In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the critical steps and considerations involved in planning and budgeting for office fit out and refurbishment work, and how to get yours started:

Step1: Define Your Goals and Objectives
Before you dive into the details of your office refurbishment project, you need to establish clear goals and objectives. To do this, ask yourself the following:

• Are we using the space to its maximum potential?
• What specific needs and improvements are we looking to address?
• How will the new layout enhance productivity, space utilisation, aid employee wellbeing, etc.?
• Are there any aesthetic or branding considerations we should take into account?

Nowadays our workspaces are more than just a space to work from – it is the environment that forms the basis of how we operate. By defining your workspace objectives upfront, you can tailor your planning and budgeting to align with your organisation’s overarching goals.

Step 2: Create a Detailed Project Plan
While it’s important to understand what it is you want to achieve from your space transformation, it’s not uncommon for businesses to feel unsure of how to achieve it.  But don’t worry, that’s where we come in…

Whether you know exactly what you want to include within your workspace refurb, need a little inspiration, or perhaps you’d like a team of experts to reveal your space potential for you, Cubex can help!

We’ll visit your commercial premises and design a bespoke refurbishment project specific to your requirements.  At this stage, we’ll review:

1. The scope of work – what’s included to achieve the desired outcome, e.g. space planning, interior design, partition walls or a new mezzanine?
2. The timeline – we advise timescales by the point of order, if not before. Here at Cubex we specialise in modular building solutions which are normally dry trades (quick and clean!) This can result in a small office being installed in as little as 1 – 2 days for example.
3. The project team – we understand how important it is to know and trust the individuals you’re working with. The Cubex team are small enough for you to know who’s on the other end of the phone, but large enough to manage your commercial fit-out as Principal Contractor.
4. The budget – it’s an obvious point to make, but you’ll need to allocate a budget for the refurb project based on your objectives and expected outcomes. Our team are exceptionally talented and it’s not uncommon for us to make design suggestions which help our clients save money, time or both!
5. Accreditations and compliance – you’ll want a commercial contractor who has the relevant qualifications and accreditations to legally (and successfully) execute the works within your project. Not all of them do.  But Cubex Contracts are annually audited and certified – you wouldn’t expect anything less, right?

Of course, if you already know what your project will entail and it’s merely the cost you’re unsure of, why not give our online Project Estimate a go?  While refurbishment projects are typically a one-time cost, the exact amount will always differ as no two projects are the same.  But with our Project Estimate, you can get a ballpark figure for your commercial works as a handy budgeting guide.

Step 3: The Quotation
When you partner with Cubex, getting a quote for your project out is simple.  Once we have visited your premises (for free and with no obligation), discussed your requirements and conducted a full site survey, we aim to return a quotation that encompasses your business space requirements within 7 – 10 working days.

It’s also worth noting that we’re not in the habit of quoting a price and then producing a list of extras at the invoice stage.  We aim to cover every eventuality when producing a quotation.  That said, we understand customers sometimes alter their requirements.  Therefore any alterations to the original quotation are signed and agreed before the project work begins, so you know exactly how much your project is going to cost.

Speaking of cost, many companies prefer to spread the expense of their mezzanine rather than take a hit on the upfront capital cost. That’s why we work with a specialist leasing company to give our customers the flexibility of options. If you think you might be interested in a lease option, let us know and we can liaise with our chosen lease company at the quotation stage.

Things to Consider
Planning a new workspace can be a very exciting time!  But that excitement can soon turn to trepidation when it comes to wondering about the logistics.  But constructing your perfect premises is our specialty.  That’s why we ensure customers of Cubex have considered and understand the requirements that come with an office fit out. For example:

• Mezzanine floor installations – if your project involves a mezzanine floor installation, it’s important for businesses to consider load-bearing capacity, structural integrity, and accessibility.
• Partitioning systems – when budgeting for partitions, think about material quality, sound attenuation, flexibility, aesthetics, lighting requirements and electrical/data requirements too.
• Ceiling and flooring upgrades – these play a crucial role in the overall look and feel of your space. So you’ll want to consider materials that suit your aesthetic and acoustic needs, in addition to durability and maintenance upkeep.

The Details
Whether you want a full interior fit out or a partial refurbishment, Cubex Contracts offer a turnkey solution to meet your requirements and budget.  From mezzanines to meeting rooms, we’ve got you covered!  That’s why our proposals include:

• Fire exits and protected corridors – all commercial buildings must have a protected escape route. We offer guidance to customers regarding these regulations and consult with them and Building Control throughout the design and installation process.
• Health and safety – we work with a health and safety partner to ensure comprehensive risk assessments and method statements are submitted for all works – and we are comfortable working to site-specific requirements.
• Building Regulation Approval – depending on the scope of works, your project may require building regulation approval. We will advise you accordingly, however, as a general rule of thumb, if the means of escape in the case of fire are being affected in any way, then your project will require building regulation approval. But once appointed, Cubex will administer the application on your behalf – that’s one less thing for you to worry about!

