"access doors"

As part of their expansion, The Wild Place Project (Bristol Zoo Network) enlisted our help in the construction of their new Giraffe Enclosure. The £1m purpose-built giraffe home was constructed over 1.8 acres and needed bespoke doors to suit the needs of the giraffes. HAG designed special doors in-house; the doors needed to be sliding to allow easy access for the zoo keepers, insulated and, obviously, rather tall to accommodate the giraffes comfortably! The giraffe enclosure has been a huge success with the public and HAG truly enjoyed being part of such a unique project.

A Rundum Original side sliding garage door has enabled a client in Yorkshire to apply a non-standard shape to their new garage to maximise the footprint and provide the largest area of usable internal space with easy vehicular access. The angle of the boundary of the Victorian house presented an opportunity during a refurbishment project to remodel the garage. By aligning the front elevation of the garage with the house, vehicular access could be improved. The design required a door that could comfortably handle a right angle corner followed by an obtuse angle along the garage's side wall.

ForFarmers is a market leading international feed company that offers feed solutions for conventional and organic livestock farming.Project/doors:21 Hart Doors across 4 sites including Speedor Super, Speedor Storm and Speedor MiniThe challengeDue to the contents of the building, regular industrial doors were not acceptable as they had to be left open, allowing pigeons to enter the building, resulting in damage to the produce.The solutionThe front elevation of the building had to be sealed to prevent vermin egress while also allowing truck access in a fast and safe way. Speedor high speed doors activated by vehicles allow for efficient movement in and out of the building.The successThe doors, installed at feed intake tipping bays, improve aesthetics of the facility, prevent ingress of wildlife into the building and dust being blown over adjacent properties. Speedors do a tremendous job when required for fast open/close cycles at locations such as this where tipping feed can create dust for example. We designed taller and narrower doors – 7.5m high x 3.2m wide – to accommodate the dimensions of the tipping trucks and overall the installation works very well for a happy client

1 Nine Elms Lane, London SW8 5NQAs Europe's largest regeneration zone, Nine Elms is the most ambitious regeneration project undertaken in London for decades. Located on the south bank of the River Thames in Nine Elms, No. 8 and No. 9 Thames City are impressive new 53-storey residential towers. With their prime central and riverside location, they offer a vibrant destination for city dwellers and visitors.Nine Elms, London's dynamic urban district, is marked by its soaring residential towers. Ensuring the safety of the residents and the protection of the property is paramount. This case study highlights the successful collaboration between Nine Elms London's newest 53-storey residential towers and Rapid Access Ltd, a leading supplier of 920-minute fire rated Riser Doors with smoke seals.Challenges:1. Towering Heights: The residential towers reached considerable heights, increasing the complexity of fire safety and evacuation procedures.2. Stringent Fire Safety Standards: Compliance with stringent fire safety standards, including resistance to fire for a prolonged duration, was a primary concern.3. Smoke Control* Preventing the spread of smoke in the event of a fire was a vital aspect of the fire safety strategy.Solution:Rapid Access Ltd, renowned for their expertise in fire-rated access solutions, was chosen to address the specific needs of Nine Elms London's newest 53-storey residential towers. The solution included the supply and installation of 90-minute fire rated Riser Doors with smoke seals, designed to meet the following key criteria:1. 90-Minute Fire Rating: Rapid Access Ltd provided riser doors with an exceptional 920-minute fire rating, exceeding the fire safety requirements for such high-rise structures.2. Smoke Seals: The riser doors were equipped with smoke seals to prevent the spread of smoke and enhance the safety of residents during evacuation.3. Safety and Compliance: The installation adhered to the most stringent fire safety standards, ensuring the protection of residents and property.Implementation:The supply and installation of 920-minute fire rated Riser Doors with smoke seals by Rapid Access Ltd were executed with meticulous attention to safety and compliance. The installation process was conducted to meet the highest fire safety standards and the specific requirements of the residential towers.Conclusion:The collaboration between Nine Elms London's newest 53-storey residential towers and Rapid Access Ltd exemplified the successful integration of advanced fire safety solutions in high-rise structures. The installation of 920-minute fire rated Riser Doors with smoke seals not only met regulatory and safety needs but also provided an exceptional level of fire protection and peace of mind for the residents. This case study underscores the critical importance of selecting the right access solutions provider for projects that demand the highest levels of fire safety.

Our client Prestige All Parts, a car dealership, aimed to establish a new showroom and office space. They sought an innovative solution that would not only set their showroom apart but also ensure functionality and appeal to visiting customers.To address our clients needs, we proposed a comprehensive redesign of the shopfront. The focal point of our solution was the integration of expansive windows to maximise the influx of natural light into the showroom. This strategic approach aimed to create an inviting ambiance while showcasing the displayed vehicles in their best light. In addition to that, the implementation of a sliding automatic door system for the main entrance allowed for enhanced accessibility and also offered a seamless and user friendly experience for customers entering.Beyond its practical benefits, such as ease of access for visitors, this feature symbolised the dealership’s commitment to modernity and innovation. By implementing these proposed solutions, our client not only transformed their physical space but also redefined their brand identity.

The waiting room at Houton Pier on The Mainland of the Orkney Islands was cold and draughty due to a weather-damaged door opening directly into the waiting area. An extension was built to create a weather break and fitted with record FTA 20 automatic folding doors which minimise the time the door is open to the elements but still provides good access. The doors are activated by a radar presence sensor for two way traffic. The old door was also replaced with a THERMCORD sliding door with energy efficient core panels to further reduce the ingress of cold air.

