Invisible Innovation: The Architectural Case for Underfloor Drive Systems on Swing Doors

In contemporary architecture, the demand for seamless integration between technology and design continues to grow. Nowhere is this more evident than in entrance systems, where the challenge lies in balancing automation, accessibility, and aesthetics. Underfloor drive systems for swing doors offer architects an elegant, discreet solution—one that delivers all the benefits of automation without compromising on visual design.

Seamless Design Integration
Architects often face the dilemma of integrating essential hardware into spaces where minimalism or heritage preservation is paramount. Traditional surface-mounted door operators can disrupt clean lines, obstruct sightlines, or appear visually intrusive—particularly in glass façades, timber doors, or stone-clad entrances.

Underfloor operators resolve this by removing the need for visible hardware. Entirely concealed beneath the floor, these systems allow swing doors to function effortlessly without interrupting the aesthetic flow of the space. Whether specified in high-end commercial developments, luxury residences, or listed buildings, the result is an entrance that functions beautifully—and invisibly.

Meeting Accessibility Standards with Style
Complying with regulations such as the Equality Act and BS 8300 doesn’t have to come at the expense of design. Underfloor systems support fully automated, barrier-free access, while remaining hidden from view. They can be integrated with push pads, access control systems, sensors, or building management systems - ensuring compliance without cluttering the interior or exterior design.

Maximising Space and Flexibility
For projects where space is at a premium—narrow corridors, compact lobbies, or glass curtain walling—underfloor operators are an excellent alternative to overhead systems. They eliminate the need for side or overhead clearances and free up wall space for other architectural elements like signage, glazing, or lighting. This opens up new creative possibilities, particularly in projects where every millimetre of usable space matters.

Quiet, Durable, and Built to Last

Behind the scenes, underfloor operators are designed for longevity and performance. Housed in sealed, floor-mounted boxes, they are protected against dirt, dust, and moisture - making them suitable for both interior and exterior applications. Their quiet operation makes them ideal for environments where acoustics are a priority, such as hotels, libraries, and healthcare settings.

Many systems also offer customisable settings for speed, force, and hold-open time - allowing specifiers to tailor performance to door type, size, and usage pattern.

Smart Specification for Modern Projects Underfloor swing door operators align perfectly with modern architectural values: minimal visual impact, improved user experience, and intelligent, integrated functionality. While installation requires early coordination with floor construction and finishes, the design benefits are significant.

For architects committed to delivering clean, cohesive, and compliant environments, underfloor operator systems offer a quiet revolution in door automation—both literally and aesthetically.

UFO NT: Underfloor operator – concealed door drive system

Giving designers greater freedom to create aesthetically attractive entrances the UFO NT operator is perfectly hidden from view. Mounted below the finished floor level it enables maximum transparency of the entrance yet still provides automatic access.

The UFO NT boasts a much wider range of capabilities and features than its predecessor, including manual use via the Smart swing function, a redundant spring system, programmable force settings, greater opening angles and increased leaf weight and widths for both internal and external doors.

Offering flexibility, the UFO NT has a full range of operational functions from fully automatic to manual opening and closing including low energy and Push & Go. At its core is GEZE’s popular automatic swing operator Powerturn.

Using the GEZE Powerturn as the base of this new drive has enabled the features that make the GEZE Powerturn desirable to be incorporated into the UFO NT. This includes operating larger and heavier doors, a smaller drive and control box and the option for effortless manual passage through the door via the Smart swing function.

To find out more, visit: UFO NT | GEZE

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