Changes to work culture, technology, numbers of office-based staff and safety mean the work environment is ever-changing.  Make better use of your workspace with Cubex.  Contact us today to get your commercial fit out and refurb project started!

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Understanding Mezzanine Floors
Before we explore their energy-saving potential, it’s important to understand what mezzanine floors are and how they function. A mezzanine floor is a semi-permanent structure, typically constructed within an existing building, that creates an additional level (or levels) between the ground floor and ceiling. The structure of a mezzanine is typically made of steel, making them sturdy and durable, plus they’re incredibly versatile and customisable making them suitable for all commercial needs. It’s no surprise they are a popular choice for many expanding workspaces. But how can a mezzanine floor reduce energy costs?

Utilisation of Vertical Space
Vertical space is arguably the cheapest space you can buy… but it’s also the most expensive to waste. It’s why one of the most obvious ways mezzanine floors help reduce energy costs is by maximising the use of the vertical space within a building.

Instead of expanding horizontally, which might require the construction of an entirely new building (and planning permission – ugh, think of the paperwork!), mezzanines make use of the available height within an existing structure. This, in turn, reduces the overall energy required for heating, cooling and lighting as there’s less square footage to condition.

Improved Natural Lighting
Mezzanine floors can be strategically designed to allow natural light to penetrate deeper into the workspace. By utilising fibreglass or translucent roof/wall tiles, skylights or large windows, businesses can reduce their reliance on artificial lighting during daylight hours. This not only saves on electricity costs, but also enhances the working environment by providing a more natural and pleasing light source. It’s also worth noting that natural lighting has been proven to increase employee productivity and wellbeing.

Oh, and just a thought, if you have a large industrial facility (a warehouse or factory perhaps), it’s worth considering painting the internal walls white for a lighter, brighter appearance.

Energy-Efficient Lighting Systems
Installing energy-efficient lighting systems on mezzanine floors can further reduce electricity consumption. LED lighting is not only energy-efficient but also has a longer lifespan, reducing maintenance costs. Moreover, modern lighting systems often come equipped with sensors that can detect occupancy, ensuring that lights are only on when needed (‘‘waste not, want not’’ as they say).

Energy-Efficient HVAC Systems
With a mezzanine floor in place, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning) systems can be optimised for the specific space requirements. Instead of conditioning a massive volume of air within a cavernous building, businesses can focus their HVAC efforts on the mezzanine and lower levels separately. This zoning approach can lead to significant energy savings as systems can be tailored to the needs of each area, thus reducing wastage.

Enhanced Insulation
By installing a new mezzanine floor, you can also improve insulation within your commercial building. By insulating the ceiling of the lower level, the temperature regulation becomes more efficient. This means that, during extreme weather conditions, less energy is needed to heat or cool the space as the mezzanine floor acts as an additional barrier against external temperature fluctuations.

Have you heard of stratification?  It is caused by cold air entering a building, pushing the warm air inside towards the roof with the cold air remaining at floor level. Destratification fans counteract this by moving the trapped warm air downwards towards floor level. By making better use of the heat energy trapped at high level, your heating system can reduce its output.

Optimised Workflow
A well-designed mezzanine floor can also optimise workflow, reducing the need for excessive movement and transportation of goods or materials. By having storage, workstations or even assembly areas strategically located on the mezzanine, employees can work more efficiently.  This, in turn, can also lead to energy savings.

Mezzanine floors offer a multifaceted approach to reducing energy costs within commercial workspaces. From optimising vertical space utilisation to improving natural lighting and enhancing insulation, these structures can have a profound impact on a business’s energy consumption. By adopting energy-efficient practices and incorporating eco-friendly design principles, companies can simultaneously boost their sustainability credentials and save on operational expenses.

Mezzanine floors are not just a means to expand space, but a pathway toward a greener and more cost-effective future for businesses. As the world continues to prioritise sustainability, exploring innovative solutions like mezzanine floors becomes increasingly essential for staying competitive and environmentally responsible in today’s business landscape.

Make energy awareness part of your company culture with Cubex. Contact us today to arrange a site visit. We’ll design a bespoke mezzanine floor specific to your requirements and confirm the associated costs upfront so there are no unwanted surprises later down the line.

It’s worth noting that many companies prefer to spread the cost of their mezzanine rather than take a hit on the upfront capital cost. That’s why we work with a specialist leasing company to give our customers the flexibility of options. If you think you might be interested in a lease option, let us know and we can liaise with our chosen lease company at quotation stage. Give us a call on 01933 460422 or email us at sales@cubexcontracts.com.

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Luxury Vinyl Tiles
LVT flooring can be water resistant, making them an ideal choice for restaurants and cafes looking for an easy to clean and low maintenance floor type.  They also offer incredible durability.  In fact, they’re (almost!) indestructible, making them a suitable choice for offices as they can withstand heavy foot traffic and the sliding of swivel chairs.  LVT are also known for their resistance to stains, scratches and general wear and tear.  What’s more, with proper care, your commercial LVT could last for decades, making it an economical design choice.

