Category: Products

Everyone involved in architecture, design or construction who works with a glass partition will want to make sure the glass door element of their project is ADA compliant. Thankfully, three simple steps make this easy to achieve. </p

Our ‘coffee break checklist’ outlines a recommended approach to make sure you’re using some readily available help to stay code compliant.

Read on for a reminder explaining what makes ADA compliance vital plus discover the support available to help ensure your project is up to code.

Glass Door ADA Compliance Made Easy

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The potential consequences of ADA non-compliance in a project are, of course, serious and far-reaching. The risks involved if ADA requirements are overlooked? Fines, lawsuits and reputational damage.

That’s why the clients we work with all agree that meeting ADA rules is a must.

We strongly suggest….

1. 1. Awareness: The most important first step for ADA and State code compliance is awareness that compliance requirements exist.
      • These include demands like 10” clearance on the push side of door, 32” clearance when doors open, 5 lbs push or pull force, distraction markers at 30” and 60” AFF (NY Labor Law).
      • While the final responsibility rests with you, steps (2) and (3) will help ensure the latest code is applied.
   2. Support: Working with a professional glass partition supplier will mean your partition specialist is extremely familiar with ADA and code requirements.
      • That’s why we recommend that, whether you’re a new or existing MetroWall client, you contact us as early as possible. Even during the Test Fit stage we highly recommend that you speak to a member of the MetroWall team so things like door swing and furniture layout with walls can also be considered.
      • Our goal is to not only make sure compliance and design intent are both satisfied but also check how factors like hardware and acoustics will work so the space functions correctly.
   3. Education: Continuous, specialist training helps you stay one step ahead of compliance demands and reviews how glass partitions can be used in your work.
      • For example, MetroWall’s American Institute of Architects training covers many ADA/ code essentials and counts towards AIA annual credits.
      • The course outlines the abundant options and benefits of glass walls in the workplace and is purpose-designed to help with seamlessly integrating glass into drawings and into the construction process.

The advantages and disadvantages, as well as the aesthetics, of different systems and options are covered plus the future of glass partitions is discussed during the course. The course also reveals insights into the impact of glass partitions on well-being of employees at work plus safety with glass types, code compliance, etc.

In short, the course gives you more options to present to clients to help create a first-rate office environment.

Combining the three recommendations above, by maintaining ADA compliance awareness and education while leveraging the support available, will help remove the risk of non-compliance from glass door projects.

Why MetroWall?

We’re proud to be much more than just a supplier for the professionals who rely on us for expert help to make their glass partition project as easy as possible.

That’s because our team uses years of industry experience to approach each project as a consultant to ensure successful project outcomes.

Then, we design, manufacture, store and install our glass partitions ourselves right here in New York.

Ultimately, professionals work for us for two big reasons: our 15 years of experience and our local inventory as this means expertise without the delays!

For product inspiration plus sustainability and LEED data click here. To speak to a MetroWall wall partition specialist simply contact us. We’re here to help.

See also: Sustainable Design and Your Project, Delivering Projects in Turbulent Times

We understand that when you choose to overhaul your workspace and incorporate glass walls and partitions, you’ll have questions. At MetroWall, we want to provide as much value to our readers and customers as we can and so we’ll answer your most pressing questions in one place.

Contemplating working with a glass partition manufacturer and have questions about the schematic design or design development? Check out our answers below.

1. I want glass partitions in my office space. What are my options?

MetroWall’s proprietary extrusions are the building blocks of our projects. 

Within our multiple systems we enjoy building bespoke solutions through options such as finishes, glazing types, hardware, door types, frame profiles, mullion details, etc.  We typically recommend a discovery meeting to review the options and hear about your goals for the project.

Download our Brochure

2. I’m not sure what I want, can you help with design inspiration?

Absolutely.

Our experts can help to translate your ideas (no matter how vague) into a design. Through renderings, drafting details, case studies and R&D, we’ll use our industry knowledge and construction expertise to transform your workspace and come up with something unique to your business.

3. Do you survey the site?

Yes.

Our team will be with you from project kick off to project completion.. We’ll visit your site, take accurate measurements, assess site access and logistics and then manufacture, deliver and install. 

4. How much will a glass wall from MetroWall cost?  

The cost will vary depending on which options you choose to include but typical costs start at a few hundred dollars per linear foot and can climb over $1,000 per linear foot.

