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It’s been a challenging few months, but 2023 is here and it’s FULL of opportunity for architecture and design professionals like you.

That’s why we asked our Sales VP Joe Hoekzema, an expert in making exceptional interior space happen in collaboration with awesome architects and designers, for his valuable trends we can all leverage this year.

Read on to discover Joe’s five ways we can all expect more from 2023…

Making a Difference This Year

Joe’s view, based on nearly 25 years of professional experience, is that there are five ways our valued architecture and design clients can stand out in 2023.

He summarises them as ‘think non-residential, think big ideas, think new ideas, think green and always think supply chain!’.

“I have learned that there are numerous external factors that can shape a company’s trajectory. Having a vision and understanding future trends is just as important as delivering in the today and now. As we enter a new year, there are five trends that I believe will shape outcomes for the A&D, construction, and manufacturing industries,” he explained.

• Think non-residential: “As a member of the American Institute of Architects (AIA), MetroWall has access to extensive industry data. Many believe AIA’s Billing Index (ABI) is a strong predictor of constructing spending and it is currently indicating future growth in Commercial Real Estate investment.
  “In fact, the AIA Consensus Forecast Panel is projecting a 6.0 percent increase in spending on non-residential commercial buildings in 2023. There will be opportunities in 2023 and you need to be in a strong position to capture them.”

• Think bold: “An inviting environment and culture of community are driving factors in the design of new office spaces. Those in the A&D community have expressed that spaces should be designed with workers’ needs top of mind.
  “Having worked extensively at home during the pandemic, many highly value the comforts of that environment and will only be motivated to return to the office by a reimagined workspace. We have all walked into that office where you were immediately inspired by the environment. Those with the ability to bring bold ideas to life and meet the needs of their customers will win!”
• Think new ideas: “Innovation will continue to impact the workspace in 2023. Connectivity upgrades to 5G, voice recognition technology, 3D printing, and VR tools integrated into design and training will continue to influence how we work.
  “We are also entering what some are calling “The Glass Age” as glass enabled technology and design boundaries are being pushed. With a greater need for sustainability and energy efficiency, the possibilities and need for glass structures in our internal environments will continue to grow.”
• Think green: “There’s been dramatic growth in the overall percent of construction spending focused on green building projects. The construction industry is making great strides to reduce their impact on the environment by reducing material waste, focusing on environmentally friendly products, and initiating practices that take the environment into consideration.
  “By 2025, it is expected that sixty percent of all new buildings could be labeled zero carbon emissions. With approximately thirty five percent of the energy used to heat and cool wasted, solutions for energy efficiency will be at the forefront of design and product development.
• Think supply chain: “We’ve all seen a lot of focus on reducing weaknesses within the supply chain to improve the bottom line, including better forecasting, improved management of materials, and automation of processes to eliminate wasted time.
  “Supply chain managers that do these things effectively will create a competitive advantage. This is especially true for those companies that manage the entire process of design, manufacturing, and installation. The time and money savings will get passed along to customers in greater product value and shorter lead times,” he concluded.

As always, to discover stress-free, design-to-launch glass partition expertise, book your consultation with a MetroWall specialist

See also: How We All Worked Together in 2022, Insights From Our Boston Architectural Rep

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. 

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.

When one of the world’s leading research-based pharmaceutical companies, Eisai Inc., made the decision to relocate their New Jersey headquarters, Metro-Wall quickly became front-runners to fit-out the state’s largest office lease of the year.

MetroWall is excited to be providing over 2,700 linear feet of   our innovative product lines for this 332,800-square-foot lease. The firm will join Prism Capital Partners’ ON3 mixed-use campus in Nutley, New Jersey.

MetroWall commissioned by Eisai Inc

MetroWall has been appointed by SJP Project Solutions to create a sleek, comfortable and user-friendly environment for the firm’s 1,200 corporate staff and research and development functions, with room for ongoing company expansion.

Jon Scott,  Managing Director of Metro-Wall, said that glass walls are ideal for fast-paced, connected and collaborative work environments.

“This is a really exciting project for us, and we’re extremely proud to be working with Eisai Inc., an oncology and neurology-focused pharmaceutical company in their new LEED gold certified office space. It’s an honour to work on something of this scale, and for such a respected client. The contract is, in many ways, a testament to the results we’ve delivered to date, our expertise and our industry reputation, and we’re looking forward to providing Eisai with the same great outcomes.”