When designing your workspace, a key element to consider is thermal efficiency – we bet half of your team feel the cold, and the other half complain about being too warm?  It’s a difficult balance to get right.  But you’ll be pleased to know commercial luxury vinyl tiles have inherent thermal properties that contribute to the energy efficiency of your office.  Through their multi-layered construction, luxury vinyl tiles help regulate the indoor temperature by retaining coolness during the warmer months.  They can also be combined with underfloor heating systems for added warmth, ideal for the colder seasons.

And let’s not forget how LVT is available in an extensive range of colours, patterns and finishes – you can create a professional, visually appealing atmosphere that also aligns with your brand identity.

The list of advantages doesn’t end there; luxury vinyl tiles are also resistant to moisture and dampness, economical and hygienic (they don’t trap dust or allergens, promoting a healthier indoor environment).  But they do have some disadvantages too including:

• Difficult to remove if glued down (labour intensive).
• Discolouration – the outer layer of LVT is not UV resistant and is therefore prone to fading over time. Of course, this is only an issue dependant on where your tiles are laid –  for example near south-facing doors or windows.
• Non-sustainable – the materials used for LVT flooring are not bio-degradable and therefore not environmentally friendly.

Carpet Tiles
Another popular choice to complete your office fit out are commercial carpet tiles.  Just like luxury vinyl tiles, they also have multiple benefits including design versatility.  Carpet tiles are available in every colour and in a variety of sizes and textures too.  This makes it possible for you to create a visually appealing working environment that encourages creativity and comfort.  It’s also worth noting that carpet tiles are great for odd-shaped spaces that are either hard to get to or where space is tight.

Carpet tiles can last for 10 – 20+ years before showing any real wear and tear.  Pretty impressive, eh?  And when carpet tiles do begin to show their age, they are easy to replace (unlike a traditional broadloom carpet installation) as you can swap out individual tiles rather than replacing the entire floor.

Another significant advantage of carpet tiles is their ability to absorb sound (a must-have for any busy office).  Through absorbing the sound of the hustle and bustle of day-to-day operations, carpets help to minimise noise levels, subsequently reducing distractions, creating a more productive workspace. This makes them a great choice in areas with high foot traffic or where meetings and confidential discussions take place.

Other advantages of carpet tiles include:

• Easy maintenance – they are low pile so tend to collect less dirt than other commercial floor types. Regular vacuuming will keep your carpet tiles in tip top condition.
• Access – office carpet tiles can be individually lifted should you need to access the floor below.
• Comfort – offering a softer and cushioned surface, carpets are ideal for areas where employees spend extended periods standing or walking. Compared to alternative commercial flooring options, carpets are comfortable!
• Safety and slip resistant – commercial carpet tiles offer excellent slip resistance, minimising the risk of accidents in the workplace.
• Easy to install – arguably one of the most attractive benefits of carpet tiles is how convenient, straightforward and efficient they are to handle, store, transport and replace. The same goes for the installation process.  In fact, the relative speed of using carpet tiles will see a reduction in disruption and downtime throughout your refurbishment.
• Cost effective – carpet tiles are a popular choice within commercial refurbishments where time and money are of the essence. This is because they are simple and quick to install, and are a cost-effective alternative to other commercial flooring options.

While there are many pros to installing carpet tiles in the workspace, there are also a few cons.  For instance, carpet tiles are available in loose forms and installed one-by-one. Over time, this increases the chances of wear around the seams of each tile.  The good news here is that this can be prevented through proper upkeep and monitoring, particularly in high foot traffic areas.

While installing carpet tiles is straightforward, you first need to ensure the subfloor is even.  Any visible dents, heightened spots or cracks will need treating before laying the carpet tiles otherwise the end result will not have the perfected look it deserves.  It’s also worth noting that carpet tiles are made of different layers and so it is possible for the backing layer to partially separate from the tile resulting in a lumpy and out of shape appearance. And finally, because of their many seams, carpet tiles can’t provide a complete waterproof protection.  It is therefore possible for spills and stains to be absorbed into the sub-floor beneath the tiles.  Replacing the carpet tile itself will remove visible stains, but it won’t eliminate odours that may have soaked into the floor beneath.

Choosing between luxury vinyl tiles and carpets tiles for your office flooring is a decision that requires careful consideration.  While LVT offers durability, easy maintenance and a wide range of design options, carpets provide comfort, acoustic benefits and a cozy, comfortable aesthetic.

Selecting the right flooring will contribute to a productive and visually appealing work environment, so choose wisely.  For expert guidance on your commercial fit out and refurbishment, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Cubex Contracts! 

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For example, a high ceiling can make a room feel more spacious, encouraging abstract thinking, creativity and collaboration.  Whereas low ceilings can make an office feel far more snug, aiding detail-orientated concentration.

