Visual Privacy: Invotek Walls Systems



Invotek Element


  According to research done by Haworth, privacy disruptions created by sound and visual distractions are a major complaint in the workplace when evaluating satisfaction and job performance. In a discussion on privacy, Schwartz  stated "There exists a threshold beyond which social contact becomes irritating for all parties; therefore, some provision for removing oneself from interaction and observation must be built into every establishment." To this day, this statement still holds true for most. Everyone needs alone time and their own space.
     Invotek Ltd, located in Poole Dorset, UK, manufactures a range of partitioning systems. Invotek has five different types of systems with different options for each. They range in design to meet the needs of various clients and changing business environments.  These wall systems are completely removable and made to order. Each piece is designed specifically for its purpose depending on price, design and building and fire codes. They are even available in specified acoustical upgrades. The Invotek website states that, "The Invotek range of office partitions and glass wall partitions combine the best of modern materials with innovative design features that allow the end user to plan an office environment with total flexibility."

Winston Primary School

     The brightest and most exciting renovation found on the Invotek website was Winston Primary School in Bournemouth. The product used for this building was Invotek 75 and 100. "Invotek 75 and 100 are non-load bearing fully relocatable floor to ceiling partitioning systems, based on a steel framework with sound reducing and fire resistant panels, erected in a combination of solid, single and double glazed panels." This project was a remodeling of the reception and classroom areas. The objective was to use all sustainable materials, control sound and to create an overall enjoyable environment for the students.  The bright colors and shapes give a different vibe than the everyday rectangular glass panels that usually grace the doors and windows of schools. The design can still be fun but fixes the acoustical problems throughout the classrooms and be done in an environmentally friendly way. The results according to Invotek are "A suite of classrooms which is both practical and inspiring - and meets the current and likely future requirements of the school, the teachers and the pupils alike."

 



Glasswall Office Partitions


      "Invotek Glasswall is the partitioning system for the future. It provides the solution for those wanting a minimalist workplace environment; with discreet divisions of office space, suffused with light. Invotek Glasswall is sophisticated and aesthetic. It fulfils the need for privacy yet complements a feeling of space with visual continuity." The above picture is taken of a meeting room in The Department of Health.  The project's objective was to create a practical and pleasing design for meeting rooms and offices.  Invotek created this design using its own Glasswall System. "Manifestation was used to give individual identities to the rooms creating a stimulating visual landscape." The manifestation technique used gives a beautiful barrier between the meeting room and the hallway but it also allows for an open environment feeling.  Its a pleasing  and upbeat place to get work done. These partitions are a chance to display a logo or company colors. So many design options can be chosen with these versatile Glasswalls.


Invotek Glasswall Elite Office Space

 


Invotek Element, a more natural appearance.

    The Invotek partitions or as they say "walls of the future" are a designers dream! If an office is rapidly changing, so is the environment and the people in it. These walls sit on a track and can be easily removed and installed wherever they're needed. Its no wonder this product has spread so rapidly through Great Britain and parts of Europe. The partition is enough to block off a space but is still open enough to be part of the entire office. Visually, the Glasswall offices aren't very private, most of the walls are completely clear or have blocks of color.  The Element product is more of a practical office choice. It provides a more apparent visual barrier. This product has so many possibilities and options to create an incredible design suitable for any client.

Sources:

• http://www.invotek.co.uk/
• http://www.haworth.com/