TORMAX iMotion Operators Automate V&A East Storehouse Entrance

TORMAX UK was contracted by Spec-Al Facades to install its advanced iMotion 1301 door drives to automate a pair of heavy, bespoke swing doors, that form one of the main public entrances to the new V&A East Storehouse Museum. The iMotion door drives feature robust, gearless motor technology that delivers smooth, silent operation while comfortably handling the significant weight and height of the custom stainless-steel and aluminium door leaves. Their precise control software manages door speed, inertia and safety, ensuring dependable, predictable movement that supports steady visitor flow into one of London’s newest cultural destinations. 

Located on the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, the V&A East Storehouse is a major new public facility that brings visitors behind the scenes of a world-leading museum collection. Combining open-access storage, conservation spaces and exhibition areas, the building is designed for the constant movement of people — requiring access points that can withstand continuous use while remaining discreet within the architectural envelope. 

The TORMAX iMotion 1301 drive is engineered without gears or brushes, ensuring exceptionally low wear, long service life and minimal maintenance. Its high-torque motor enables confident automation of oversized swing doors, while adaptive controls manage factors such as wind load and levels of foot traffic. The system is fully compatible with access-control integration, safety sensors and building-management interfaces, providing architects with a flexible solution for complex public buildings.

“TORMAX has long specialised in automating bespoke and architecturally significant entrances,” said Simon Roberts, Managing Director of TORMAX UK. “The V&A East Storehouse required technology that could support the unique steel and aluminium doors in a high-traffic environment without compromising the clean visual design. The iMotion 1301 was engineered precisely for scenarios like this, where reliability, endurance and architectural sensitivity all matter.” 

With a portfolio covering sliding, swing, revolving and folding automatic entrances — all built around the Swiss-engineered iMotion range — TORMAX provides automation solutions for commercial facilities, transport hubs, healthcare, educational environments and retail. The company offers full design guidance, technical support and nationwide maintenance to ensure long-term access performance. www.tormax.co.uk

Protect Your Asset With A TORMAX Automatic Door Service Contract

In an era where convenience and inclusivity define modern spaces, automatic doors have become the standard for modern buildings, with key access points often being integral to the smooth functioning of the premises. Experts in door automation, TORMAX UK provides nationwide coverage through its team of service engineers, offering 24-hour emergency callouts alongside scheduled maintenance and repairs for almost any automatic door system.

These services protect capital investment by helping to ensure a long and reliable working life with minimum unscheduled downtime.  A TORMAX Planned Maintenance Contract (PMC) allows for regularly scheduled servicing, ensuring the entrance always complies with current health and safety standards and maintains optimal performance. 

“Today’s automatic door systems are more advanced than ever,” says Simon Roberts, MD for TORMAX UK.  “Over time, dirt, leaves, and other debris - or even water infiltration during heavy rain - can impact the system’s performance or lead to complete failure. Regular, comprehensive servicing helps detect potential issues early, preventing long-term damage and keeping key components functioning at their best. “Our goal is always to repair rather than replace, reducing costs and disruption. With every engineer carrying a comprehensive range of spare parts, we can often complete repairs on the first visit.” 

With proper care and servicing, a TORMAX automatic door can deliver safe, efficient performance for 25 years or more—making a strong partnership with a trusted maintenance provider essential.  www.tormax.co.uk

Invisible Door Automation Brings Seamless Access To London Café

Discreetly integrated into the entrance of Acai Berry café in London’s busy SW1 district, a TORMAX iMotion 1401 underfloor door operator ensures effortless, hands-free access for all visitors. Offering invisible automation, this innovative swing door solution provides a neat, contemporary appearance that complements the café’s modern design, while delivering the reliable performance demanded in such a high-footfall location.

With the mechanism concealed entirely beneath the floor, the entrance maintains an uncluttered aesthetic, free from bulky overhead drive units, and is engineered for durability with minimal ongoing maintenance requirements.

Acai Berry is a growing café brand known for its vibrant, health-focused menus built around the nutritional power of açai berries. The SW1 café offers a welcoming space for customers to enjoy bowls, smoothies, and fresh juices, all focused on natural ingredients and wellness.

With a reputation for creating spaces that are both stylish and accessible, the TORMAX automated entrance ensures inclusivity for all visitors. TORMAX, a pioneer in door automation, has been setting industry standards since 1951. Swiss-engineered for precision and reliability, the company’s iMotion operators are built using cutting-edge AC motor technology, delivering quiet, smooth, and energy-efficient performance over an exceptionally long service life. With a portfolio spanning sliding, folding, swing, and revolving door systems,

TORMAX works with architects, designers, and contractors worldwide to deliver bespoke entrance solutions that combine technical excellence with architectural vision. “The Acai Berry installation highlights how our underfloor automation allows designers to retain a clean, contemporary look without compromising on accessibility or durability,” comments Simon Roberts, Managing Director of TORMAX UK.  “It’s a perfect example of form and function working seamlessly together.”   www.tormax.co.uk