DorSuite

DorSuite, is proud to showcase its contribution to the recently completed Brighton College Performing Arts Centre. This transformative £24 million project establishes a dedicated space for artistic expression, fostering creativity and community within the prestigious educational institution. Expertly crafted DorSuite doors grace the building, providing a sophisticated backdrop for artistic pursuits. The BriefBrighton College embarked on an ambitious project to develop a state-of-the-art performing arts center. The vision called for a multifunctional 400-seat theatre, dedicated dance and drama studios, classrooms for English and Drama, and a social gathering space. KRFT, the competition-winning architects, and NHA, the lead architects from stage 4 onwards, meticulously planned the building to cultivate a vibrant hub for artistic exploration. The SolutionThe project presented several opportunities for DorSuite to demonstrate its strengths in flexibility and exceeding expectations. Our team collaborated closely to develop an alternative screen design with rebated sections that met both aesthetic and functional requirements. This solution-oriented approach, requiring multiple iterations and open communication, exemplifies DorSuite's commitment to working in partnership with architects to achieve the best possible outcome. Bespoke Manufacturing: DorSuite's expertise in bespoke manufacturing came into play with the sheer variety of door and screen requirements. The project encompassed approximately 40 unique profiles. Sourcing Rift Cut timber, a unique material unfamiliar to our initial supplier, presented an additional challenge. DorSuite's agility and established network ensured this hurdle was overcome, with the timber procured and inspected before arriving at our production facility. A Blend of Beauty and Functionality: The ironmongery throughout the project reflects DorSuite's ability to deliver a combination of aesthetics and functionality. Bespoke, powder-coated bronze finishes complemented the design, alongside standard stainless steel options. The doorsets themselves showcased this variety, featuring American black walnut, European Rift cut timber, and various finishes including veneers, laminates, painted surfaces, and even dual-faced options. DorSuite also incorporated high acoustic doorsets and screens with double-glazed units, ensuring superior sound control within the performance spaces. The DorSuite Team:A dedicated team of specialists at DorSuite oversaw the design, manufacturing, and logistical complexities of this project. Their expertise in navigating challenges, coupled with a commitment to open collaboration, ensured the successful delivery of doors and screens that exceeded expectations.Craig HigginsProject ManagerGraham BorthwickSpecification DesignWalid ZrafiSpecification Design

Montgomerie Park Primary School – Sustainable Doors for a Landmark Passivhaus ProjectProject OverviewThe Montgomerie Park Primary School in North Ayrshire represents a significant milestone in educational infrastructure, standing as the region’s first Passivhaus school. Designed to provide high-quality education spaces and outdoor amenities, the £14 million campus project underlines the local authority’s commitment to sustainability and energy efficiency. DorSuite played a key role in this ambitious venture, supplying a range of bespoke timber doorsets for the new building. The ChallengeThe construction of Montgomerie Park Primary School, a 12-class facility accommodating 342 pupils, required a large number of diverse doorsets to meet the specific needs of the school’s design. The doors needed to integrate seamlessly with the modern architecture while providing practical solutions for the varied uses of the building, from classrooms to WC breakout doors. DorSuite's SolutionDorSuite delivered 78 oak-laminated doorsets, designed for durability and aesthetic appeal. Among these, 36 doorsets were equipped with Safehinge, a vital feature for educational environments that ensures the safety of pupils and staff. Additionally, the project involved the production of 2 WC breakout doorsets and 3 large sliding doors with bespoke frames, which were specially manufactured in Italy to meet the precise specifications. DorSuite ensured that all timber used in the project was sustainably sourced and FSC/PEFC certified. This commitment to sustainability aligns with the project's overall focus on energy efficiency and environmental responsibility. The ResultMontgomerie Park Primary School is now a beacon of sustainable design, providing state-of-the-art facilities for pupils, staff, and the local community. DorSuite's contribution of high-quality, sustainably sourced doorsets supports the school’s mission of delivering a comfortable and efficient learning environment. The bespoke solutions provided by DorSuite ensured that both functional and aesthetic goals were met, with doors that are not only safe and durable but also complement the Passivhaus ethos of sustainability. Industry ImpactThe success of Montgomerie Park Primary School highlights a growing trend in educational construction towards energy-efficient, sustainable design. While the Passivhaus standard primarily applies to the external elements of the building, the school’s overall commitment to sustainability is reflected in the responsible sourcing of materials, such as the FSC/PEFC-certified timber used by DorSuite. DorSuite TeamIain McNeillMaureen GovanProject ManagersShaun BuchananSales ConsultantJohn WrightSpecification DesignPhotography by Paul ZanreLooking ForwardAs educational projects continue to adopt sustainability as a core value, DorSuite remains committed to providing doorsets that not only meet the practical needs of schools but also contribute to their long-term environmental goals. Montgomerie Park Primary School stands as an example of how thoughtful design and responsible sourcing can work together to create spaces that serve both the present and future generations.