With the demand for adaptable spaces that quickly accommodate change, the industry is seeing a trend toward large-scale movable walls being specified, including sliding glass doors and bi-folding glass doors. These doors become, in effect, movable walls that can open up a floor plan to create multi-functional and dynamic interior spaces. Movable glazed walls carry the same benefits as glazed partitions: they promote daylight diffusion within interiors which bolsters employee morale and reduces dependency on artificial lighting. Movable walls can be specified to incorporate double-glazed insulating glass, which helps mitigate sound to improve privacy. Finally, movable walls have a large scale which helps form contemporary visuals.

Movable wall sliding door systems, with a maximum panel width of 7 feet and height of 13 feet, deliver expansive scale and elegance. Advanced engineering provides for smooth, quiet operation, requiring minimal force to move expansive glass panes. Systems that utilize bottom rolling tracks eliminate strain on the overhead beam. Panel loads are evenly distributed across the bottom rolling components resulting in a fluid, frictionless glide. The precision-engineered stainless-steel track further facilitates panel movement. Most notably, a CW40 Performance Grade rating denotes systems well-suited even to exterior applications where high loads, limits on deflection, and heavy use are likely.

Bi-folding doors represent a staple in movable wall systems, offering the most desirable features in looks and performance. Some offer a distinctly slim 4-3/4” vertical sightline and 1-7/16” panel rails to reduce visible hardware and produce a minimalist aesthetic that maximizes views. When closed, door hinges can be completely concealed to deliver an elegant and streamlined look. Superior thermal and structural performance is provided by using a 3-1/2” system depth. Depending on the manufacturer, these systems can also earn a distinguishing CW40 Performance Grade rating that makes the doors ideal for exterior applications where larger sizes, higher loading requirements, limits on deflection, and heavy use are expected.

Advances from glazing manufacturers offer design professionals exceptional performance in movable glazed walls without compromising aesthetics and function. These assets can be transformed into vibrant, adaptable interiors.

Case Study: Cedars-Sinai Biomanufacturing Center

Photo courtesy of CRL; ©Lawrence Anderson

Cedars-Sinai Biomanufacturing Center in West Hollywood, California.

Cedars-Sinai Biomanufacturing Center (CBC) is a 23,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art biomanufacturing facility located within the famed Pacific Design Center in West Hollywood, California. CBC comprises a Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) cell manufacturing facility with several cell production suites and process development rooms. With world-class expertise in stem cell biology, bioprocessing, translational medicine and manufacturing, the CBC provides a pivotal biomanufacturing complex in Southern California.

During the project design phase, HDR architects wanted to maximize the limited natural light that entered through roughly 10 percent of the perimeter. Ample lighting was considered an important design element to both enrich the detailed and meticulous work being conducted and improve employee well-being.

With a goal of promoting transparency and collaboration, designers worked to define interior spaces without creating a sense of isolation between the various administrative departments and research areas. The HDR team incorporated glass walls wherever possible to bring daylight deep into the building and instill a sense of “science on display” for visitors. Occupants can see researchers working in labs on one side of the building and meetings taking place in conference rooms on the other.

To achieve their objectives, HDR relied heavily on glass wall products. Within the Pacific Design Center, the Cedars-Sinai Biomanufacturing Center occupies the entire second floor, and long spans of the glazed office partition systems were used throughout. Utilizing low-profile top and bottom rails and recessed top rails, the systems provide a series of contemporary, streamlined views throughout the facility. The glazed partition system was specified with glass doors that utilize dry glaze door rails and path fittings.

Glazed partitions act as a glass wall, dividing various functional spaces while maximizing daylight diffusion and transparency. Coupled with glass doors that feature slim rails and fittings, the system relies on minimal hardware to reduce obstructions, enhance visibility, and create a sense of openness.

These choices helped HDR design an engaging workplace and a premier destination for biomanufacturing research and development

MAKING DESIGN DURABLE

Innovations in printing technology allow powerful visuals to transform from an art piece into a durable installation that also significantly enhances the longevity and maintenance of interior spaces.

“A misconception among architects and interior designers about printed wall protection might be that its primary function is purely aesthetic, underestimating its durability and protective qualities,” said Sarah Martell, Interior Designer at Inpro. “They might view this product as simply a decorative element rather than a robust solution that also significantly enhances the longevity and maintenance of interior spaces.”

Premier printed wall protection products offer an ideal fusion of high-impact durability with completely customizable artistic designs that can transform any space, both visually and functionally. This solution allows art and graphics to be built directly into the construction scope, helping designers create commercial settings that achieve business goals and support occupants.

Photo courtesy of Inpro

The possibilities are exponential when using imagery on printed wall protection–the wall can not only take an impact, but also make an impact.