Achieving privacy without the loss of light

What makes a great working space? An office that helps increase individual and/or group productivity? A space where natural light and employee well-being come first? How do spaces strike a balance between private and open areas? All of these factors are important considerations when creating a positive, working environment. The current concern, however, is whether we can have visual privacy without compromising natural light.

Undoubtedly, natural sources of light maintain a healthy mind and disposition, making for a happy environment. Daylight, as a result of this, has been found to be the number one most desirable natural feature in the workplace.[1] For this reason, workplaces are facing increasing demands to have open spaces which encourage light flow and prevent darkness. However, in busy offices large expanses aren’t always practical when it comes to managing acoustic and visual privacy levels. In essence the question is: how can natural light be utilised effectively when privacy is also a demand? The following solutions will offer some insight into how visual and acoustic privacy can be attained without losing light.

Glass partitions

Double and single glazed partitions allow natural sources of light to pass through whilst maintaining privacy in the workplace. Not only can the glass partitions manage acoustics, they create private areas which encourage natural streams of light throughout the space.

Get creative

Visual privacy can be achieved through a design which is manifested over a series of glass office partitions, such as the reeded look at Condé Nast. Whether it’s an applied film or a decorative interlayer, these designs not only look aesthetically pleasing, but they control the amount of natural light in private spaces. Moreover, the manifestation gives designers a chance to inject some creativity into the scheme whilst also ensuring natural light is maximised within the space.

Go technical

In cases where lighting is important, Tech Panels are a great solution to control lighting levels in rooms. Tech Panels are an efficient way to manage ambient lighting where visual and acoustic privacy outweigh the need for natural light. In addition, the panels also house various types of technology like air conditioning controls and room booking systems. 

Switch it

Some work spaces promote the flow of natural daylight but need to provide visual privacy on occasion. Switchable glass can provide visual privacy at the flick of a switch, turning the glass opaque. When you’ve finished just switch back, the glass goes transparent and the flow of natural light is resumed. See how AJ Gallagher used this in their central London offices.

Reduce stress

Importantly, natural light improves mood, reduces stress and positively impacts circadian system functioning.[2]  So, where better to employ the best use of natural light than in a hospital environment? The clever use of blinds within the glass cavity promotes the flow of light but also creates a private space when the blinds are closed.

Re-plan your space

Demountable walls offer more versatility as companies can manage the changing needs of the workforce. As visual and acoustic privacy needs develop and the workforce changes, workspaces can be adapted. Not only is this a cost effective solution but it’s also environmentally friendly.

As you’ve just read, there are many solutions to ensuring the natural flow of light is maximised within private spaces. With these in mind, find the right glass partition for the right space; get creative, reduce stress and enjoy the positive results on your happy workforce.

[1] Cohere.com.au [2]   Cohere.com.au