Commercial ceilings help create an enclosure and separation between spaces, controlling the diffusion of light and sound around a room.  Choosing the right style of ceiling is more important than you might think, not least because it protects and conceals any electrical and plumbing systems above, but it can be fire resistant rated too.

Here at Cubex, we specialise in two types of commercial ceilings, metal frame (MF) plasterboard and suspended ceilings.  Suspended ceilings in particular have proven extremely popular time and time again in commercial buildings such as offices, hospitals, schools, retail stores and even industrial units.  They are ‘‘false’’ ceilings that are constructed below an existing soffit, creating a smooth surface and offering a number of benefits listed below:

Conceal the Chaos
Also known as dropped ceilings, suspended ceilings are a cost-effective way of giving your premises a clean and smooth finish to the internal ceiling of a room, hiding messy cables and pipework which, in turn, enhances the rooms overall aesthetics.  Keep in mind that just because your HVAC systems are neatly tucked away in the ceiling void above, you can still access them.  Suspended ceilings provide easy access into the ceiling void as you can simply lift the tiles up through the gridwork and lower them back down again – much easier than removing the entire ceiling!

Sound Absorption
Sound reduction is a common concern within the workplace, particularly within open plan office spaces, so we thought you might like to know how suspended ceilings also enhance acoustics.  The tiles used for your commercial suspended ceiling may be manufactured from materials such as mineral fibre, metal, plasterboard or laminates, and can be perforated to provide specific levels of acoustic absorption that can be used to control the reverberation time in the space below.  By absorbing energy into the tiles rather than reflecting them back into the room, you can reduce echoing noise.  In turn, a suspended acoustic ceiling helps to improve speech clarity and makes for better communication and collaboration across your departments.

Sound Insulation
Sound absorption and sound insulation are not the same.  Sound absorption occurs by absorbing some of the energy instead of transmitting it.  Sound insulation is a technique that is used to restrict sound from travelling between separate spaces through walls, ceilings and flooring.

Sound insulating ceiling tiles are another option for the make-up of your commercial suspended ceiling.  This type of panel combats sound attenuation which, in turn, reduces room-to-room noise transfer and therefore improves confidentiality, keeping private conversations private.

Fire Safety
Did you know suspended ceilings can also be fire rated?  The ceiling tiles are tested and given a Euroclass (combustibility) rating on their reaction to fire (based on their structural integrity) for a set period of time (usually 30 or 60 minutes).  This indicates how effectively the ceiling can prevent a fire spreading from room to room.  Because of this, suspended ceilings are the go-to choice for new mezzanine floor installations.  Installing fire rated ceiling tiles along with column casements and bulkheads will ensure your mezzanine complies with building regulations regarding fire protection.

Thermal Insulation
Installing a suspended ceiling system will reduce the height of the room and subsequently act as an effective method to ‘‘trap’’ warm air in the room.  This prevents heat energy from escaping through a ceiling void and helps to reduce your heating bills.  Pretty cost-effective, eh!

Light and Energy Efficiency
The quality of light in a room will contribute to its overall appearance and function. Poor lighting in any environment can lead to eye strain, fatigue and headaches which can reduce the productivity and comfort of your staff while at work.

With better insulation and lighting, a suspended ceiling can reduce your overall energy expenditure. Not only does this have a huge impact on day-to-day expenses, but it can also reduce your business’s carbon footprint too.

Moisture Resistance and Hygiene
Leisure centres, washrooms and kitchens are just three examples of businesses working in high humidity.  These companies will need a ceiling tile solution that does not warp or house mould and isn’t prone to staining either (water rings).  Thankfully, suspended ceilings are versatile and by changing the specification of the tile they can be moisture resistant too, meaning they can tolerate humid workspaces.  They can also be wipeable (easy to clean), helping to maintain a sanitary workspace – perfect for hospitals!

Maintenance
In the unlikely event one of your suspended ceiling tiles becomes faultyor damaged, they’re easy to replace.  They can be individually removed from the grid without having to remove the entire ceiling, making repairs and replacements quick, easy and inexpensive.

Time and Money
This is the part you’re really interested in, right?  You’ll be pleased to know that the installation of a commercial suspended ceiling is by no means timely!  In fact, of all the workplace ceiling options, suspended ceilings are the quickest to install.  And in even better news, suspended ceilings promise longevity and great value for money, proving to be a worthwhile investment.  What’s more, the materials used in the make-up of your suspended ceiling can be customised to meet your design requirements too.

We mentioned earlier that suspended ceilings were a popular choice among business owners, and we bet you can now see why!  If you’re looking to start your next workplace refurbishment project and are looking for a contractor to design and deliver a bespoke, functional and aesthetic workspace, get in touch with Cubex today – we can even act as your Principal Contractor!