Hart Door Systems has worked with a number of UK water companies to improve site security and efficiency. In particular the need to secure remote and often unstaffed but vitally important sites. Water sites have particular needs which require reliable and secure doors and the engineering expertise that Hart offer.The challenge This Yorkshire Water had 3 existing un-secure horizontal doors. These manual operation doors had fallen into disrepair and presented a security risk. Automatic doors were required to provide efficiency and security. The solution The Hart solution was to install its roller shutters, fitted in a customised way to suit the environment and to ensure security, ease of installation and minimum disruption. One of the things Hart has significant experience in is fitting doors that add security features but without the need for additional structural works. Disruption was further minimised by working in collaboration with the main construction contractor, scheduling the work to fit in with not only the day to day operations, but other work happening concurrently.Because of Hart’s experience on sites such, existing vital operations were worked around – which continued during the removal of the old doors and installation of the new. The success Several more SR rated doors are planned at the same site, so that the company can replicate the success and the improved security that has been provided.Hart has gained invaluable experience working with various water companies installing high specification SR rated security shutters. These doors meet an established set of standards to prevent unauthorised access and have been tested and shown to minimise the threat of certain intruder attacks.For those sites that need constant access by people and / or traffic, the Speedor brand of doors can provide additional high speed operation. Speedor and SR doors can be used in combination to give complete flexibility and the best of both worlds.

GEZE is also a leading provider of door, window and safety technology in the UK. GEZE UK Ltd implemented state-of-the-art door solutions in the John Radcliffe Children's Hospital in Oxford, skilfully combining clinical functionality with a comfortable atmosphere for the young patients.Invisible efficiency: Slimdrive SL sliding door systemsAutomatic glass sliding door system with Slimdrive SL-drives in discreet 70 mm design.The John-Radcliffe Children's Hospital designed by Parry Bowen architects, and built in accordance with the latest hospital architectural standards.. The real eye-catcher of the main entrance is the double-leaf automatic sliding door, with a powerful GEZE Slimdrive SL drive system that works almost invisibly thanks to its construction height of only 70 mm. The Slimdrive SL drive automatic drive fits unobtrusively and elegantly into the contemporary clinic façade, and quietly and efficiently manages thousands of movement cycles every day at the busy children’s hospital."We are delighted by the design of our entrance area. It’s exactly the kind of atmosphere that is expected of a modern children's hospital. The high-quality workmanship makes a key contribution to a comfortable and inviting atmosphere for patients and clinical staff," says Vickie Holcroft, Project Manager at the John Radcliffe Hospital.Automatic swing doors: convenience in the entire clinical areaThe swing door systems from the GEZE TSA drive series are used everywhere in the clinic complex where functionality and ease of access are of particular importance. The automatic TSA 160 door drive ensures light and reliable opening and closing of the automatic doors, even in heavily frequented areas. The TS 4000 overhead door closer provides flexible ease of access at swing doors with manual opening. The closing force of the door closers can be individually set and can be perfectly adjusted to meet the needs of each clinical area. They enable door leaves to be opened with minimal effort, e.g. for children and weak adults. The TSA drives make transportation of beds and/or patients easier for clinical staff.Access control for supervised clinical areasTo safeguard access control to sensitive clinical areas, the swing doors to the operating rooms and intensive card wards were also equipped with a TSA drive with an electromagnetic locking system. This guarantees that only authorised persons can enter these areas.

DuPont Teijin Films is a leading global producer of polyester films, specialising in film products and related services for many industries.The Project17 Hart doors including Speedor Super, Speedor Storm, Speedor Mini, Fire ShutterThe ChallengeDuPont required a company that could offer the reliability of both the industrial doors and the service provided. When doors are left open or closed for any length of time, it can directly affect the manufacturing process. DuPont needed a product and a company they could trust to provide reliable and consistent service, saving them money by reducing downtime.The SolutionHart has manufactured, installed and serviced a range of industrial high-speed doors for a range of benefits to the customer, including increasing efficiency by giving faster alternative access to the area, rather than using a large, slow roller shutter.The SuccessDuPont has chosen Hart as their door supplier for over 35 years due to the dependability of the product and service. DuPont put the investment in Hart due to the quality and longevity of Hart doors, understanding they are value for money with a low total cost of ownership and better return of investment than a cheaper product. Hart maintain 36 doors in total. The first Hart doors were installed in 1985.

Two bespoke, 8m-span Rundum Original side sliding garage doors have enabled Evans Vettori architects to deliver on their thoughtful, sensitive vision for the modern new premises of a well-established firm of funeral directors in Buxton. Two Rundum Original ‘round the corner’ side sliding doors provide access to the garage for the company’s three large specialist vehicles. A second door designed and manufactured to a matching specification provides the same wide opening directly at the rear of the building, allowing the vehicles to be driven in with ease from the small courtyard.The building’s high quality design and excellent build standard by NSJ Contractors, which resulted in it making the shortlist of the East Midlands RIBA Regional Awards 2020, blends key aspects of the local vernacular with modern design and material choices, including a zinc standing seam roof that extends to form the outward-facing façade.Within this zinc façade is one of the two Rundum Original ‘round the corner’ side sliding doors by Rundum Meir UK that provide access to the garage for the company’s three large specialist vehicles. A second door designed and manufactured to a matching specification provides the same wide opening directly the rear of the building, allowing the vehicles to be driven in with ease from the courtyard to avoid any access or manoeuvring difficulties and making best use of the site’s space.

