A few months ago we were contacted by a client in Melbourne, Victoria, with a unique challenge: replacing a large, cumbersome aluminium sliding door in his newly built home.
The door, while impressive in scale, had become a daily frustration due to its weight and difficulty to operate. Fortunately, his architect, Stephen Welsch, recommended our team for the job—and we were excited to take it on.
A Better Way to Slide
After reviewing our lift-slide door system, the client was immediately enthusiastic. Paarhammer lift-slide doors are a minimum of double glazed and designed to glide effortlessly, even at large sizes, thanks to their innovative mechanism that lifts the door slightly off its track before sliding. This not only improves usability but also enhances thermal performance and sealing.
Lift-slide doors are custom made in different Product Ranges from Architectural Timber with Giant lift-slide doors, to Passivehaus to Wood-Alu composite with internal timber for warmth and energy efficiency and external aluminium for low maintenance.
In addition to the door replacement, we were also engaged to supply and install a retractable screen—ensuring the space could remain open to fresh air while keeping insects out. For this we used Freedom Screens which added PetMesh for further durability.
The Challenge: Limited Access
This project wasn’t without its hurdles. The most significant was access. The home’s layout and surrounding environment made it extremely difficult to bring in large components or equipment. Tight pathways, limited clearance, and delicate landscaping meant we had to carefully plan every step of the installation.
We worked hand-in-hand with the client to develop a plan that prioritized safety and precision while keeping disruption to a minimum. The removal of the old door presented a unique logistical challenge—one we tackled with pride. In a memorable moment, the client took part in breaking the glass to lighten the door and make its removal much easier.
Precision Meets Performance
Despite the constraints, the installation went smoothly. The new lift-slide door transformed the space, offering effortless movement and a sleek, modern aesthetic. The retractable screen integrated seamlessly, providing functionality without compromising design.
A Satisfied Client, A Stunning Result
This project beautifully showcases what can be achieved when thoughtful design is paired with skilled craftsmanship. We’re proud to have delivered a solution that not only addressed a challenge but also enhanced the home’s comfort and aesthetic—leaving the owners genuinely delighted.
We were touched to receive this heartfelt message from them:
“We’re absolutely thrilled with the door and the overall result. Huge thanks to Judy, Thomas, and the entire team for taking on what was probably not the most glamorous job. It’s such a joy to have a door that actually opens and closes! I’ll admit, I was bracing for some collateral damage to the floors and walls, but your team was incredible—so careful and precise. Not a single scratch!”
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Paarhammer products are shipped all over Australia.
