GEZE UK Limited

‘Form follows function’ – this maybe a basic tenet of modern architecture but when it comes to designing entrances, aesthetics are inevitably a determining factor. They must contribute to the design concept, blend with other building materials, flow effectively into interiors and above all make an impact. But behind every grand entrance, is a myriad of decisions based on function: the purpose of the building itself, expected footfall, user requirements, accessibility, ventilation, heat loss, safety and security.Match that with thousands of products on the market, all with subtle differences, and it can make identifying the right solution a complex process. It’s said that people do business with people and that good relationships open doors; that’s certainly true of the specification process. Specifiers and architects build a relationship where trust is garnered through advice, guidance and sometimes compromise to identify the best solution for a project.Design and Specification of DoorsEarly liaison is helpful – consideration needs be given to the product type and application from the outset. Design based on assumption will only result in major reworking at a later stage which is never desirable for architect or client. When appraised of an architect’s ‘wish list’, I advise on the best possible options and try to drill down to a level of detail they may not have considered. For example, with a retail project, consideration will be given to maximising frontage for window display, levels of anticipated footfall and funnelling of traffic across the threshold and around the retail floor plan. In most cases, an automatic sliding door system would be an appropriate choice, and although this may seem an obvious selection, this is where we need to need to look further at its intended application and operation. A sliding door operation is usually triggered by movement sensors with side sensors for safety but if baskets or displays are put too near to where the doors open, they may cause them to operate ineffectively. Doors may be better installed with pocket screens – glass panels that the automatic doors slide in to – which are protective and also use available space without any hindrance. Automatic Doors in the Healthcare SectorPocket screens are also an essential safety feature in a hospital environment as they minimise the risk of serious injury occurring by reducing the possibility of contact with the moving door leaves and eliminating potential entrapment zones.Within healthcare, there is a range of specific needs that maybe required – reduced contact mechanisms, hermetically sealed doors for laboratories, different levels of security access and safety requirements for particular groups of patients, classed as ‘vulnerable traffic’.BS EN 16005 European Standard for Safety in the Use of Automatic DoorsAll automatic door suppliers are required to provide solutions in accordance with BS EN 16005 European Standard for safety in the use of automatic doors for pedestrian use. Under BS EN16005, automatic doors are classed as machines, so within the design users must be protected from risk of injury. Sometimes, a design aesthetic must give way to practicalities. For example, the desire to see an automatic swing door put in place where leaf size has to battle environmental factors may result in ‘sail effect’ where the wind speed makes the operator less effective so users become frustrated by the slowness of the door opening or in extreme conditions, or not opening at all. Where there is such an obvious conflict, I would prefer to provide alternative design solutions for a system that will consistently operate in the conditions in which it is installed. When it comes to specifying requirements for heritage and listed buildings, the partnership between specifier and architect really comes into its own. Products can be adapted to provide a tailor-made solution that can be accommodated into the premises without altering form or structure. Take for example, our work at Blenheim Palace in which sliding doors were incorporated for improved accessibility while maintaining the original large timber doors. These clearly could not be automated or removed so a secondary glazed entrance was created behind the original.Automatic Doors for LobbiesLobbies can enhance a building’s sustainability, but performing a vital function, doesn’t mean they have to be boring. Circular or elliptical automatic entrances look visually stunning and maximise space. A recent installation at No 1 New Oxford Street, London, saw a Moderne building enhanced by an entrance that followed the curves of the building’s original design.Whatever the project, exacting standards must be met and checks and balances put in place. The relationship between a specifier and architect is fundamental – form and function should never ‘stop at the door’. It must be considered and applied to create a grand entrance.

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.

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’.

