In public environments such as airports, shopping centres, hospitals and transport hubs, entrances are far more than an aesthetic feature. They are critical access points that must withstand constant use while ensuring safety, functionality and minimal disruption. Designing and maintaining entrances in these high-traffic spaces brings unique challenges, but there are smart solutions that can make a real difference.
Durability Comes First
In a busy public space, an entrance may be used thousands of times a day. That kind of volume puts considerable strain on every component of the system, from the glass panels to the framing, hinges and control mechanisms. Wear and tear is inevitable, so materials must be selected with durability as a priority. Glass systems used in these environments need to be impact-resistant and tested for high-use applications.
Aluminium framing, robust floor closers and heavy-duty patch fittings are common choices because they can handle repetitive movement without compromising performance. It’s also important that door systems are engineered to avoid unnecessary stress on glass, particularly where automated systems are in place.
Maintenance is Essential, Not Optional
When glass entrances are in constant use, small issues can quickly develop into major faults. Misalignments, failing seals or slow response times in automated doors can compromise security and functionality. In high-traffic areas, there’s no room for unexpected downtime.
A well-planned maintenance schedule helps identify minor issues early and keeps systems running efficiently. Routine inspections, regular lubrication of moving parts, replacement of worn seals and calibration of sensors all help to extend the lifespan of the entrance system. In public buildings, where perception matters, clean and fully operational entrances also help maintain trust and a positive experience for users.
Safety is Always a Priority
Public spaces carry an added responsibility when it comes to safety. Glass must meet strict standards for impact resistance and be installed with safety features that reduce the risk of injury. This includes laminated or toughened glass, rounded corners where possible, and break-safe behaviour in the event of failure.
Automated doors must be fitted with sensors that detect the presence of people and objects to avoid trapping, and emergency breakout features should be included where necessary. Clear signage, non-slip thresholds and good lighting around entrance areas all contribute to a safer user experience.
Design Without Compromise
Just because an entrance is working hard does not mean it can’t be visually impressive. Frameless glass entrances offer a clean and modern look that suits many public buildings. In high-traffic areas, these can be combined with semi-framed or fully framed systems to increase structural integrity without sacrificing design impact.
Entrance layouts can also be planned to manage foot traffic more effectively. Double sets of doors or sliding systems can help reduce pressure on individual components and improve climate control by creating airlocks, reducing the loss of heated or cooled air.
Balancing Form and Function
The key to success in these demanding environments lies in balance. Entrances must be strong without being bulky, easy to maintain without being over-engineered, and secure without being unwelcoming.
At Open Entrances, we understand the demands placed on high-traffic systems. Every solution we design takes into account not just how a space looks on opening day, but how it performs in the years to follow. By focusing on durability, maintenance and safety from the outset, we help public buildings stay functional, efficient and impressive under pressure.
