St. Ann's Somerset, WI
St. Ann’s Somerset required a solution to improve visitor management and building security during school hours. The goal was to ensure that all visitors are directed through a controlled entry point before gaining access to the rest of the facility.
The project focused on creating a secure vestibule system that enhances safety while maintaining a welcoming and functional entrance experience for students, staff, and guests.
Objectives
- Channel all visitor traffic through a designated secure entry point
- Require visitors to check in at the main office before accessing the building
- Improve overall school safety and access control without disrupting daily operations
We’re thrilled with the restructured entrance—great feedback from parents and visitors. The larger door window is a big improvement, and everything works exactly as planned. It’s also made daily operations much easier for our team.
School Superintendent
The Challenge
The primary challenge was executing the project with incomplete dimensional information during early stages.
- Exact frame sizes were unknown until rough openings were completed
- Mounting posts were installed late in the process, requiring field coordination and flexibility
- The system required integration of multiple glazing components, including, 3 borrowed lites and 1 sidelite with door
- Glass and associated hardware
This required a responsive approach to ensure accuracy without delaying installation.
TCH Advantage
The system was designed to modify the workflow with minimum structural changes.
Solutions
TCH worked closely with the School Facilities to adapt to field conditions and deliver a coordinated vestibule system.
Key solutions included:
- On-site coordination and measurement once rough openings were finalized
- Flexible planning to accommodate variable frame dimensions
- Integration of borrowed lites and sidelites to maintain visibility and supervision
- Selection of appropriate glass and hardware to support both security and usability
Result
- Improved security: Visitors are now routed through a controlled vestibule before entering the building
- Enhanced supervision: Glazing allows staff to visually monitor entry points
- Seamless integration: Final installation aligned with field conditions despite early uncertainties
- Functional design: Maintains accessibility and ease of use for daily school operations
This project was delivered by Twin City Hardware (TCH) Aftermarket Team.
Adaptive Facility Services:
Our Aftermarket team offers retrofit, upgrades, and security audits tailored to schools, Healthcare & office buildings, Multifamily, Senior living, and more.
From automated doors to custom retrofitting, we help future-proof your facility. Our security audits further reinforce your infrastructure by identifying and resolving vulnerabilities before they become liabilities. Through precision-driven assessments and actionable recommendations, we support organizations in maintaining high-performance environments with minimum downtimes.
Aftermarket Solutions includes:
Hardware and Access Installation
- High-Security Locks & Hardware
- Classroom & Exterior Door Solutions
Preventative Maintenance
- Regular inspections
- Repair & Replace services
- Door and Frame Upgrades & Retrofits
Benefits
- Increased product life
- Seamless user experience
- Minimize emergency calls, unplanned costs, and wear and tear
- Keep building compliant and efficient