doorthrough

Doorthrough is a term used in architecture and interior design to describe a doorway that serves as a through passage between two spaces, designed to maintain continuous circulation and visual connection. The term combines "door" and "through" and is typically used in planning briefs, interior design guidelines, and wayfinding studies. It is not a standardized architectural category, and usage varies by region and firm.

Characteristics of a doorthrough include alignment with adjacent corridors or rooms, minimal obstruction, and sometimes a door that opens to both spaces or a pair of doors arranged to allow a single, continuous path. Doorthrough elements are often paired with clear sightlines, consistent floor finishes, and accessible thresholds to support wheelchair users.

Applications for doorthrough appear in offices, hospitals, museums, retail interiors, and other public buildings where efficient pedestrian flow and openness are desired. In design practice, a doorthrough can help reduce congestion, improve wayfinding, and physically connect spaces that are functionally linked.

Considerations for implementing a doorthrough focus on acoustic control, privacy, security, and compliance with fire and life-safety requirements. Egress design, smoke control, and accessibility standards influence door hardware, swing direction, and finish choices, balancing the through-connection with safety and energy efficiency.

See also: Door, Doorway, Circulation, Wayfinding. The term is often used informally, and its exact meaning may differ across contexts; it is best understood in relation to a project’s circulation strategy.