An innovative automatic sliding wall system from Gilgen Door Systems has been installed at the newly refurbished Lighthouse Arts Centre. The system is helping to optimise space and maximise pedestrian traffic. It has recently been installed as part of a £5.3 million re-development of the centre and features fully glazed wall panels powered by an electric drive system.

Architects Design Engine chose the Gilgen STW system for the refurbished lobby area so as to provide a stylish yet versatile solution to control visitor flow and maximise the use of available space. Two sliding wall systems each featuring three fully glazed wall panels were installed either side of a central lobby between the restaurants and ticket desk.

The moving wall system is activated through a control panel mounted on the adjacent wall which enables staff to engage the system at the push of a button. To ensure safety STW features fully monitored operating with continuous scanning that automatically stops the drive system when there is a risk of an obstruction. The panels can also be moved manually in event of power failure.

Martyn Balson, General Manager of the Lighthouse theatre said:"The main entrance has been completely restyled and centralised so that all visitors, whether headed for the café, the box office or just leaving a show, will all be moving through the same area of the building. The Gilgen STW has proven to be a very effective part of this solution”.