When people think about energy efficiency and sustainability in buildings, their attention often goes to solar panels, insulation, or lighting systems. Yet one of the most overlooked contributors to energy performance is right at the front door. The way a building manages its entrances has a powerful effect on heat retention, air quality, and overall carbon footprint. From air curtains to revolving doors and insulated materials, thoughtful entrance design can significantly reduce energy loss without compromising style or accessibility.
The Entrance as a Climate Barrier
Every time a door opens, a building’s internal climate is disrupted. Warm air escapes during winter, cool air leaks out in summer, and conditioned air that has already consumed energy is lost in seconds. In large buildings with heavy foot traffic, this can add up to substantial energy waste. Entrances, when designed with sustainability in mind, act as a barrier that stabilises internal conditions and limits the amount of work a heating or cooling system must do.
The best sustainable entrances strike a balance between usability, aesthetics, and energy control. They ensure that visitors move freely while keeping the building envelope intact and efficient. The materials, layout, and even the type of door selected all play a role in maintaining an ideal internal climate.
Air Curtains: The Unseen Energy Saver
Air curtains are one of the most effective yet invisible tools for improving energy efficiency in commercial spaces. Positioned above doorways, they create a controlled stream of air that separates indoor and outdoor environments. This invisible barrier helps retain conditioned air inside the building while preventing drafts, pollution, and insects from entering.
In winter, air curtains stop warm air from escaping, reducing strain on heating systems. In summer, they help keep cool air inside, lowering the demand on air conditioning. Modern air curtains can be integrated with smart controls, allowing them to adjust automatically to temperature changes or foot traffic levels. The result is lower energy use and a more comfortable environment for occupants and visitors.
Revolving Doors: Designed for Efficiency
Revolving doors are another example of how entrance design directly influences sustainability. Unlike conventional swing or sliding doors that allow air to rush in and out with every use, revolving doors create an airlock effect that maintains separation between indoor and outdoor environments.
This design minimises the exchange of air, drastically reducing the energy lost through heating or cooling. Studies have shown that buildings with revolving doors use significantly less energy compared to those with traditional door systems. In addition to their practical benefits, revolving doors offer a refined appearance that complements modern architectural design, making them both functional and visually appealing.
The Role of Insulated Materials and Framing Systems
Beyond mechanical systems, the materials used in entrance construction play a major role in sustainability. Insulated glass, thermally broken framing, and high-performance seals all contribute to improved energy retention. These materials prevent heat transfer through the entrance structure, ensuring that internal temperatures remain stable regardless of the weather outside.
For large glass entrances, double or triple glazing provides exceptional insulation while maintaining visual transparency. Low-emissivity coatings further enhance performance by reflecting heat back into the building during winter and reducing solar gain in summer. Combined with energy-efficient framing systems, these materials create a high-performance barrier that supports sustainability from the ground up.
Smart Integration and Building Performance
Sustainable entrances are not isolated features; they work best as part of an integrated building design. Linking air curtains and door systems to building management systems allows for automatic control based on occupancy levels or temperature readings. This integration ensures that entrances operate only when needed, reducing unnecessary energy use.
For example, air curtains can automatically activate when a door opens and deactivate when it closes, maximising efficiency. Similarly, sensors can monitor traffic flow and adjust system intensity accordingly. These intelligent systems not only improve comfort but also reduce operational costs, contributing to long-term sustainability goals.
A Small Change with a Big Impact
Although entrances might appear to be a small part of the building envelope, their influence on energy performance is substantial. A poorly designed or inefficient entrance can undermine even the most advanced heating or cooling systems, while a well-designed one can quietly save thousands in annual energy costs. For architects, developers, and property managers, focusing on entrance design is a simple yet powerful step toward achieving better environmental performance.
Sustainable Design with Open Entrances
At Open Entrances, we specialise in designing and installing glass entrances that balance aesthetics, performance, and sustainability. Our team works with architects and developers to create tailored solutions that enhance efficiency while maintaining architectural integrity. Whether through air curtains, revolving door systems, or insulated glass façades, we help buildings reduce energy waste and operate more sustainably.
If you are looking to lower your building’s carbon footprint without compromising design or functionality, we can help you make an entrance that truly supports your sustainability goals. With Open Entrances, sustainability begins at the door.
