Aluminium French Doors – How Have French Doors Remained Popular for Over 400 Years?

French doors have a rich history that dates back over four centuries. Originating in France during the 17th-century Renaissance, they were initially introduced as a stylish way to bring more natural light and a sense of openness into homes. Over time, these elegant double doors began to replace traditional solid wood doors—first as interior features, then as beautiful exterior French doors leading to balconies, gardens, and patios.

Symmetry and proportion were central to their design, and that timeless aesthetic remains a key reason why aluminium French doors are still a popular choice today. In fact, the term “door in French” is porte-fenêtre, which translates to “window door”—perfectly capturing the essence of these glass-panelled designs that resemble oversized casement windows (or what we call French windows).

Today, French patio doors are ideal for homeowners who want a classic, space-saving alternative to sliding or bi-fold doors. They’re especially practical in spaces where wall openings aren’t large, yet you still want to create a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor living.

Our aluminium French doors can be configured to open in or out, depending on your layout, and they can be installed with or without sidelights. Designed using AluK’s advanced 58BD aluminium door system, they offer the highest standards in performance, durability, and security—including French door locks that are Secured by Design accredited for peace of mind.

At Rhino Aluminium, we offer full customisation: a wide range of colours (with the option to choose different finishes inside and out), a variety of hardware and handle styles, plus decorative extras such as Georgian bars and mid rails. Our French doors are available in two frame depths—58mm and 70mm—to suit both traditional and contemporary builds, with slim sightlines (111mm vertical and 129.5mm horizontal) for a sleek finish. We also provide different threshold height options to ensure a perfect fit for your project.

Whether you’re renovating or building new, our exterior French doors combine classic charm with modern performance—bringing light, security, and style to any home.