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Cubex recommends a double glazed acoustic partition with a framed door (take a look at the picture to the right for a visual example of what this looks like).  Double glazed acoustic glass office partitions have a sound attenuation of up to 46 decibels (in laboratory conditions).  Plus, there won’t be a gap with a framed acoustic door.   With a double glazed acoustic partition and framed acoustic door you can block out the day-to-day distractions and feel assured that you’re conversations will be much more private and noise from outside will be drastically reduced too.   

But what does a reduction of 39 or 46 decibels actually sound like?  Hear for yourself by listening to the before and after sound attenuation clips below:

The post How Partitioning can Reduce Sound in your Office appeared first on Cubex Contracts.

With a stud partition you can create a variety of new and separate workspaces including individual offices, meeting rooms, conference areas, break-out zones, and communal and collaborative spaces too.  This will help to ensure your staff continue to feel part of the team while they’re working separately, avoiding distraction from the hustle and bustle of the main office.

What is a Stud Partition?
A stud partition wall can be built with timber, metal, glass, brick, plaster or even concrete.  Here at Cubex Contracts we tend to use a galvanized steel stud fame with plasterboard either side (great for moisture resistance and vapour control), and rockwool infill for sound attenuation.  This is then taped and jointed before being decorated to resemble a standard plasterboard wall.  It can then be decorated to give a seamless and solid wall appearance, or it can be finished with aluminium trims and vinyl.

We have over 25 years of experience in designing and installing stud partitions, In that time we have seen no end of configurations including solid full height, glazed full height and partially glazed modules. We also recommend incorporating a glazed element to help natural light through!

Commonly used in commercial refurbishment projects, stud office partition walls are rarely constructed as load-bearing structures (load bearing walls are usually made from sturdier materials such as concrete, steel and brick).  Stud partition walls are quick and easy to install, and are a great cost-effective way of dividing a large room into smaller sections.

Stud Partitioning: How it Comes Together
A stud wall consists of lengths of stud to form the main supporting elements of the frame system, creating a modern office partition.  Although there are multiple parts to the frame, we call it a ‘‘stud’’ wall as these are the most important components within the wall’s structural integrity.  The other main parts of a stud wall include the following:

• Floor plates (also known as ‘‘soleplates’’). This is the piece that runs along the floor, fixing the frame to the floor.
• Ceiling plate (also called the ‘‘head’’ or ‘‘top plate’’). This part of the stud wall fixes the frame to the ceiling.
• These are the small parts between the studs and are a key part of the frame (they brace the structure and support the studs… and we love the name!).

Why Stud Partitioning is a Popular Choice for Commercial Offices
Stud partitioning is commonly used in offices due to its flexibility and relatively inexpensive construction process.  Stud partition walls are also incredibly popular because of the following performance features:

• Fire resistance: Fire resistance is a key element to consider, particularly when constructing new areas such as a communal kitchen, helping to meet your health and safety requirements.
• Sound insulation: Sound insulation is a common issue for many commercial offices.  We can incorporate specialist acoustic boards into your new stud partition wall to lessen the sound of meetings, music and other annoyances within the space.

Stud office partition systems require simple maintenance and can be easily repaired if damaged, plus it’s economical too.  Suitable for both commercial and warehouse spaces, these soundproof partitions are strong, compact and lightweight… all great structural qualities to have when creating additional workspaces within your office environment.  What’s more, skirting boards are added to protect the partition, whilst also giving the impression of a solid wall too.

Installing a Stud Partition in Your Office:
We’ve got great news… providing your stud partition design is not load bearing, you don’t need to seek planning permission and there isn’t much to do in terms of Building Regulations either (but Cubex can take care of all that on your behalf… that’s one thing less for you to worry about!).

Office partitioning systems are a great way to increase privacy without the loss of an open space feel, so if you’d like to know how a stud partition could benefit both your premises and your team, get in touch with the experts at Cubex Contracts today.

We have ample experience designing and installing partitioning systems within offices, retail stores and industrial warehouses.  Our Project Managers will visit your premises and design a bespoke partitioning system adhering to your unique requirements and budgets.  At Cubex, we’re not in the habit of quoting a price to a customer and then producing a list of extra’s at the invoice stage. We try to cover every eventuality when producing a quotation so there are no nasty surprises at the end.  We like our customers to be dazzled not disappointed!

Psst!  There’s more…
Here at Cubex Contracts we love stud partitioning and it’s one of our best sellers – so it’s a firm favourite among our customers too!  But did you know that we also design and install jumbo stud partitioning solutions too? Perfect for dividing space within busy industrial warehouses and factories.  Jumbo stud is stronger, more durable and more secure than most other partitioning systems (not surprising – the clue is in the name!) because of its metal framework, and it can be finished to resemble a plasterboard wall.  Using 150mm galvanised steel sections at its core, jumbo stud partition walls can be built up to 11m high and are fire resistant and sound absorbing too.  Plus, if you later need to carry out dilapidations to return your leased building back to its original state, jumbo stud partitioning can be removed. Another brilliantly flexible solution!