There are a large number of factors to consider that will influence the cost such as glass types, door functions, hardware selections, finish selections and more. A MetroWall representative can help you find a configuration that fits within your budget. 

5. How long will it take to complete my partition? I have tight deadlines

This varies depending on the glass partition manufacturer and installer that you work.

Factors you should consider when looking for a partner include things such as manufacturing location and complexity of supply chain. Manufacturers located overseas often have lead times of 8-12 weeks or more. Other solutions which involve separate manufacturers, dealers and installers may take 6-8 weeks.

At MetroWall, we’re a one-stop shop and will be with you from planning and design right through to final sign off. Our lead times are 3-4 weeks which is some of the fastest in North America.

6. I’m designing a new workspace and want to be sure that everything discussed at initial design makes it through to install. How can I ensure details won’t get missed along the way?

At MetroWall, we’re uniquely positioned as a manufacturer with integrated construction so we don’t have to hand over to external dealers or glaziers. 

MW are there for pre-construction right the way through to install and your MetroWall Project Manager will be on hand to oversee and advise every step of the way. The details are just as important to us as they are to you.

7. What are “hold to” dimensions? And do MetroWall use them?

In basic terms, “hold to” dimensions are measurements that are established as benchmarks and agreed to by all parties to perform their work such that the end result matches the “hold to” dimensions.

At MetroWall, we don’t use them because we don’t really need to. Every project has a Project Superintendent who will come to site to verify each opening to ensure there is little room for error. The Superintendent will also work closely with carpenters and other trades on site. 

Our flexible lead times mean we don’t go into pre production as early as our competitors so we can work to exact specifications.  Having said that, if needed, we can coordinate hold dimensions as well.

8. I want to use MetroWall for my glass partition. What do I do next?

Get in touch! Drop us an email or give us a call and we’ll take it from there. 

The International Interior Design Association’s Product Parade is back for 2021 and we’re delighted to say that the Metrowall team will be attending. The legendary outdoor trade show is where interior designers and industry professionals from across the region come together to connect.

Our dedicated sales team will be hosting booths at both Morristown and Princeton and we want to show our colleagues across the design industry just how we earned our 9.6/10 customer satisfaction rating! 

Come see us at the Metrowall booth and our team will be on hand to answer your questions and tell you more about why we’re the market leaders in glass walls and partitions in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions. 

As well as the Metrowall team, there will be 25+ exhibitors, unlimited food and drink and live music. Plus, the chance to network and connect with interior design professionals from across the state.

Sign up for your tickets at the Eventbrite page and be sure to come say hi!

Here are the full details:

2021 Morristown City Center Product Parade:

When: Tue, September 21, 2021
4:30 PM – 8:00 PM EDT

Where: Dauphin
100 Fulton Street
Boonton, NJ 07005
United States

2021 Princeton City Center Product Parade:

When: Wed, October 13, 2021 (rain date October 14th)
5:00 PM – 7:30 PM EDT

Where: HDR Princeton
Lenox Dr Suite 100
Lawrence Township, NJ 08648
United States

We hope to see you there.

As we increasingly measure companies by their culture, workplace design has never been more important. 

And with the average size of offices having shrunk by 30% over the last decade plus, to 175 sq ft per employee, the onus is on architects to come up with clever designs that maximise space, light and customer impact, without compromising on privacy or staff wellbeing.  

No pressure!

Reimagining glass partitions

While glass has become a staple of corporate design, its ability to be reimagined and repurposed ensures that its appeal is never diminished. That design flexibility isn’t just in relation to layouts, but to the broader aesthetic.

If you want your furniture and décor to take center stage, glass partitions can fade gracefully into the background, but if you want your glass to be the main event, it can achieve that too! Endless permutations – limited only by your imagination.

Delivering the ultimate versatility for architects, glass partitions offer the freedom to design completely new spaces. And, because they’re made to measure, literally anything is possible!

Frameless glass partitions

The frameless glass option provides a minimalist feel, and is often favored by architects in pursuit of a clean, modern aesthetic. The panes are attached to the floor and ceiling with unobtrusive fixings, so your eye is drawn to what’s inside rather than to the partitions themselves.

But that doesn’t mean it has to be simplicity all the way. Frameless partitions are compatible with swing and pivot doors, as well as sliding doors, and can be customized in a range of ways.

Hardware

Whether you’re all about simplicity, or keen to add some stand-out touches to your design, hardware lends itself to either. And that even extends to the practical, with the ability to integrate security systems, card access and more.

