High-quality front doors pay tribute to the Bauhaus architecture school: Where form follows function

From timelessly classic to modern and always groundbreaking. Work is currently underway, for example, on a Bauhaus collection to pay tribute to the famous school of architecture. 

"Within the new door series, craftsmanship, technology, functionality and aesthetics go hand in hand perfectly," says general manager Franck De Munster. "The collection will therefore appeal to many architects and residents alike."

100 years ago, Bauhaus represented a new and industrial way of building. American architect Louis Sullivan was one of the first to use the famous expression "form follows function. This expression became one of the foundations of the style and simply means that architectural form should always serve function, rather than its aesthetic appeal. 

"Unfortunately, the Bauhaus style never fully matured in public architecture," De Munster said. "Only today is this changing somewhat. Mainly because new demands are being placed on the home in terms of energy. Houses must be built ever smaller and more compact, so they must be designed more efficiently. In addition, delivery times and prices are under pressure."

Pure, clean lines

By building compactly and in logical volumes, and thanks to good insulation, energy losses are minimized. "This offers new opportunities for the cube house, which has the most compact building form. So after more than 100 years, Bauhaus has finally proved itself right," De Munster said. 

"Modern, square building forms with pure, clean lines, large areas of glass and flat roofs are increasingly defining our streetscape. Not surprisingly, because in this home residents can enjoy the largest possible heated and functional area. Especially when the lofty structure is exchanged for simple, open spaces. In the smooth and sleek facade detailing, our Bauhaus collection forms a very attractive accent."

Exclusively available in Magnetude®

A characteristic of the Bauhaus collection is that form follows function. The result is a minimalist design, with an emphasis on ease of use and efficiency. The Bauhaus collection is available exclusively in Magnetude®; FRAGER's unique and patented technique for sash-covering doors, in which the door panels are attached via a magnetic principle. 

"Magnetude® offers numerous advantages over conventional wing-covered door panels," De Munster emphasizes. "For example, dilation is a thing of the past. When heated, only the outer panel of the door expands. The door leaf, with its hinges and lock, remains completely stable. Even when the outer plate heats up to 90°C, the door leaf can be opened and closed without any problems! This makes impressive door dimensions possible. We daily produce doors of 3 meters high and 1.50 wide, which offers architects new (aesthetic) possibilities. In addition, all technical versions are possible. From standard opening to pivoting doors. So with the Bauhaus collection, architects can really make a statement. In addition, the collection offers numerous functional advantages."

Functional LED lighting 

In addition to excellent thermal insulation, Magnetude® provides ample room for acoustic insulation. The interlayer also provides opportunities for functional LED lighting, De Munster said. "For example, to discreetly illuminate the door handle and cylinder. This eliminates the need to search for the cylinder opening and door handle in the dark."

Handles for left- and right-handed use

The door handles for left- and right-handed use are another excellent example of the focus on functionality. The handles are wide enough to open the door and provide good grip for pulling the door closed. The unique construction of the Magnetude® system also allows the handles to be fastened invisibly.

Austere design

Within the collection, architects have a choice of many color finishes that give the doors a soft and matte finish. The color of the door handle blends seamlessly and discreetly with the color of the door leaf, which is cast in a very clean and sober design. "The door handle and any glazing determine the function and shape of the door and therefore the accent of the home."

Industrial manufacturability

In addition to sleek design, FRAGER has invested heavily in the manufacturability of the collection. As a result, industrialization, quality and freedom of form go together extremely well. 

"With this collection, we prove that different door models can be made with one type of handle," De Munster said. "Also, as little material as possible is used for maximum results. In one industrial motion, the aluminum for the door handle is pressed through a die, cut to size and powder coated. Casting, polishing and polishing are no longer necessary."

Interchangeable

Thanks to magnetic technology, all door functions can also be added at a later stage. In fact, all parts of the door panel are easily interchangeable. 

"When a new look is desired or in case of damage to glass or panels, there is no need to install a new door. Moreover, we fit perfectly with the circular building idea: at the end of their service life, all parts can easily be separated and recycled separately."