Kees Marcelis takes the ‘next step’ in steel doors
A steel door that creates a wow effect without ever becoming tiresome – that was Kees Marcelis’ goal at the start of our collaboration. We are proud to present the result: the Linea model. This new steel door design is highly versatile thanks to its unique colours and materials. In this article, we speak with Kees about the collaboration and the creation of the design.
Reliable and professional
Kees Marcelis has built a strong reputation as an interior architect. With over 35 years of experience, he works with a dedicated team from Oosterbeek on a wide range of projects. Recently, he reached a new milestone: for the past five months, he has officially been an architect as well as an interior architect. During one of his projects, Kees came into contact with De Rooy through a contractor: ‘As a studio, we are always looking for reliable and professional companies, and I quickly found those qualities in De Rooy. The collaboration between the studio and De Rooy is best described as no-nonsense. They do their work, listen to our vision, and perhaps most importantly: nothing ever really goes wrong. This leads to satisfied clients. Their down-to-earth and smart way of working definitely leaves me wanting more.’
Simple combinations with a big impact
Kees explains: ‘My designs are usually characterised by simplicity with strong lines. I am always looking for new materials and combinations, where the omission of “conceits” is the core idea – whether it is a product or a building. I see these same qualities in the steel doors by De Rooy; they are often simple combinations with a big impact. That really appeals to me.’
The ‘next step’ in steel doors
Steel doors have been a trend for several years now, but how do you rise above with new designs? Kees says: ‘Glass is often treated as an afterthought, even though it usually covers the largest surface area. In addition to the steel’s line play, I looked at the direction and texture of the glass panels for this door. Letting go of clarity and exploring materials and forms led to surprising results. Applying wood with a vertical or horizontal grain also turned out to be a surprising option, lifting the steel door to the next level.’
Open sightlines and enough privacy
The model was developed from a whole series of sketches, Kees tells us: ‘I was working on an interior project where the door formed the division between the hallway and the living room. Using line play as the starting point, I created endless sketches to balance the lines and glass panels. Nothing is more fun than sketching, because then you realise just how many variations you can make. I showed the sketches independently to De Rooy and the client, and both immediately chose this design. The door provides an open sightline between the hallway and living room while still offering enough privacy.’
Positive reactions
The Linea model can now be seen in two variants at both Studio Kees Marcelis and De Rooy Steel Doors. The steel doors in Kees’ studio impress with the special type of glass featuring horizontal and vertical lines, while the steel door in our showroom is fitted with wood. Kees says: ‘The prototype of the new series has been hanging in my studio for a while now. When De Rooy came to install the doors, I immediately received enthusiastic messages from my colleagues. We have also received many positive reactions via social media and from visitors to the studio. I hope this door will stand the test of time and that the wow effect will continue to delight in many interiors for years to come.’
Come and see the Linea model in our showroom
Curious to see this stunning new model of steel doors? Linea has been on display in our showroom since November 2024.
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