Redefining the Rules for an Entrance

By Editorial Staff - 2 May 2025
Oikos has participated in the project

The name Vela basically says it all. This revolutionary new sliding front door from Oikos – a brand that does not just make doors, but what it calls “entrance architectures” – embodies lightness, minimalism and advanced technology. It is a seamless fusion of function, innovation, design and performance. Unveiled in early 2025, Vela stands out not only for how beautifully it moves and functions but for what it no longer includes: traditional locks and keys. Instead, it opens and closes via smartphone, PIN code, fingerprint reader or keycard – all integrated into crisp, minimalist handles, some so subtle they are almost invisible. Outside, the vertical handle is more prominent, though still integrated into the cladding. Inside, there are two options: one iconic, drawing on the curved prow of a Venetian gondola; the other ultra-minimal, stripped back and truly elegant. Versatility is another defining feature of Vela. It can disappear completely into the wall, creating a seamless transition between the entrance and the interior, or it can remain clearly visible, its refined detailing adding character to the room. In one mode, it blends in; in the other, it stands out as a sculptural element.
To ensure smooth motion, the lift mechanism has been automated, allowing the door panel to rise and lower during opening and closing. For larger models, a magnetic levitation system has been designed. It is integrated into the frame, making it completely invisible, using magnetic force to lift the panel and ensure frictionless, fluid motion. The patented closing mechanism is floor-mounted, while both the frame and the panel are engineered with thermal break technology to enhance energy efficiency.
To better align with the project’s esthetic language, the range of porcelain stoneware finishes was significantly expanded, along with a broader palette of colors that now spans from subtle neutrals to more refined, dramatic and even deeply saturated hues. The same focus on variety extends to the cladding options: Cassero concrete in three tonal variations, Liscio concrete in both light and dark versions, and the metallic Iron finish were developed specifically for the launch of Vela, but will soon be available across the full Oikos product range.
More than just a front door, the Vela sliding door is envisioned as a compact piece of architecture in its own right, a refined design tool that gives architects and designers a new way to shape the threshold of the home and add meaning. Rivoluzionare le regole d’ingresso © courtesy Oikos Venezia