Merchant Taylors' School, Northwood, Middlesex

Client: Merchant Taylors' School
Type of works: supply of TORMAX 1301 iMotion automatic operators.

With many buildings dating back to the 1930’s, Merchant Taylors’ School needed to upgrade nearly twenty external entrances without altering the period facades. TORMAX was contracted to replace the steel Crittal doors with specialist aluminium profile carefully designed to replicate the art deco style. Providing free flowing foot traffic, the swing doors are all fitted with technologically advanced, TORMAX 1301 iMotion automatic operators.

One of the most prestigious independent boys’ schools in the UK, Merchant Taylors’ School was originally established in central London in 1561. In 1933 the school was relocated to its current home on a 250 acre estate in Hertfordshire. The centre of the site is the original art deco building, now complemented by an extensive range of modern buildings. Recognising the need to provide easy access for all staff and pupils, all relevant entrances have been replaced with TORMAX automatic door systems.

Being a grade two listed building, a conservation officer was consulted before work began to ensure important architectural details were maintained. TORMAX has demonstrated expertise on previous projects, recreating Crittal-style doors to suit heritage locations. The original steel doors at the school have been replaced with double-glazed units with highly effective aluminium profile. Following direction of the conservation officer, TORMAX took great care to accurately reproduce the astragals by adhering replacements directly onto the glazing.

Complying with current DDA regulations, TORMAX iMotion 1301 door operators are one of the most advanced automatic openers on the market today. The unobtrusive, compact case houses a wear-free synchronous motor which delivers exceptional reliability and longevity. Energy-efficient operation minimises running costs, whilst heating bills are cut thanks to doors no longer being left open unnecessarily. An intelligent micro-processor ensures permanent monitoring of door leaf movements to maximise performance whilst the simple control panel allows door settings to be adapted to match user requirements.

“We were impressed with the attention to detail demonstrated by TORMAX”, comments Langley Denhard, Buildings Manager at Merchant Taylors’ School. “The doors are an accurate representation of the originals, delivering much needed DDA compliance.