Primary Gallery, a contemporary visual arts organisation and charity in Nottingham, has undergone a transformative upgrade with the installation of Akuvox smart IP intercoms. Housed in a Grade II listed former school building, Primary serves as a creative hub connecting local and global communities. With its recent refurbishment, the gallery has embraced advanced access control technology to ensure security, accessibility, and a welcoming environment for staff and visitors alike.
Situated in a Victorian-era building close to Nottingham’s bustling city centre, Primary faced unique challenges during its upgrade. The historic structure required security solutions that were not only state-of-the-art but also compatible with the architectural constraints of a listed building. The primary objective was to replace the outdated analogue security system with an IP-connected intercom and access control system that would enhance safety, ease of use, and accessibility across its gallery, communal, and workspace areas.
Given the building’s location near a lively nightlife district, the new system also needed to withstand high-traffic conditions and potential vandalism.
Tailored Solution for Secure and Seamless Access
Security integrators Cookson & Son Ltd, in collaboration with the CIE-Group system design team, identified Akuvox’s X912S vandal-resistant intercom as the ideal solution. These robust devices were deployed at key access points, including the street-side automatic gates and main building entrances.
The Akuvox X912S intercom units offer advanced features such as an HD camera, high-quality audio, and multiple touchless access options, including:
- Face recognition
- Bluetooth
- RFID
- QR code scanning
- PIN authentication
These capabilities ensure a secure, versatile, and user-friendly experience for visitors and staff. Paired with Akuvox C315S 7” touchscreen answering panels inside the building, the system provides clear video and audio communication, allowing staff to identify and manage visitor access remotely with ease.
The high IP65 and IK09 ratings of the Akuvox X912S make it particularly suitable for outdoor and high-impact locations. This durability ensures the devices can withstand Nottingham’s changing weather conditions and resist tampering or vandalism in high-risk areas. Meanwhile, the sleek and intuitive design of the Akuvox C315S ensures the internal panels integrate seamlessly into the modernised interiors of the historic building.
Supporting Accessibility and Inclusion
A core element of the gallery’s refurbishment was accessibility. The new intercom system reflects this commitment by offering intuitive access methods that accommodate a wide range of users, ensuring both security and ease of entry. From contactless authentication to the option for remote operation, the system enhances the experience for visitors while maintaining strict security standards.
For Primary Gallery, the Akuvox intercom system is more than just a security upgrade—it is a tool that fosters inclusion and accessibility in a creative space. By replacing an outdated system with a modern, IP-based solution, the gallery has future-proofed its security infrastructure while preserving the character of its historic building.
This project highlights the importance of integrating cutting-edge technology in a way that complements and respects the unique needs of heritage sites. The combination of functionality, resilience, and aesthetic compatibility sets a benchmark for security solutions in similar contexts.
The use of Akuvox’s advanced IP intercoms at Primary Gallery illustrates how modern technology can balance heritage preservation with the demands of contemporary security and accessibility, setting a standard for similar institutions across the UK.