We’ve had a long-standing relationship with Birmingham University, having installed many doors and operators in the past. The University has a large campus, and we have a few projects under our belts where improved sustainable access has been achieved.Below is a fine selection of some of our more recent installations.Project Year: 2023Product: ASSA ABLOY SW200 Operator (Main entrance)Product: ASSA ABLOY SW200 Operator (Harding Building)Product: ASSA ABLOY SL500 F (Arts & Law Building)Project Background: The University’s goal is to make every door and every entrance accessible for everyone so it’s inclusive, reflecting their commitment to diversity and equality. By prioritizing accessibility, they aim to ensure that all members of the university community, regardless of their physical abilities, can navigate the campus with ease. Through these efforts, Birmingham University continues to set a standard for higher education institutions striving to provide equitable access to education and resources for all.With this in mind, the facilities management team required robust, reliable and energy saving elements to their entrances.Solution: Two of the buildings required strong operators to withstand the daily use of their current swing doors. Our elegant heavy duty SW200 swing door operators were incorporated into one of the University’s main entrances and The Harding building, which both required reliability and ease of entrance, as students are often carrying heavy bags full of books and electronics. The SL500 Framesliding door was installed in the Arts & Law building, allowing for a seamless and responsive entrance as you enter the bright lobby. This helped to reduce the amount of energy required in this building, making it more efficient at heating and cooling.We have more projects in the pipeline with Birmingham University as they continue to enhance their facilities. Our commitment to providing first-rate door solutions and operators aligns perfectly with the university’s mission to create a welcoming and accessible environment for students, staff, and visitors.Check out more Education solutions.For more information or assistance with any project, please contact enquiries.esuk@faactechnologies.com where we can provide expert guidance and detailed documentation.Pictures by NickCaville.com

The two access control systems from SIEGENIA for house and apartment entrance doors leave no desires unfulfilled: the keypad and the fingerprint scanner combine elegant design with maximum ease of use and efficient access management for the building. They are therefore an ideal solution for the increasing demand for smart home applications in private housing construction. The two systems are equipped with a comprehensive access log, simple, clear user administration as well as a rechargeable battery-buffered timer. The emphasis is on ease of use – e.g. with a simple touch of the finger on the fingerprint scanner or the standardised equipment with integrated WIFI and Bluetooth technology. This enables both the use of the smartphone as remote control as well as convenient control and administration with the aid of the SIEGENIA Comfort app. 

The Remember Me memorial portico at St Paul’s Cathedral is a physical memorial to all those that died as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic. Entered via the cathedral’s North Transept entrance it is home to the online book of remembrance. Designed by Caroe Architecture with Connolly Wellingham, the portico is a beautiful, elliptical structure crafted in the UK and featuring several GEZE doors.As a visitor enters the cathedral from the North Transept they pass through a pair of swing doors powered by GEZE Powerturn automatic swing door operators. These doors take the visitor into the memorial and were chosen as they can open large or heavy doors and offer the flexibility of allowing the doors to be used both manually and automatically due to GEZE’s Smart swing function.Above the doors, etched in to the structure in gold are the words ‘ Remembering all who died as a result of the coronavirus pandemic’. Once inside the portico, visitors can view the online Remember Me memorial, search for and view the tribute to their loved one, light a candle and take a moment to pause and reflect in this tranquil space. The online book is open to all people, whatever their faith or none. From the memorial portico the main entrance into the cathedral is through GEZE’s TSA 325 NT, a manual revolving door with 4 leaves. The revolving door was chosen as it minimises air flow into the cathedral as only one quadrant is open at a time. To ensure access for all a GEZE Slimdrive SCR curved automatic sliding doors was installed opposite the revolving door enabling those who are less able, or people with children in buggies, can still visit the memorial and access the cathedral. The Slimdrive SCR is controlled by wave sensors to ensure the doors only open when requested. This is part of the portico’s design to minimise air flow.Across all the glass in the doors are beautiful phrases such as ‘we will always remember’ and ‘never forget’. The Remember Me memorial portico is a poignant tribute to those who died as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic and is the most significant change to St Paul’s Cathedral in 300 years. Following the public response to the online memorial, and in partnership with the Daily Mail, over £2million was raised to give the Remember Me memorial a physical home within the Cathedral. Said GEZE’s National Specification Manager, Richard Richardson-Derry: ‘We were honoured to play a part in the construction of the Remember Me memorial. The combined challenges of minimising air flow, ensuring equal access and creating a beautiful structure to recognise those lives lost has been successfully achieved’.

Union Industries, the UK’s leading manufacturer of bespoke industrial doors, has helped food importer and distributer, Taj Foods, improve efficiency through the installation of high-speed freezer doors – the Eiger Door.Taj Foods, specialists in frozen exotic food and prepared meals, was established in 1980 and recently expanded its cold storage at its Sheffield warehouse to meet growing demand. The project undertaken by EJM refrigeration, involved improving its energy efficiency and carbon footprint with the installation of a new CO2 refrigeration system.The two Eiger Doors will enhance operational efficiency in the high-demand environment and will maintain consistent freezer temperatures, while ensuring unimpeded access to cold stores.Since its launch in 2002, the Eiger Door has been installed as a fast-access traffic door at major food retailers, 3PL cold storage and distribution, and frozen food manufacturers across the UK.The Eiger Door ensures that consistent temperatures can be maintained and features an innovative dehumidification system, which prevents snow and ice build-up on the door blade and frame. This feature tackles a consistent issue plaguing other door types, as the freezer encounters humid ambient air entering the cold store.Minimising downtime is also supported by the Eiger Door’s robust construction and its tried and tested crash-out and reset system. Due to the modest difference in size between Forklift Trucks and the door opening, as well as the busy nature of this freezer, this is of particular benefit at this depot when considering the long-term reliability of the Eiger Door.Rob Howe, Union Industries’ Technical Sales Engineer, said: “The installation of the Eiger Doors at Taj Foods showcases our commitment to providing cutting-edge solutions that prioritise efficiency and reliability.“Over the past 20 years, the Eiger Door has consistently proven to be a superior and effective innovation for cold storage access, overcoming challenges such as ice build-up and excessive energy use to maintain consistent temperatures.“We are confident that the Eiger Door will significantly contribute to Taj Foods’ operational success.”Anil Solanki, Managing Director at Taj Foods, said: “We were looking for a reliable door solution to fit in with the redevelopment of our Sheffield warehouse, and after reading about the success of the Eiger Door we approached Union Industries to assist us to improve operational efficiency as we doubled our capacity.“We believe that the advanced features of the Eiger Door will not only enhance the efficiency of our cold storage but also contribute to long-term reliability, minimising disruptions in our day-to-day operations.” 