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Here at Cubex Contracts we have over 25 years of experience designing and installing partitioning systems within offices, retail stores and industrial warehouses; In that time, we have seen no end of uses and configurations – we’ve even been asked to build partitioning in a wind tunnel… yes, really!

We understand that every customer has different requirements, design specifications and budget considerations which is why it is vital they understand what office partitions are available to them and which of them will work best within their workspace.  To help you choose the right partitioning system for your office, we’ve put together this blog to highlight the many concerns commercial partitioning systems can solve.  So pop the kettle on, sit back and let’s find your ideal partitioning solution together:

Composite Partitioning
A firm favourite among Cubex customers is composite partitioning – and not just because it comes with an entry level price tag to support your budget!  Composite partitioning systems are cost effective and can be dismantled and moved to a new location should the need ever arise (that’s handy, don’t you think?).  Composite partitions are a great choice for general workspace requirements including individual offices, meeting rooms and industrial canteen areas, and they don’t take long to install either.  With a large selection of frameworks and finishes to choose from, Cubex Contracts can design and install your new composite partition walls with encapsulated blinds and door frames (painted or finished with a wood veneer of your choosing).  Here are a few more benefits of commercial composite partition walls we think you should know:

• You can choose between single or double-glazed panels
• Suitable for any commercial or warehouse space
• Easy maintenance (scuff marks can be wiped clean)
• Re-usable and flexible (portable)
• Fire rated (maximum 30 minutes with solid panels)

When you partner with Cubex Contracts, we will design and construct your composite partitioning system from solid plasterboard, ensuring it is finished in high-quality vinyl wall coverings, powder coats or paint finishes.  We can also incorporate fully or part glazed glass panels too if you wish – the choice is yours!

Glass Partitioning
Another popular choice among customers of Cubex Contracts is glass office partitioning because it creates a light and superior look, separating workspaces in style.  We have another blog where we review how glass partitioning offers a modern twist to traditional office spaces. You can read it here, but the key benefits we want to highlight are:

• Stylish, clean and optimises natural light
• Sound attenuated options available
• Low energy costs
• Quick assembly (minimum disruption to your business)
• Toughened glass partition
• Choose from single or double-glazed glass panels

Commercial glass partitions work well within reception areas, conference rooms and meeting spaces, making a positive visual impact to your customers.  They’re also a great way to implement privacy without losing the open space feel.  And speaking of privacy, manifestations* can be added to internal glass partitions to prevent others from looking in while you’re sharing confidential data or hosting 1:1 meetings; In fact, manifestations can incorporate company designs or logos that echo your corporate branding… how great would your company logo look on your new internal glass wall?  You can choose from floor to ceiling glass partitioning, and half/part glazed, incorporating internal blinds and doors to your design too.  Although they are more expensive than other commercial partitioning systems, a frosted glass partition is great for any space in need of a modern transformation!

*Manifestation is a treatment that can be applied to glass windows, doors and partitions (and any other large expanses of clear glass for that matter) in order to make the glass visible, preventing injury through collisions.

Stud Partitioning
Adding commercial partitioning into your office design is a great way to make use of every inch of space, and stud partitioning has numerous additional benefits including:

• Fire protection
• Appearance of traditional plastered walls
• Sound attenuating qualities
• Economical and lightweight
• Strong and compact
• Suitable for both commercial and warehouse spaces
• Simple maintenance and easily repairable if damaged
• Doors can be added in a range of finishes to match any existing furnishings
• Skirting boards are added to protect the partition, whilst giving the impression of a solid wall

Generally speaking, stud partitioning is a galvanized steel stud frame with plasterboard either side and rockwool infill for sound attenuation.  This is then taped and jointed before being decorated to give a seamless and solid wall appearance. Alternatively, it can be finished with aluminium trims and vinyl (available in an array of designs and colours).  Here at Cubex Contracts we love stud partitioning and it’s one of our best sellers.  We recommend incorporating a glazed element into your new commercial stud partition to help natural light through to your new workspace as it helps to create a more spacious environment.

Did you know that we also design and install jumbo stud partitioning solutions too; perfect for dividing space within industrial warehouses and factories!  You can learn more about jumbo stud partitioning here.

Different commercial partitioning systems have a multitude of advantages to suit a variety of working environments within an array of industries.  Based in Northamptonshire, Cubex Contracts provide a wide range of commercial fit out and refurbishment projects including office and industrial mezzanine floors, ceiling and flooring installations, office furniture and, of course, partitioning solutions for offices, retail stores and industrial workspaces.  The office partition systems available with Cubex include composite, glass, stud, jumbo stud and sliding, all of which are designed and installed to accommodate our customers’ unique requirements and budgets.  If you’d like to learn more about how a modern office partition could work for your office or arrange for a member of our team to visit your premises to provide a bespoke quote, speak to our experts today. You’ll be in great company when you partner with Cubex!

The post Composite, Glass or Stud: Choosing the right partitioning system for your office appeared first on Cubex Contracts.

