PROJECT TIGAN DOORS

PROJECT ARCHITECT CLAUDE BORG

2018 | Arch-con Atelier

Abstract artwork featuring geometric shapes and earthy tones.

CONCEPT AIM

The concept door is designed as a fully personalised architectural element that combines everyday functionality with artistic expression. By eliminating the need to manufacture doors to the exact width of the constructed opening, the system offers greater flexibility during installation while simplifying production. The traditional door frame is replaced with an integrated door-to-wall solution, creating a clean, seamless transition that enhances the minimalist character of contemporary architecture.

MANUFACTURING METHODOLOGY

Every door is specifically designed for CNC machining, ensuring exceptional precision, manufacturing efficiency, and repeatability. Produced from a standard 2.44 m × 1.22 m three-layer plywood sheet, the design maximizes material utilization while minimizing waste. Advanced CNC technology enables the creation of intricate low-relief carvings and bespoke surface designs, allowing each door to become a unique architectural feature without compromising production efficiency.

Woodworking workbench in a workshop with partially built wooden frame, various tools, and wood pieces in the background.
A person with curly brown hair, wearing a gray hoodie and a striped shirt, is leaning over a wooden table working on a craft project involving pieces of paper or fabric. The table has several rectangular pieces with various patterns. In the background, there is a living room with a black couch, orange pillows, a lampshade, a small round table with a tissue box and electronic devices, and a large colorful painting on the wall. There are also some supplies, like bottles and markers, on the floor and table.
A close-up view of a wooden table with a red metal object in the foreground. The table has a light wood finish and is situated in a workshop or storage area, with out-of-focus objects and materials in the background.

DOOR CONSTRUCTION

The door is constructed from three layers of plywood that are carefully glued and pressed together to achieve excellent strength, rigidity, and dimensional stability. Two of the layers are CNC-cut slightly shorter to form an integrated rebate (batten), allowing the door to overlap the wall and eliminate the need for a conventional frame. This layered construction conceals the structural components within the door, resulting in a refined, solid appearance with clean architectural detailing.

INSTALLATION SYSTEM

The installation system is designed to simplify construction while enhancing the overall architectural aesthetic. Instead of being mounted within a traditional timber frame, the door is fixed directly to the wall, with the integrated batten providing accurate alignment, structural support, and a seamless connection between the wall and the door. This innovative approach minimises visible hardware and creates a flush, contemporary finish that complements modern interior spaces.

Line drawings of door templates labeled 'Door 4 Back,' 'Door no 4,' 'sheet 1 to cut,' 'sheet 2 to cut,' and 'sheet 3,' with various design outlines for cutting.

DESIGN & AESTHETIC FEATURES

The door transforms a functional building element into a distinctive design feature through CNC-machined low-relief patterns that are carved directly into its surface. By allowing the door and surrounding wall to visually merge, the design creates a continuous and uninterrupted architectural composition. Its clean lines and bespoke detailing make it equally suited to contemporary residential interiors, commercial spaces, and high-end architectural projects where craftsmanship and originality are valued.

PERSONALISATION POSSIBILITIES

Every concept door can be uniquely personalised while retaining the same efficient manufacturing process. CNC technology allows custom artwork, decorative patterns, textures, logos, and bespoke graphic designs to be incorporated directly into the door surface. A wide selection of stains, painted finishes, and colour options further expands the design possibilities, enabling each door to be tailored to the character and identity of its interior while maintaining consistent quality and precision.

A woodworking project in progress featuring a wooden panel with cut-out designs. The panel is placed on a workbench with tools and materials nearby.
Wooden project table with cutout designs and tools in a workshop setting.