We've got an Edwardian semi and want to replace the patio doors. I assume there originally were french doors but these were replaced with sliding doors many decades ago.

We have come to like the uninterrupted view of the garden given by the large sliding doors (and the fact that they don't take up space in the garden when open) but obviously french doors in wood would probably be more in keeping with the age of the house.

Has anyone got any views on what would work best or alternative suggestions?

Thanks

Can you not get wooden folding doors so when closed they look like the Edwardian originals but once open they expose the entire garden to view? Could be pricey as they will have to be custom made but could be worth it and may not be all that horrendous if you ask local joiners to quote. Folding doors will also tuck neatly out of the way and bring the garden indoors - I will be envious if you end up with something like this!

Sliding doors are obviously completely wrong for the house (as you already said ) so are not something I would consider. I would have normal type french doors, bottom half timber, top half glazed. When open they will give you the view anyway.

Thanks for your views. I think the reason we are dithering a bit is that french doors or folding doors would have more frames interrupting the view - the sliding doors only have one bar visible in the middle when shut.

Inevitably they will be shut more than open with our British weather!

I've had both.

The sliding door ones (that I have now) give you a far better view.

They can be a bit scary / embarassing though because it's easy to forget there is glass there .

We are v pleased with our french windows from Magnet trade. You can get just the doors or sidelights too - which is what we have, giving us four big panels of glass. The doors fold right back when open so you get a good big opening. I think it is 2.3m wide in all, inc the sidelights.