Parliament Hinges: A Complete Guide
Parliament hinges (and their close relatives, projection hinges) may have a traditional name, but they are still widely used in modern projects. These hinges allow doors to open to a full 180°, folding back flat against the wall to create maximum clearance. They are a good choice where extra space is needed, whether to improve access, accommodate French doors, or allow a door to swing clear of an obstruction.
When used correctly, parliament hinges can help create lighter, more open rooms, support accessibility requirements, and act as an elegant design feature where wider movement is required.
What Are Parliament Hinges?
A parliament hinge is a wide-opening hinge designed to let a door open to 180° so it sits flat against the wall next to it. This makes it ideal in spaces where a full opening is needed eg:
- French doors opening onto a garden or balcony
- Doors required to clear architraves, cladding or deep mouldings
- Projects where accessibility or mobility is a priority
Parliament hinges are defined by their extended leaves, which move the pivot point away from the frame, creating additional clearance. Many designs feature traditional scalloped edges, which give them a decorative look.
Where Do Parliament Hinges Come From?
Although widely used today, parliament hinges have been around for hundreds of years, initially on desks, cabinets, and doors that needed to open fully without obstruction. They were most often used in grand houses and public buildings where doors needed to open fully, hence the rather swanky name. Over time, the design has remained largely the same, though the engineering of the hinge’s workings has come on somewhat since the 17th century!
Parliament Hinges vs Projection Hinges
Parliament and projection hinges serve a similar purpose: both allow doors to open wider than a standard hinge. However, there are several key differences:
Knuckle Size
Parliament hinges have a smaller knuckle and are generally suited to lighter doors, while Projection hinges have a full-size knuckle, making them more suitable for heavier doors.
Design Shape
Parliament hinges often include scalloped or decorative edges. Projection hinges are typically rectangular and simpler in appearance.
Strength and Application
Projection hinges are the preferred choice where greater load-bearing capacity is needed. Parliament hinges are often selected for projects where the ornate detailing is in keeping, and the doors are lighter.
Where Should I Use Parliament and Projection Hinges
These hinges are often used in residential and commercial settings:
- French doors that need to open flat against exterior walls
- Doors in tight or restricted spaces requiring maximum clearance
- Doors needing to clear cladding, deep frames or architraves
- Areas with accessibility requirements, including wheelchair access routes
How to Choose the Right Size Parliament Hinge
Getting the sizing for parliament hinges right is essential. Follow this quick three-step method:
- Measure the clearance: determine the width of the obstruction (eg the architrave or cladding).
- Calculate the required hinge width: add the door thickness, inset (usually 3.2mm), and clearance, then subtract the backset (minimum 12mm or 14mm with an intumescent strip).
- Double the total: because parliament hinges extend across both leaves, double the figure to determine the hinge width you need.
This correct sizing will ensure smooth operation and prevent undue strain on the hinge or frame.
Parliament Hinges with Advanced Bearing Technology
At Phoenix Hinges, we manufacture parliament and projection hinges with a high-performance bearing system. Each hinge includes a stepped polymer bush located within the central knuckle that delivers low-friction movement, reducing wear without lubrication.
Materials and Finishes
Parliament and projection hinges are available from Phoenix Hinges in various sizes and finishes to suit architectural, heritage and commercial projects. Options typically include stainless steel, brass and plated finishes to complement traditional or contemporary designs.
FAQs
Q: What is a parliament hinge?
A: A parliament hinge is a hinge with extended leaves that allows a door to open to 180° so it sits flat against a wall, providing maximum clearance.
Q: What is the difference between a parliament hinge and a projection hinge?
A: Both allow wide openings, but projection hinges have a full-size knuckle for heavier doors, while parliament hinges have a smaller, more decorative knuckle for lighter applications.
Q: When should I use parliament hinges?
A: They are used when a door must clear an obstruction or open fully back onto a wall. They are often used for French doors, doors with deep architraves or entrances with specific accessibility requirements.
Q: What size parliament hinge do I need?
A: Calculate the obstruction, add door thickness and inset, subtract backset, and double the final measurement to determine the total hinge width.
Q: Are parliament hinges suitable for fire doors?
A: Some projection hinges may be suitable, but parliament hinges are generally used for lighter doors. Always refer to hinge load guidance and fire-test documentation before choosing hinges for a fire door.
Take a look
Parliament and projection hinges are an effective solution for doors requiring wide openings or additional clearance. Explore the full Phoenix range of specialist hinges to find the right specification for your next project.