We’ve reviewed the popular choices of sliding partitioning below – a functional, strong and statement feature for any workplace.  We’ve also reviewed stud, glass and other materials used for modern office partitioning separately which can be found on our blogs page.

Sliding Partitioning
Operating on a track instead of swinging open like a hinged door, sliding partitioning allows businesses to transform open working areas into separate, private and enclosed spaces effortlessly.

Saving space is crucial for businesses with ample staff, furniture, stock or equipment, and a sliding office partition door can be a great solution for smaller offices looking to make the most of space.  In fact, sliding office partitions (also known as sliding walls), offer multiple benefits including:

• Aesthetics: Incorporating a sliding feature into any room, particularly a sliding glass partition, provides a sophisticated appearance and enhances the interior design of a space.
• Sound attenuation: Acoustic membranes are incorporated into the material of your sliding partition to prevent outside noise coming through (and vice versa), keeping private meetings private.
• To aid privacy, manifestations* can be added to internal glass partition walls to prevent others from looking in while you’re sharing confidential data or hosting a one-on-one meeting.
• Boost employee focus and productivity: With a smaller and private working area readily available with low sound transmissions, your team can improve their focus to hit deadlines and achieve more in the working day.
• Cost effective: If your office is entirely open plan, there’s no need to relocate or invest in solid walls; Simply install a modern partitioning system with a sliding element instead and keep the open plan feel whilst satisfying the need for a private room as and when required.
• Maximise space: Without compromising on style, quality or square feet, you can transform the workspace to suit changing business demands. For example, a small meeting room for a confidential one-on-one discussion can soon be opened up into a larger space shared by several colleagues for collaborative working.
• Increased ventilation: A sliding glass partition allows for natural light flow. Exposure to natural light, including through a transparent sliding partition door, can improve not just productivity among the workforce, but morale too).  Is there enough natural light throughout your office?

*Manifestation is a treatment that can be applied to glass windows, doors and partitions (and any other large expanses of clear glass for that matter) in order to make the glass visible, preventing injury through collisions.

Combining elegance and strength, a sliding office partition design can be paired with many architectural and interior design styles.  Choosing the right partitioning system for your office is no mean feat, but we think it’s worth mentioning that the surface of a sliding glass partition can also be used as presentation space for practical meetings or war rooms… Pens and post-it notes at the ready!

Sliding Folding Partitioning
Guess what?!  There’s another design option when it comes to your new commercial sliding partition!  Sliding folding partitions are also extremely popular for businesses looking to maximise the use of their office space.

With a range of custom-built hinged panel walls, sliding folding partitioning systems offer a combination of simplicity of movement and high-level acoustic integrity.  They can either be hung from a ceiling track or supported by a low-profile surface mounted floor track.  Either way, the partition slides along the track, folding into sections at each hinge (think of a panelled room divider you might have at home… they fold in a similar way).  The folding walls can be single parting and stacked at one end, or bi-parting and stacked at both ends… The choice is yours!

Sliding folding partitioning is a fantastic solution for hotels, conference centres, lecture theatres, large meeting rooms and other office environments looking to maximise the use of a space; The area can be divided up into two smaller rooms effortlessly, and then quickly and easily opened up into one big room for those Monday morning mingles or monthly Townhalls.  It’s no secret that commercial space is often at a premium therefore it makes financial sense to maximise the use of what’s already available, right?  Plus, modern office buildings also need to cater for an increasing range of activities and the subsequent demand for multi-functional workspaces.  Thankfully, a commercial sliding folding partition wall can be a cost-effective solution for both.

Similarly to sliding partitioning, sliding folding partitioning shares many of the multiple workspace benefits including sound attenuation, privacy and use of space.  Plus they look pretty great too!  Versatility is another important aspect to consider for the workplace; Being able to create a private space by simply pulling across a folding partition wall could be a beneficial addition to any office.  What’s more, the design of your new sliding folding partition can also incorporate a glazed element and access doors.

Sliding and sliding folding partitioning systems can create a well organised office that encourages collaboration, promotes productivity and ultimately enhances style.  If you are looking for ways to make better use of space within your busy office, a new sliding partitioning installation could be the answer you’ve been looking for.  Regardless of the shape and layout of your workspace, Cubex are here to help!  We have over 25 years of experience designing and installing commercial partitioning systems in a variety of offices, retail stores and industrial warehouses.  So what are you waiting for?  Get in touch today and we’ll work with you to transform unused, impractical and, dare we say, gloomy spaces into bespoke, bright, stylish and functional working areas, whilst adhering to your specific requirements and budget too.

The post Bespoke Office Solutions: Sliding Partitioning appeared first on Cubex Contracts.

As business demand changes so do our requirements and expectations for our workplace – perhaps you really need additional meeting rooms or collaborative spaces to introduce and encourage hybrid working. Maybe privacy and sound reduction is becoming more of a concern, or perhaps your team could benefit from a new communal area away from the business operations?  Whatever you need, Cubex has the solution.

