Entrances have always played a defining role in how people experience a building. They set the tone for what lies beyond, shaping comfort, perception, and flow. In recent years, the way people interact with entrances has changed significantly. Advances in technology, growing awareness of hygiene, and evolving social behaviour have all contributed to a cultural shift from physical contact to seamless, touch-free access.
The Influence of Hygiene Awareness
The pandemic permanently changed how people view hygiene and shared surfaces. What was once a simple action such as pushing a door handle or pressing a button suddenly became something to avoid. This shift in mindset accelerated the move toward touchless technology in commercial, healthcare, and retail environments, where safety and cleanliness became top priorities.
Automatic sliding or swing doors, motion sensors, and remote entry systems have now become common features across public and private buildings. They reduce unnecessary contact while improving visitor experience and accessibility. In high-traffic spaces such as hospitals, transport hubs, and offices, touchless entrances have become an essential part of modern hygiene and safety strategies.
Technology as the Catalyst for Change
Technological progress has driven this transformation. Modern access systems use motion detection, facial recognition, and smartphone connectivity to provide secure, efficient entry without the need for physical interaction. These systems are no longer just functional; they are intelligent, adaptable, and capable of learning how people move through spaces.
Touchless entrances also contribute to energy efficiency. By regulating door openings and reducing unnecessary air exchange, automated systems help maintain stable indoor temperatures and reduce heating and cooling costs. This makes them an attractive choice for architects and facilities managers seeking both comfort and sustainability.
Changing Social Behaviour
The shift toward touchless interaction reflects broader changes in how people live and move. Society now values convenience, ease, and seamless flow in both digital and physical spaces. Touchless entrances align perfectly with this expectation, allowing people to move freely without interruption or hesitation.
This evolution also supports accessibility and inclusion. Touch-free systems make it easier for everyone to enter a building, including people with mobility limitations or those carrying items. The result is a more comfortable and welcoming experience for all users, regardless of ability.
A New Approach to Entrance Design
Architects and developers are now rethinking entrance design to match this new cultural expectation. Glass entrances, in particular, have become the centrepiece of many modern buildings because they combine elegance with advanced automation. Their transparency creates a sense of openness and connection between inside and outside, while touchless operation ensures hygiene and ease of use.
Designers are also exploring how smart entrance systems can integrate with building management technology to adjust automatically based on foot traffic, weather, or time of day. This innovation moves entrances from being static structures to dynamic components of intelligent buildings.
The Future of Touchless Access
What began as a response to health concerns has evolved into a permanent standard. Touchless access is now expected in workplaces, public spaces, and residential developments. As technology continues to progress, buildings will rely even more on smart sensors, predictive systems, and sustainable automation to manage entry efficiently and safely.
Creating Smarter Entrances with Open Entrances
At Open Entrances, we design, install, and maintain automated glass entrance systems that bring together aesthetics, technology, and practicality. Our expertise helps building owners and developers adapt to modern expectations, creating entrances that are safe, efficient, and visually striking.
Whether your project involves upgrading an existing system or designing a new space, we provide solutions that balance innovation with reliability. With Open Entrances, your building can welcome every visitor through a clean, intuitive, and touchless experience that reflects the future of modern architecture.