Popularity of workplace glass partitions

Already known for delivering emotional and intellectual stimulation, glass partitions have never been more popular, with a post-Covid19 world making truly open-plan layouts less appealing to many workers and workplaces. 

“Glass walls don’t just create an exceptionally beautiful environment, they’re also extremely practical. They bridge the gap between open-plan and traditional multi-office designs, delivering the best of both worlds; a sense of community and collaboration with dedicated areas for privacy and focus. 

“The layouts for Eisai’s space have been thoughtfully and strategically designed for the company now and as it evolves going forward, with a clear focus on fostering extensive employee engagement and collaboration. Our products’ clean lines, the sense of space and light they achieve, and the inherent functional flexibility of their design, are strongly aligned with the ways of working favoured by future-focused organization. 

“We’re proud to be partnering with Eisai inc. to deliver a workspace that embodies the organisation’s core values, creates an inspiring environment for high-achieving teams, and a headquarters that reflects their market-leading expertise.”

Transforming workspaces with custom glass partitions

For Eisai Inc. the move into the ON3’s landmark 15-story office tower will see the firm join a next-generation life-science and lifestyle campus, integrating state-of-the-art lab, research and office space in what has been described as the ‘heart of the Northeast’s thriving life science corridor’. 

“Eisai is a human health care company. This ON3 Eisai workplace will bring the Eisai community together in one place and drive a culture of new scientific horizons and entrepreneurial innovation,” said Eisai President Tatsuyuki Yasuno. 

“We draw inspiration from our patients and passion from our people. We break barriers every day. Our workplace will too.”

Find Out More

Contact MetroWall To find out more about how our customised interior glass solutions could transform your work spaces, contact us online today via the button below.

National Safety month is an annual reminder to us all of the many hazards facing workers on construction sites and of the importance of keeping everyone in the industry safe.

The goal of this year’s campaign is to help reduce the leading causes of injury and death at work.

The most up-to-date statistics puts the importance of health and safety in perspective!

Of the 5,333 workplace deaths in the US in 2019, the highest number – 1,061 or 20% – were in construction. That’s over three people every day or over 20 every week!

It is a shocking statistic that is completely avoidable if the industry takes the precautions it should!

And it’s simple steps that make all the difference.  

Our Top 5 Tips for a Safe Site

1. Ensure you have the right tool for the job. Investing in tools that work with the natural movement of the body can prevent a range of injuries and strains. Always check tools are working properly before operating.
2. Wear full protective equipment at all times. It is your last line of defence if you come into contact with a hazard on your site. Safety boots, high-viz vests, goggles and hard hats all protect you against serious injury so make sure you don’t enter a site without them.
3. Never work high up without suitable guard rails or other fall prevention safety measures.
4. If you see something you don’t feel is safe then report it to your supervisor. Management can’t act unless they know what is going on and the sooner an issue is reported, the quicker it can be fixed.
5. Finally, keep your site tidy. Tripping hazards and spills can lead to accidents and serious injury so make sure you keep your work area tidy during your shift.

Stay Safe with MetroWall

Our glass wall partitions are installed with the greatest attention to detail on site and staff safety is a priority at every job. 

To find out more about our systems and how we work, contact us today.

As Covid-19 restrictions begin to ease, ensuring the health and wellbeing of office staff returning to work has never been more important. Limiting the spread of infection is a key public health requirement, so the importance of designing office space with safety and employee well-being in mind is more recognized than ever before.

There’s no doubt about it: the appetite for secure, collaborative working environments is growing. Here at MetroWall, we’re experts in designing bespoke glass partitioning and we work with clients to redevelop workspaces to find safe solutions tailored to your environment.

We’re passionate about bringing people together safely and here’s how we do it:

Glass Office Wall Systems

The benefits of glass are clear: it’s a sustainable material that lends fluidity to indoor spaces and allows for the transfer of natural light. Whilst promoting a more open and transparent environment, glass partitions reduce the spread of infection and generate smaller areas that can be more easily cleaned and contained.

We have three series which all provide an extensive range of design possibilities for our clients:

Vetro Series: 

This versatile glass wall partition system provides endless options for offices of all shapes and sizes. In fact, hundreds of possible configurations mean that almost any desired result can be achieved.

