Selecting the correct hardware is essential for the viability of any project. The desired degree of perfection can only be achieved if all factors come together perfectly.
Once this small but essential aspect such as the hinge has been resolved, we can focus on another integral part of the construction of a door: the finish. From the wide range of materials available for pivot doors, we've selected some of our favorite options that will enhance the contemporary design of your doors. From common materials that have endured over time to cutting-edge finishes, this guide offers exciting options to spark inspiration and open new horizons!
Copper and bronze plated pivot doors: exquisite luxury
Currently there are very few finishes that offer the possibility of transforming doors into impressive focal points, but these metals add a character of grandeur to any project. Copper, a natural material, and bronze, an alloy composed primarily of copper, have been prized for their beauty and versatility throughout the ages. From a design point of view, its warm, earthy tones reveal a color palette that conveys a lush and welcoming impression.
(Copper clad pivot door manufactured by Cumberland Building Designed by Porebski Architects)
A vivid finish with copper and bronze
From a modern-looking polished finish to a classic-style brushed surface, the versatility of both materials gives you the freedom to mix different aesthetics. Over time, it is inevitable that patina will form due to oxidation. This condition can be counteracted with proper maintenance, such as periodic polishing, or appreciated and enjoyed as an ever-changing design element. If allowed to evolve, the finish will tell the beautiful story of natural transformation over time. This can even be accelerated by using chemicals to deliberately create the aging effect if desired.
Copper and bronze: a great choice for exterior doors
Although their appearance may evolve, the copper and bronze plated pivot doors are strong and very durable, making them an excellent option for outdoor use in combination with System M. This system ensures long-lasting functionality and also equips them with the fluid movement that its elegant aesthetics deserve, thanks to the adjustable soft closure and hydraulic control. However, it should be noted that placing them in spaces that offer protection from external elements will minimize maintenance and ensure longevity.
Marble pivot doors: luxurious and monumental
From the construction of the Taj Mahal from Makrana marble to the statue of David made from Carrara marble, this rock has made numerous famous appearances in history and cultures. Marble is known for being the material of monuments, so its inclusion in interior design proposals will provide a sophisticated and very aesthetically striking touch. On the other hand, considering it as an option for pivoting doors is something practically unexplored that makes it a choice as unique as it is impressive.
The perfect imperfections of marble
Its color range includes different colors: although white and soft gray tones are the first that come to mind, there are also variants in pink, beige, dark green, brown and black. Marbling is its own discipline, which results in an execution of pure sophistication. The natural imperfections of marble make each piece truly unique, as variations in color, veining and patterns are the norm. This variable must be taken into account when forming a pivoting door from different pieces of marble. Some will even define this as the beauty of working with natural materials and incorporating them into the design process.
Marble: beautiful but complicated
The sheer weight of the rock is a force that must be reckoned with. However, thanks to System M+ and its lifting capacity of up to 500 kg, marble can be considered a serious candidate for pivot doors. As history has shown, it is a reliable material that stands the test of time, but if subjected to impacts, it is prone to splintering. This is where the hydraulic control of the System M+ comes into play. This feature not only ensures a smooth and elegant closing movement, but also acts as a protection to prevent the door from coming into contact with the wall.
Marble is a success
In hot climates, marble doors offer a considerable advantage: regardless of how high the temperatures are, the rock maintains a pleasantly cool feel. This rock quickly dissipates heat, so it takes a long time to lose its natural cooling effect.
Doors with textile finish: soft and pleasant
In addition to the impressive monumental doors, we cannot deny that the intricate finishes also have a lot of charm. Noble materials such as silk, velvet or linen have a long history in door decoration and give a homely and warm feeling to interiors. These materials are often reserved for the rooms where these qualities are most enjoyed (such as living rooms and bedrooms). Textile finishes are increasingly in demand.
The multifaceted potential of textiles
Combining the door covering with fabrics already present in the room creates a fluid and harmonious aesthetic in which each element perfectly complements the other. The compact and reduced configuration of the System One allows for very narrow gaps that will not divert attention from the finish in this context. Therefore, the design possibilities for pivot doors with textile covering are as varied as the range of fabrics available, even experiments with depth and dimension using three-dimensional upholstery or embroidery are possible. In addition, the functional aspects of using fabrics on doors must also be taken into account. In the case of modern homes, where textiles are especially scarce, acoustics can be significantly improved by covering the doors with textiles while maintaining a sober and minimalist look.
Fabrics require care
The delicate feel of fabric-covered doors already suggests that textile finishes require careful treatment. Its placement should be carefully evaluated during the design process, as exposure to moisture and sunlight can cause deterioration of the fabric. If only part of the door is directly exposed to the sun, uneven color loss will show inconsistencies. Although textile covering may not be the most practical choice, its potential to enhance the style of a room could outweigh all the challenges it presents.
Liquid metal finishes: a wonder in the world of design
Metaphors about iron usually revolve around strength, resistance and solidity. However, liquid metal is a transformable, dynamic and fluid material that combines a metallic aesthetic with the adaptability of a liquid substance. When it comes to door finishes, this trend is taking the design world by storm. This material can mimic the appearance of solid metals, such as bronze, copper and brass, and allows you to experiment with different textures, patterns and metallic tones, opening the playing field to aesthetics never seen before.
