Pocket doors are a go-to solution for maximizing space and achieving clean sightlines—but not all installations look or function the same. Depending on your design intent, there are two distinct ways to pocket a door: recessed or proud.
This method allows the door to fully disappear into the wall cavity when open. The result? A clean, flush wall with no visible door edge or handle, making it ideal for minimalist interiors or smaller spaces that benefit from a seamless look.
Here, the door sits slightly outside the wall when open, with a portion remaining visible. This approach is often used with thicker, heavier, or more decorative doors. It also allows for easier grip or access to pulls.
Whether you choose recessed or proud installation, our Crowder Frame™ pocket door systems accommodate both—no compromises required. With patented Catch ‘N’ Close® soft-close technology on both ends, doors glide smoothly and quietly, with no slamming or bounce-back.
We offer several types of Crowder Frames: some models support doors up to 300 lbs. [136 kg], while others accommodate doors as narrow as 18 in [457 mm]. Each system is cycle-tested for 150,000 uses and built with Canadian materials in our Burlington, Ontario facility. We've even added a new slot feature for easy in-wall replacement of the soft-close units.
Want to see the difference in action?
Watch our quick demo to compare the two pocketing styles:
This short clip shows both the recessed and proud pocket door positions using our Catch ‘N’ Close sliding door system.