Issue 48 AUG 25 web - Flipbook - Page 61
The benefits of installing
a structural glass porch
in heritage buildings
The installation of a glass porch (sometimes called a glass lobby or glass vestibule) has gained popularity
as a modern intervention that improves the functionality of your entrance while respecting the historic
fabric of the original building.
Whether you opt for an interior or exterior porch it can
also be a way to make an impressive style statement,
creating an entrance that enhances or changes the
perspective of the building.
We asked Peter Hazeldean, MD of conservation and
heritage structural glass experts Ion Glass to share his
insights:
What are the key benefits of a glass porch?
‘As a construction material, glass is structurally robust and
is generally considered the optimum choice for heritage
and listed properties where it’s important to minimise the
physical impact on your building.
It’s not just about creating a welcoming, weatherproof
entrance - original timber doors can be off-putting for
visitors and make the interior more dark and gloomy.
Installing a secure glass porch can allow the wooden doors
to be fixed open, allowing light to flood into the building
and providing a view of the interior.
What you are creating is a transitional space offering
additional protection from the elements, minimizing
draughts and helping to control humidity – this will have
significant advantages if you are trying to preserve delicate
interior features such as carved woodwork, fabrics or wall
paintings and can help significantly with regard to
improved heat retention and a reduction in energy costs.
A structural glass porch can improve accessibility for those
less mobile with the option to include doors that open
automatically or at the touch of a button’.
What are the most important considerations when
commissioning a glass porch?
‘If your building is listed you will need to respect the
constraints of Historic England and other conservation
bodies but sensitively designed and installed a glass porch
can achieve significant benefits.
Below, structural glass entrance lobby at St Mary’s
at the Quay, Ipswich
