IN THE TRADE?
OPEN A TRADE ACCOUNT
OPEN A TRADE ACCOUNT
Should I buy Origin Soho Or Smart Heritage Doors?
When comparing steel-look aluminium doors, two of the most popular options are the Origin Soho range and Smart Heritage doors (Alitherm Heritage / Alitherm 47). Both deliver the classic industrial-style design, but they differ in energy efficiency, materials, customisation, sizes, and cost.
This guide gives you a clear Origin Soho doors vs Smart Heritage comparison so you can decide which system is right for your home.
Origin Soho vs Smart Heritage: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Origin Soho Doors | Smart Heritage Doors (Alitherm) |
|---|---|---|
| Design & Style | Premium steel-look, very slim sightlines, luxury finish | Classic heritage steel-style with slightly chunkier frames |
| Energy Efficiency | Modern thermal breaks, U-values as low as 1.1 W/m²K with triple glazing | Good efficiency, typically around 1.5 W/m²K with double glazing |
| Materials | Premium-grade aluminium, precision-engineered by Origin in the UK | Aluminium system by Smart Systems, widely used in heritage projects |
| Colours | 150+ RAL colours, dual-colour options, textured finishes | Broad RAL range, but fewer finish options than Origin |
| Sizes | Bespoke made-to-measure, max sash heights up to ~2.5m+ | Flexible, but generally smaller max sizes than Origin |
| Price | Premium pricing – higher than Smart Heritage | More budget-friendly, often 20–30% less than Origin |
| Warranty | Up to 20 years direct from Origin | Typically 10 years (depends on installer/fabricator) |
Strengths of Each Door System
Origin Soho Doors – Strengths
-
Market-leading thermal efficiency.
-
Ultra-slim steel-look frames with a luxury finish.
-
150+ RAL colours and premium customisation.
-
Backed by an industry-best 20-year guarantee.
Smart Heritage Doors – Strengths
-
More cost-effective steel-look option.
-
Popular for period homes and heritage renovations.
-
Good energy efficiency with modern aluminium.
-
Flexible system available from many UK installers.
Which Is Right for Me: Origin Soho or Smart Heritage?
-
Choose Origin Soho doors if… you want the highest energy efficiency, the slimmest frames, and luxury finishes. Perfect for modern high-end renovations and new builds.
-
Choose Smart Heritage doors if… you want an affordable steel-look system for a heritage renovation or if budget is your priority.
Common Questions About Origin Soho Doors vs Smart Heritage
Which is more energy efficient?
Origin Soho doors are more efficient, offering U-values as low as 1.1 W/m²K with triple glazing, compared to Smart Heritage at around 1.5 W/m²K.
Which is more affordable?
Smart Heritage doors are typically 20–30% cheaper than Origin Soho.
Do both ranges offer the same colours?
Both offer a wide RAL range, but Origin Soho has more finishes, including dual-colour and textured options.
Are both secure?
Yes – both systems meet PAS 24 standards with multipoint locks and high-security glazing.
Which has the longer warranty?
Origin Soho comes with up to a 20-year manufacturer guarantee, while Smart Heritage is usually covered for 10 years.
Which looks slimmer?
Origin Soho has slimmer, more refined sightlines, while Smart Heritage frames are slightly chunkier.
Can I install either in a listed building?
Both steel-look systems are often approved in conservation projects, but you’ll need to check with your local planning authority.
In Summary: Origin Soho Doors vs Smart Heritage
-
Origin Soho doors: Premium, ultra-slim, highly energy efficient, extensive colour choice, long warranty – but higher cost.
-
Smart Heritage doors: Stylish, affordable, good efficiency, widely available – but less customisable and shorter warranty.
When comparing Origin Soho doors vs Smart Heritage, the choice comes down to budget vs performance. If you want luxury, long-term value, and best-in-class efficiency, choose Soho. If you want the steel-look style at a lower cost, Smart Heritage is an excellent alternative