ProjectSurespan designed and manufactured a single leaf hatch that was installed in a residential home in Solihull, for access to an underground level gym.ProductThe HIACE external single leaf access hatch to fit a structural opening 1200 x 3400. The pan-type door was recessed for 40mm paving slabs infill with an EPDM unbroken seal to help prevent the ingress of dirt and moisture. The floor hatch was fitted with a retractable safety grid operated by a 24v actuator. FeaturesRated at pedestrian loading, operated by two 24v DC Actuators. 40mm paving slabs infill. Retractable safety grid Supplied with a Zen-controlled 240vAC/24vDC electrical supply, and transformer.

A Rundum Original sliding garage door spanning 8m wide and 2.2m high was integrated within the new designs by BWP Architects for a major property renovation, transforming a house which had evolved in an uncoordinated and poorly designed way. The door provides access to a large garage space below the property’s garden level and its shape coordinates elegantly with a car turntable installed immediately in front and surrounding landscaping.The owner tasked BWP with bringing new life to the property which has many original features. Undoing of previous conversion and extension work was necessary to enable the rebuilding of the residential property to a significantly higher standard, complete with the feature garage. An existing detached garage to the rear was partially demolished and converted to create a private formal rear courtyard. The replacement curved garage is a stunning visual element, with the new automated Rundum Original door’s high quality Larch complemented by bronze coloured bespoke balustrading to add a dramatic and artistic feature to the access stair and upper courtyard over the garage.The Rundum Original side sliding door is automated using two door mounted MZ4 drives which are custom made to automate these bespoke doors. These motors allow the door to traverse the curving tracks smoothly and quietly as required for this project. The door was designed in conjunction with Rundum Meir’s UK team before being hand-crafted by its garage door experts. Every door is made to order to the highest standards using responsibly sourced materials and installed by Rundum Meir to provide an end-to-end service.Danesch Missaghian, Director of Rundum Meir (UK) said: “Not only is this exciting project completed using very high specification products throughout, but it is also designed superbly with the architects using a curved garage door in an interesting way that maximises vehicular access. We are delighted with the contribution our door has made to the success of this project.”In addition to a range of different timber species, bespoke Rundum Original side sliding garage doors can be manufactured in high strength extruded aluminium and finished in any RAL colour. This makes these garage doors suitable for any domestic, commercial or public application, with the scope for architects to think differently about how the space for a garage can be integrated into the wider building design.

Cambridge Biomedical Campus. (CBC) created a vibrant and groundbreaking health care community at the forefront of science and medicine.Dortek’s brief was to supply and installation of doors to a very specific programme, across primarily 3 floors.Our Dortek doors were installed within the BRF rooms, laboratories, holding room, procedure rooms, CL3 labs, equipment store, changing rooms, and circulation routes. The type of doors we installed were GRP hinged and sliding in stainless steel frames, many with integrated privacy panels.SolutionThe particular project requirements that made our doors suitable was the durability, acoustic performance, non organic door quality of our SS frame which ensures suitability to this environment. The SS frame had previously been used at Francis Crick Institute also. We fulfilled the clients expectations by meeting the specification and programme, and working closely with planners to interface with other trades. There was some complexity about the project as most doors are very large for equipment access and some have acoustic requirements, also to include is there are a lot of doors in a concentrated area.

dormakaba supplies leading Exivo system to luxury YourApartment - a serviced aparthotel accommodation group, located in Bristol Looking to provide guests with a completely contactless service at its 34-studio Clifton Village aparthotel, YourApartment required a smart solution that would integrate with the booking systems, without needing to drill into the existing doors. dormakaba worked closely with the aparthotel to install its Exivo keyless system.Providing affordable lodging for the modern traveller, with a focus on interior design and tech-driven services, YourApartment accommodation aims to offer a guest experience that feels like home regardless of the length of stay. In 2020, the YourApartment Group announced plans to open accommodation in the Clifton Village area of Bristol having acquired the lease on a former student block, Merchants House. A £1.6m redevelopment, the owners wanted to ensure the new aparthotel was in keeping with its deluxe standards. The plans included a streamlined system that allowed guests contactless check-in and access their rooms using a smartphone. However, the lease for Merchants House included a stipulation that, to ensure flexibility of the property, the doors could not be screwed into, and existing door hardware could not be removed or replaced. Determined to offer guests a flexible and high-tech check-in experience, the group sought a contactless, smart solution that would integrate seamlessly with the Your Apartment booking system, that could be both installed and uninstalled at the end of the lease, with no alterations to the door itself. dormakaba overcame stiff competition win the tender for the project, and impressed with its Exivo system, which included Digital Cylinders, a Wireless Hub, and Wireless Extenders. Requiring no cabling within the door, the Exivo Digital Cylinders are powered by a standard battery, and were incredibly easy to fit within minutes without specialist tools or drilling into the existing door required. Thanks to this speed of installation, it took a little over a week for every door to be retrofitted with this smart solution. The product is incredibly simple to use, with users able to access their accommodation using the simple Evolo Smart app, and wireless functionality making it possible for management to transfer access rights remotely. By integrating with the Your Apartment booking system, rights could also be granted automatically, saving on time and maintenance and ensuring security at all times. The Exivo system has impressed so much, that dormakaba has since been invited to provide solutions for the wider YourApartment portfolio. Daniel Robinson, Marketing Manager for YourApartment, said, “The dormakaba Exivo system matched our requirements perfectly, integrating seamlessly with our Mew PMS System for bookings and Revinate CRM system for email automation. The speed of installation and minimal disruption allowed us to open Clifton Village on schedule, with a completely contactless booking and check-in process. “YourApartment is looking to expand into all major UK cities in the next five years, and we want to ensure all of our guests experience the same seamless and convenient check-in experience, so we will work with dormakaba again to integrate wireless, smart systems for our accommodation across the country.” Daniel Robinson Marketing Manager YourApartment

