Efficiency and safety in the Epic Savassi building in Belo Horizonte, Brazil

In the heart of Belo Horizonte, capital of the Brazilian state of Minas Gerais, stands an elegant 99-metre-high, 29-storey residential tower with exceptional views. It is the Epic Savassi building, a project of the Farkasvölgyi architecture studio executed by the leading Brazilian construction companies Somattos and Patrimar. Manusa do Brasil and its official distributor in the country, Manuminas, have collaborated with both construction companies for the installation of the main access, designed to optimise energy efficiency and promote the safety of the resident community.

The solution provided consists of an airlock system with two automatic doors installed in sequence. This type of system prevents the opening of the second door until the first door has been closed, allowing effective control of access to the building. Additionally, the system offers the capability to integrate multiple actuators and safety accessories, including motion, pressure, or temperature sensors, video surveillance cameras, card or biometric readers, and facial recognition systems, among others.

In the case of the Epic Savassi, the airlock consists of two centrally opening automatic sliding doors with fixed framed leaves. On one side of the space, between the two doors, a window allows concierge staff to monitor people entering and exiting. This double barrier improves safety without compromising accessibility, as the automatic system facilitates passage without the need for physical contact, benefiting people with reduced mobility or who have their hands full with a heavy load.

The system also offers significant advantages in terms of air conditioning in two ways. On the one hand, the high opening and closing speed of the doors minimises the heat exchange time between inside and outside, thus reducing energy consumption. On the other hand, by preventing both doors from being open simultaneously, draughts are eliminated, helping to maintain a stable temperature in the lobby. In addition, the property of glass to let in natural light also contributes to energy savings. Additionally, the interruption of draughts prevents the entry of tree leaves, dust and other particles from outside, helping to keep the space cleaner.

Another highlight of the project is the aesthetic integration of the access system with the architectural design of the Epic Savassi building. The leaves have a dark lacquered frame that adds elegance and sobriety, while facilitating the visual perception of the double door, thus helping to prevent collisions with the glass – a simple and minimalist customisation with effective results.

With this intervention, Manusa reinforces its presence in the emblematic site of Belo Horizonte, bringing design and functionality to a singular residential project. The Epic Savassi main access is now an example of how automatic doors can ensure the safety of people and promote energy efficiency without compromising accessibility.