How to introduce whimsy, intrigue and functionality with hidden doors

As a design philosophy that likes to strip away and prioritise the essential, minimalism is not often associated with features that can be deemed ‘statement pieces’. Most of these kinds of items are designed to be in-your-face, maximalist additions to a home that make an impression and command attention in a particular space.

But even with its reputation for muted impact, certain minimalist features can absolutely deliver this ‘wow’ factor. Well-designed hidden doors are an archetypal example: they blend seamlessly into the wall, with no visible gaps to betray their presence – a minimalist’s dream. Once opened, though, the engineering is made evident to a visitor previously unaware of its existence, a particular type of minimalist x-factor is achieved.

As one of the only suppliers of this particular door niche, Unique Hardware Solutions certainly lives up to its name.

The company's flagship hidden door model is the MFU1200 MonoFlat UNISON – a door developed for a singular purpose: to create a flush, seamless solution that acts as both a door and part of a wall. A light push is sufficient to open it, eliminating the need for an external handle and reducing the presence of the door to the absolute minimum.

Unique Hardware Solutions General Manager Russell Hunter says the handle-less design allows the door to blend into the wall and appear almost invisible – and it’s all possible thanks to the innovative sliding mechanism.

“Like many other sliding systems in the industry, the MFU1200 is a top-hung sliding system,” says Hunter. “These kinds of systems are highly sought after as you’re not required to have any hardware sitting on or in the floor which can interrupt the opening. Unlike other systems, the tracks are curved, which allows the panel to slide behind a wall or fixed panel.”

The fact that the tracks are on the ceiling also ensures the passage is always free of obstruction, he says. But the appeal is due to much more than just the functional benefits.

“Hidden doors are something we see being sought after by homeowners and architects more regularly,” says Hunter. “They allow you to maximise the space within the room. With conventional swing doors, you have to make space in the opening direction of the door to accommodate its opening radius. But the MFU1200 slides open laterally – similar to a cavity slider, minus the cavity.”

Each door features a two-way soft system, ensuring they’re not slammed in a gust of wind or when they’re being opened or shut. Such features make the doors highly functional on top of their considerable aesthetic appeal – a combination that makes them ideal for many scenarios.

“Applications for the MFU1200 vary, but you would typically see it used in wardrobe applications and some kitchen spaces like sculleries – areas where a typical hinged door may not be overly suitable,” says Hunter. “You’re not limited to this, however. With the right design, it can be used for other typical doors within your home – like a study or even a bedroom.”

When it comes to the ways this hidden door can be utilised, the limit depends solely on a homeowner or architect’s imagination. A particularly creative application can bring whimsy and intrigue while adding a layer of utility that would otherwise have been absent.

“On the one hand, they can take away the need for handles and other hardware away, which helps amplify the minimalist look some people look for,” concludes Hunter. “But just as importantly, I feel hidden doors provide a certain level of sophistication and wonder to a home.”

Learn more about Unique Hardware Solutions and its MFU1200 hidden doors.