How do you maintain privacy in a bustling office while keeping the space open and inviting? 

The answer lies in innovative solutions like electric switchable glass. This innovative technology is revolutionizing office design by offering a modern technological approach to office privacy. 

But what exactly is switchable glass, and why should you consider it for your office?

We’ll tell you below.

What is Switchable Glass?

Switchable glass is a glass partition with a glazing solution on it that makes it transition from transparent to opaque and back again with a simple flick of a switch. This technology typically uses polymer-dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC) technology to achieve this effect.

When activated, the glass changes from solid to transparent and back again, providing instant privacy while still allowing natural light to filter through. This seamless transition enhances not only the privacy of your glass partitions but also the overall aesthetic of your office. It’s the perfect addition to any modern office that values natural light, the openness of glass partitions, and the ability to transition into a more private setting.

How Does Switchable Glass Work?

At the heart of switchable privacy glass is PDLC technology. When an electric current is applied to the glass, the liquid crystals within the glass sync up, allowing light to pass through, making the glass clear. When the current is switched off, the crystals scatter, rendering the glass opaque. This transition is nearly instantaneous, offering you control over your office’s privacy with minimal effort.

Applications of Switchable Glass

Switchable glass isn’t just a one-trick pony. Its versatility makes it ideal for various applications within the office environment, including:

• Office Doors: Switchable glass sliding doors offer the perfect blend of privacy and openness.
• Partitions: Switchable glass partitions are excellent for creating adaptable workspaces.
• Screens: Switchable glass screens can be used for presentations or as interactive displays, adding a layer of functionality to your office.
• Windows: Switchable glass windows provide privacy without compromising natural light.

How Much is Switchable Glass?

The cost of switchable glass varies depending on several factors, including size, application, customisation, and installation, but usually comes in around $85 to $130 per square foot. And, like all things commercial, ordering in bulk tends to garner significant overall savings. However, it’s important to remember that the price range can be tailored to fit different budgets.

The Benefits of Using Switchable Glass

Switchable glass offers a ton of different benefits, including:

• Privacy Control: You can instantly control your privacy with the flip of a switch, making it easy to adapt to different situations.
• Aesthetic Appeal: The innovative design of switchable glass enhances the overall look of your office.
• Energy Efficiency: By controlling the natural light that comes through, switchable glass can reduce your office’s energy costs.
• Acoustic Insulation: Switchable glass also provides soundproofing benefits, making it easier to maintain a quiet and focused work environment.
• Flexibility and Adaptability: Switchable glass allows you to change the functionality of spaces without the need for physical alterations or renovations.
• Hygiene: Unlike traditional blinds or curtains, switchable glass has a smooth surface that’s easy to clean and maintain.

Visual Privacy from Optima

Optima offers a wide range of visual privacy solutions tailored to meet the needs of your office space. Whether you’re looking for switchable glass partitions, applied film, or integral blinds, Optima has the products and expertise to deliver exceptional results.

Explore more of our visual privacy options and other products to see how these solutions can be seamlessly integrated into your office design. Here’s a closer look at what we have to offer.

Switchable Glass

Switchable glass provides instant visual privacy at the flick of a switch, making it a popular choice for boardrooms and conference rooms. This versatile and stylish solution is easily incorporated into our switchable single and switchable double glazing glass partition systems.

We have implemented switchable glass in numerous high-profile projects, including those for Land Securities, AJ Gallagher, CMS, and Norton Rose Fulbright, all of which showcase its ability to create meeting spaces that are simultaneously open or private.

Applied Film

Do you want something a little less expensive? Applied film is a cost-effective and lightweight solution for visual privacy that also allows for endless design possibilities. This form of manifestation can be used to display your brand while providing privacy.

You can see this put to work in many of our previous projects, including PRS For Music and Condé Nast. Whether you need an etched effect, transparent color, or specialty film, we can deliver a solution that meets your requirements.

Integral Blinds

If you want something a little more familiar, you can have integral blinds incorporated into our Revolution 100 double-glazed system to provide additional privacy. With a wide range of textures and colors available, our integral blinds offer both flexibility and style at a fraction of the cost of switchable glass.

Switchable Glass You Can Rely On

When it comes to creating adaptable and private workspaces, switchable glass is a solution you can rely on. Here at Optima, our products are designed to meet the highest quality standards on the market. Are you exploring how switchable glass can transform your office? Contact us today to get started!