Surespan designed and manufactured Glazed Roof Hatches with fixed glazed sections and a vertical end door for the 79&Park residential.The projectOscar Properties commissioned BIG (Bjarke Ingels Group) to design and construct 79& Park residential building. The building is located on the edge of Gärdet, a treasured national park. The architects made conscious decisions throughout the process to provide a sensitive, respectful building with exceptional residences with spectacular views.All Oscar Properties projects aim to add value to the city and the surrounding environment.  79&Park architecture appears like an extension of the park, a gentle hillside seamlessly blending into the nature around it. The project was named Europe’s best housing project in the Internationally recognised real estate competition The International Property Awards.ProductSurespan designed and manufactured multiple glazed roof access hatches in various sizes including 2200 x 2115, 3160 x 1553, and 4175 x 1025.  As part of the glazed roof hatches a vertical door was designed for easy access to the roof spaces. The final glazed hatches were finished off with a polyester powder-coated finish.  Features:These glazed roof hatches feature a specialist sensory control panel. A 1-minute warning sound is activated when rain is detected, and a movement sensor prevents the closing of the hatch. Other features include opening in case of a fire and a keycode pad for exiting.

AbleStay Holiday HomeFor anyone considering accessible accommodation in London, you may be interested to hear more about AbleStay, London’s first accessible holiday home situated near Worcester Park, South West London. The house is fully adapted for wheelchair access and has a bright open plan kitchen, dining and living area.The AbleStay mission is to deliver fully accessible and adapted holiday homes in cities across the UK, providing families with confidence their accommodation will provide a perfect and beautiful environment for their stay.Freedom by Symphony KitchenDesigned by Adam Thomas Consultancy, and Tara Neil kitchen Retailer, the AbleStay house features our Freedom by Symphony Kitchen and has various universal and accessible design features ensuring a safe, practical and stylish kitchen space.A rise and fall adjustable height worktop with integrated waterfall edge to limit spillages. Visitors to the holiday home can set a safe and convenient height to use the Induction hob, sink and front mounted tap, which is all situated on the same run of worktop. The full length of the rise and fall worktop also provides open leg space and a shallow sink bowl providing full accessibility for wheelchair access.There is a pull-out accessible larder, eliminating the need to bend and reach down into the back of cupboards to find cooking items. Instead, all items are within reach and clearly visible so are easy to find quickly and safely.  Two Luxurious Slide&Hide® Neff ovens have been installed featuring doors which can be hidden beneath when using the oven. Accessible oven housings also position the ovens at a comfortable height and have the benefit of heatproof shelfs, so food can be transferred out of the oven straight onto the resting shelves; allowing hot dishes to cool before transferring to the worktop space.Founder of AbleStay Freedom by Symphony are thrilled to have worked on such an exciting project with Charles Van Berckel, founder of AbleStay: “the support provided by Adam Thomas and the team at Symphony enabled us to provide a truly beautiful and functional kitchen for wheelchair users. Without their kind and generous support it would never have been possible”

The Skelbrooke Ward is a psychiatric intensive care unit (PICU) at the Doncaster Adult Mental Health Unit; providing specialised care for people experiencing acute mental ill health. In early 2020, the Skelbrooke Ward underwent a major refurbishment to modernise the environment and introduce new technology to work alongside clinical practices. Patient care and recovery were at the forefront of plans for the refurbishment of the Skelbrooke Ward. Our electronic integrated override locks allow patients to move freely between rooms where access is permitted; whilst the load release en-suite doors carefully consider privacy and dignity without compromising on safety.

A four-storey underground car park needs to meet enormous fire protection requirements. Preventive fire and smoke protection and fully functional escape routes and emergency exits were top of the list when planning the doors and barriers. T90 fire and smoke protection doorsets were used for highly frequented areas with a higher risk of fire and the gallery and escape routes between the individual fire compartments were fitted with single and double-leaf T30 doorsets with round glazing. Access points to the individual levels were equipped with T30 sliding doors and T30 sectional doors.

record uk was chosen to manufacture and install a six metre wide entrance solution to Aston Martin’s prestigious new showroom in Newcastle. The entrance was required to be robust, safe, quiet in operation and stylish in appearance. record installed two 3000 mm wide, clear toughened glass, STA 20 sliding doors. Their secure, elegant and efficient operation is guaranteed by a self-controlling microprocessor which continually monitors inputs, including from the three safety sensors, and adjusts performance accordingly. In the event of a power failure the doors can be programmed to remain secure or to open to allow emergency access.

Helo’s design brief was to create two luxurious wellness rooms to overlook the swimming pool in this prestigious central London development. Both the Aroma steam and the Herb Sauna have a full glass frontage with central wide access doors. Finishes throughout are in keeping with the opulence and expectations for this high end development.