With stringent demands in terms of design, comfort, and functionality, the new City of Glasgow College is considered a ‘University of the Future’. GEZE UK made a key contribution to the modern look & feel of the technical college with custom door solutions, including revolving doors and swing doors.State-of-the-art door systems for the City of Glasgow CollegeThe £228 million project for a capacity of 40,000 students and 1,300 employees was completed by the Sir Robert McAlpine construction company. The entrance areas on the west and south sides were designed using GEZE door technology to reflect the structural aesthetic of the City Campus.The highly modern new building, with over 1,000 classrooms, boasts a striking design while fulfilling high requirements for functionality and safety.Manual revolving doors ensure the flow of trafficThe west and south wings impress with modern steel and glass façades with two manual revolving doors. An additional automatic swing door was installed directly beside each of the revolving doors.Manual revolving doors with TSA 325 NT door drives are the ideal solution for the building's specific requirements in terms of functionality and ease of access. The generous door leaves are easy to move, and the integrated control mechanism stops pushing behind an individual entering into the swing door. In addition, the revolving doors effectively protect the lobby from draughts, dust and noise.Automatic swing doors, designed as emergency exitsThe automatic swing doors directly besides the revolving doors were equipped with electro-mechanical GEZE Slimdrive EMD-F swing door drives to offer maximum flexibility. They can be activated with the push of a button, providing barrier-free access for persons with restricted mobility. The door drive is just 7 cm tall, and integrates discreetly into the door frame to move the door leaf precisely, reliably, and extremely quietly. In the event of a fire, the swing doors also serve as barrier-free emergency exit doors.Automatic sliding doors: effortless door comfortA single leaf automatic sliding door with GEZE Slimdrive SL NT drive guides students and visitors into the interior of the Riverside campus. The highly modern building, which was nominated for the prestigious Stirling Prize, houses student accommodation hat is home to over 3,000 ship building and marine technology students.The slim Slimdrive SL NT drives (just 7 cm tall) integrate almost invisibly into the modern, column-encased entrance area, moving door leaves of up to 125 kg quietly and effortlessly. This makes it the ideal drive solution for a public building with consistently high traffic in both directions – especially one such as Riverside that is also used as a residential building. GEZE's modern door solutions have played a key part in ensuring students can move comfortably and safely through their environment.

When architects Scott Brownrigg were given a brief to create a new gateway to Cambridge Science Park they knew the building had to be impressive to attract the desired high tech and research and development companies. The design features a colonnade sweeping across the front of the building echoing the curve of the spine road and a new public space. The column spacing guides occupants and visitors to the entrance – a GEZE SlimdriveSCR curved automatic sliding door. Slimdrive SCR was chosen to fit with the building BREEAM Excellent rating. The circular entrance features two sets of automatic bi-parting curved glass sliding doors, creating a lobby that minimises heat loss or gain and so helps to contribute to the building’s environmental credentialsWhen architects Scott Brownrigg were given a brief to create a new gateway to Cambridge Science Park they knew the building had to be impressive to attract the desired high tech and research and development companies. The design features a colonnade sweeping across the front of the building echoing the curve of the spine road and a new public space. The column spacing guides occupants and visitors to the entrance – a GEZE SlimdriveSCR curved automatic sliding door. Slimdrive SCR was chosen to fit with the building BREEAM Excellent rating. The circular entrance features two sets of automatic bi-parting curved glass sliding doors, creating a lobby that minimises heat loss or gain and so helps to contribute to the building’s environmental credentialsIn addition the Slimdrive SCR automatic curved sliding door provides a light and airy all-glass lobby entrance which blends into the façade and the large glass atrium; it combines high performance with unobtrusive operation. Inside the operator’s deep canopy an integrated air curtain was installed to further minimise any heat loss and maintain the aesthetics of the building. The Slimdrive SCR automatic operator also provides uninhibited access and so meets the demands of Part M, BS 8300 and EN 16005, whilst the access control system ensures security. Shortlisted for office awardsRecognising the outstanding design of the building, the Cambridge Science Park has been shortlisted for the 2023 British Council for Offices (BCO) Awards. The BCO’s primary objective is to define excellence in office space. Ross Mcwatt, associate architect at Scott Brownrigg said: "We have worked with GEZE several times, they have the same focus as we do in terms combining sustainability, accessibility and aesthetics." Richard Richardson-Derry, national specification manager at GEZE UK added: "This is an outstanding building, that meets many demands. We were delighted to play a part in creating an entrance and achieving the criteria of the brief." 

