Solarlux Cero II Minimalist Sliding Doors, Orangery Extension, Warfield, Bracknell

Location: Warfield, Bracknell

As part of a bespoke architectural glazing solution, we installed a stunning Cero II minimalist sliding doors that spans an impressive 8,400 mm in width and 2,170 mm in height, weighing more than 210 kg per panel, into a contemporary Orangery in Warfield, Bracknell.

In the heart of the picturesque Berkshire countryside, this beautiful detached property, which is nestled in a quiet cul-de-sac in the highly sought-after Warfield village in Bracknell Forest, was built by Lissett in 1972, and the current homeowners have lived in the property since 1996

The Warfield homeowners decided they wanted to replace their conservatory with a contemporary glazed Orangery. Before starting their Orangery extension, the Bracknell homeowners conducted extensive research on bifolding and sliding door manufacturers. Knowing that Solarlux was one of the top five brands for high-quality glazing products, they contacted them for a quote.

As a quality partner of Solarlux since 2010, they passed the Bracknell homeowners’ enquiry onto us to contact them and provide a quote.

Our designer, Marcus, contacted the Bracknell homeowners to discuss their Orangery extension and listened to their glazing requirements and vision. He recommended a visit to our Bracknell showroom, where a range of Solarlux products is on display.

Part of the homeowners’ brief was that they wanted to explore large sliding patio doors with all panels sliding and a flush threshold that can be tiled over, bi-folds and roof lights. They were keen to appoint one manufacturer for all the glazing products to maintain a consistent look and feel.

With planning permission approved, they needed to confirm their architectural glazing design with the thermal and structural engineers, allowing their architect to provide Building Regulations Plans.

Marcus worked closely with the homeowners to provide an innovative, sustainable fenestration solution that met their Orangery requirements and lifestyle. He thrived on the challenge of this project, guided by his creative vision and glazing experience, to create a striking balance of innovative glazing solutions and authentic minimalism.

After much discussion, the Bracknell homeowners opted for a mixture of minimally framed Solarlux Ecoline bi-fold doors, the award-winning Cero II Minimalist sliding doors, and an Atlas aluminium roof lantern, allowing natural light to flood the interior.

For the Ecoline bifold and Cero II Minimalist sliding doors, a metallic dark grey powder-coated finish was chosen for both the inside and outside. For the roof lantern, they selected RAL7016 dark grey on the outside and standard white on the inside.

The expansive glass panels offer a stunning effect and add an air of elegance that aligns with the current glazing trends for living spaces filled with natural light and style.

Designed with both style and purpose in mind, this contemporary Orangery is the perfect blend of performance and aesthetics. With expansive glazing, it provides an open, light-filled living space that enhances the connection between the interior and the exterior, bringing tranquillity and peace within its walls.

This contemporary Orangery highlights the significance of a bespoke glazing specification. The Cero II minimalist sliding door system, chosen for its 34mm sightline, double glazing, and a U-Value of 1.3 (W/m²K), maximises light while serving both functional and aesthetic goals. The slimline design and thermal efficiency ensure outstanding energy performance while enhancing its modern aesthetic.

When you enter this contemporary Orangery, you are immediately welcomed by the grandeur of its living space, bathed in natural sunlight. You cannot help but be mesmerised by the perfect blend of luxury, elegance, and modern high-quality glazing systems that define the heart of this family home.

The high-quality glazing solution is timeless. The natural light streaming through the floor-to-ceiling bi-folding and sliding doors, along with the peaceful garden views, creates a serene space that allows for reconnecting with nature.

Solarlux’s award-winning Cero II sliding door system dominates this contemporary Orangery. The large sliding glass doors are precisely aligned with the project’s brief on natural light, transparency, and blurring the lines between the indoor/outdoor areas.

This not only provides unobstructed views but also guarantees energy efficiency, durability, and security.

Every architectural element was respected and elevated through elegant design solutions. From the advanced stainless steel carriages and track to the flush thresholds and integrated drainage system.

This project exemplifies architectural innovation, showcasing our ability and expertise to design bespoke fenestration solutions that create stunning, light-filled spaces.

What helped you make your Decision? Price/quality/features, etc?

Our Decision was primarily based on quality and Features. Both the Bifolds and the Ceros glide effortlessly. With bifold doors, I tested all the ones we saw using a simple inertia vs. friction test. i.e., you pull them a constant amount, and one sees how far they move due to their momentum. A sound system would have minimal friction, noise and inconsistency. The ability to open with just a single, even weakish finger was key. When we are 80-90 years old, we should be able to open with ease. Similarly with the Ceros, although much heavier, once they were moving, there would be little effort to push. The mechanism was also fundamental. We saw with some bifolds that the doors appear to lean away from the vertical when they are moved slightly. Any lateral movement in what should be a vertical direction means the mechanics are already wearing in some way. The more they lean, the more they will wear away, creating a spiral problem.

The flat threshold was key for us. I was particularly impressed with the ability to inlay tiles into the tracks – an exquisite feature. However, the information from the specs alone suggests that when we bought the windows, the insulation of the double glazing was a key factor. The Solarlux brand was also important – having done background internet research, being in the top 5 brands was key. However, they are very expensive, especially the Ceros. However, I believe in investing well. When one can buy a very decent car for the same money, it says a lot about our belief that the windows would be good.

Results – did it meet aspirations, what impact has the installation had – lifestyle change, property value, space added, etc.

Yes, all the doors, including the tilt/turn window and lantern, have met our expectations. Extension and the doors have created an amazing, unique space, allowing the patio and internal floor to be as “one”, allowing our dining table to feel like it is outside. All our friends have said, “Wow – what an amazing space!”. Having over two sides of the extension made of glass makes you feel as though you’re outside, even on the coldest winter days, and yet with the underfloor heating, one feels very warm. Initially, with the old conversatory, we would only use it on weekends in winter, turning on the two massive radiators we had. So, I only used it for half the year. Now we can enjoy the space, regardless of the weather.

Why did you choose TVW, and what made us unique among other providers?

We chose TVW because you sold Solarlux products with the features described above. We also reviewed other places selling Solarlux, Schuco, Rehau, and Cortizo windows. Plus, you were able to demonstrate everything we wanted, and also provide a lantern with the features we needed – i.e., automatic opening and closing at set temperatures. And provide facias in the same anthracite sparkling finish. Plus, which is very important, you are a local company. Should everything go wrong, you are contactable. National or bigger regional players can hide behind call centres.

What has been your overall experience with TVW?

Overall, I have been very impressed with TVW. Although there were frustrating times – the Solarlux bifold issue, the roof lantern not having the motorised/electrical configuration which I would have optimally liked, and the delay in ordering the lantern.

The main reason I am very pleased with TVW is that you supported us as your customer when we had an issue with Solarlux. However, TVW stuck by us – thank you. I appreciate that the significant size of our order may have helped this, but it is greatly appreciated that you supported us. I want to acknowledge Mark and Dan, who provided us with significant assistance during this time.

If you are interested in choosing Cero II Minimalist sliding doors for your Berkshire, Surrey or Hampshire home, you can request a free, no-obligation quote.

Products used:

• • • Orangeries
  • Atlas Roof Lanterns
  • Solarlux Ecoline Bi-Fold Doors
  • Solarlux Cero Sliding Doors

You may also be interested in reading our blog article ‘What is The Difference between a Conservatory and an Orangery’
Suppliers:

Architectural Designer: Marcus Durling

Architect: Hen Design Ltd

Builders: BW Reed & Son

Our ref: 34755/34759