At The Priory, a residential block of 80 flats in Patcham, Brighton, residents and management have taken proactive steps to stay ahead of evolving fire safety legislation
When updates to building safety laws highlighted the need for upgrades to the front entrance fire doors, the building’s right-to-manage group didn’t wait for enforcement – they acted quickly and decisively.
Michael Hollingdale, one of the resident directors overseeing the building, put it simply: “There was a change in legislation regarding the residential front doors, so we needed to source some replacements for an upgrade.”
This straightforward assessment launched a collaborative project with Fireco, a Sussex-based fire safety specialist, to bring The Priory’s front door sets in line with current standards – without compromising on the look and feel that residents valued.
Combining compliance with design
For many residential blocks, retrofitting or replacing fire doors is a challenging balancing act. While safety and compliance are non-negotiable, the impact on the building’s appearance and residents’ daily experience also matters. The Priory’s team understood this well.
Working closely with Fireco, they planned a pilot installation of four complete door sets. These included certified fire doors and frames, along with hardware, closers, and other necessary components. But what really stood out was how the design was adapted to meet residents’ preferences.
Rather than opting for doors with traditional surface-mounted closers, which can look bulky and industrial, Fireco specified sleek timber doors with large vision panels to bring in natural light. To preserve a clean finish, they integrated concealed overhead closers into the door frames – fully certified, adjustable, and hidden from view.
“The residents didn’t want bulky door closers spoiling the aesthetic,” said Hollingdale. “Fireco gave us something that was compliant, discreet, and looked great.”
Getting it right the first time
Installation was straightforward, and feedback was immediate. All four door sets received glowing reviews from the residents involved in the pilot. Hollingdale confirmed, “Each owner was absolutely delighted, and all would have no problem recommending the work.”
It’s a response that reflects well on both the planning and execution of the project. By trialling a small number of doors first, the management company gave itself the chance to gather input and ensure everything was up to standard – without rolling out 80 installations all at once.
This pilot-first approach is increasingly popular in fire safety upgrades, allowing buildings to fine-tune specifications, adapt to residents’ needs, and build confidence before committing to large-scale changes.
Planning for the full rollout
Following the success of the initial installations, the management group now plans to replace the remaining 76 front entrance doors throughout the building. It’s a clear sign that a well-executed pilot not only helps de-risk complex projects but also speeds up resident buy-in.
For Fireco, it’s another example of how tailored solutions can help residential buildings achieve compliance without compromise. By offering a range of certified options that blend safety, usability, and aesthetics, they help demystify fire door upgrades – making it easier for buildings like The Priory to meet their obligations.
A model for others
As fire safety legislation continues to evolve in response to national reviews and local authority enforcement, buildings across the UK are facing similar decisions. The Priory’s approach offers a model that’s both practical and effective: start small, consult your residents, and work with a partner who understands both regulations and design.
It’s not just about ticking a compliance box – it’s about delivering lasting safety upgrades that residents can trust and appreciate every day.
Visit www.fireco.uk or speak to an expert on 01273 320650
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