8.4 Building Entrances

entries should be recessed and protect users from the elements

A building entrance is a primary feature of any building design.  The entrance should be defined and recognizable as the point of entry regardless of the size or importance of the building.

The entrance to a building should be in a prominent location and should be oriented toward the primary adjacent public spaces such as a courtyards, lawns, parking lots, or streets. 

The details of an entrance should be designed to provide continuity with other entrances to the building and the entrances of adjacent buildings.  

Any building equipped with a monitored fire protection (suppression and/or detection) system shall have approved rapid entry equipment installed in an accessible area.  Key lock boxes manufactured by Knox™ are the only type approved by the Fort Carson Fire Department.  The key box shall be installed at a location approved by the Fort Carson Fire Department (normally adjacent to the main entrance).  The box shall be clearly visible and mounted in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations (6 feet above the finished grade but no higher than 8 feet to the top of the box).  See the Fire Department Standards in Appendix B for more information

8.4.1 CANOPIES

entrances should envoke a positive visual experience

Canopies referred to in this section are those constructed with metal framework and covered with fabric such as canvas.  Canopies are authorized over the main entrance to all community service type facilities on Fort Carson and the Pinon Canyon Maneuver Site (PCMS).  Community service facilities will be determined by the Garrison Commander (GC).  

• All canopies shall be designed and constructed in accordance with manufacturer's instructions to withstand weather conditions at Fort Carson or PCMS.  Of particular concern are the high wind conditions naturally occurring in the region.

• No self-help designed/constructed canopies are authorized.

• Canopies are authorized for one main entrance per building.  Additional canopies must be approved by the Directorate of Public Works (DPW). 

example of a canopy

• Current occupants of the facility to which a canopy is attached are responsible for maintenance of the canopy.  Maintenance on damaged canopies shall be performed immediately by a professional canopy manufacturer.

• Once a canopy has been installed on a facility, it shall remain with the facility.  This includes framework and fabric.  Incoming units/activities shall be responsible for having lettering changed by a professional canopy manufacturer.  

• Activities shall possess an approved DA Form 4283, DPW dig permit and approved color selection from the DPW before starting construction.

• Canopy size and shape will be approved by the DPW.

• Canopy color shall be forest green or as approved by the DPW. 

• Manufacturer's warranty on fabric shall not be less than five years.  Warranty on workmanship and framework shall not be less than one year.

Building Design Standards