Durabal Design Studio’s innovative door motion systems make high-end technology accessible for all

With a long history of technological advancements in window and door hardware, Durabal Design Studio is pushing the boundaries to bring thoughtfully designed window and door systems to market.

“We’ve been working with high-end hardware for a long time, and over time our clients wanted the clarity of specifying their doors, windows, and hardware through a single, trusted source. Durabal Design Studio creates a pathway to access premium engineered hardware, integrated seamlessly within complete architectural systems,” says Simon of Durabal Design Studio.

Thanks to the wealth of design and engineering expertise within the business, Durabal has been able to confidently approach window and door challenges that would otherwise limit architectural intent, giving its catalogue a unique point of difference. The VOLTA Powered Slider the first product released in the Durabal collection, is a prime example.

“Sliding doors are getting bigger, with thicker glazing and enhanced seals to improve thermal and acoustic performance. While these developments deliver significant benefits, they also increase panel weight and seal friction, making operation progressively more demanding,” Simon explains. 

Recognising this shift, the VOLTA Powered Slider was introduced to assist the user without altering the intuitive experience of a sliding door.

“We wanted to make sure it remained suitable for the home, solving a common problem without making the experience complicated or unfamiliar. The entire system is concealed within the frame, preserving clean architectural lines. There is no need for remotes or complex controls. You simply pull the handle as you normally would, and the system provides assistance when required. It works just like a standard sliding door, natural, quiet and seamless.”

By reducing the force required to open heavy sliding doors, spaces are more accessible to all — regardless of strength or physical ability.  Specifiers can confidently incorporate expansive, double-glazed openings without compromising usability, opening new design possibilities.

While doors are increasing in thickness and weight, trends show that people also want thinner frames and more glass to connect indoor living spaces with the great outdoors. Tackling another challenging design with ease, The Bonded Collection achieves that ultra-minimalist look without compromising on quality or strength.

“Designing The Bonded Collection wasn’t about trial and error. We already understood the limitations of slim frames, which allowed us to develop a considered solution,” Simon explains.

Typically, glass doors that sit inside aluminium frames need plastic blocks around the glass to keep it from touching the aluminium. If there is any expansion, both the glass and frame are at risk of damage. Adding that space between the glass and the frame increases the thickness of the frame, making the super slim look difficult to achieve.

“We decided to attach the glass to the outside of the frame, solving a number of key problems. By bonding the glass externally, we remove the need for internal packers, reducing visible aluminium by up to 30% around the perimeter. More importantly, the glass becomes a structural component of the system, working together with the frame as a unified element.”

Doors and windows are tested by applying controlled air and water pressure to determine the point at which the aluminium begins to defect. By structurally adhering the glass to the aluminium frame, the system no longer has to rely on the aluminium alone to resist wind pressure. 

“Making the door this way ensures the entire unit is stronger, which means we can use an ultra-slim aluminium frame. If you’re looking for a ‘wall of glass’, The Bonded Collection makes that possible.”

The high level of care and detail given to each system in the Durabal collection is clear to see, so it’s no surprise that this passion and expertise extend well beyond the workshop. Available to assist with everything from advice and recommendations to bespoke designs, the team is committed to delivering quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction on every project. 

Learn more about Durabal Design Studio.