Which Type of Glass Partition Is Right for Your Office?
Which Type of Glass Partition Is Right for Your Office?
Glass office partitions have become a staple of contemporary workspace design, and for good reason. They promote natural light and support open-plan layouts. They also create flexible zones that respect privacy and professionalism. The correct glass partition can boost your work environment. Whether for private offices, client meeting rooms, or shared spaces, each choice adds its charm and functionality.
However, with numerous systems to choose from – frameless, double-glazed, acoustic, and more – which type of glass partition is right for your office? That’s where we come in.
At Jade Aden Interiors, we create and install personalised glass partition systems across the South of England. With over 30 years of experience in commercial fit-outs, we deliver high-quality solutions.
In this guide, we will walk you through the main types of glass partitions, where they are best used, and how to maintain them for long-term value.
The Types of Glass Partitions & Their Best Uses
Choosing the correct glass partition means balancing privacy, aesthetics, and practicality. From open-plan layouts to private spaces, here are six popular office systems in the UK today. Each one offers unique benefits for different work environments.
Frameless Glass Partitions
Frameless glass partitions feature smooth lines and clear transparency. They give a stylish, modern feel without interruptions.
- Increases natural light, reduces reliance on artificial lighting, and boosts staff well-being.
- It is ideal for reception areas, client-facing zones, or creative spaces where design matters.
- Fewer visible hardware items create a sense of space, making smaller offices seem larger.
These systems are usually made of toughened or laminated safety glass. They comply with BS EN 12150 standards, which ensures they are both visually appealing and structurally sound.
Framed Glass Partitions
With aluminium or steel framing, these partitions blend industrial appeal with functional resilience.
- Available in various powder-coated finishes, including black, anthracite, or custom RAL colours.
- It provides extra strength, making them ideal for high-traffic areas such as corridors or open-plan offices.
- Supports thicker glazing or fire-rated glass where required by Part B of the UK Building Regulations.
They’re commonly used in agile office designs and are popular in sectors that favour an industrial or Art Deco aesthetic.
Single-Glazed Partitions
Single-glazed systems offer a budget-friendly option for open-plan offices. They excel in spaces where sharing light and visibility is crucial.
- Defines space without visual obstruction, helping maintain team connectivity.
- Quick to install and demount, ideal for temporary office layouts or leased premises.
- It offers modest acoustic performance, with ratings ranging from 35 to 38 dB, depending on the installation.
Ideal for casual meeting rooms, creative spaces, or co-working spaces that want sound isolation but don’t need complete separation.
Double-Glazed Partitions
Designed for enhanced sound and thermal control, these systems are ideal for zones where focus or privacy is essential.
- Two panes of glass create an insulating air gap, reducing noise transmission up to 50dB or more.
- Often specified with integral blinds, this option offers visual privacy without sacrificing light.
- Contributes to better energy efficiency, supporting Part L compliance for thermal performance.
Double-glazed partitions are often found in boardrooms, directors’ offices, and client meeting areas.
Acoustic Glass Partitions
Komfort’s Komfire partitions are made with specialised laminated glass and acoustic seals. They are engineered to minimise sound disruption in busy areas.
- Provides excellent acoustic ratings, typically ranging from 40 to 50 dB, when paired with the correct door sets.
- It helps safeguard confidential discussions, especially for HR, legal, or financial departments.
- Increases staff concentration, supporting productivity and mental wellness in quiet zones.
According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), noise control is a primary concern for workplace well-being. That makes acoustic glass a smart design choice.
Switchable Smart Glass
Smart glass partitions rely on electrochromic or PDLC (polymer-dispersed liquid crystal) technology. This allows them to change between clear and frosted states.
- Enables instant privacy in high-tech boardrooms, healthcare settings, or executive suites.
- Operates using a remote, wall switch, or automation systems and connects easily with smart building controls.
- It requires mains power and specialist installation but offers unmatched versatility and wow factor.
Although this option costs more, it’s gaining popularity for its flexible, high-spec workspaces. This trend is especially seen in finance, technology, and healthcare.
Tenon Vitrage Partitions
Tenon Vitrage is a premium glazed system. Its design uses toughened glass and discreet silicone joints to create a smooth, high-end finish.
- Creates a continuous ‘glass wall’ effect, ideal for uninterrupted visual flow.
- Embedded with specialist crystal detailing for refined clarity and durability.
- Suitable for executive zones, creative studios, and client-facing environments.
Tenon Vitrage may not suit every workplace, but it offers clear design benefits. This is especially true in professional spaces, where style, prestige, and lighting control are crucial.
How to Maintain Your Glass Partitions
Proper maintenance protects your investment and keeps your workspace looking sharp. These quick tips will help ensure long-term performance and aesthetics.
- Regularly clean glass with a non-abrasive cleaner and microfibre cloths. This keeps it streak-free and safe from scratches.
- Avoid using harsh tools like metal scrapers or rough sponges, as they can damage the surface.
- Maintain frames by wiping aluminium or powder-coated steel with mild soap and warm water.
- Inspect seals on double-glazed systems every few months for signs of wear or condensation build-up.
- Operate integrated blinds weekly to avoid jamming or stiffness.
- Follow the care instructions for switchable smart glass. Pay special attention to power supplies and control units.
Ongoing maintenance helps ensure safety and compliance. This is important in areas with acoustic or fire-rated glass. For more information on this, read our blog on The Best Way to Clean and Maintain Office Glass Partitions.
Design with Purpose, Install with Confidence
Create a workspace that reflects your goals and performs just as well as your team does. Glass office partitions not only define your space, they shape how people work. The right system keeps things private, boosts teamwork, and gives any space a modern, polished look. When setting up meeting zones or open-plan breakout areas, ensure each choice aligns with your goals and compliance requirements.
At Jade Aden Interiors, we bring over 30 years of experience. Our in-house design process includes CAD drawings so you can visualise your new space before installation begins. Our glass partition solutions look great and function even better. From the initial consultation to the final fix, we’ll help you make the right choice for your layout, budget, and long-term use.
Call 01425 689199 or get in touch to request a quotation, or explore our office fit-out services to see how we can help transform your workspace.