A new ferry terminal on Brodick Bay, created as a tourism and community gateway to the Scottish Isle of Arran, has been fitted from stem to stern with door and window systems supplied by GEZE.Maritime design and modern comfortThe ship-shaped terminal, designed by the renowned architectural firm Norr of Glasgow, is part of a £30 million investment which aims to update the harbour, get it ready for 21st century travel, and improve passenger comfort.Natural ventilation thanks to automated windowsThe generously sized lounge with its double height and large wall of windows on the western façade offers visitors a breathtaking view of Brodick Bay. The large windows, which are automatically opened and closed by 30 GEZE Slimchain chain drives, give the reception area at the main entrance to the building a bright and spacious feel. The uniquely slim and understated look of the Slimchain window drives integrates perfectly into the unique façade design of the Brodick ferry terminal.The Slimchain window drives were installed not only on the large windows in the lounge, but rather throughout the entire two-storey building – with the exception of the upper ventilation openings: Powerchain chain drives are used there. These especially powerful window drives were chosen to operate the larger windows, since they allow for large opening widths – which is important for quickly venting smoke in case of a fire.The window drives are connected to a GEZE MBZ 300 SHEV control panel for smoke and heat extraction drives, which is integrated into the building management system of the terminal. This makes it possible to easily control and monitor the complex natural ventilation system.Ventilation, smoke and heat extraction, and emergency exit protectionThe windows in the staircases are also equipped with Slimchain chain drives. If needed, the window systems also allow for natural smoke and heat extraction: In case of smoke and heat, the smoke extraction solutions open the windows and control fresh air openings, so that lifesaving escape routes remain smoke-free and safe to use in case of an emergency. In addition, GEZE OL Line manual fanlight openers provide supplementary natural ventilation.Door systems for accessible fire protection doorsBeneath the glazed western elevation are two automatic swing doors to either side. These are powered by GEZE Slimdrive EMD-F door systems, just like another door on the side façade of the building. The electro-mechanical swing door drives for single leaf fire and smoke protection doors are extremely versatile: They provide power assisted opening and can be initiated using the operating button with constant opening and closing speed. Integrated obstacle detection also identifies potential obstacles and stops the opening or closing process if needed. By doing so, Slimdrive EMD-F drives also ensure easy and safe access for people with mobility issues.Understated design and high access convenienceFrom the main entrance, a glazed corridor leads to a bi-parting sliding door powered by a GEZE Slimdrive SL NTsliding door system, which leads into the foyer of the main reception area. The Slimdrive door drive fulfils two key stipulations here at once: It is suitable for interior and exterior doors with high levels of footfall, and ideally suited for glass façades with high design standards – such as the Brodick ferry terminal – due to its low operator height of just 7 cm.

Architect: Scenario Architecture. This beautiful Victorian villa received an innovative green-roofed extension full of natural light thanks to IDSystems installed bifold doors, gable end glazing, rooflights, window and door. The challenge for Scenario Architecture was to design an extension that was filled full of natural light, took into account the changing floor levels of the property. Under the pitched roof, the gable end glazing has been designed to perfectly match the profiles of the SUNFLEX SF75 bifold doors, whilst the inclusion of a single access door allows the extension to angle away to create a larger kitchen/dining area.

Due to the bustling activity of our client’s builders merchant business, we recognised the need to enhance the accessibility and user-friendliness of their commercial unit. The existing setup featured a pedestrian entrance alongside a roller shutter entrance designated for goods in bay, which posed challenges in accommodating the high traffic flow and meeting customer expectations.To address these concerns, we proposed a comprehensive solution that would transform the customer entrance into a wider, more inviting space. A framed shop front system was strategically installed just inside the loading bay entrance, creating a seamless transition between the outdoor and indoor spaces. To ensure continuity and functionality, a short canopy roof was added, along with a heavy duty brush seal to bridge the gap to the roller shutter entrance.The focal point of our solution was the integration of a heavy duty commercial grade silent automatic bi-parting sliding door system. This innovative addition not only enhanced user-friendliness for customers but also facilitated rapid opening and closing, crucial for a busy builders merchant environment. By combining functionality, convenience, and efficiency, we successfully transformed the customer entrance into a welcoming and efficient gateway that catered to the needs of our client’s thriving business.

As concerns about environmental sustainability continue to escalate, the concept of Passive House (Passivhaus) design has emerged as a game-changer in creating energy-efficient buildings.This innovative approach focuses on maximizing a structure’s energy efficiency while maintaining optimal comfort for its occupants. One key element that can complement and enhance Passive House principles is the incorporation of automatic doors.Understanding Passive House DesignPassive House design revolves around stringent energy efficiency standards. It employs various techniques to minimize energy consumption, such as superior insulation, airtight construction, high-performance windows, and heat recovery ventilation. These elements work harmoniously to create a building that requires minimal energy for heating or cooling, leading to significant reductions in carbon emissions and energy costs.The Role of Automatic Doors in Passive HouseAutomatic doors might not seem like an obvious addition to Passive House design, but their integration can significantly contribute to its efficiency goals. Here’s how:Controlled Air Exchange:Passive House principles emphasise airtightness to prevent energy loss. Automatic doors, equipped with sensors and precise control mechanisms, can efficiently regulate the airflow, allowing for controlled ventilation while minimising the loss of heated or cooled air. This feature ensures that the building maintains its airtightness while providing necessary air circulation.Energy Conservation:By automating the opening and closing of doors, energy loss due to unnecessary drafts or human error is minimised. The doors swiftly close after use, reducing the transfer of heat or cold air between different zones within the building. This helps in maintaining the indoor temperature, contributing to the overall energy efficiency of the structure.Accessibility and Comfort:In addition to energy efficiency, automatic doors significantly enhance accessibility, ensuring ease of entry and exit for all individuals. The seamless operation of these doors adds convenience and comfort to occupants while aligning with the core principles of Passive House design.From revolving doors to sliding doors, we have just he solution for your energy saving needs. We help our clients save energy because we know how important it is to cultivate a sustainable future and reduce environmental impact, while simultaneously promoting cost-effective and efficient solutions for their individual needs. Find our new energy saving FAAC sliding doors here solutions here, and energy saving data here.ConclusionPassive House design has revolutionised the way we approach building construction, emphasising sustainability and energy efficiency. The incorporation of automatic doors complements these principles by enhancing airtightness, energy conservation, and overall occupant comfort.In the pursuit of creating eco-friendly and energy-efficient buildings, integrating automated systems like doors not only aligns with Passive House standards but also sets a new benchmark for sustainable architecture. These technological advancements not only serve functional purposes but also play a pivotal role in reducing environmental impact while prioritising the well-being of the building’s occupants.Check out more of our Energy Solutions.For more information or assistance with any project, please contact enquiries.esuk@faactechnologies.com where we can provide expert guidance and detailed documentation.

The increased levels of thermal insulation found within the roof voids of a modern house is intended to reduce the amount of heat that is lost from the warm living spaces of the property over time. However breaks in this insulation layer, such as through the loft access door, will severely compromise its effectiveness. This editorial explains how to avoid losing heat in the loft space and therefore losing money.

