Installed, by local specialist installers, this project involves the replacement of existing timber doors at an elegant detached home in Cheshire with white heritage doors using our AD-55 Artisan product. Finished in RAL 9010 matt white, inside and out.
The project brief for this installation of heritage doodr was clear. The homeowner wanted to retain the refined, period feel of the property. At the same time, they wanted the new doors to provide improved security, thermal performance and everyday usability, without defaulting to the more commonly specified black steel-look finish. This project shows how AD-55 Artisan doors allow you to achieve the look of traditional steel, with improved thermal performance, modern security and greater design flexibility.
AD-55 Heritage French Doors
The first set of doors comprises a French Door with side panels, and two horizontal glazing bars. Doors are set on a matching white cill.
The AD-55 system promises authentic steel-inspired styling with modern aluminium performance. The first set of doors therefore is a set of French Doors with side panels, allowing the new doors to sit comfortably alongside the existing timber windows and create a strong visual connection between two different glazing styles.
The main opening is configured as a French door set with side panels, detailed with two horizontal glazing bars running continuously through each module. This creates the distinctive grid-like pattern associated with heritage and Art-Deco glazing, while maintaining balanced proportions and consistent sightlines across the elevation.
The second set of white heritage doors is in the standard double door style, also with matching glazing bars and black handles.
This opening has a curved brickwork head. Rather than introducing curved doors, we resolve this detail using colour-matched insulated panels. This approach maintains thermal performance and delivers a clean, intentional finish that works with the existing architecture.
A second opening features a double door set in the same configuration, ensuring continuity across the rear of the property. All doors open outwards, improving internal space and providing direct, practical access to the patio. Both door sets do sit on a cill, however
This project demonstrates how white steel-look doors can work exceptionally well on character homes. The matt white finish softens the industrial aesthetic while allowing the slim sightlines and refined detailing of the AD-55 system to remain clearly visible.
AD-55 Artisan doors – authentic styling with modern performance
We use AD-55 Artisan doors for their ability to closely replicate the proportions and detailing of traditional steel, without the compromises associated with steel systems. Slim sightlines, mitred corners and carefully considered glazing bar options allow us to create doors that feel authentic rather than stylised.
The system is engineered from high-grade aluminium with deep polyamide thermal breaks, delivering excellent thermal performance when paired with modern glazing. All doors are glazed with toughened safety glass, incorporating a soft-coat low-emissivity coating, warm edge spacer bars and argon gas fill. This specification ensures compliance with current Building Regulations and improves year-round comfort.
Both door sets come as standard with five point locking system, engaged by lifting up the handle. The final locking is done via the 3-star security cylinder. For convenience, you can open both doors from the outside with a key, but with a thumbturn internally. The secondary leaf of the double door set is secured using flush bolts, maintaining a clean appearance while providing reassurance in everyday use with top and bottom locking.
The black art-deco handles are an excellent choice, contrasting with the white matt frames. These add a focal point to the doors, definition and reinforce the steel-look character of the doors. A combination which works particularly well on this property, introducing contrast without overpowering the overall design. All doors are designed with a lower threshold, providing easier access to the patio and improving usability, while remaining visually discreet.
Made by our approved manufacturing partner and installed by experienced local Cheshire trained fitters, who are familiar with the AD-55 system and its detailing requirements. Accurate surveying and preparation beforehand, ensured the doors fitted precisely within the existing openings, with clean junctions internally and externally.
Bespoke heritage doors for Cheshire and the North West of England
The white steel-look doors sit elegantly alongside the existing timber windows, creating a look through two traditionally styled door and window materials. Slim sightlines, balanced proportions and carefully chosen hardware give the doors a strong presence without dominating the elevation.
It also reflects how we at Fenestration Network guide you through the specification and installation of aluminium doors, supported by trusted local installers and our White Glove service throughout the process.
If you are considering steel-look or heritage-style aluminium doors or windows, contact us to discuss your project.
PROJECT DETAILS
Cheshire, June 2025, Traditional Period Detached Cottage
PRODUCTS USED:
· 2No. AD-55 Artisan Alitherm Heritage with black handles, toughened glass, matching cills.
RAL colour: RAL 9010 Matt white finish
