The landscape of big cities across the world are marked with tall glass office buildings, full of employees keeping the economy ticking over.
Glass skyscrapers have become the norm over the last few decades, thanks to their sleek, contemporary design.
There are many reasons why architects constantly choose glass to create modern, and often, iconic structures. To find out more, read on.
Aesthetically pleasing
There’s no doubt about it, one of the main reasons why developers build glass office blocks is because they are visually appealing and, therefore, will attract high-end businesses.
Their modern look, with sweeping glass staircases and tall ceilings, makes the building appear spacious, gives it flair and adds a touch of class.
Natural light
Having plenty of natural light in an office is a huge benefit. Not only does it make the areas look bigger and provides a sense of space, but it has a positive impact on staff.
Letting in a huge amount of natural light can boost employees’ mental health, as they do not feel as though they are boxed in all day.
Often in winter, people turn up to work while it is still dark outside and leave once the sun has already set, so they do not get an opportunity to see any natural daylight.
This can have a direct impact on their wellbeing, weakening their immune system, and resulting in more days absent.
It also means they miss out on getting essential vitamins and minerals, and it can affect sleep, lead to depression and irritability, weaken bones, result in weight gain, worsen eyesight, and lower their energy levels.
Bespoke Treatment’s John Dolores wrote: “When exposed to natural light during the day, your body experiences an increase in serotonin levels, primarily meant to equip you with the energy you need to tackle the day.”
Therefore, flooding the building with natural sunlight leads to a more productive, happier, healthier and loyal team.
Saves money on bills
Allowing as much light in as possible is also good for the business’ finances, as it helps to save money on energy bills.
It can significantly reduce the amount spent on lighting, for instance, as there is less requirement to turn the lights on during the daytime.
Simultaneously, it can save money on heating bills, as glass is a good insulator of electricity, and helps to control the temperature in the building.
Glass can also be treated with Low Emissivity coatings that help it retain more heat in the winter, while reducing the heat in the summer by keeping solar transmittance out.
Weather resistant
Although glass might seem fragile, it is actually a highly durable material and is resistant to all weather conditions.
Therefore, you do not have to worry about problems of damp and decay, as you would with wooden structures.
It is also resistant to rust, and as the surface is smooth, dust does not easily accumulate on it. So you can be sure a glass building will not only remain sturdy for many decades, but also always look impeccably clean.
Extremely safe
In a world where health and safety is of paramount importance, glass is a great choice for businesses. This is because it is fire resistant, which makes it better than wood, and it is also extremely lightweight.
This is particularly important for high-rise buildings, as the foundations need to be able to support the weight of the tall structure, so the lighter it is, the better.
Sustainability
A priority for every business is to lower their carbon emissions and join the fight against climate change. Therefore, choosing a sustainable material is important.
As glass can be recycled and reused, having it as the main source of building material can help increase a building’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) rating.
Structures with a high LEED tend to have a good reputation, as this shows they have a low impact on the environment.
What’s more, different options of glass are available, such as low-e glazing glass, which traps heat in the winter and keeps the sunshine outside during the summer.
Bespoke design
Some of the most iconic buildings in the world are made out of glass, from the Shard to the Louvre. This is not surprising as the material can be cut to any shape required, meaning that it is highly customisable.
Developers wanting a unique design for their office building will, therefore, favour glass as they can transform it into any design they want.
