Dulwich College is a world-renowned educational institution founded in 1619, located just a few miles from the centre of London. When a replacement doorset was required for their flagship Laboratory complex, the Metador Defender Inox was a perfect fit.
The Laboratory building at Dulwich College is an architectural masterpiece completed in 2017, winning a RIBA award for design. Combining arts and science it provides spaces for teaching, performances, and exhibitions. This includes an exhibition dedicated to one of their most famous alumni, Sir Ernest Shackleton, with the James Caird lifeboat on which he and his party escaped from Antarctica to safety from their ill-fated Endurance expedition.
The previous main entrance doorset had failed to withstand the high levels of traffic and a new solution was needed. The Defender Inox was a perfect choice thanks to its high aesthetic qualities and stronger-than-standard 1.5mm Grade 304 stainless steel. The high nickel and chromium content in stainless steel gives a patina that has excellent corrosion resistance and durability making it highly suitable for an external application.
With large vision panels that allow clear lines of sight, matching sleek and solid stainless steel handles that provide easy access, and kickplates to provide protection from high volumes of traffic, this doorset provides a durable entrance that will stand the test of time.
To complement the seamless high-end look, a stainless steel glazed overpanel was incorporated into the design and works to maintain the architectural lines of the entire building.
The doors were provided with square-edged meeting stiles and a bespoke weather seal. Security was achieved with electro-magnets concealed in the frame head and integrated with the building access control system, plus a mechanical deadlock with flush bolts for out-of-hours security.
Through our dedication to continuous improvement, we aim to ensure all of our doorsets are easy to install and this installation was certainly no exception, proved by the installer’s summary: “The doors were like a dream to install – as always!”
Our 15-year guarantee provides peace of mind that this doorset will continue to provide a fitting welcome for this superb facility to staff, students and visitors alike for many years to come.