If you manage a commercial property or own a business in New England, you probably spend a lot of time thinking about what happens inside your building. But the entrance itself can have a major impact on comfort, appearance, and how well your space handles changing weather.
Commercial vestibules provide a practical buffer between the outdoors and your interior space. They can help reduce exposure to cold air, wind, rain, snow, and debris while creating a more comfortable entrance for customers and employees.
If you’re considering adding a vestibule to your property, here are answers to some of the most common questions.
What Is a Commercial Vestibule?
A vestibule is an enclosed transitional space located at the entrance of a building. Instead of an exterior door opening directly into the interior, visitors enter the vestibule first and then pass through a second doorway into the building.
This creates a buffer between indoor and outdoor conditions.
Unlike an awning or building entrance canopy, which primarily provides overhead protection, an entrance vestibule encloses the entry
area more completely. Depending on the design, it can provide protection from multiple sides as well as overhead.
Why Do Businesses Need Vestibules?
One of the biggest advantages of commercial vestibules is improved control over the environment around your entrance.
During a New England winter, opening a door directly to the outside can allow a rush of cold air into a restaurant, lobby, retail store, or office. A vestibule creates an intermediate space that can help limit that direct exposure.
Vestibules can also help reduce wind, precipitation, and outdoor debris entering the building. For businesses with busy entrances, they may also help reduce some of the noise associated with a door opening directly onto a street or parking area.
There is an aesthetic benefit as well. A well-designed storefront vestibule can complement the architecture of the building and create a more finished, welcoming entrance.
Are Commercial Vestibules Required by Building Code?
Sometimes, but there isn’t one answer that applies to every building.
Building and energy codes may require vestibules for certain commercial entrances depending on factors such as the building’s size, use, location, entrance configuration, and applicable energy code. There are also exceptions that may apply to particular buildings or doorways.
Local requirements can vary, and codes change over time. Property owners should confirm current requirements with their local building department and qualified design or construction professionals before beginning a project.
What Are Vestibules Made Of?
Commercial vestibules can be constructed using a variety of materials depending on the building, intended use, and desired appearance.
Common designs may incorporate aluminum or metal framing, clear panels, doors, and durable fabric components. The goal is to create a weather-resistant entrance system that fits the property rather than making the vestibule look like an afterthought.
Atlantic Awning creates custom vestibule designs based on the dimensions, layout, and needs of each individual entrance.
Vestibule vs. Awning: What’s the Difference?
A vestibule and an awning solve different problems.
An awning provides coverage over an entrance, helping protect the doorway and people entering or exiting from sun and precipitation. A vestibule creates an enclosed transitional area between the outdoors and the building interior.
The two aren’t necessarily alternatives. Some commercial entryway solutions can incorporate elements of both, depending on the property and what the business is trying to accomplish.
Are Vestibules ADA Compliant?
Accessibility needs to be considered when designing any commercial entrance.
Factors such as door width, maneuvering clearance, thresholds, door operation, and the amount of space available between doors can all affect accessibility. The requirements will depend on the particular entrance and applicable regulations.
Because ADA and local accessibility requirements are specific, businesses should work with the appropriate design professionals and local officials to ensure a proposed vestibule and entryway meet the requirements that apply to their property.
How Much Does a Commercial Vestibule Cost?
There isn’t a useful one-size-fits-all price for a custom commercial vestibule.
Cost depends on the size and configuration of the entrance, materials, number and type of doors, site conditions, design requirements, and level of customization.
The best way to determine the cost is to have the entrance evaluated and request a quote based on the actual project.
Can a Vestibule Be Customized to Match My Building?
Yes. In fact, customization is one of the biggest advantages of having a vestibule designed specifically for your property. 
Colors, materials, dimensions, panel configurations, and other design details can be selected to complement the existing building. Depending on the project, branding or signage may also be incorporated into the design.
For restaurants and retail businesses, this can help make the vestibule feel like part of the storefront rather than something temporarily placed in front of it.
How Long Does Vestibule Installation Take?
Installation time varies from project to project.
The size and complexity of the vestibule, site conditions, customization, permitting requirements, and other factors can all affect the schedule. Custom fabrication also means businesses should allow time for the vestibule to be designed and manufactured before installation.
For businesses hoping to have a vestibule ready for winter, planning early is the best approach rather than waiting until temperatures have already dropped.
Is a Commercial Vestibule Right for Your Property?
For many New England businesses, a vestibule can be a practical addition that improves the transition between the outdoors and the interior of the building. It can provide added protection from winter weather, help create a more comfortable entrance, and complement the appearance of the property.
The right solution depends on the building, entrance, and needs of the business.