This project began following a routine inspection by building control, which identified the need to introduce a compliant separation at the foot of the staircase. The presence of a sofa and television meant the area was classified as a habitable space, requiring a fire-rated solution. The challenge was clear: achieve compliance without compromising the openness, light and overall feel of the home.

Working closely with the client, we explored a range of configurations and design options to ensure the final solution would sit naturally within the space. The client visited us for a design consultation, where we reviewed various layouts and bar arrangements. During this process, they were drawn to a minimal, contemporary design featuring two closely spaced horizontal bars, a popular choice in modern homes where a clean and understated aesthetic is desired.

Following a detailed site survey, we developed a scheme centred around a single fire-rated door with two fixed side screens. This configuration allowed our client to meet the required fire regulations while maintaining a wide, open aspect to the entrance. The design was carefully refined to suit the character of the property, resulting in a solution that felt both intentional and architecturally integrated.

The positioning of the door was a key consideration. It was designed to open into the living area, towards the media wall, a deliberate decision that maximised usable floor space and avoided conflict with surrounding furniture. This ensured the door functioned seamlessly within the layout, preserving the natural flow of the home.

The completed installation provides a fully compliant fire-rated barrier while retaining the qualities the space originally offered. The fixed side screens play an essential role, allowing natural light to pass through and maintaining clear sightlines between the hallway and living area, something that would have been lost with a solid partition.

Visually, the composition is calm and balanced. The paired horizontal bars introduce proportion and rhythm, while the glazed panels and fixed screens keep the overall elevation light and refined. The result is a contemporary, design-led feature that enhances the space rather than interrupting it.

Ultimately, this project demonstrates how regulatory requirements can be addressed in a way that not only preserves, but elevates, the character of a home. Delivering a solution that is both compliant and considered in equal measure.