Physical Security Design
Physical Security Design
What it is
Design of physical security controls (perimeter, access points, barriers, lighting, signage, layout) that reduce crime opportunity and protect people and assets. We develop practical, proportionate designs that integrate with your operational needs and aesthetic requirements.
When to use this service
You are designing a new facility or major refurbishment and want security integrated from the outset
You have identified physical security gaps and need detailed design solutions
You need to upgrade perimeter security, access control, or entry point design
You want to improve security without creating a fortress-like appearance
You are designing a mixed-use or public-facing facility and need to balance security with accessibility
You need designs that comply with PSPF security zone requirements
You need to coordinate physical security with technology design (CCTV, access control)
What you will receive
Physical security design report with concept drawings and specifications
Detailed recommendations for perimeter, entry points, access control, barriers, lighting, and signage
Integration with technology systems (CCTV coverage, access control zones, alarm sensors)
Cost estimates and implementation sequencing (where feasible)
Compliance assessment against relevant standards (PSPF, building codes, accessibility requirements)
Stakeholder engagement and design refinement workshops (optional)
Support for tender and construction management (optional)
Our process
Design objectives and constraints: Confirm security outcomes, operational requirements, aesthetic preferences, budget, and timeline
Site assessment and analysis: Review facility layout, current controls, threat context, and design opportunities
Concept design development: Develop design options balancing security, functionality, cost, and aesthetics
Stakeholder consultation: Engage operational teams, facilities, and design professionals to refine options
Detailed design: Develop final design with specifications, drawings, and cost estimates
Technology integration: Coordinate with CCTV, access control, and alarm system design
Compliance review: Confirm design meets PSPF (where applicable), building codes, and accessibility requirements
Implementation support: Support tender, vendor selection, and construction management (optional)
Design principles we apply
Layered security — Multiple controls (perimeter, access points, internal barriers) work together to reduce risk
Natural surveillance — Design enables clear sightlines and passive oversight
Access control — Controlled entry and movement through design and technology
Proportionality — Security measures are appropriate to threat and risk, not excessive
Functionality — Security design does not unduly impede operations or user experience
Maintenance — Design is practical to maintain and operate over time
Frequently asked questions
Can you design security that does not look like a fortress? Yes. Good security design balances protection with functionality and aesthetics. We work with architects and designers to integrate security measures that are effective but not visually dominant.
How do physical security design and CPTED differ? CPTED focuses on how environmental design influences behaviour and crime opportunity. Physical security design focuses on specific controls (barriers, access points, lighting) that prevent or delay unauthorised access. Both approaches are complementary.
Can you design security for a public-facing facility? Yes. We design security that protects assets and people while maintaining accessibility and user experience. This requires careful balance and stakeholder engagement.
How do you coordinate physical design with technology? We work closely with technology designers to ensure CCTV covers access points, access control integrates with physical barriers, and alarm sensors protect vulnerable areas. Coordination early in design prevents costly rework.
What if we have heritage or aesthetic constraints? We work within aesthetic and heritage constraints to develop practical security solutions. This may require creative design or phased implementation to manage cost and impact.
How long does physical security design take? For a single building, typically 4–8 weeks depending on complexity and stakeholder availability. Larger or more complex projects may take longer.
Related services
Need detailed physical security design? Contact us for a confidential consultation