Cost-Effective Rebranding

Revamping to energize a space without re-inventing the wheel has become common in commercial interiors. Modular glass dividing walls or sliding glass doors with minimal framing are options that easily create an elegant, streamlined space with a contemporary feel, whether in an office setting or in private rooms and public spaces in a hotel. The process is less intrusive and more economical than a typical renovation project. Modular partitions and doors can be easily added without disrupting business operations. Installation is straightforward, without the necessity to cut, or paint materials on site, eliminating delays and inconvenience and hazards during construction. Telescopic doors offer pre-mounted and pre-tensed transmission systems for quicker and easier assemblies. Because modular systems are considered furniture from a tax perspective, they enjoy accelerated depreciation.

Compatibility with ADA/Universal Design

Universal design is the design of products and environments to be usable by all people, to the greatest extent possible, without the need for adaptation or specialized design. Universal design is key in the commercial sector, particularly in the hotel industry, which caters to a broad audience of all ages and physical challenges. Architectural features such as sliding glass doors meet these criteria while broadening access to the physical environment for numerous types of users, including those with disabilities who use wheelchairs or scooters, those pushing a baby carriage or stroller, individuals pushing carts or carrying packages or luggage. Wider openings—up to 16 feet for telescopic doors—and clear openings free of floor tracks also contribute greater accessibility.

Basic ADA requirements relating to sliding doors and moving partitions include the following. ADA-compliant doors must be wide enough to accommodate wheelchairs, with the law requiring entryways to be at least 32 inches wide. Doorways deeper than 24 inches must have a minimum clear opening width of 36 inches. In addition, doorway thresholds can't be higher than half an inch for all doors other than exterior doors (top-hung glass sliding doors don-t require any floor tracks). The floor or ground around the door must be level and clear of obstructions, with changes of level on the floor surface no greater than 1/16 of an inch. The force for pushing or pulling open a sliding door or partition cannot be more than 5 pounds. For further information on ADA requirements, architects should see www.ada.gov.

Toward Sustainable, Visually Impressive Interiors

The newest technology in sliding glass doors and partitions brings the architect a rich palette with which to create impressive interiors that contribute to LEED points and overall sustainability. With the ability to maximize and increase the flexibility of a commercial space, while injecting energy and elegance in a way that is budget conscious and consistent with ADA requirements, interior glass doors are clearly a compelling option to today's designers.

Klein USA , Inc. is a global leader in high-quality interior sliding glass door systems uniquely designed to provide the A&D industry with the most innovative solutions, enhancing both space and light sharing. Use of Klein's frameless top-hung glass doors imparts a clean, modern look to any commercial application. www.klein-usa.com