Swing Door Types: Single, Double, and Bi Swing Explained
Swing Door Types Explained: Single, Double, and Bi-Swing Doors for Every Space
Swinging doors are a versatile and timeless choice for both residential and commercial spaces. Whether you’re looking for a single swinging door for a small entryway or double swinging doors for wide passageways, understanding the full range of swing door types can help you make the right decision for function and style.
From traditional butt-hinged doors to doors that swing both ways with bi-directional hinges, this guide covers all the major styles—including bi swing door configurations—to help you choose the best fit for your space.
Key Takeaways
- Single swinging doors are ideal for smaller spaces or standard room entries.
- Double swinging doors offer a wide, elegant opening and can swing one or both ways.
- Bi swing doors enhance traffic flow and automatically return to center.
- Unique door styles like Dutch, pivot, and saloon doors serve both design and practical needs.
Single Swinging Door:
The most common and traditional type, a single swinging door is hinged on one side and swings in just one direction—either inward or outward. These are often used for bedrooms, bathrooms, offices, and exterior entryways.
Best for:
- Standard residential doorways
- Rooms with enough clearance for the door swing
- Privacy-focused interior doors
Key Features:
- Uses a butt or single-action hinge
- Swing direction is determined by hinge placement
- Available in panel, glass, or solid wood designs
Double Swinging Doors (French Doors):
Double swinging doors include two door panels that meet in the center. Often called French doors, these can be configured to swing in one direction or swing both ways with double-action hinges.
Best for:
- Living rooms, dining rooms, or patio access
- Large interior openings
- Spaces needing symmetrical aesthetics
Key Features:
- Can swing one way or both ways
- Allows for a wide, open feel
- Often used in both residential and commercial settings
Saloon Doors (Café Doors):
Saloon doors are typically installed at waist height, leaving the top open. These stylish swinging doors are common in bars, kitchens, and themed interior spaces.
Best for:
- Restaurants, kitchens, and game rooms
- Casual interior design themes
- Decorative entryways with light privacy needs
Key Features:
- Swing in both directions
- Can be custom-made in modern or rustic styles
- Great for airflow and ease of passage
Bi-Directional Full Length Doors:
These are similar to saloon doors but extend from floor to top of the door frame. Often found in kitchens or laundry rooms, these full-length bi swing doors offer the same hands-free functionality as café doors—with added privacy.
Best for:
- Residential kitchens or laundry rooms
- Back-of-house restaurant use
- Transitional zones in homes
Key Features:
- Swing both ways with auto-return to center
- No handle required
- Sleek and functional design
Bi-Fold Doors:
Bi-fold doors consist of two or more panels that fold in on each other when opened. These doors save space and are commonly used in closets or pantry areas.
Best for:
- Closets, laundry rooms, or storage areas
- Narrow spaces where a traditional swing door isn’t practical
Key Features:
- Operates on a top or bottom track
- Can be louvered or solid panel
- Fold compactly to maximize access
Swinging Dutch Doors:
Dutch doors are split horizontally so that the top and bottom sections can open independently. They’re great for interaction and airflow while maintaining a barrier below.
Best for:
- Entryways with children or pets
- Farmhouse or cottage-style interiors
- Exterior doors with ventilation needs
Key Features:
- Swing in a single direction
- Top and bottom can operate separately
- Available in both interior and exterior versions
Revolving Doors:
Revolving doors feature multiple panels (usually four) that rotate around a central vertical axis. While commonly seen in commercial and high-traffic environments, they serve both functional and aesthetic purposes.
Best for:
- Hotels, office buildings, malls
- High-traffic entryways
- Spaces needing climate control
Key Features:
- Minimize air exchange between indoors and outdoors
- Improve energy efficiency by maintaining interior temperatures
- Often motorized or equipped with sensors for hands-free entry
- Create a smooth flow of pedestrian traffic in and out of buildings
While not common in residential settings, revolving doors are a top choice for businesses that value a professional, efficient, and energy-conscious entrance solution.
Pivot Doors:
Pivot doors rotate on a pivot hinge located at the top and bottom of the door, rather than the side. This creates a striking and modern entry feature.
Best for:
- High-end modern designs
- Entryways and large door openings
Key Features:
- Unique pivot point for dramatic movement
- Works well with oversized or heavy doors
- Minimal visible hardware
Slide and Fold Doors (Accordion Doors):
These slide and fold doors feature multiple panels that stack to one side. While not technically a swing door, they’re often considered in similar design discussions.
Best for:
- Patios, decks, and large glass openings
- Flexible indoor/outdoor living
Key Features:
- Fold away completely for unobstructed access
- Great for open-concept floorplans
Choosing the Right Swinging Door for Your Space
Every swing door type offers different benefits depending on where and how you plan to use it.
|
Door Type |
Swings Both Ways? |
Best Use Case |
|
Single Swinging Door |
No |
Bedrooms, bathrooms, offices |
|
Double Swinging Door |
Yes/No |
Dining areas, large openings |
|
Bi Swing Door |
Yes |
Kitchens, restaurants, commercial areas |
|
Saloon/Café Doors |
Yes |
Kitchens, themed spaces |
|
Bi-Fold Doors |
No |
Closets, storage |
|
Dutch Doors |
No |
Entryways, homes with pets |
|
Pivot Doors |
No |
Modern luxury spaces |
Each type of swinging door has its advantages and is suitable for specific applications, so the choice depends on the intended use, available space, and design preferences.
Why Choose Swinging Café Doors for Double and Bi Swing Door Solutions?
Swinging Café Doors has been a leader in double swinging doors and bi swing door solutions for nearly two decades. Our USA-made doors are custom-built to fit your space and style, whether you’re creating a modern commercial kitchen or adding charm to your home’s interior.