Lobby
A lobby is a space from which one or more other rooms or corridors can be accessed, typically found near the main entrance to a building. It may be used for access, circulation, or as a waiting area, and is derived from the latin ‘lobium’, meaning a covered walk, or portico. A lobby may be referred to as a vestibule, anteroom or foyer.
The word lobby can also be used specifically to refer to a large space adjacent to a legislative chamber where 'lobbying' may take place (that is, attempting to influence members of the legislature).
Approved Document M suggests that an entrance lobby may be used to:
- Limit air infiltration.
- Maintain comfort by controlling drafts.
- Increase security.
- Provide transitional lighting.
It should be designed to allow a wheelchair user (and companion), or a person pushing a pram to move clear of one set of doors before opening the other set. The minimum size therefore is related to the size of the door swing into the lobby.
It should be free from obstructions or distracting reflections, and should be provided with a cleaning mat if rainwater may be transported into the lobby.
Approved Document B refers to a protected lobby, which is a ‘…lobby which is adequately protected from fire in adjoining accommodation by fire-resisting construction’ and a firefighting lobby, which is ‘…a protected lobby providing access from a firefighting stair to the accommodation area and to the associated firefighting lift’.
Approved Document B refers to as a firefighting lobby as, '...a protected lobby providing access from a firefighting stair to the accommodation area and to any associated firefighting lift’.
[edit] Find out more
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
May outlines a new funding strategy for housing associations and says the 'stigma' of social housing needs to end.
RIBA launches a consultation on a new Plan of Work for Fire Safety.
This article offers some basic rules to follow when writing your next specification.
The iconic Mackintosh Building will definitely be rebuilt, board chairwoman confirms.
The machinery used to fashion stone has changed dramatically - and so have the products.
This type of pile provides support to the building, as well as acting as a heat source and a heat sink.
Why investors are adopting the SDGs and why civil engineering could be crucial for delivering them.
Read about all the winners from the London ceremony of CIAT's 2018 Architectural Technology Awards.
How do you find the right stone to conserve historic buildings?
Appointment agreements often include a ‘scope of services’ setting out the consultant's performance on a project.
BSRIA study shows an increase of pre-terminated fibre connectivity.