A ‘whole door system’ which combines secure locking with failsafe emergency evacuation features has been introduced by GEZE UK to meet the rigorous PAS 24 standard.The Slimdrive SL NT PAS 24 System achieves outstanding security – one of the best on the market, whilst still meeting ever-greater demands of building requirements.The system enables 24-hour access control and has been designed and tested for continuous use. With GEZE’s unique, robust locking system that is hidden from view – the Slimdrive SL NT PAS 24 System makes it even harder for opportunist burglars to identify points of access.GEZE’s proven Slimdrive SL NT technology, together with the enhanced security testing required to achieve PAS 24 accreditation, adds up to the perfect entrance system with no compromises - security, accessibility, access control and great aesthetics.The system enables 24-hour access control and has been designed and tested for continuous use. With GEZE’s unique, robust locking system that is hidden from view – the Slimdrive SL NT PAS 24 System makes it even harder for opportunist burglars to identify points of access.GEZE’s proven Slimdrive SL NT technology, together with the enhanced security testing required to achieve PAS 24 accreditation, adds up to the perfect entrance system with no compromises - security, accessibility, access control and great aesthetics.Under PAS 24 a series of tests are performed including manual attack, in which the test engineer uses a range of tools anywhere on the door over a 15-minute period, impact testing of both ‘soft body’ and ‘hard body’ objects, and force testing in which loads are applied for up to 5 minutes. The door must withstand all of the tests to pass and achieve PAS 24 certification.These security enhancements are fast becoming key features for buildings where security with escape routes are a high priority: such as hospitals, airports, train stations and banks.The system uses GEZE’s proven Slimdrive SL NT automatic sliding operator. At just seven centimetres it is the slimmest on the market enabling it to be almost invisibly integrated into the façade. It can move leaf weights up to 125kg and is virtually silent in operation. GEZE UK worked with Jack Aluminium Systems, one of the UK’s leading aluminium glazing systems companies, to develop the new system for automatic sliding doors.The PAS (Product Assessment Specification) 24 test standard was introduced by the British Standard Institute (BSI) in collaboration with industry stakeholders and Secured By Design (SBD). A 2016 revision incorporated additional doorset and window types including non-domestic ranges and changes to some test methods and criteria.

Product name Slimdrive SL NTType Door openers / closersDoor type suitability Sliding doorsOperation ElectromechanicalInstallation Door surround mountedGrade CommercialMax. size of door leaf 120kgOperator dimensions (mm) 70mm highPart of the Slimdrive range, the SL NT is an electronic automatic sliding door system that offers flexibility, reliability, functionality, efficiency and safety.The extremely slim design of the SL NT makes it possible for the operator to be concealed in any facade, giving architects the freedom to design stylish entrances. Extremely versatile and suitable for a wide range of applications, the Slimdrive SL NT can be used for single- or double-leafed internal or external doors. GEZE Slimdrive SL NT also benefits from quick and easy assembly and installation.The Slimdrive SL NT is an intelligent automatic door system that is perfect for busy entrances to buildings such as shopping centres, hospitals and stores - anywhere where there is a high volume of traffic and where manually operated doors are not appropriate.The Slimdrive SL NT is suitable for a variety of applications, from the simple installations to grand all-glass facades. Two or more SL NTs can be combined to provide a draught-proof lobby.Key featuresOne of the most compact sliding door operators availableOperator height only 7cmEasily integrated into almost any facadeEnvironmentally friendly due to economical use of materials and energyDimensionsOpening widths: 700 to 3000mmWeight: up to 125kg per leaf

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.

