LONDON, 14 May 2025 — As the demand for sleek, space-saving interiors continues to grow, pocket door systems are fast becoming the go-to solution for architects, designers, and homeowners across the UK and beyond. Once a niche feature reserved for high-end properties, these innovative sliding doors are now transforming the way we think about space and functionality in everyday homes.
A pocket door system allows a door to slide neatly into a concealed compartment within the wall, effectively vanishing when open. This simple yet ingenious mechanism eliminates the need for door swing clearance, making it ideal for smaller spaces, open-plan layouts, and modern minimalist designs.
“Space is at a premium, especially in urban housing,” says Olivia Turner, an interior designer based in London. “Pocket doors offer a stylish, practical solution without sacrificing aesthetics. Clients love the clean lines and how seamlessly they can be integrated into any décor.”
Demand Driven by Design Trends
According to recent industry reports, the market for pocket door systems has seen a significant uptick, with a 27% increase in UK sales over the past year alone. The trend is being driven by several factors: rising property prices, an increased focus on multifunctional rooms post-pandemic, and a growing appetite for contemporary, flush-to-wall aesthetics.
Manufacturers have responded with improved designs, including soft-closing mechanisms, frameless flush finishes, and fire-rated systems suitable for residential and commercial applications. Leading brands such as Eclisse, Scrigno, and LPD Doors are reporting record demand.
Builders and Renovators Take Note
Installers and construction firms are also embracing pocket doors, not only for their end-user appeal but for their practicality. While retrofitting into existing walls requires careful planning or stud wall construction, new builds and major renovations offer perfect conditions for pocket systems.
“More developers are requesting them for en-suites, wardrobes, and open-plan kitchens,” says James Morgan, a project manager at Eastwood Builders. “They allow more usable floor space and offer that wow factor buyers are looking for.”
Accessibility and Smart Home Integration
Pocket doors are not just about aesthetics. Modern pocket door systems come equipped with high-quality sliding hardware that ensures smooth operation and long-term durability. Accessibility advocates highlight their usefulness in homes for elderly or disabled residents, where wide, sliding doors can improve manoeuvrability. And with smart home integration on the rise, motorised pocket doors are also entering the market, allowing for remote control via apps or voice commands.
Looking Ahead
As consumers continue to favour open, flexible interiors, pocket door systems are likely to remain a fixture in modern design. From compact apartments to luxury developments, their blend of form and function is reshaping how we design our living spaces.
“Ten years ago, hardly anyone knew what a pocket door was,” says Turner. “Now, it’s one of the most-requested features on my projects.”
With innovation in materials and installation techniques advancing rapidly, the once-overlooked sliding door is now sliding confidently into the future of design.
