7 Ways Security & Architectural Design Can Be Seamless 

best practices security architecture design

Security consultants are advisors and supervisors who work with security protocols, plans, systems, and strategies. They also work closely with architects in many aspects of building design.   

But can that relationship be completely symbiotic?   

The most effective way to ensure building design and security seamlessly exist is for architects and security consultants to work closely together on behalf of the client.   

Taking a team approach and working in concert early in the design process, will help lead to fewer change orders and ensure projects finish in a timely fashion.   

The ultimate goal is for both parties to take pride in having produced an aesthetically pleasing space that incorporates the latest in safety technology. 

Here are some suggested steps: 

1. Determine the operational intent

Being able to respond early during the design phase and anticipate the needs of architects is crucial to any security design process.  Perhaps begin by determining the operational intent of the security door hardware and field devices. This includes ensuring they meet the needs of the end–user as well as life safety/egress code. 

security design patterns

2. Know who is installing components

Discover who is providing and installing the various components—locks, wiring, conduit, stub-ups, junction boxes, rough-ins, card readers, and head-end panels. Know who is terminating each one. 

3. Incorporate ADA-accessible heights

Discuss the installation heights for the security devices—distance above the finished floor to the middle, top, or bottom of the device.  Ensure devices are installed at ADA-accessible heights. 

4. Request product data sheets

Ask what finish/color options are available for door hardware and security field devices like card readers, cameras, exit sensors, and buttons. Request product data sheets to review aesthetics. 

security design consultants

5. Use architectural door numbers

Request that the security consultant and related trades use architectural door numbers for device numbering/naming. This supports ease of coordination and tracking. 

6. Coordinate field device locations

Inquire as to whether field device locations have been coordinated with other trades—plumbing, fire, signage, lighting, and sprinklers to limit design errors. 

security architecture and design

7. Ensure requirements are coordinated 

Help ensure field device requirements such as power, network, rough-in, etc. have been coordinated with other trades.  This can help minimize costly slowdowns or shutdowns during construction. 

Best of both worlds

Projects will exceed expectations when the architects and security consultants communicate early in the process. By incorporating security into aesthetics, the result is the best of both worlds.  

Click here to download these 7 steps in a single-page flyer

    • Product’s Usage
    • Basis of Design
    • Product’s Quality
    • Product’s Cost
    • Compliance with the customer’s functional requirements
    • Documented approach on meeting customer requirements
    • Vendor’s Competency Level
    • Vendor’s Financial Position
    • Relevant Client References
    • Project Closeout

Additional Reading

The 5 Benefits of Incorporating Security Early in the Design Process

Incorporating Security Into Controlled Substance/Biotech Facility Design

Best Practices around Security through Environmental Design

Designing and Building an Effective SOC That Meets Your Unique Needs

    • Product’s Usage
    • Basis of Design
    • Product’s Quality
    • Product’s Cost
    • Compliance with the customer’s functional requirements
    • Documented approach on meeting customer requirements
    • Vendor’s Competency Level
    • Vendor’s Financial Position
    • Relevant Client References
    • Project Closeout

About Atriade

Atriade is a security consulting firm. We provide security system design services for access control, perimeter protection, video and visitor management, and other physical security technologies. Our client portfolio includes Fortune 50 companies, Ivy League universities, and leading technology firms in Silicon Valley. 

We also provide security master planning, program development, risk assessments, professional services, and project management.  

Visit us online at Atriade.com 

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