Jib Doors
Although sometimes portrayed as “secret,” the main purpose is aesthetic — maintaining a clean, uninterrupted wall surface, rather than complete concealment.
Jib doors have roots in neoclassical and Georgian interiors, where symmetry and clean wall surfaces were prized. Designers used them to avoid interrupting wall moldings, paneling, or visual rhythm.
Today, they are common in modern homes aiming for minimalist style or hidden access (e.g., under stairs, utility rooms) where visible door trim would detract.
Construction & Mechanisms
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Use concealed hinges (e.g. SOSS hinges or other invisible hinge systems) so no hinge leaf is visible when closed.
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Use touch latches or magnetic catches for actuation rather than visible knobs/handles.
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A minimal “reveal” (gap) is usually required (e.g. ~1/8") to allow opening clearance.
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The door leaf is finished to match surrounding wall (same paint, wallpaper, moldings) so the seam is hard to detect.
Style/Variants
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Wallpapered/fabric-wrapped jib, so the door literally disappears into wall finish
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Mirror-front — the door appears as a mirror flush with adjacent wall mirrors
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Panel-matched — where the moldings or raised panels carry continuously across the door leaf
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Orientation: can swing inward or outward depending on space and reveal constraints
