CERO II Slimline Sliding Doors, Contemporary Farmhouse, Sandhurst

Location: Sandhurst

Set within open Berkshire farmland, this contemporary farmhouse in Sandhurst is a confident statement of modern rural architecture: crisp lines, natural materials, and expansive floor-to-ceiling glazing that draws the landscape into everyday living. Replacing a dated 1960s chalet bungalow, the homeowners, highly experienced self-builders, set out to create a bespoke two-storey home where light, views, and transparency would define every elevation.

Working alongside Michael Conoley Architects, the clients established a clear brief focused on refined door design, uninterrupted sightlines, and a seamless transition between inside and out. Large panes of glass were essential, but so was performance. The bespoke aluminium glazing package needed to balance minimal visual impact with long-term reliability, robust security, and excellent thermal efficiency, all of which are significant in a highly glazed property designed for year-round comfort.

From the outset, aluminium frames were identified as the ideal solution. Their inherent strength supports large glass panels while enabling exceptionally slim profiles, and their stability helps maintain consistent alignment over time, critical for smooth operation across multiple openings. With a preference for premium European engineering, the homeowners selected Solarlux as the primary manufacturer, with the CERO II slimline sliding doors making a grand statement in the home’s glazing solution.

At the heart of the home’s aesthetic is a bespoke glazing scheme designed and installed by Thames Valley Windows. Featuring award-winning Solarlux Cero II sliding doors, Ecoline and Highline bifolds, fixed gables, and shaped windows, the glazing enhances every aspect of the property, from amplifying natural light to framing panoramic countryside views. The ultra-slim 34mm sightlines and large glass panels open the property to nature, creating a sense of openness and tranquillity throughout. exp

The Sandhurst homeowners collaborated closely with Michael Conoley Architects and Thames Valley Windows to achieve a design that balances clean, modern lines with natural materials such as timber and brick. The result is a luxurious aesthetic that is both contemporary and timeless, with every detail carefully considered.

The project also included a bespoke glazing solution for a separate indoor swimming pool suite, demonstrating the adaptability of Solarlux systems across varied settings. Thermal performance, security, and longevity were key considerations, and each product was selected for its ability to meet the highest standards.

This bespoke family home is a testament to innovation, collaboration, and refined engineering. This project redefines what is possible with modern glazing solutions and stands proudly as one of Thames Valley Windows’ most impressive achievements.

An Innovative Sliding Door System

To meet the project’s exacting aesthetic and performance goals, Thames Valley Windows specified seven CERO II aluminium sliding doors, delivering the minimal look the architects required without compromising practicality. As a complete sliding door system, CERO II pairs near-frameless visuals with the strength necessary for large-format glazing, creating a contemporary farmhouse that feels both grounded and striking. Finished in anthracite grey, the aluminium profiles complement the home’s wider palette of brick and timber while reinforcing its sharp, modern character.

For comfort and energy performance, triple-glazed units were used where required to support the brief for enhanced insulation and reduced heat loss. Combined with thermally advanced aluminium profiles, the glazing contributes to an efficient building envelope, helping maintain internal comfort while preserving the clarity and openness of expansive glazing.

Configuration, Thresholds, and Everyday Usability

Large openings only succeed when they work effortlessly day to day. Detailed coordination around floor levels ensured clean, consistent transitions between internal spaces, terraces, and balcony zones. Track detailing was selected to support minimal thresholds while maintaining weather protection and structural integrity.

To suit the architecture and how the home is used, specific openings were incorporated into a triple-track layout. This intelligent track option increases flexibility and enables wider, precise openings without compromising the façade’s rhythm.

Water management was also integral to performance. The specification included integrated drainage to control rainfall at the base of the system and help protect adjacent finishes, supporting longevity and reliable operation across exposed elevations.

Security, Hardware, and Long-Term Durability

Minimal sightlines were achieved without sacrificing peace of mind. The sliding doors were specified with multi-point locking, providing robust security while preserving clean lines and simplicity. Key components were selected for durability, including stainless steel hardware where appropriate, supporting consistent performance and a premium feel over the long term.

A Bespoke Glazing Solution

Beyond the feature slimline sliding doors, Thames Valley Windows delivered a complete, coordinated glazing package including Solarlux Ecoline and Highline bifolds, fixed gables, and shaped glazing, creating an impressive aesthetic across the home. In supporting areas, carefully selected products were used to meet functional requirements while maintaining consistent performance.

Outcome

The finished Sandhurst contemporary farmhouse demonstrates what’s possible when architectural ambition is matched by engineering precision. The result is a home defined by light and landscape: expansive sliding patio doors that frame countryside views, finely detailed thresholds aligned to key floor levels, and a consistent palette of aluminium frames finished in anthracite grey.

With high-performance glazing, carefully selected track configurations, dependable smooth operation, and robust security features, the project delivers on every aspect of the original brief. This contemporary family home showcases the very best of modern aluminium glazing design.

Products used:

• • Solarlux Cero Sliding Doors
  • Solarlux Bi-Fold Doors

You may also be interested in reading our blog articles, ‘What Makes Solarlux Bi-Folds Different? or ‘The Re-Birth of the Sliding Door.’

Our ref: 34576, 34577, 34578, 35101, 35463

SUPPLIERS:

Designer: Rob Legge
Architect: Michael Conoley Architects