The design of modern office buildings and environments is driven by more than simple functionality; it also reflects the growing awareness of how the built environment impacts employee well-being and productivity, and workplace culture.
As organisations increasingly prioritise the satisfaction and mental health of their staff, architecture and interior design plays critical roles in creating more inspiring and safe commercial office spaces.
Contemporary styling, natural light, a feeling of space, visual connection with others and the outside world, and sound insulation to aid concentration are all essential elements of effective office design.
Timeless and elegant architectural glazing systems — used both externally and internally — offer architects and interior designers a highly effective means of addressing all these design considerations.
Externally, bolted glass assemblies, glass canopies or glazed curtain walling help create striking commercial façades that make the right first impression to both staff and clients. They look stylish and inviting, and flood foyers and other interior spaces with daylight.
Internally, glass partitions, glass balustrades and glass doors provide a continuation of this design intent. They divide busy and sometimes noisy open-plan offices into quieter private working areas and meeting rooms, and offer essential edge protection at stairs and mezzanine levels - all while maintaining the flow of natural light, a feeling of space and sightlines connecting people and places facilitating collaboration.
Fire-rated steel doors and screens protect office workers from heat, smoke and flames in the event of a fire and create safe escape/rescue routes - while maintaining light, space and visual connection in daily use.
Through the thoughtful integration of glass and discreet steel frames and fittings, architects and interior designers shape office environments that are not only functional and compliant, but also inspiring, light-filled, and timeless in their appeal.
While physical barriers are essential for safety and privacy, the use of glass for these elements reflects and facilitates an open and collaborative workplace culture that helps attract and retain talent.
Contact the BM Architectural team on 0114 254 3226 to discuss your office project requirements.