Richard Richardson-Derry of GEZE UK looks at how a properly fitted fire door with the appropriate components can give occupants vital time to escape in the event of a fire.Despite what most people believe, toxic smoke is the cause of the most deaths in fires, as opposed to the fire itself. So what constitutes a fire door?The BWF Fire Door Alliance states the term usually refers to a fire door leaf which is the main component installed into a fire-rated frame, along with ‘essential ironmongery’ to make the door perform correctly in the event of a fire.However therein is the challenge – when not required to be a fire door it must still perform everyday functions of providing safety, security, privacy, separating different areas and reducing noise in a building.When an architect specifies door products, it is imperative that as well as achieving the everyday design requirements, factors relating to fire resistance are also a key consideration in order to achieve regulatory compliance.Under the spotlightApart from the frame and door leaf, a fire door includes a door closer, smoke seals, hinges, push pads or handles, signage, and maybe a vision panel. Each and every component must be fit for purpose; should any component fail then the whole fire door assembly could fail. And any item that is badly fitted or wrongly specified could contribute to the spread of fire.For each part of the fire door there are standards that must be adhered to.The door and frame should be installed securely and plumb and true with a maximum gap of 3 mm to all sides for a fire door with smoke protection (for a general fire door the gap can be up to 10 mm).The door closer is an important part of the fire door assembly and it is critical to specify a suitable unit and ensure minimum size EN 3 is used.All doors must be fitted with intumescent seals – they play a major role in fire safety as they will expand to around 10 times their volume when significant heat is applied.Hinges are a critical part of a door, carrying its weight and allowing free movement of the door leaf but also helping to keep the door straight during a fire episode. There should be three hinges in a fire door up to 2,100 mm high. For doors over 2,100 mm high, exceeding 150 kg, or over 100 mm wide there should be four. All hinges for fire doors should be made of steel or stainless steel and have a melting point of no less than 800°C.All relevant push pads, handles and kick plates must have the required test data and standards and should have a melting point of at least 800°C. Locks need to comply with BS EN 12209 and lever handles with BS EN 1906.Signage on a fire door is required, such as ‘Fire Door Keep Shut’ or ‘Fire Door Keep Locked’. They need to conform to BS 5499: ISO 7010.Vision panels can be introduced to a door specification for reasons of safety, aesthetics, or to allow transfer of light, however the relevant seals must still be used so as not to compromise the integrity of the fire door and only suitable fire tested glass should be used.Specifying a closer for a fire doorThere are four main types of closer – surface mounted with link arm, surface mounted with guide rail, concealed, and floor mounted closer. All should be tested, approved and certificated to harmonised standard EN 1154, BS EN 1634-1 and have Certifire or similarly approved testing. In addition, a closer should be CE marked or hold the new UKCA (UK Conformity Assessed) certificate (effective fromJanuary 2023).There is also the application to consider: which closer is best suited to the door type, size, location and intended use of the door? Another consideration is the best fitting arrangement, and again this is dependent on door type, size, location and use.There are several different configurations for a variety of applications that also need to be taken into account including fitting configurations, using brackets, mounting plates or spindle extensions to overcome specific site details. All should be specified in accordance with test evidence.Another consideration is being able to adjust the closer. The correct adjustment of the closing force is needed to ensure it meets the requirements for access under Part M and BS 8300 with Part B of the Building Regulations for fire as well. Correct adjustment refers to electro hold open, back check, closing speed, and latch action to ensure the door opens and closes safely and securely.All door closers complying with EN 1154 will have a six figure classification which should be marked on the door closer.The power of door closers according to the EN 1154 standard are rated from one to nine, for example a size three door closer has a closing force of 18 Nm (Newton Metres), where Nm is the closing force exerted by the door one metre from the hinge point. It should be noted that the minimum size allowed for any door closer on a fire door is size three.In summary, while all the component parts of a fire door must be thoroughly tested and conform to all relevant standards, the most important aspect is that they must work together as a doorset.Richard Richardson-Derry is national specification manager for GEZE UK