Vetro designs can handle robust levelling tolerances and are super simple to integrate. This adaptable system can accommodate room schedulers, electric strikes, maglocks and much more. Metro Wall specialists will work with your fit-out plans and visions to redesign a secure space for your staff. 

DG Series: 

If you’re looking for enhanced privacy, then double glazed glass wall systems are the perfect solution. This functional system not only creates transparent safety barriers but also is designed to meet the sound and privacy requirements of the client.

Our DG Series accommodates single glazing and solid panels too – so you aren’t restricted to one type of panel. 

LP Series: 

This is a real minimalist solution that lends style and fluidity to office spaces. With a ¾” bottom profile, the LP series aluminium profiles offer unrivalled transparency and aesthetics.

Compatible with room schedulers, electric strikes, maglocks and most manufacturers hardware… the options are limitless. This innovative all-glass wall partition system accommodates ⅜” or ½” glass and a wide range of configurations.

For infection control that doesn’t compromise on design flair – our LP series is the right choice. 

Why Should You Choose Metro Wall?

We’re industry experts with more than 14 years of experience in intelligent office design. From the design phase, right through to installation and beyond, we’re here to guarantee successful results that stand the test of time. 

We’re quick too. Our 3-week lead time is something that we’re super proud of and we never compromise on quality.

We work with your design team to tailor solutions for any space, no matter the specs. Designing, drawing, measuring and installing – we’ll take responsibility to make sure the results are exceptional. 

If you have any questions, we want to hear them. Contact us & we’ll find the right solution for you.

Countless studies have found that sunlight provides a multitude of benefits to our health.  Exposure to natural light is especially beneficial to workers that are in an office all day.  Natural light has been found to improve mood, energy, alertness, and productivity.   How can all employees get access to the benefits of natural light in a large office?

Glass office partitions are not only modern and elegant in appearance, but they offer many advantages for offices seeking natural light.  Glass wall systems offer a solution for access to natural light and provide a more open, collaborative environment.

Natural sunlight seen through glass partitions result in increased productivity and promotes a positive atmosphere.  Maximizing the amount of natural light flowing into a room creates a first-rate bright and airy space.  Adding glass partitions to an office is a popular decision that offers an excellent solution for all employees to enjoy the benefits of natural light in the office.

When it comes to constructing or renovating your offices a key point to consider is the type of doors that best fit your design intent, and functionality of the office space.  Today, doors are essential in the office environment for sound control, climate control, privacy, and security.

Which type of door is best for your next project?

Hinged doors are easy to use and can be outfitted with a wide range of additional hardware etc.  Hinged doors also tend to be less expensive than sliding doors, although depending on hardware selection the price of doors can quickly escalate.  Drawbacks of swing doors include that that they are more difficult for individuals in wheelchairs to use, and if space is an issue swing doors can get in the way.

Sliding doors offer many benefits for professional environments.  They can greatly increase the functionality of your space, as swing doors require more square feet to be clear for successful operation of the door.  This makes sliding doors ideal for saving space in an office.  Sliding doors add style to a professional environment and provide a more aesthetic look than a traditional swing door.

Contact us today for a free consultation on your next project!

Incorporating glass walls and partitions into a space can be complicated. But it doesn’t have to be! We are excited to launch our new service: MetroConsult. Our team of experts will review your plans and help you choose the best products and methods for a seamless and clear-cut (pun intended) glass wall installation. Our team is well-trained and fast.

The best part? It’s completely free.

Flexibility. Look around. Imagine everything that could fit out the door was taken away – the furniture, wall décor, plants, files, window dressings… If you can imagine a completely different atmosphere and culture by replacing these items, the space is flexible. If not, you may need to repaint the space a bright, universal color. Demolish some walls. Refinish the floor. Tenants love a blank slate; they need the ability to bring their culture, their life, to the space.

Open Space. No matter how small the square footage, there should be an open, uncluttered area. Companies require versatility now more than ever, and tenants want to be able to create collaborative areas, add moveable workstations, and achieve any configuration desired.

Sunlight. This seems like an obvious, but in densely populated cities like New York it isn’t always. Employers look for bright, airy spaces where staff will feel (and be) motivated, valued and productive.