Leisure, Healthcare & Communal Buildings

Geze UK has secured a place in Hull’s historical archives by installing two circular entrances to the new History Centre’s curved atrium.

Part of a £10.7 million project, Hull History Centre is a joint venture between Hull City Council and Hull University and was supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund. The aim of the project is to make historical archives accessible to the public and ensure that, for the first time, priceless records of the city's past are gathered under one roof.

With accessibility in mind, Geze’s automatic curved sliders were chosen to create a stylish, minimalist and functional glass entrance that provides both impact and ease of use.

Architectural practice Pringle Richards Sharratt won a design competition to create the Hull History Centre with a concept that combined high visibility with easy accessibility.

At both ends of a linear glass arcade running along the south face of the building four Slimdrive SC automatic operators were fitted in pairs to create two cylindrical draft lobbies.

Part of the Slimdrive range, the operators are just 7cm high, creating a virtually seamless effect when they blend into the glass facades. The SC has also been tested to all relevant standards and regulations, including Building Bulletin 93, Approved Documents B and M, and the demands of the DDA.

GEZE UK’s team of engineers worked with the contractors on site to modify one entrance, which needed to incorporate a slope. This was achieved through alterations to the design of the sub-floor stainless steel rings and the door assembly.

Operations director Paul Ryan said: “This was an exciting installation using two pairs of SC operators either side of a goal post frame and as the floor sloped through one entrance due to limitations of site and design, we had to look at innovative ways to place the curved doors back to back, accommodating the slope. Our technical team was able to provide the answer, ensuring a light, spacious, attractive entrance that’s accessible for all.”

www.geze.co.uk