We specialise in commercial fit out and refurbishment solutions including mezzanine floors, ceiling and flooring installations, space planning and commercial partitioning systems which, in particular, are increasingly popular among commercial businesses because of their versatility, flexibility and aesthetics.

Office Partitioning Systems
Open plan office spaces have proven very popular for businesses in recent years as they remove barriers and improve aesthetics whilst enabling flexible ways of working. This of course increases communication among the workforce.  But what we see all too often is when groups working within the same open space struggle to focus as they battle through the many distractions that an open area can bring. That’s why we recommend giving your traditional office a modern twist with partitioning systems – and there are many different types to choose from. They can be used to transform large, open and, sometimes (dare we say) unproductive areas into smaller, practical spaces the whole team can benefit from.  Plus, they are a great way to introduce increased privacy without the loss of an open space feel.

Glass Partitioning Systems
When it comes to office partitioning, a firm favourite for us here at Cubex HQ (and our clients) is a glass partitioning system.  If you’re thinking that glass isn’t strong or tough enough to create additional meeting rooms, increase privacy or give some acoustic barriers, you’d be very wrong indeed.

In fact, glass partitioning is fantastic for improving acoustics, adding a degree of privacy into your office and maximising light. It’s also incredibly versatile (which you wouldn’t have thought, would you?). Plus – it looks great.

How a Glass Partition can Improve Acoustics in the Office
Open plan office spaces aren’t for everyone – some of us struggle to concentrate as there is always something going on or a conversation to be heard. Plus confidentiality is extremely important and private conversations simply cannot take place in the middle of an open office. So for those businesses who appreciate an open plan feel, but not the open plan hustle and bustle, the solution here is a glass partition.

A glass partitioning system is durable enough to cut out outside noise whilst letting light filter through. This also helps towards low energy costs (something to consider more now than ever before!).  With glass partitioning you can create working areas and meeting rooms for your team to utilise throughout the working day, whilst still feeling as though they are included, but not distracted by, the ongoings of the main office.

At Cubex, we’ll visit your business premises prior to installation to design a bespoke glass partitioning system that fits perfectly within your four walls.  Interested? Let us know!

Increase Privacy with Glass Partitioning
Whether it’s to host an interview, partake in a conference call or perhaps the next half year team appraisals are coming up, confidentiality is paramount and so it is vital to have a degree of privacy within the office.

Dividing an open space into smaller working areas with glass partitioning is a great way to implement privacy.  You could create meeting rooms or section off parts of the workspace for independent, agile or collaborative working for smaller groups… the choice is yours, there is no ‘‘one size fits all.’’ That’s why when you partner with Cubex, your glass partition design will be created specifically to your requirements (and budget) so you can be sure you’ll be creating practical spaces that work.

Plus, manifestations* can not only contribute towards additional visual privacy, but they’re decorative too; you can add a frosted section on the glass divider to incorporate company designs or logos that echo your corporate branding.

*Manifestation is a treatment that can be applied to glass windows, doors and partitions (and any other large expanses of clear glass for that matter) in order to make the glass visible, preventing injury through collisions.

Maximise Light in your Office with Glass Partition Walls
Lighting can dramatically affect the overall look and feel of a space… nobody wants to be working in a dark and dingey room for 8 hours a day, do they?  With a transparent partitioning system such as glass, the amount of natural light able to enter a room is maximised, helping to enhance the mood of your team and, in turn, increasing their productivity levels.  Plus, having natural light in an office helps with visibility and reduces the energy usage of a building… that’s a win-win for us!

A Glass Partitioning System is Really Versatile… Yes, really!
If you think about glass as a material, you might think about how easy it is to smash and break. But believe it or not, the glass used for partitioning is toughened glass so not only is it far more durable that what you might think, it’s also incredibly versatile as it can be assembled and dismantled again quickly without the need for any structural modifications – great for growing businesses!  And in even better news, no stud walls required… bonus!

Glass Partitioning – A Modern Feature within the Modern Office
The beauty of a glass wall partition is that it is such a simple design and, unlike other commercial partitioning systems, glass is a sleek, stylish and practical feature for businesses looking to utilise more of their workspace. It’s no wonder more and more corporate offices are opting to incorporate glass partitions into their premises as they create modern, bright and spacious environments.  Plus, as we mentioned earlier, you can add frosted sections to the glass to incorporate company designs or logos… how great would that look in your office?

Based in Northamptonshire, we provide a wide range of commercial partitioning systems to suit all requirements and budgets including stud, jumbo stud, composite, sliding and, of course, glazed glass office partitions, helping to bridge the gap between open concept and traditional office spaces.  Find out more about these great commercial partitioning solutions here, and for any other information or to arrange for a quotation, get in touch with Cubex today – we’d love to hear from you.

The post Give your traditional office a modern twist with glass partitioning appeared first on Cubex Contracts.