How to choose between pocket doors and bifold doors

Pocket door vs bi fold door

The right internal doors can make or break a home, and when you’re working with smaller, more compact rooms and hallways, the decision becomes even more important. Options like pocket doors and bifold doors are a great way to maximise your space while instantly adding style and character – but which should you choose?

As one of the UK’s leading stockists of internal doors, we’ve spent more than 70 years supporting home transformations across the UK, combining premium products with expert advice from our dedicated team. With that in mind, if you’re wondering how to choose a door for a smaller space, we’re here to discuss the pocket doors vs bifold doors debate, so you can find the best internal doors for your specific property. Let’s break it down. 

What are pocket doors and sliding doors?

It’s easy to overlook just how much room is taken up by a traditional door’s swing arc, but when every inch matters, space-saving interior doors make a huge difference. One of the most popular options is a bifold door, which consists of hinged panels that neatly fold together against the door frame. Our internal bifold doors come in a range of different styles, including timeless Mexicano doors, glazed Pattern 10 models and streamlined Vancouver options, perfect for every kind of home.

Pocket doors are another option that is currently soaring in demand. Available in both single and double models, they slide open horizontally, slipping into a hidden wall pocket for a sleek, discreet effect. Each option has its own benefits – considering a few key factors can make the decision between the two smoother and ensure you end up with the best internal door for your space. 

Consider installation times and costs

If you’re struggling to choose between a pocket door and a bifold door, one of the first things you should ask yourself is how much time and money you want to dedicate to the project. With the simple addition of a track, bifold doors are quick and easy to fit into a standard doorway, making them a great choice for low-effort, low-cost home upgrades. In comparison, installing a pocket door for the first time is a more invasive and complex job, as you need to open the wall to create the hidden cavity. Though the outcome is an inconspicuous, seamless look that can instantly boost the functionality of your home, this is often a more time-consuming and expensive option, something that’s definitely worth considering at the start of your project. 

Think about how much space you’re looking to save

Both options are great for saving space, but if you’re working with a particularly compact area like an en-suite bathroom or an especially narrow hallway, pocket doors could be the best internal doors for you. Bifold doors eliminate a lot of the space taken up by a traditional swing door, but their stacking design means that they still occupy some room. In comparison, pocket doors slide away completely, so you can make the most of every inch of floor and wall space. 

Choose a door that complements the style of your home

Though the decision between pocket and bifold doors rests a lot on practical benefits, it’s also important to keep aesthetics in mind when you’re choosing between the two options. For example, pocket doors work exceptionally well in modern homes. Ideal for contemporary, open-plan living, their smooth opening design creates a seamless and minimalist effect, with many models like the LPD Flusso typically featuring clean, geometric lines and neutral colour palettes. In comparison, bifold doors are a great choice for more traditional properties, especially when you choose a timber model like the LPD Oak Bifold Mexicano door. Its cottage-style panelling and natural wood grain effortlessly complement a more classic home, saving space while adding character and charm.

Those are the key points covered! If you’re upgrading a smaller space and are looking for premium new doors, you’re definitely in the right place. Since 1952, we’ve played a part in countless home transformations, and we’re proud to stock a wide range of pocket and bifold doors from leading brands like LPD, all at unbeatable prices. 

Whether you’re replacing a single door or completely overhauling every room, we’re here to help you find the best internal doors for your property and make the most of your space. Still unsure how to choose between a pocket and a bifold model? Then don’t hesitate to reach out to a member of our friendly team on 0345 0268 799, or pop into one of our stores to discuss your next project in person.