GEZE UK has provided the automatic doors on the main entrance lobby for the Parkside Building, a stunning new addition to the city centre campus of Birmingham City University.

The Slimdrive SL automatic sliding doors were chosen for the entrance lobby primarily because the very low profile height of 7cm enables almost invisible integration into the facade. The overall effect is one of maximum light and space in the impressive atrium while creating a lobby area that minimises heat loss – essential for the building to meet its low energy targets.

The building is the new home to the Birmingham Institute of Art & Design and the faculty of Performance, Media and English, and with so many visitors each day, the products chosen had to meet the highest safety standards. As part of GEZE’s unique Slimdrive range the Slimdrive SL has been designed and tested to meet the requirements of all relevant standards and regulations, including Building Bulletin 93, Approved Documents B and M, as well as assisting with the vigorous demands of the Equality Act.

GEZE’s products also feature elsewhere in the building, as architectural ironmonger Eisenware specified GEZE door closers throughout. The large acoustic doors to the television studios are fitted with TS 5000 overhead door closers. This heavy duty closer is ideal for big and heavy doors, while the satin stainless steel finish ensures an elegant finish.

The TS 2000 V door closer was chosen as a highly efficient, cost effective solution for internal doors throughout the building. It is also finished in satin stainless steel, ensuring design consistency throughout the building.

Designed by Associated Architects and built by Willmott Dixon, the building is part of a £180 million investment into the University’s estate.