At Houston Barns in Uphall, West Lothian, a dated and dark bungalow was transformed into a light-filled, highly accessible modern home with panoramic views. Step-free access and easy door operation for the homeowner, who uses a wheelchair, were vital, while maximising natural light and providing uninterrupted views of the local scenery.
Working alongside design specialist EKCO, Solarlux supplied the cero II sliding door system to meet the requirements for accessibility, aesthetics and thermal performance. The EKCO technical team specified a flush threshold to provide smooth wheelchair access without compromising thermal efficiency, weather-tightness or security. The design also made use of cero II’s minimal sightlines and large expanses of glazing to replace the existing glazed wall.
Making sliding doors accessible with flush thresholds and easy operation
Accessibility was a critical consideration for this renovation project. The existing sliding doors were difficult to operate from a seated position, while the raised threshold made it difficult to transition between the home’s interior and the garden. The homeowner required a sliding door system that she could open independently from her wheelchair, and which included a flush threshold to provide step-free access.
The cero II sliding door system was selected because it offered the right balance of smooth operation, precision German engineering and slim sightlines.
It also allowed for a sunken threshold design. The fully bespoke threshold design allowed flush access and suited the unusual details of the existing property.
Sliding glass doors with minimal sightlines for enhanced views
Another key objective of the refurbishment was to improve the views to the outdoors, while maintaining the original configuration.
The existing wall had a large opening, with a central opening door, which the homeowners wanted to replicate. Spanning over 7.4m in width and configured with a central sliding panel and fixed side panels, the cero II sliding doors allowed the exact configuration to be recreated, with slim sightlines.
This increased the amount of glass, creating a brighter interior environment and dramatically improving the connection between the home and its surroundings.
Thermally efficient glazing improves year-round comfort
Thermal performance is an important consideration – especially since many older homes are not very efficient. By replacing the outdated glazing with a modern double-glazed cero II system, the bungalow’s thermal performance was significantly improved, helping reduce heat loss and unwanted draughts.
Since renovation the homeowner has reported a noticeable improvement in thermal comfort, with far less reliance on heating and the fireplace during the evenings.
Solarlux sliding doors for accessibility, aesthetics and thermal performance
The renovation of this Scottish bungalow demonstrates how high-performance sliding door systems can make homes more inclusive while enhancing aesthetics and thermal performance.
The Solarlux cero II sliding door provides simplified wheelchair access, improved warmth and comfort, beautiful outdoor views and a high-quality finished appearance.
For more information, browse our product range online. You can also speak to our expert team to discuss your project requirements and learn more about our glazing systems.