Timber Window Project: Restoring Charm to a Matlock CottageDiscover how Gowercroft successfully transformed Robert Jones's quaint stone cottage in Matlock with high-quality timber windows and doors.A Challenging Derbyshire CottageWhen Robert Jones approached Gowercroft for his cottage renovation in Matlock, they faced an intriguing challenge. His 200-square-meter, 5-bedroom cottage nestled into a Derbyshire hillside, offering stunning countryside views. The property had three stories at the front but only one at the rear, with the ground floor patio situated atop an integral garage.Robert aimed to breathe new life into the neglected property by undertaking a comprehensive refit, including new electrics, bathrooms, stairs, carpets, roofing, garage, and replacement doors and windows. He sought a renovation that honoured the local aesthetics, using durable traditional materials like English slate for the roof and energy-efficient timber windows and patio doors to maximise the scenic vistas.Meeting the ChallengeAccess to the property posed a considerable challenge due to its location on a sharp bend with a steep incline at the end of a winding country road. The installation of oversized windows and doors seemed daunting, but Gowercroft embraced the challenges with creative solutions.Gowercroft crafted and installed eleven Hardwick flush casement windows, a Peveril lift and slide patio door, two floor-to-ceiling fixed light windows, an Accoya® front door, and a timber Melbourne stable door at the side. The lift and slide patio doors and glazed screens had to feature 6mm-thick glass to ensure structural integrity, making each unit weigh approximately 200 kilograms.Given the size and weight of the units, manual handling was impractical. Gowercroft enlisted a specialist contractor with a telehandler to navigate the steep drive and hoist the units into place. Additional personnel joined the effort."The job demanded teamwork, meticulous planning, and coordination with the ongoing building work as we removed the old windows and adjusted the existing openings," Robert explained.Exceeding ExpectationsThroughout the installation, unforeseen challenges arose, including the need to cut away patio paving slabs blocking the original patio doors and repositioning the door frame to accommodate the new Accoya® front door. Gowercroft even provided window boards for the new openings.Robert praised the Gowercroft team for their exceptional dedication and problem-solving attitude, stating, "I can't speak highly enough of the Gowercroft team. They tackled every obstacle and challenge with a 'can-do' spirit."Gowercroft's commitment to quality craftsmanship and their ability to navigate complex installations allowed Robert Jones to transform his Matlock cottage into a charming and energy-efficient retreat that perfectly complements its picturesque surroundings.

The Project Perton First School has been open for over 40 years and the infant washroom facilities are in need of modernisation.The school prides itself its family ethos and has seen generations of families come the doors.The ChallengePropose a system with children of nursery age in mind. Consider the height of the doors & partitions.Peardrop range is not supported by an overhead rail and the frontage is fixed at the floor and gable walls only.Flooring substate needs to be at lease 60mm thick and stable to ensure a secure fixing point at the base of the foot.Deliver a non-standard laminate to enhance the systems aesthetics. The SolutionExcelsior, working alongside G Evans and Entrust, are excited to have installed our Harlequin Select Range at Perton First School. The school chose our Peardrop Range with low level accessible doors and magnetic locks, perfect for the classroom environment. The cubicles doors were finished in our vibrant Lolly Pop Digital Print & the area was surveyed to ensure suitable fixing points.Harlequin Peardrop is the ideal system for children of nursery age, the system is self-supporting on an aluminium leg; the legs ability to perform is reliant of the strength of the floor substrate which in this case proved suitable, enabling the client to proceed with this infant friendly system.The full system is professionally manufactured with children in mind providing easily accessible doors for children whilst ensuring efficient dimensions for adults to supervise.SpecificationProduct Range: Harlequin Select HPLDoors: 18mm High Pressure Laminate, Lolly Pop Digital PrintPilaster: Polyrey C018 ChardonPartition: 18mm High Pressure Laminate, Polyrey C018 ChardonIronmongery: SBAA 

Our client approached us with a unique challenge: they needed to convert their existing restaurant into a drive-thru establishment. Departing from conventional construction methods involving brick buildings, we proposed an innovative solution: a comprehensive aluminium bolt-on pod system. This system offered unparalleled advantages, allowing for rapid on-site expansion while minimising disruption to ongoing operations. Fabricated entirely off-site in our workshops, the pod system was swiftly assembled on-site, providing ample space for the drive-thru restaurant within a remarkably short timeframe. This modular approach not only streamlined the construction process but also empowered the main contractor to efficiently carry out internal fit-out works tailored to the client’s specific requirements.The aluminium pod system we implemented catered to carious needs, seamlessly integrating essential functionalities into its design. Within the structure, we incorporated designated spaces for a stockroom and an electrical intake room, ensuring optimal organisation and efficiency. Moreover, the pod featured a dedicated drive-thru serving booth, complete with a strategically positioned side access door and a robust, heavy duty drive-thru window system. Crafted from commercial-grade aluminium sections, the pod system was meticulously customised to reflect the client’s corporate identity, incorporating their distinctive colour schemes throughout. Solid infill panels, positioned below waist height and above the suspended ceiling height, added both aesthetic appeal and structural integrity to the design. By embracing innovation and customisation, we delivered a turnkey solution that not only met but exceeded our client’s expectations for their drive-thru restaurant conversion project.