But beyond that, whether you want door handles colored, leather-wrapped or custom designed, it’s entirely up to you. 

Glass types

Now this is where it really gets exciting – there truly is no limit to what you can achieve. We’re not just talking transparent or frosted, we’re talking about back painted, acid etched, mirrored, textured, one-way, markerboard suitable or Houdini glass and more. Decorate them with letters, foils, textiles, photoprint – whatever you fancy.

Glass is an incredible blank canvas upon which designers and architects can really put their stamp. Check out glass solutions for architectural design for more inspiration.

We’re the glass partition experts

Working with the finest architects and contractors, we’re always on-hand to share our glass expertise. From chic minimalism to unforgettable design statements – we’ve done it all. It’s our job to take your grand vision and translate into the fully functional space your clients have been dreaming of. 

Our expert team will work with you to design the perfect layout, then manufacture it to order, deliver and install – one team and one seamless process. 

If you need exceptional glass partitions for your next corporate project, talk to the MetroWall team – bespoke products and New York’s best customer service.

Get in Touch

Get in touch with our knowledgeable team today to find out more about the impact of glass partitions in office interior design.

As workplaces – and workforces – evolve, so do our views on the ‘ideal’ office layout for optimal practicality and productivity. Ultimately, the only true solution is an outcome that allows flexibility for the future – a solution like glass partitioning in fact!

But if you’re still unconvinced, here are four fantastic reasons to take the plunge with partitions:

4 Reasons to Choose Glass Office Partitions

Impress staff and clients

Just like any store or restaurant, organizations rely on appearances to make an impact. If you want to attract quality staff and impress clients, you need a space that screams forward-looking, efficient and welcoming. 

Glass is also 100% recyclable, and with organisational values becoming an increasing drawcard for both employees and customers, a demonstrable commitment to sustainability is not only important, it’s expected.

Space that helps you do business differently

While how we physically work is changing, our human and business needs remain broadly similar – which means we need an environment that allows for confidential discussion, as well as fostering collaboration. Fortunately, both outcomes are possible when you use glass partitioning to create functional, flowing spaces. 

The workforce of the future understands that human performance is about much more than ‘carrot and stick’, it’s about understanding where work fits in the bigger picture of our lives, the importance of workplace relationships, and the human needs that have to be met for peak performance. They also know that the built environment – and flexibility of its form and function – is critical to our wellbeing.

Think about how you feel in a darkened airless room, versus how you feel when you stand in an expansive sunlit space. We know the realities, but somehow workplaces have failed to keep pace with our growing understanding of what makes humanity ‘tick’. 

Custom designed layouts

The beauty of partitioning is that it’s created to your specifications and can adapt to your needs. Which means if you need particular spaces now, and a redesigned layout in the future, you’re talking adaptation rather than renovation. 

Our ranges, for example, allows us to create hundreds of configurations – whatever your vision, we can deliver.  From minimalist and budget-driven designs to high-end, our customizable modules allow us to meet the needs of every conceivable office space. Whatever the size, shape, style and budget, we can create an environment that meets all your needs. And, being easily demountable, they’re a much more cost-effective solution over the long-term. 

Better for staff wellbeing

Close off areas to create office space and you’re back to that gloomy airless room or – not much more inspiring – a fluorescent lit, airless room. Glass partitions provide all the benefits of a ‘wall’ while allowing natural light to flow freely through your office space.

And people are like plants – we thrive on a bit of sunshine and need Vitamin D to fend off stress and anxiety. Just ask the International Well Building Institute, who found that workers’ productivity declines if they’re located more than 7.5 meters from a window.

In the same way, we don’t tend to like being locked away from other people – we’re social beasts, in the main. Connection with our colleagues is key to creativity, collaboration and productivity – just being able to see each other through an open space makes the world of difference.

And where glass really comes into its own, is its ability to allow you to see, without allowing every word to be heard. The perfect blend of transparency without endless distraction or compromising on confidentiality needs.

Considering an Office Redesign?

So, if you are toying with the idea of an office redesign, there’s one ‘clear’ choice – glass partitions. And when it comes to those, Metro Wall is the field-leader offering 3 premium products – Vetro, LP Series and DG Series. 

We’re experts in customer satisfaction, managing the process from design to install in super-quick time. Ready to find out what Metro Wall can do for you? 

Get in touch today via the button below.