Architects’ guide to aesthetic and functional entrance matting solutions

In any building, the entrance is the first point of interaction between users and the built environment. Entrance matting should receive as much attention at the design and planning stage as other elements of the build such as flooring, façades and lighting. 

The role of entrance matting in architecture and building design

Entrance matting serves a multi-purpose in any commercial building.

•    Dirt and debris is stopped at the point of entry, and prevented from passing through to interior flooring where it causes damage and increases cleaning needs. 

•    From a safety perspective, effective entrance matting provides a stable walking surface, absorbing moisture and so reducing the risk of slips and falls. This is particularly important in high-traffic environments such as offices, retail centres, healthcare facilities, educational buildings and transport hubs. The EMS Debris Channel System features weather-resistant infills which absorb more debris and moisture than any other system on the market. 

•    Aside from the practical contribution that entrance matting makes, it also enhances user experience by creating a welcoming first impression and reinforcing a building’s design identity.

Key functional considerations of entrance matting

•    Traffic levels are a priority. High-occupancy commercial buildings require heavy duty entrance mats capable of enduring continuous pedestrian traffic while maintaining performance over time. The EMS LU/Multi-Track System is a heavy-duty, durable system comprising natural rubber, replaceable infills, making it the ideal solution for any public environments. 

•    Slip resistance is another critical factor. Anti slip entrance mats minimise hazards caused by wet weather, and are particularly valuable in public buildings where safety compliance is essential.

•    Durability, moisture retention and ease of maintenance should also be assessed. A well-designed matting system should effectively remove dirt and water while also remaining easy to clean and maintain. Systems that withstand the specific demands of the building environment ensure long-term performance and value.

The aesthetics of entrance matting systems

Entrance areas set the tone for the entire building, making aesthetics an important part of the specification process. At EMS Ltd., our entrance matting solutions are available in a wide range of colours, finishes and configurations, allowing architects to integrate them seamlessly into their overall design vision. The Tretford Design Range is offered in over 40 colour options with an aluminium grid system and angle frames that can be anodised in coordinating colours.

Many organisations use custom logo mats to strengthen brand identity from the moment visitors enter the building. EMS Ltd. can incorporate your company logos, colours and messaging in systems that deliver excellent dirt and moisture control.

Entrance matting systems are available to complement surrounding flooring materials. This helps to create seam-free visual transitions between exterior and interior spaces. This ability to tailor matting dimensions, profiles and finishes means that functional requirements do not compromise design intent.

Types of entrance matting

A variety of entrance matting systems is available to suit different project requirements.

•    Aluminium entrance matting is strong, durable and has a contemporary aesthetic which makes it a popular choice for commercial and public buildings. These systems combine aluminium rails with inserts such as carpet, rubber or brush strips to maximise dirt and moisture removal. EMS Ltd.’s systems offer a wide choice of infill materials, including rubber, eco-friendly goat hair (the Tretford Design Range), and coconut.

•    Recessed matting systems offer a flush, integrated finish that enhances accessibility and creates a clean architectural appearance. Surface-mounted options are a flexible option where floor recesses are not practical.

•    For external applications, scraper mats and brush systems help remove larger debris before occupants enter the building. Internally, absorbent textile mats capture residual moisture and finer particles, creating a comprehensive zone-based approach to entrance flooring. See What is zonal entrance matting? Benefits, features, and why it’s essential for building safety to learn more. 

At EMS Ltd, our range of entrance matting systems can be recessed or surface-mounted and consist of 95% recycled aluminium frames. All systems are tested for slip resistance and comply with BS EN Standards. 

Technical design guidelines for architects

For optimum effectiveness, entrance matting should be considered early in the design process. 

Industry guidance often recommends a minimum walk-off length sufficient to allow several footsteps across the matting system, ensuring contaminants are effectively removed from footwear.

For entrance matting to blend seamlessly with surrounding floor surfaces, recess depths, drainage requirements and floor build-ups must be coordinated. Equally important is accessibility - matting systems should provide smooth transitions, compliant with relevant building regulations and accessibility standards. See BS8300 compliance: entrance matting for accessibility in construction projects for more.

Easy access for maintenance should also be factored in. Our modular systems allow individual sections to be removed and cleaned, or replaced. This simplifies ongoing building management and minimise disruption, and reduces the need to replace the entire flooring.

Sustainability considerations

Sustainability is an increasingly important consideration in building design, and that includes entrance flooring. Environmentally responsible and sustainable entrance matting contributes to wider environmental goals - it extends the lifespan of interior flooring and reduces the need for intensive cleaning regimes.

Entrance matting systems manufactured from recycled materials and components designed for long service life reduce the need for frequent and costly replacement, minimises waste and supports whole-life cost objectives.

Products with transparent environmental credentials support sustainable building certifications for new build projects. The EMS Tretford Design Range is eco-certified (Global Green Tag Gold & Silver) and Greenspec registered.

Expertise and support from EMS Ltd.

Selecting the right supplier is as important as choosing the right product. At Entrance Matting Systems we provide valuable guidance throughout the specification process, helping architects identify solutions that meet performance, aesthetic and budget requirements.

We supply custom logo mats, and can help with project-specific dimensions and complex installations where standard products may not be suitable.

By partnering with us, project teams can ensure their entrance matting solutions deliver the optimal balance of safety, durability, appearance and long-term performance.

Contact us

To find out more, email us at info@entrance-matting.com, or telephone us on 01205 761757.