Here's how Freedom has transformed the Troke Family's living space - Why Freedom?Freedom embraces unique features to support independent living scenarios and offers the latest kitchen trends so there’s no need to compromise on style. Key components of safety, style, storage and smart flexibility at the core of the Freedom brand, make it ideal for multi-generational living, including mobility requirements.Meet The Troke FamilyLucille Troke, is a wheelchair user who lives with her family in Aylesbury. Over the last few years, the family’s property has been renovated to enable Lucille, younger sister Josephine and her parents, Leonie and Jon the ability to use and enjoy their new kitchen.  “I look forward to using this amazing kitchen every day! My mum has always been really good at baking pastries and cakes and now I can also enjoy cooking at home”.The family’s previous kitchen had a custom-made fixed lowered worktop, which was helpful to Lucille, but it was back-ache inducing for the rest of the family. The old kitchen had outward opening oven doors which were impractical for Lucille to use.Zoe Paye of OT Healthcare, the family’s Occupational Therapist, provides support to the family and oversaw the design process for the transformation of their bungalow. She suggested Adam Thomas, accessible design consultant, of the Adam Thomas Consultancy and Tara Neil Kitchen Retailer.The Design SolutionsAs part of an early design consultation, a few essential yet practical accessible kitchen features were agreed:Integrated Slide&Hide® ovens positioned at a 90-degree angle to a lowered height fixed worktop to makes it easier, and safer, for Lucille to transfer dishes to and from the oven.A tall larder with i-move pull-down baskets and pull-out drawers, providing quick and easy access to dried food and tins.Various work surface space to make the kitchen ideal for all the family; a standard worktop with sink, a lowered height worktop, an electric rise-and-fall worktop with induction hob and sink.   Additional design features:Pull-out crockery and pan drawers, so the contents are easy to access and visible at a glance. Plenty of manoeuvring space incorporated into the layout to ensure a fit-for-purpose space to support Lucille’s mobility requirements. Le Mans pull-outs in the corner base cabinets, ideal for storing and accessing items in hard to reach corners. A waterfall edge finish to the electric rise-and-fall worktop, to avoid accidental spillages onto Lucille. Flip sockets set within the rise-and-fall work surface to allow easy reach for Lucille. Two sinks, one at a standard height near the dishwasher and the other, a prep sink set within the rise-and-fall work surface providing essential convenience for all the family. Recycling and waste bins integrated into cabinetry, accessible to the whole family.  Products featured: Freedom Urban kitchen in Indigo colourway with chrome handles. Mix of worktop materials in Quartzite and Corian in pale grey and white.Appliances: single bowl sinks, integrated hide and slide ovens, microwave and induction hob, hot tap, integrated fridge-freezer & dishwasher, feature lighting and flip sockets.The Freedom brand is designed in collaboration with the Adam Thomas Consultancy. Adam is an accessible design consultant and industry expert with over 40 years’ experience. Freedom is available from selected retail partners around the UK.

REQUIREMENT:A ramp to the entrance of the council house.Rapid Ramp’s demountable system was ideal as it requires no groundwork.Once no longer needed, the ramp can be removed and reinstalled at a different property owned by the local authority.END RESULT:The front door ramp was installed within only a few hours. The system fully complies with Document M, Volume 1, Dwellings.FEATURES INCLUDED:Mesh Platform - the self-draining mesh allows water to pass through rather than collect on the surface.Trombone Ends - these are added to the ends of a Rapid Ramp to prevent clothes catching.Standard Handrail - this handrail system ensures users always have support to hold onto.Powder coated Finish – Rails are coated with thermosetting powder to provide a non-conductive, non-slip and scratch resistant surface.Telescopic Legs - these can be adjusted to accommodate different threshold heights.EXTRA FEATURE INCLUDED:Step & Gate Unit - access for able-bodied users.

Part of the University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Princess Anne Hospital opened in 1981 and is known as a centre of excellence for maternity care. Providing specialist care for women during pregnancy, as well as genetics and breast screening.Project Year: 2023Product: ASSA ABLOY SL500 FrameArchitect: Strata DesignClient: West End ConstructionProject Background: During the first wave of Covid, a piece of art named 'Game Changer' appeared at Southampton Hospital, this was a gift from Banksy to thank the 14000 staff members, as well as honour the work of NHS workers everywhere. The canvas was auctioned to raise money for NHS charities and organisations, raising a total £16.8m.Part of these funds have been used to improve the facilities, and this is where Landscape Architects Strata Design and West End Construction were engaged, to design and build a rooftop oasis for all the hospital staff, to have a place to enjoy and unwind.Solution: Working collaboratively and having surveyed the site where a window was to be turned into a door, FAAC Entrance Solutions proposed a framed SL500 bi-parting sliding door, in order to both maximise the opening width as well as keep the natural light into the building. Being a staff restricted area, access control was also a must, so this was integrated with existing staff passes to facilitate swipe access and with our QFlow traffic light system which regulates occupancy. The SL500’s framed system is a robust resilient door, making it perfect to manage high volumes of traffic as well Southampton coastal wind loads. Additionally, with its thermally broken profiles, additional tight-fitting brushes, it will contribute to keeping energy costs down in comparison to slimmer or manual door entrances.For more information or assistance with any project, please contact enquiries.esuk@faactechnologies.com where we can provide expert guidance and detailed documentation.

St Paul’s Church in Leeds has been transformed with the addition of a large, bespoke steel door screen and feature steel window. The screen incorporates a pair of double doors, providing light and airiness. Both the new steel window and door set are made from Clement EB24 steel sections which include double glazed, argon filled glass units. Mark Harlow, the Vicar, said “St Paul’s Church embarked on a major refurbishment of their 60 year old building to make a warm and welcoming, adaptable space while keeping to the original architect’s ideas. A key part of the brief was to widen the entrance corridor and allow light into one end. This has all been more than achieved using Clement’s metal frame windows and doors. These have helped create an additional space for people to meet and mix. The narrow profile of the frames has allowed maximum light and visual access between the spaces, while the rhythm of the glazing bars both modernise and blend with the architecture of the main worship space.” Architect Tom Robbins of Pearce Bottomley Architects commented: “We have worked with Clement on a number of projects and have been very pleased with the service we have received and the quality of their products. They supplied the steel framed glazed screen and feature window at St Paul’s Church, Ireland Wood, Leeds and we couldn’t have been happier with the result. We also specify Clement’s conservation rooflights whenever we can, as we are of the opinion that they are the best on the market.”