Glass Walls partitions and panels are becoming increasingly popular in modern office design. They are being used to create separation in open-concept office layouts, and the benefits are numerous.
Glass wall partition systems positively impact employee health and well-being and have benefits for sustainability, cost reduction, flexibility, and reduced maintenance.
However, despite their many benefits, misconceptions surrounding glass wall systems still need to be cleared up.
This article will explore the benefits of utilizing glass partitions and panels in office design, address common misconceptions, and provide insight into making the most of this innovative design solution.
1. Easily Breakable
Many people may assume that glass walls are easily breakable and can shatter upon impact, causing severe injury. However, this is not the case as glass walls are made from tempered or laminated glass, which are much stronger and more durable than annealed glass.
Tempered glass is created by subjecting annealed glass to heat treatment and then rapidly cooling it.
This process makes the glass four times stronger than annealed glass and causes it to break into small pebbles, eliminating the risk of sharp shards.
Laminated glass is made by sandwiching a layer of plastic or polyvinyl butyral (PVB) between two panes of annealed glass.
In the event of breakage, the glass adheres to the plastic layer, preventing it from scattering.
Both tempered and laminated glass are incredibly strong and durable, making them highly resistant to breakage. The likelihood of them shattering upon impact is incredibly low, making them a safe and reliable choice for glass wall partition systems.
It is important to note that annealed glass, which is less durable than tempered or laminated glass, is typically what we think of when we imagine a broken window pane with jagged shards of glass. However, glass walls are not made from annealed glass but rather the much stronger tempered or laminated glass.
2. Lack of Visual Privacy
Glass walls have been criticized for lacking visual privacy in office designs. However, this is not necessarily the case, as glass walls offer a range of customizable options that can be tailored to meet individual privacy needs.
Integrated Blinds
One option for interior glass walls is to use double-glazed walls that allow for integrated blinds.
Double glazing is a technique that involves using two panes of glass with a gap between them, where blinds can be easily situated and closed quickly when privacy is needed. This option provides a practical solution for those who require privacy regularly.
Customized Frosting
Another option for creating visual privacy is to use customized frosting.
This technique involves frosting the glass to create a visual barrier. It is fully customizable and can be applied to the entire glass wall, simple strips, or even a more complex design that enhances the office aesthetic. Frosting can also be used as a branding technique to further the office’s brand, goals, and values.
LCD Privacy Smart Glass
LCD privacy smart glass is another option that allows for immediate privacy when needed and an open feel when it isn’t.
With just the flip of a switch, the glass transforms from transparent to translucent in seconds. This flexibility is perfect for conference rooms, small meeting rooms, and even individual offices.
By offering these customizable options, glass walls can provide the level of privacy that each office requires while allowing incredible design flexibility.
3. Lack of Sound Privacy
A lack of sound privacy can be a major issue in an open-concept office. Conversations can easily overlap, causing distractions and hindering concentration. However, the belief that glass walls cannot provide the necessary sound privacy is a misconception.
Both single and double-glazed partition systems can provide adequate sound privacy to conduct business efficiently.
Double-glazed partition systems can even provide an acoustic rating equivalent to a solid wall while allowing light flow and style.
Adding doors, whether hinged or pivoted, sliding, assisted close, barn door, or automatic, can also increase the level of sound privacy available in an office.
By implementing these solutions, businesses can ensure their employees have the necessary privacy to conduct important calls and meetings without distractions.
4. People may encounter glass walls
Glass walls can pose a potential safety hazard if people run into them. However, there are solutions to this issue.
A system of framed glass, customized frosting and designs, integrated blinds, and clearly delineated traffic patterns can be implemented to minimize the risk of accidents. These strategies can create a safe and visually appealing glass partition system.
The Benefits Far Outweigh Concerns
Glass wall partitioning systems offer numerous benefits that outweigh any perceived concerns if you purchase from a well-reviewed, trusted glass installation company like Safeguard Glass from Toronto.
These highly customizable systems allow visual and sound privacy while allowing natural light to flood the office’s interior.
They are also sustainable, as they can be reconfigured when needed and recycled at the end of their lifespan.
Contrary to misconceptions, glass walls require less maintenance than traditional drywall and are much stronger than annealed glass, eliminating concerns about breakage and associated dangers.
In addition, glass wall systems create a modern office space with integrated flexibility that encourages collaboration and employee well-being, making them an environmentally friendly design choice.
