CROFT’ S PAUL CLIFFORD EXPLAINS THE VALUE OF PERMANENCE
SLIDING DOORS AND BIFOLD DOORS BRING THE OUTSIDE IN FOR A LUXURY SELF-BUILD HOME IN BIDDENHAM
DOORS, WINDOWS & FITTINGS
CROFT’ S PAUL CLIFFORD EXPLAINS THE VALUE OF PERMANENCE
As interiors continue to evolve in 2026, a confident shift is taking place: homeowners and designers are moving away from fast, trend-led updates and towards choices that stand the test of time. According to Paul Clifford, Managing Director of Croft, this renewed focus on longevity is reshaping how finishing touches are specified.
A Shift Away From Fast Trends
“ In recent years, we’ ve seen a clear change in mindset. Homeowners are investing more thoughtfully and asking informed questions- not only about aesthetics, but about material integrity and lifespan. Architectural hardware is no longer an afterthought; it’ s specified early in the design process as a core decision.”
Hardware as a Design Priority
“ As kitchens, utility rooms and boot rooms become increasingly design-led, details are under greater scrutiny. Solid brass door handles, cabinet knobs and pull handles are chosen for their reassuring weight, tactile quality and thoughtful design. Hardware is being used to introduce contrast, warmth and cohesion, often linking door furniture and cabinetry to create a consistent visual language throughout the home.”
The Beauty of Patina
“ Finishes such as Aged Brass and Antique Brass are especially sought after for the way they evolve. There’ s a growing appreciation for patina, with clients understanding that solid brass develops character over time. The gentle darkening around a handle or soft burnish on a cabinet pull tells a story, reflecting a desire for homes that feel authentic and layered rather than flat or overly polished.”
Craftsmanship That Endures
“ This movement also aligns with sustainability. Investing in high-quality, British-made hardware means pieces can be maintained, refinished and enjoyed for decades. Our handcrafted collections, including the recently introduced Kingsmere range, show how considered detailing can elevate both contemporary schemes and heritage renovations alike.”
https:// croft. co. uk /
SLIDING DOORS AND BIFOLD DOORS BRING THE OUTSIDE IN FOR A LUXURY SELF-BUILD HOME IN BIDDENHAM
When Martin Shaw began building his dream home in the Bedfordshire countryside, he worked with Solarlux and their partner Spectrum Architectural Glazing to create a highly glazed home that brought the outside indoors. A combination of Cero III sliding patio doors, Highline bifold doors and a bespoke glazed panel was used to create floor-to-ceiling glazing across two storeys.
Sliding doors capable of withstanding heavy winds
The glazing needed to be carefully planned to withstand wind loading without compromising aesthetics. Solarlux’ s precision-engineered aluminium-frame systems offered the ideal combination of strength, weather resistance and elegance.
Achieving thermal efficiency with sliding glass doors
The triple-glazed Cero III system can provide Uw values of around 0.8W / m ² k and is capable of achieving Class 4 air tightness under EN 12207, indicating minimal air infiltration.
Combining premium sliding doors, bifold doors and bespoke glazing
The ultra-narrow sightlines of the Cero III system and minimal vertical frame elements create large, uninterrupted areas of glazing. Each sliding element can reach up to 6m in height or 4m wide, with a maximum panel area of 15m ².
As a leading manufacturer of premium aluminium glazing systems, including sliding doors and bifold patio doors, Solarlux has over 40 years’ experience and a network of trusted installation partners.
If you’ d like to find out more, please contact our team. https:// solarlux. com /
Highline bifold glass doors provide comparable performance, achieving Uw values of around 0.8 W / m ² K, and Class 3 airtightness, contributing to year-round comfort and low energy use.
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