Discovering new worlds with liquid metal
While traditional metal bending poses limitations in manufacturing, liquid metal finishing is distinguished by its incredible versatility. When looking for bruised, patinated or hammered effects, the tactile and visually appealing result always surprises.
Thoroughly master liquid metal
Liquid metal finishes can be applied to a variety of base materials, each of which has its own advantages in efficiency and weight. One of the possibilities is to incorporate insulation to improve energy savings, which makes this finish a suitable option for exterior doors. Choosing a lightweight base material significantly changes the weight of the door compared to solid metal door options. This allows for larger door designs that are especially attractive to those considering large pivot doors. The System M+ offers pivoting hinges for a wide range of weights and is designed to support doors weighing between 80 and 500 kg, making it suitable for both the smallest and largest concepts.
Advantages and disadvantages of liquid metal finishes
Since the metal is applied in liquid form, a homogeneous metal surface is created with no visible seams or joints. This metal coating protects the base material by forming a protective layer that protects the door surface against moisture, UV exposure and scratches. The durability, combined with the option to create a huge impression, makes liquid metal a very attractive finish for exterior doors, as well as excluding handling limitations.
Concrete: the basis of contemporary design
Virtually no other material in the field of design has undergone such a remarkable evolution as concrete. Once limited to functional purposes due to its durability, versatility and cost-effectiveness, the rise of Brutalist architecture changed perceptions and highlighted its raw aesthetics. Since then, concrete has become the embodiment of industrial minimalist elegance.
The versatility of concrete
In addition to its use as a building material, concrete is also an excellent choice for pivot doors. Its durability and longevity make it suitable for both indoors and outdoors, where it exhibits its notable resistance to environmental factors such as humidity, UV exposure and temperature fluctuations. Its porosity can be circumvented with proper sealing, which prevents problems such as cracking when exposed to moisture, staining, or fading from direct sunlight.
Handle heavy weight such as concrete
Taking insulation into account is key to making concrete pivot doors more energy efficient, while reducing the weight of a solid construction. Specifically designed for pivot doors with thin frames, System One operates as a single pivot point and offers an impressive load capacity of up to 500 kg. This gives scope to model customized concrete pivot doors that blend harmoniously with the aesthetics of their surroundings. With exceptionally narrow top and bottom gaps, System One has the ability to transform concrete pivot doors into integral parts of contemporary design that will stand the test of time.
Pivot doors with leather covering: a symbol of craftsmanship and luxury
Like the previous materials referred to in this guide, leather has also successfully withstood the test of time and owes its importance to its exceptional durability. At the same time, it has also evolved to become a status symbol and has been defined as the material par excellence for luxury items, giving off the aura of a noble material. In the field of interior design, leather creates an atmosphere of sophistication and warmth that is also due to its exquisite touch.
Surprise with leather coverings
A leather-covered pivot door is sure to leave a lasting impression. The wide range of different types of leather offers a great selection of colors and textures that allows customization adapted to each taste or interior style.
Skin is synonymous with dedication
Like any other luxury item, leather should be treated with due consideration and care. Its use is strictly limited to indoors, as it is sensitive to humidity and direct sunlight. Even if proper precautions are taken, the skin will undergo an aging process that will serve as a visible testimony of the moments it has been going through. The use of the highest quality leather and proper sealing are the two main factors in turning leather-covered pivot doors into long-lasting items.
The main potential of exposed skin
It is important to keep in mind that leather alone is not sufficient material to constitute a door, but is generally used in combination with a base that can also contribute to the design. Additionally, depending on the material, concealed bases offer additional properties such as improved energy efficiency. The classic choice of combining a leather covering with a wooden door creates a symbiosis between two warm natural materials. Considering contemporary design options, leather can be equally combined with metals, whether they are liquid metal finishes or solid metals such as bronze and copper. This modern approach opens up exciting new possibilities worth exploring, and thanks to System One, there are no limits to the feasibility of hardware. This system works on a single pivot point and offers a free-swinging pivot door that reveals a universe of creative ideas.
Aluminum pivot doors: the antidote to luxurious metals
Aluminum, so light and with its silvery appearance, offers a stark contrast to the luxurious and warm metals mentioned above. Its charm lies in its clear lines and elegant aesthetics, which make it a preferred option for contemporary and industrial designs. Despite its lightness, aluminum has exceptional durability, making it an ideal material for exterior pivot doors. Issues such as corrosion, rust or inclement weather are not a problem when working with aluminum as it is famous for its longevity. This material can withstand exposure to various environmental conditions and maintain its integrity for many years without showing signs of wear or deterioration.
Aluminum design in the spotlight
While these practical qualities are significant, it is also essential to recognize the immense design possibilities that aluminum offers. This material can be customized in detail, covering a wide range of finishes, coatings and colors. Perhaps the most attractive aspect of aluminum is its lightweight nature, which expands the design possibilities of doors and allows for more diverse and ambitious creations. Despite their impressive size potential, aluminum doors remain manageable during installation and use, especially when combined with the right hardware. The System M+ expands the many options that aluminum offers with the range of weights and safety features to make any design idea possible.
Get to know aluminum: the favorite par excellence
Aluminum shows great promise in terms of energy efficiency. Although the metal itself is a conductor of heat and cold, the incorporation of thermal breaks and insulated cores effectively reduce heat transfer. This makes aluminum an excellent choice for exterior pivot doors in cold climates. Designers looking for reliability, easy installation, and creative freedom should consider aluminum for their next pivot door project.