After spending time shopping, dining and checking out the bar scene while on a getaway in Chicago, I realized that revolving doors are frequently made use of by businesses. This style of door is generally constructed with 3 or four doors that rotate inside an enclosed circular space. I was curious to know why this was such a common choice in Chicago, so I asked. It turns out that the revolving door is energy efficient. This design prevents drafts and keeps out the cold or warmth better than a typical commercial door. Given that Chicago is called the “Windy City”, these doors make sense.
These doors also allow for higher rates of pedestrian traffic as the bottle neck problem that happens with the regular automated two door system is avoided with revolving doors. With the higher amounts of people shopping in downtown Chicago, it is no wonder several establishments decide on this type of door. Yet another added benefit to establishments is that revolving doors can add to security measures. The space in between the doors can be small and only permit one man or woman to enter at a time if a business would like.
Aside from the perks of the revolving door, I nevertheless find it very unnerving. Often people push too rapidly and I am concerned with falling. It is also tough to maneuver through revolving doors when carrying a significant amount of packages or suitcases. So even though this door is feasible for Chicago, I hope to not see a revolving door in Michigan anytime soon.
This type of door beats the common commercial or industrial door utilized within most establishments and in Chicago, the revolving door is the most common choice. The wind and harsh cold are kept out throughout the winter months, mass quantities of people are able to rapidly enter and exit from them and lastly, the revolving door can act as an additional security measure.