Protecting public spaces without instilling an environment of fear is now a key consideration for specifiers and architects. This is reasonably straight-forward to achieve on new projects by building decorative protective products into the planning process from an early stage. But for older, more historical buildings and areas, striking a balance between safety and aesthetics can be challenging.

Take the regeneration of the Grade II-listed Alhambra Theatre in Bradford, for example. An inviting yet contemporary area which encouraged people to sit and enjoy the space was specified as part of the project to modernise the building’s surroundings.

We used a combination of our Igneo benches and seats with Giove precious-stone planters to achieve this. Selected in grey and black tones to blend perfectly with the area’s natural stone paving, the products’ contemporary design and style help create an attractive and welcoming area to relax.

These products can also be specified to any length and with security standards built in. Introducing RhinoGuard® to the Giove and Igneo planter ranges provides an elegant way to introduce planting into an environment that also takes into account security considerations. With these measures incorporated, planners are able to choose products that at their strongest can stop a 7.5-tonne vehicle travelling at 50mph.

To read more about the RhinoGuard® Igneo and Giove ranges and how they could work for your project, please visit our product pages.