The XL Edit: A Gate to Summer
As the days grow longer and the light begins to soften, homes across the country start to open up—windows wide, patio doors ajar, and the hum of summer drifting in. It’s a season defined by flow: between spaces, indoors and out, day into night. And increasingly, doors and gates are becoming central characters in that story.
Gates
From elegant internal glass-panelled doors to rustic, timber-framed gates, the latest designs are less about separation and more about connection—allowing light to travel, creating sightlines, and setting a tone before you’ve even crossed a threshold. Why the Gate Is the New Front Door No longer just a boundary marker, the external gate is enjoying a quiet design renaissance. It’s where a home’s personality starts to unfold—especially in the summer, when outdoor spaces become social hubs. Whether it’s defining a garden path or marking a tucked-away entrance, a well-crafted gate adds instant charm and a sense of intention. XL’s newly launched external doors range draws from a palette of natural timber tones and laidback, countryside charm—offering three styles made with sustainably sourced wood, ready for a bespoke stain. Think of them as the handshake before the house.
French Doors
French Doors That Frame the Season In summer, it’s not just the garden that comes to life—it’s how we frame it. French doors have become a favourite not just for their function, but for their ability to capture the outdoors like a living still life. Wide glass panels draw in natural light and offer uninterrupted views—whether it’s a flowerbed in bloom or a candlelit dinner al fresco. XL’s La Porte French Door exemplifies this blend of practicality and poise. It turns the garden into a canvas, blurring the line between exterior and interior with effortless style.
Inside, Light Leads the Way
Interiors, too, benefit from a seasonal shift. As our homes adapt to brighter days and more fluid routines, internal doors play a role in directing light and lifting mood. The trend? Lighter finishes, glass details, and designs that don’t block the flow. One standout is the Internal Oak with Clear Bevelled Glass—delicate and timeless, especially in the ‘Blanco’ finish. It doesn’t just separate spaces; it layers them. Its elegant and intricate glass panel design allows light to dance through your home,
casting soft, ever-changing shadows across the walls adding texture and throughout the day. Prefer something with a little more structure? The Worcester Door Pair offers larger panes and a modern silhouette—available as double doors to double down on that summery, gallery-style openness.
Designing for the Season
Summer interiors are no longer just about textiles and tableware. Architecture and joinery are taking centre stage in seasonal styling, offering both function and feeling. The best updates? The ones that live with you—quietly shaping your space and elevating everyday rituals.
Whether it’s a gate that greets you with charm or a door that frames your garden like a photograph, the pieces that open us up to summer are the ones we’ll remember long after it fades.
