Victoria Gate Retail Facility

Performance and elegance combined

When architects ACME designed a new landmark retail facility in Leeds, the aim was to build a modern shopping centre fit for luxury brands, whilst reflecting the rich history of shopping arcades in the North West.
As such, dormakaba was appointed to supply its HSW-R glass sliding shop front systems, ES200 automatic sliding door entrances, and MUNDUS patch fittings, to ensure a robust, high performance access solution with an elegant appearance.

Victoria Gate is a £165 million development, consisting of approximately 42,000m2 of prestigious retail and dining units. The design of the building honours the rich merchandising and textile heritage of Leeds – reflected in the stunning shopping arcades that became synonymous with the area in the 19th century.
dormakaba was tasked with providing a range of access solutions, which would create a stylish aesthetic suitable for high-end retail outlets and without compromising the classic theme of the building. In addition, it was crucial the system chosen would offer a robust, and high performance solution to withstand the regular use of a public building.
Working closely with main contractor Sir Robert McAlpine , the HSW-R sliding shop front system, totalling 150 panels across the arcade, was installed.
HSW-R systems include an ITS96 door closer, concealed within the frame for discreet appearance. In addition, the system’s double glazed panels are supported by an aluminium ceiling suspended track, meaning that panels can be neatly stacked away without the need for floor guides, avoiding any obstructions for wheelchair users. This creates an ideal access solution for retail entrance settings.
“The design requirements at Victoria Gate presented a number of challenges,” commented Catherine Hennessey, Architect at ACME. “To fill the tall, wide entrance spaces, we required glass door solutions, which were discreet in their appearance, with minimal visible framework. We also needed to ensure adequate speed of access and a solution that could withstand the operational demands of such a major retail development. dormakaba’s solutions were able to meet this performance criteria, whilst achieving transparent and elegant entrances, in line with the building’s architectural requirements.
To complete the installation, dormakaba’s MUNDUS patch fittings were also included. Having previously been awarded the Interior Innovation Award by the German Design Council, MUNDUS patch fittings are capable of accommodating door weights of up to 200kg, with fixings concealed behind the patch fitting to further enhance the doors’ seamless appearance.
The Victoria Gate project has been shortlisted for ‘Major Building Project of the Year’ at the British Construction Industry Awards 2017.

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