When it comes to commercial spaces, are you more inclined to be impressed with light-filled entries and a clear view of the outdoors, or an entry with no glass doors or storefront? The type of door you choose for your building significantly impacts the first impression of your business. Glass doors not only add aesthetic appeal, but they can also improve functionality and access. Glass doors, with their sleek and modern appearance, are a popular choice for commercial settings for several reasons. From enhancing natural light to creating an inviting atmosphere for customers, the right entryway can make all the difference in the success of your business. In this guide, we’ll explore the different types of glass doors and how each type is best suited to different commercial applications.

Sliding Glass Doors (Manually Operated)

Ideal for: Interior commercial spaces

These doors are space-efficient, sliding parallel to the wall, and require no floor space for door clearance, which makes them ideal for interior commercial spaces like conference rooms, event spaces, or even retail where flexibility may be needed. Doors can be opened or closed depending on the needs of the business, and they can be transparent or opaque to create definition in the space. This feature is particularly helpful in open office spaces and event spaces where flexibility is needed to accommodate different groups of people.

• Benefits: Maximizes space utilization, provides easy access, allows for flexible space allocation.
• Aesthetic Appeal: Offers a modern and welcoming aesthetic and can be more attractive than accordion room dividers or solid event space doors. 

Automatic Glass Doors

Ideal for: Hospitals, Airports, Shopping Malls

Automatic glass doors are a staple in the retail world, particularly in high-traffic areas like grocery stores and shopping malls where groups of people enter and leave at the same time. Automatic glass doors are also popular in spaces that require hands-free operation for hygiene and convenience, such as hospitals and airports. They can be sliding, like most grocery stores, or hinged, like the automatic glass doors designed for wheelchair access. 

• Benefits: Offers convenience, especially for customers with mobility issues or when carrying items and enhances accessibility and complies with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) standards. Also allows large displays or products to be moved in and out effortlessly.
• Hygiene Factor: Reduces the spread of germs as they eliminate the need for physical contact.

Swinging (Hinged) Glass Doors

Ideal for: Restaurants, Boutique Stores, Corporate Offices

Swinging glass doors, or hinged doors, are a versatile option that can be installed at a variety of businesses. In restaurants, they create an upscale dining atmosphere that invites people inside, while in boutique stores, they help draw people in by providing a clear view of merchandise. For corporate offices, swinging glass doors are a popular option for entries because they’re inviting, modern, and showcase the company’s reception area.

• Benefits: Wide design options ranging from frameless to framed, can be customized to fit the brand image, and provides a classic and professional look.
• Practical Considerations: Requires space for the door swing, which should be considered in the layout planning. In some cases, an existing solid door can be replaced with a glass option.

Revolving Glass Doors

Ideal for: Hotels, Large Office Buildings

Revolving glass doors are a perfect fit for places with constant foot traffic, like hotels, large office buildings, and even some airports. These doors not only manage traffic flow efficiently but also contribute to energy conservation by minimizing air exchange. They also make it easier to monitor people entering the facility if there are security concerns.

• Benefits: Controls the traffic flow, reduces energy costs by limiting air infiltration, and can enhance security measures.
• Design Element: Adds a sophisticated touch, often associated with luxury and high-end establishments.

Custom Glass Doors

Ideal for: Specialty Boutiques, Art Galleries, High-End Retailers

For businesses looking to make a unique statement, custom glass doors offer nearly endless possibilities. Whether it’s etched patterns, company logos, or unique shapes, custom glass doors can reflect the unique identity of a business.

• Benefits: Tailor-made to fit specific design needs, creating a unique and memorable entrance.
• Personal Touch: Allows businesses to infuse their brand personality into the entrance of their space.

Choosing the right glass door for your commercial space is about balancing functionality, aesthetics, and the specific needs of your business. From the practicality of sliding doors in grocery stores to the elegance of custom designs for boutique spaces, each type of glass door offers unique benefits. 

Our expert team has decades of glass installation experience, and we understand the importance of selecting the right door that meets your functional needs and aligns with your brand’s image and values. Give us a call to explore options and find out how the right glass door can transform your commercial space.