Abbots Manor Screens

The original brief for this new secure-entry system to three, deck-access, multi-storey residential blocks within the Abbots Manor Estate, was for simple railings or standard UPVC glazed panels with access doors. We wanted to create a less institutional and more inspiring solution, and developed a series of decorative, laser-cut, metal screens using CAD/CAM techniques.

As the residential blocks are all named after abbeys, we designed an intricate, repetitive pattern of arches, suggestive of the ecclesiastical theme without referring to a particular religion. The pattern has been carefully considered and evolves from a dense, uniform arrangement at ground level into a free flowing sculptural form at the top.

In doing so, greater security is provided at lower levels while visibility and ventilation are maintained at eye level. Solid infill panels are introduced strategically around the entry system to prevent tampering. Residents were delighted with this more thoughtful and exciting, non-standard solution.