Automatic doors at Casa de la Convalescència: learn the key to installing them without disrupting the surroundings

The adaptation of modern technologies to spaces of significant heritage value represents one of the most complex challenges to contemporary architecture. The work done at Casa de la Convalescència de Barcelona is a perfect example of this balance: a building classified as a Historic-Artistic Monument and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which currently houses the headquarters of the Fundació Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB). To transform this historic setting into a functional academic centre, Manusa was involved in the modernisation of its main entrances by installing automatic sliding doors.

An installation that respects the original architecture 

The Casa de la Convalescència forms part of the Modernist complex of the Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau. It was designed by the architect Lluís Domènech i Montaner and completed in 1930 under the supervision of his son, Pere Domènech i Roura.

The renovation of its main entrance presented the challenge of working on a historic building without altering the value of this masterpiece of Catalan Modernism.

The project resolves the access issue through a technical solution that respects the original architecture. The existing large wooden door remains open, allowing a view of the building’s interior, whilst functional access is provided through a standard automatic sliding door.

This combination allows the historical aesthetic to be preserved without compromising the functionality of the current systems. Thanks to the use of fully transparent glass leaves, the automatic door blends in seamlessly and maintains the visual continuity of the lobby.

Benefits of automatic doors in historic buildings

The installation of a centre-opening automatic sliding door in a setting such as the Casa de la Convalescència offers key benefits for both the building and its users:

• Universal accessibility: removes architectural barriers in a high-traffic building, facilitating the smooth flow of students, visitors and teaching staff without the need for manual contact.

• Energy efficiency: due to its opening and closing speed, the door minimises the air exchange with the exterior of the building, helping to maintain the indoor climate and reduce the building’s energy consumption.

• Safety and people flow management: ensures orderly flow in high-traffic areas, adapting to the number of people entering the lobby. It also includes an obstacle detection system with automatic reopening. 

• Aesthetic integration: the profiles and the transparent leaves allow for seamless architectural integration, in harmony with the building’s original materials (wood, stone and ceramics).

Solutions for iconic settings 

With this project, Manusa reaffirms its ability to work in settings with the highest heritage standards, providing solutions that protect the past whilst looking towards the future.

Another recent example is the project carried out at the Museu Marítim de Mallorca, situated at the foot of the cathedral and next to the Parc del Mar. We refurbished the entrances with automatic doors tailored for this 18th-century architectural complex in order to enhance the visitor experience.

Are you looking for an automatic door solution for a project in a historic building? Contact our team of experts, and we will provide you with personalised advice to find the best option for your entrances.