The door manufacturer IDF Aluminium has installed transom closers, solenoid locks and hook locks from Alpro Architectural Hardware at a building in a historic section of London’s Finsbury Square. 4 Chiswell Street backs onto the Artillery Ground which saw archery in Tudor times, some of London’s first games of cricket in the 1730s and even a hot-air balloon flight in 1784.
The four-storey structure was refurbished by main contractor Parkeray to a design by Ben Adams Architects that created column-free office space with exposed concrete soffit and a signature golden mesh and grille façade based on curtain walling with bold circles. The glazing is unusual since the Reynaers’ curtain walling for the double-height reception uses innovative bracketry to support panes from Euroview Architectural Glass. The Alpro closers are on the gilt exterior doors and the client is also has solenoid bolts in the door heads.
Alpro reports that its transverse action deadlocking bolts offer physical strength with holding forces of up to 2,000kg, a bolt throw of 14mm and models with oversize pins. The microprocessor module provides power reduction allowing for continuous operation without heat generation as well as automatic voltage regulation, dual monitoring and access control features to fully monitor and control movement. Installers can use housings from the same series for surface mounting which facilitates the securing of glass doors. Dress plates are offered for a clean finish.
The Chiswell Street refurbishment was carried out with tenants in occupation and even involved abseiling to replace glazing. A temporary reception was created for access and egress. The installer adds that daylight has been maximised and floor-to-ceiling height is used wherever possible in a design that meets the Equality Act and includes a revised fire strategy.
