According to Sam Jacob, a speaker at the Architects’ Journal webinar “Making an Entrance: Fresh Thinking in Threshold Design,” the design of a threshold is akin to the opening line of a novel or a film, setting the theme and inviting engagement. Supported by INTRAsystems, the event explored the broader concept of thresholds alongside detailed discussions on entrance matting specifications.
Jacob began with an engaging presentation that referenced works by Daphne Du Maurier and Saul Bass, along with examples from his own studio. He emphasized that the entrance serves as a significant transition point, marking the shift from one world to another. For instance, he creatively utilized the architecture of Somerset House for the exhibition “The Horror Show!” where an archway was designed to resemble a gaping mouth, heightening the experience of crossing the threshold.
In discussing a new threshold for the Victoria & Albert Museum, Jacob explained the aim was to reflect the museum’s values. This included a new glass entrance and ceramics in the restrooms that reference the museum’s collections. The ceramics featured terrazzo made from crushed Jasperware, honoring the museum’s connection to Wedgwood, and digitally printed tiles showcasing figures from the ceramics collection. Jacob noted that this design achieved a “cultural resonance” even in functional spaces.
Morrow + Lorraine faced several challenges in redesigning the entrance to Alder Castle, part of a Cat A refurbishment of a 1990s office building. The site overlooks the London Wall, a scheduled monument, and is near the Grade I-listed St Anne & St Agnes church. The firm aimed to enhance the entrance while addressing the previously unremarkable approach via a bridge over the Wall.
Associate Sarah Matheou and architect Radostina Stoyanova presented a design that aimed to create something meaningful. The extension brought the massing forward to the midpoint of the bridge, featuring a single-storey canopy that signifies the entrance and enhances the spaciousness of the new reception area. The design respected existing datum lines and improved the transition with the surroundings, including an information point on the bridge and enhanced landscaping.
Matheou expressed the goal of making the new entrance appear as if it had always been part of the existing structure. The design also addressed accessibility challenges, providing a 1:21 slope and automatic outward-opening doors.
Joanna Warda, a senior interior designer at tp bennett, discussed the ongoing 7,500m 2 refurbishment of The Langfield, which aims to transform two outdated commercial offices near Victoria Station. The new entrance will be repositioned to the left, leading down a wide portal and walkway, which will activate the building’s entire frontage and allow for a pocket garden alongside a public café.
tp bennett intends to retain as much of the existing structure as possible, except for a condemned section of the façade. Warda highlighted the use of Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) to guide specifications and emphasized the importance of understanding product impacts. She mentioned that ADLib, their specification resource, is set to become an open-source platform later this year.
Aaron Dixon, a specification consultant at INTRAsystems, discussed the practical aspects of specifying entrance matting, which is essential for maintaining a safe and tidy entrance. He noted that matting is typically used in three zones: external, primary internal, and secondary walk-off areas. While British Standard and WELL standards recommend matting lengths of 2.1m and 3m, respectively, Dixon suggested a 4m length, with depths up to 21mm. He observed a growing demand for EPDs in entrance matting, which INTRAsystems provides for all its products.
Dixon showcased the circular features of the INTRAform DM ecoSwitch product, which includes a replaceable insert system that minimizes the need to replace the entire aluminum profile. He also noted that matting can enhance the design aesthetic through various colors and configurations, such as chevron patterns, adding a dynamic feel to entrances. The INTRAshape range offers different shapes for added creativity.
While thresholds present significant creative opportunities, they also pose various technical challenges. Jacob discussed the complexity of integrating necessary equipment and cabling without creating visual clutter. He highlighted the difficulties in achieving certifications for custom elements and ensuring compliance with existing building regulations, particularly for accessibility. Dixon pointed out weather-related challenges, noting that draught lobbies can effectively mitigate cold air. Additionally, he emphasized the importance of regular cleaning for entrance matting, as it is designed to collect dirt.
The Panel
- Aaron Dixon specification consultant, INTRAsystems
- Sam Jacob founder, Sam Jacob Studio
- Sarah Matheou associate, Morrow + Lorraine
- Radostina Stoyanova architect, Morrow + Lorraine
- Joanna Warda senior interior designer, tp bennett
- Hattie Hartman (chair) sustainability editor, The Architects’ Journal
 | Architect’s Journal Up to the minute architecture news, including building reviews, insight on running a successful practice and the latest architectural competitions. |
