Manchester’s stunning new elliptical Library Walk Link was designed to connect two of the city’s historic buildings – it needed doors that not only allowed people to enter and exit with ease, but reflected the dramatic glass architecture.
GEZE UK was appointed by Waagner Biro to install Slimdrive SC automatic curved sliding doors to create the two main entrances in to the Library Walk Link, as well as four Slimdrive SL NT automatic sliding doors providing access in to Manchester’s Library and Town Hall.
The link building echoes the curve of the passageway and features 26 glass panes of 7.4 meters high. Perhaps the most spectacular feature is the rooftop sculpture of a cloud formation created from 30 tons of mirror-polished stainless steel. The overall effect is one of maximum light and space in the impressive atrium.
To reflect the unique curve of the building, two gently curved automatic bi-parting sliding glass doors were installed at either end of the building. GEZE’s energy-efficient Slimdrive SC, a curved automatic door operator was chosen for its sleek appearance and versatility as it can be tailored to bespoke radii and door dimensions, as well as meeting the highest efficiency and quality standards.
The doors are open to the public between the hours of 6am and 10pm, enabling the public to use the passageway as a thoroughfare, but they and a gate at the end of the passageway are locked at night for security.
As well as the main entrances in to the atrium, GEZE installed automatic sliding doors positioned on either side of the pod providing access to the historic Library and Town Hall. Here Slimdrive SL NT drives were chosen to provide consistency of design throughout.
Both the Slimdrive SC and the Slimdrive SL NT automatic operators are part of GEZE UK’s popular Slimdrive range. The operators are just 7cm high allowing the head track to be mounted discretely and partially concealed within the soffit detailing/facia. Designed to be virtually silent in operation, the Slimdrive range are ideal for glass doors.
Kaz Spiewakowski, managing director of GEZE UK, said: “This is a truly spectacular architectural design that combines a glass façade with a sculptural stainless steel ‘cloud’ roof. The effect is truly unique and we are delighted to have been given the opportunity to work on such a prestigious project.
“From initial design right through until installation, we worked closely with Waagner Biro to provide an entrance solution that would transform the architect’s vision into a reality. I think it’s fair to say that this is exactly the type of project that the Slimdrive SC automatic curved sliding entrances were made for!”
The Slimdrive range 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.
