Open plan offices have become increasingly popular over the years, and following the examples set by the likes of Google and Microsoft, folding partition specialist Building Additions has worked with many businesses that believe working openly leads to increased productivity and more social work environments
However, some companies are finding that open office environments aren’t a practical solution for their workplace. In fact, recent studies suggest that open plan offices don’t actually boost productivity as much as first imagined. As a happy medium, many organisations have invested in partition walls, which are an excellent solution to the potential pitfalls in open plan spaces.
Open plan offices offer brighter and more pleasant working surroundings whilst keeping energy bills low thanks to the influx of light. An open plan area allows for the freedom of movement and enables staff to move from one part of the office to another with minimum disruption. But very quickly the open space can cause problems in terms of concentration capabilities and therefore productivity. This is where partitions come in, offering the best of open plan environments whilst providing the missing advantage of closed off offices areas. They add the benefits of a cubicle office design with the minimum loss of space and intrusion.
An example of different office spaces where partitions can feature is Building Additions recent involvement with leading online platform for home renovation and design Houzz’s London office.
Houzz was created for people to browse and save home inspiration photos and find the right design and construction professionals. As a business that is built on visuals, it was important to Houzz to put as much thought into their working environment as their online platform. Building Additions was selected to install a partition that matched their requirements, fitting the inside of the office’s bus fixture with a red fabric partition to section off the open end from the office area inside.
As specialists in moveable walls and partitions, Building Additions knows there are a number of solid benefits that come with the addition of operable walls and partitions. These include –
• Design – Attractive partitions make a great first impression to existing, new, and potential clients, and for many the addition of partitions is popular due to their pleasing aesthetics. They fit perfectly in any contemporary office which is seeking a bright, clean, and modern design.
• Natural Light – If opting for a glass partition, this will maximise the amount of natural light dispersed into a room and create an illusion of a bright and airy space. Sunlight is thought to improve concentration and activity levels, so will not only enhance the mood of the employees but will also reduce expenditure on artificial lighting.
• Cost Effective and Durable – With the option of adding natural light, this will reduce energy bills as it means there is no need for artificial lighting. Partitions are easy to install and cause minimal disruption yet work as very effective refurbishments. They can be assembled and disassembled quickly requiring no structural modifications, so are the ideal solution for those looking to expand or reconstruct as they can easily be taken down or moved. Additionally if the business moves then
- partitions can be dismantled, making relocation hassle free.
- Noise Reduction – Partitions are also a favourite with employers because they effectively block noise from filtering through the office. The materials used in partitions affect the acoustic properties of the wall, and as the partition is made up of a number of different elements the overall level of reduction will be lower than if the divider had been made of just one material.
Building Additions is an established folding partition manufacturer based in Frome, Somerset with a reputation for manufacturing, supplying and installing quality room partitions and movable walls to businesses, educational organisations and homes across the UK.
Further information is available from Building Additions on 01373 454577 by emailing [email protected] or by visiting the website at www.buildingadditions.co.uk
Building Additions is supported by Vantage PR