corner windows are now a sought after option. The method called butt joint glazing allows the modern corner window to be joined with a clear silicone sealant. Although the seam is visible, being essentially clear means there is minimal impact on the view.

The beauty of this type of corner window is not only will it maximise the view, but it has the effect of bringing light into a room from multiple directions. When deciding where to use, consider where the best views are likely to be, and that is the place to position your corner windows. Not only do they make the viewer feel immersed in the surrounding outdoor features, they have the effect of drawing the outdoor elements such as gardens and trees closer into the home.

Imagine the impact a corner window could have, for example, in a kitchen overlooking an outdoor garden area. They have also been very effectively used in bathroom and bedroom environments. Located high up, they have the advantage of providing extra light from multiple angles, while still maintaining privacy.

Incorporated into a new build, the corner window also gives a particularly contemporary look, adding to the outside appearance from a design perspective and emphasising dramatic architectural shapes.

It is worth noting that while a corner framing system has the required strength to hold the glass, the windows themselves are not load bearing and the window opening still needs to be structurally adequate. It is also likely a thicker glass will need to be selected to ensure compliance with impact testing standards.

Flexible door and window solutions for any situation

The flexibility of Carinya’s products means they have the ability to be fitted to almost any configuration or combination you require. Whether you are looking to install classic sliding doors, or take advantage of the latest in corner trends, Carinya has a product which can meet your needs.

For further information contact your local Carinya dealer.