GEZE UK has successfully brought together classical architecture and contemporary glass automated entrances to allow access for all, as part of a £35million re-development at Birmingham's historic Town Hall, which has been shortlisted for design excellence by both the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) and Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA).

One of the UK's leading manufacturer of door and window control systems, has supplied more than 100 automatic and manual closers from its extensive range, including TSA 160 UFOs with toughened glass fitted into the structural glass arches of the main entrance. The lobby also uses Slimdrive SD automatic doors and a TSA 160 automatic swing door to complete the restoration of the Greek-inspired style Grade 1 listed building.


The project, headed by Birmingham City Council’s Urban Design Department, had to meet the requirements of the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA), facilitating easy access for all, without altering the original architectural style of the building.

The company also had to specify a door solution that complemented the requirements of the DDA and would also discreetly attach onto the glass screen of the two main entrance doors without compromising the authentic arched design. Working with Tuscan Hardware, GEZE UK specified the TSA 160 UFO under floor operator for a virtually invisible installation, ensuring the original design of the main entrance was not lost.

Developed from GEZE UK’s TSA 160 transom mounted unit, the TSA 160 UFO offers discrete under floor fitting on a wide range of applications with door leaves of up to 120kg. The easy to install electro-hydraulic operator meets access and aesthetic restrictions associated with listed buildings and allows for DDA compliance in accordance with BS83000.

Both the sleek and minimalist TSA 160 and Slimdrive SD automatic operators installed in the lobby are ideal for saving energy by reducing heat lost from frequent passing traffic. The electro-hydraulic power behind the Slimdrive SD also kicks in when the movement sensor is triggered for an easy and assisted opening, perfectly suited for use by the elderly or infirm.

(CD/NS)