How can glass be successful introduced and installed in modern architecture to help meet sustainability requirements while also enhancing the ambience of internal spaces? In this case study from CRL Europe, Managing Director Simon Boocock explains how their latest glass balustrade system has done just that in a high profile installation in America.
The United States Courthouse in Los Angeles is a ten-story, 633,000 square foot facility with 24 courtrooms and 32 justice chambers, featuring all-glass aesthetics. The structure features a distinct cube-shaped design, with a serrated glass and aluminium façade that adds aesthetic depth, while effectively mitigating solar heat gain.
Impressing aesthetically, the installation of all that glass was not without its challenges, particularly as the nature of the building’s purpose and its location in Downtown LA meant the contractors had to work to strict timelines for completion and the finished result had to be of the highest specification. To meet these requirements, an all-glass dry-wall glazing system was used, practically halving installation time compared to a wet-glaze alternative.
Circulating light throughout the building due to its use on stairways, walkways and on floor ledges overlooking the atrium below, the dry-wall system was straightforward to install with the minimum of disruption and all while ensuring safety was maximised. The end result means that the flow of daylight is optimised and energy consumption is reduced while creating an open, collaborative working environment.
This is just one of many examples of why glass is such a popular material among specifiers and of how, when the right systems are used, installation and maintenance can be as clear-cut as the material itself.
The benefits of specifying glass as multiple; this is a material thatcombines light, transparency and appearance with practical features such as thermal insulation, solar control, acoustics, fire protection, safety and security. Add to this the fact that glass is a versatile solution that can be used in any setting to enhance it rather than ever looking out of place and it is clear to see why this is such a popular material.
For commercial buildings, glass really is the material of the moment and none more so than in offices. Many such spaces are now designed to be open-plan, with glass partitions effectively dividing up the larger space where needed, zoning areas and given a sense of privacy while maintaining an open and inclusive feel overall. Making effective use of available floor space and giving the illusion of light and depth in compact situations, research suggests the more access to natural daylight employees have, the better their wellbeing. However, large expanses of space with lots of people in them tend to be noisy and lack privacy, so glass partitions offer an effective solution that helps with acoustics too.
For commercial buildings, glass really is the material of the moment and none more so than in offices. Many such spaces are now designed to be open-plan, with glass partitions effectively dividing up the larger space where needed, zoning areas and given a sense of privacy while maintaining an open and inclusive feel overall. Making effective use of available floor space and giving the illusion of light and depth in compact situations, research suggests the more access to natural daylight employees have, the better their wellbeing. However, large expanses of space with lots of people in them tend to be noisy and lack privacy, so glass partitions offer an effective solution that helps with acoustics too.
Creating a high-end aesthetic while also being a highly practical way of creating a bright, spacious working environment and enhancing the office’s acoustics, glass can also be used to form inner offices, creating a sense of privacy for meetings.
With the right systems used for installation, such partitions are straightforward to fit. A dry-glazed system such as that used in the United States Courthouse, for example, is mess and hassle-free to fit, minimising downtime. Choosing a system with thin profiles means that the architectural hardware will barely be noticed and when it is, opting for an on-trend finish such as matt black or brushed brass creates a stylish, cohesive look in the modern setting. A system specially designed for office partitions makes installation as straightforward as possible, while creating a sense of light and spaciousness.
For further information call 01706 863600, email crl@crlaurence.co.uk, or visit www.crlaurence.co.uk