Architects and planners are increasingly factoring security features into a building’s design at the very early stages, rather than adding them to plans retrospectively.
The Financial Times pointed out that while features like security bollards and barriers are becoming more commonplace, so too are security elements designed to look like aesthetic features.
Devon Energy’s headquarters in Oklahoma City in the US is a good example of this, the newspaper said, highlighting the reflecting pool that circles the glass lobby. Although it looks like a design feature, it is essentially a moat that prevents any vehicle from being able to drive up to the building.
Other similar features include barriers hidden by bushes and planters filled with trees, all of which can be seen around the building.
Mark Whyte, from consultancy Control Risks, told the Financial Times that while including these kinds of protective features can be expensive, there are cheaper options out there.
“Some of the more normal systems you will see, like glazing systems, anti-vehicle bollards and blockers, can be much more cost-effective, especially if they’re designed in the early stages of a scheme,” he asserted.
You don’t have to look far to see examples of heightened security, both in everyday life and for special events.
Earlier this month it was reported that Cannes had spent millions on enhancing security around the French town ahead of its world-famous film festival. Variety revealed that retractable security bollards were fitted at every entry point to the town at a cost of $6 million.