Backglazed Barrier Secures Municipal Court Screening Area
Project Overview
When designing a new Police Department and Municipal Court facility, the project team needed security solutions that would protect staff and visitors without compromising the building’s architectural vision. While Insulgard provided bullet-resistant exterior windows, storefront systems, and secure greeter desks throughout the facility, the centerpiece of the project was a custom-designed security screening enclosure at the court entrance.
Working closely with the architect, Insulgard developed a unique backglazed system that combined ballistic protection, structural performance, and a remarkably clean appearance.
Challenge
The architect envisioned a court entry screening area that would feel open and welcoming rather than enclosed by traditional security barriers. The challenge was to create a bullet-resistant system that would be virtually transparent, structurally independent, and free of the visual interruptions commonly associated with security glazing systems.
Key project requirements included:
- A completely free-standing design
- No framing across the head of the system
- Minimal framing sight lines throughout the enclosure
- Integration of a screening area and door
- A solution that maintained both security and architectural aesthetics
Designing a system that could achieve these objectives while remaining structurally stable required a customized engineering approach.
Solution
Insulgard’s design and engineering teams partnered with the architect to develop a one-of-a-kind backglazed entry enclosure using our architectural aluminum framing system and SP 1.25 acrylic security glazing.
The resulting system is anchored only at the floor and features:
- A completely free-standing design
- No framing across the head
- Minimal visible framing
- A slab acrylic door integrated into the enclosure
- A clean, open appearance that preserves sight lines throughout the space
The custom backglazed configuration allowed the security components to blend seamlessly into the architectural design while providing the strength and performance required for a public safety facility. Despite its minimalist appearance, the system is exceptionally rigid and stable.
In addition to the custom court entry enclosure, Insulgard provided ballistic-resistant exterior windows and storefront systems as well as Baffle Counterline Window Systems fabricated from Lexgard SP1250 to secure greeter desks within the police station and courthouse.
Results
The completed court entry enclosure became a defining feature of the facility, demonstrating that security glazing can enhance rather than detract from architectural design.
By eliminating overhead framing and reducing visible structural elements, the system delivers a transparent, modern aesthetic while maintaining the security required for court operations.
The project successfully achieved the architect’s vision for a streamlined screening area and provided the facility with a custom-engineered solution that balances security, functionality, and design flexibility.
GALLERY
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Not every project can be solved with a standard product. When unique architectural requirements demand a customized approach, Insulgard works alongside architects and design teams to develop security glazing systems that meet both performance objectives and design intent.
Contact our team to discuss your next custom security glazing project.
