Architectural Wallsz have recently celebrated the launch of the AWallsz Innovation Hub and 10 years of business. This major milestone involved designing and building a new hub, inclusive of a showroom to showcase the innovative solutions Architectural Wallsz offers to interiors.
Sustainability at the Heart of the Build
Just a few months ago, the AWallsz Innovation Hub was an empty warehouse devoid of walls, ceilings or M&E infrastructure. To ensure the build of the new hub reflected their values of sustainability, Architectural Wallsz transformed the space by reconfiguring their existing prefabricated partitions and doors, many of which are now on their fourth relocation, whilst also repurposing unused, demolished or unwanted materials from previous projects.
Architectural Wallsz reused raised access flooring throughout the space. Additionally, task chairs were reupholstered in recycled fabrics, giving a fresh lease of life to preloved seating from the previous office. Laminated glazing was cut down to size, old showroom fixtures were refurbished and reinstalled, and many other elements were reused or repurposed where possible.
Items that were no longer needed, such as pedestals and desks, were donated to a local school, while scrap wood was passed on to local artists, supporting the local community and reinforcing their commitment to sustainability throughout the project.
Finishing Touches That Make a Difference
Once all the structural components were complete, it was time to add some personal touches. Manifestation was installed throughout the new space, enhancing the glazed partitions and adding additional privacy. Plants and timber were incorporated throughout the environment, bringing the outside in and adding natural elements.
High Acoustic Timber Framed Boardroom
One impressive solution featured within the hub is a high acoustic timber-framed boardroom, in which the solid prefabricated walls are now on their fourth reconfiguration. During the design of the timber-framed pod, Architectural Wallsz paid close attention to its acoustic performance, enhancing privacy and minimising disturbance to the surrounding office.
The company have been acutely aware of the acoustic properties of pods following their involvement in the FIS Acoustic classification scheme, initiated in response to the lack of consistent acoustic testing and performance claims of large furniture pods, above 11m3.
One of the most eye-opening findings from this exercise was the impact of the ceiling. That is why Architectural Wallsz incorporated their panelised Acoustic Ceiling Lid into the boardroom pod. Positioned above the ceiling grid, it delivers exceptional sound reduction between the free-standing boardroom and the surrounding office space.
Encouraging Industry-Wide Acoustic Standards
Architectural Wallsz strongly advise anyone offering free-standing furniture pods, above 11m3 in size, to consider engaging with the FIS and participating in the acoustic classification scheme. It offers a consistent method of assessment to support manufacturers’ performance claims and will aid specifiers and acousticians in their informed selection of pods.
