How John Lewis improved indoor comfort and energy performance with AirDoor.

VES partnered with the John Lewis Partnership to deliver a bespoke AirDoor solution at its Edinburgh department store.

The site included four large open-door entrances across multiple levels, creating ongoing challenges with heat loss, air infiltration and temperature control, particularly in a windy, external environment.

Traditional ventilation systems were not suitable for maintaining stable conditions without compromising the open entrance design.

To address this, VES manufactured and installed AirDoor Lite across each entrance. The system helps to minimise weather-related infiltration, helping the store improve thermal comfort and support a more efficient HVAC operation.

Project Challenges:

The store presented a complex ventilation challenge. Large open-door entrances across multiple entrances allowed continuous air movement between internal and external environments.

The building’s exposed location increased the impact of wind, leading to excessive heat loss in winter and difficulty maintaining stable internal temperatures throughout the year. With a floor space of approximately 160,000 sq. ft, these losses were amplified across the store.

Each entrance required a tailored approach. Wider openings incorporated central pillar configurations to ensure consistent air separation across the full width.

The AirDoor Lite system creates an air barrier that limits external air ingress and reduces the loss of conditioned air, supporting the building’s HVAC system without compromising entrance.

Improved Energy Performance:

By reducing uncontrolled air movement at the entrances, the AirDoor system allows the existing HVAC system to operate more efficiently, resulting in significant energy savings.

Thermal Comfort:

• Internal temperatures are more stable, improving conditions for both staff and customers throughout the year.

Delivered as part of an ongoing relationship with the John Lewis Partnership, this project builds on previous collaboration and supports future opportunities across their wider estate.