worked with the architects to help deliver a multi-phased development of the historical Exeter Cathedral. The project features a highly glazed timber frame structure to create a new glass atrium and entranceway to the Chapter House.

The frameless glass atrium houses sections of single glazing, with a set of frameless pivot glass doors and fixed glazing to the doors. The double-opening doors have been specified with bespoke pull handles, enhancing the traditional architectural design within the cathedral.

Finished with a brushed brass finish, these fixtures and handles work with the heritage fabric of the building to remain cohesive with the overall design whilst creating a frameless glass entranceway.

The glazed entrance design prevents droughts from entering the main building, whilst maintaining the heritage style thanks to the transparent nature of shaped structural glass.

Frameless single-glazed solutions were used in this bespoke application as it is one of the most flexible applications and can be modified on a project basis. The curved glass was used to form the roof for the glass atrium with hidden fixings to timber framing.

The bespoke frameless glazing is extremely subtle, with a solid wood structure to enhance the traditional aesthetic inside the Grade I listed building.

When working on listed buildings such as Exeter Cathedral, the glazing applications must be sensitively designed to maintain the heritage site’s integrity. IQ developed specialist fixings to safely connect to the heritage building without damaging the Grade I listed building.

IQ can carry out 3D laser surveys when designing a glass atrium for cathedrals and abbeys to accurately calculate exactly where we are fixing to, eliminating the risk of any damage when we are on site.

A frameless glass atrium is a great example of how modern glazing can be reworked to preserve the original character of the building whilst adding modern elements. Glazing can be used to enhance the functionality of old buildings, create zones within larger spaces or simply prevent drafts.

We have a long and evident history in designing and engineering bespoke glazing packages for ecclesiastical buildings all around the UK. This includes specialist glazing for Exeter cathedral, where IQ Projects designed, supplied, and installed frameless structural glazing in an arched shape to create a glazed entryway.