Why Retractable Glass Roofs are a Game Changer for Commercial Space Design? The changing needs of employees and customers have led to the rise of creative office spaces and commercial buildings that offer a healthier, more enjoyable experience. One trend is ample green spaces for employees to take work breaks and relax between meetings. In addition, letting customers and commercial tenants access the outdoors enhances their experience and well-being. While that’s always been true, COVID has increased people’s interest in fresh air and open spaces. This trend isn’t likely to go away anytime soon. So, to offer these features, architects and developers are integrating retractable glass roofs into their building designs.
The Trend In Retractable Glass Roofs
The pandemic has changed how buildings, restaurants, and other structures are used. Businesses scrambled to create ample outdoor space to be consistent with regulations, satisfy customers, and keep afloat. The truth is, temporary structures like tents will only be tolerated for so long. Not only are they unsightly to the entrance or side of a building, but they also aren’t meant to last.
To address this issue, innovative businesses and property owners are incorporating permanent versatility into their buildings to attract customers or earn higher rents, satisfaction, and longevity. Retractable glass roofs are a great choice because they provide the same benefits as a standard building but with more versatility. They bring natural light and fresh air inside the building while still offering protection from the elements when necessary.
Additionally, because more companies allow remote work and people have become accustomed to delivery services, office buildings and retail sites like restaurants must get creative to attract customers and tenants.
What is a Retractable Glass Roof?
Retractable glass roofs are made up of panels that allow natural light into interior spaces, just like a fixed skylight. However, they also have the ability to move out of the way, allowing fresh air to flow inside. Movement is controlled by on-board motors that can be operated from inside the building.
Retractable glass roof installations can also be configured with sensors that monitor precipitation, temperature, and humidity inside the property and open or close the roof automatically to optimize interior comfort. Exciting advancements in glazing technology include “smart glass” – such as Halio – that can tint automatically to control the amount of light passing through.
Retractable glass roofs are best used for office spaces, retail stores, and restaurants. They are more functional than a standard roof and provide more flexibility when designing interiors.
Benefits of Retractable Glass Roofs
Buildings with retractable roofs help businesses stand out in their respective industries. Some benefits include:
- Reduced utility costs by better utilizing natural heating & cooling
- Improved quality of life for customers, residents, or tenants
- Unique, memorable designs
Retractable Glass Roof Case Studies
Read about three retractable glass roof designs Rollamatic constructed for commercial customers.
Larkspur Landing Commercial Atrium
The building’s large bi-parting retractable roof, which was installed when the structure was built in 1985, remains one of the structure’s greatest highlights to this day. It provides tenants with fresh air and natural light.
Having the option to open the roof helps keep cooling costs down in summer while still allowing passive solar heating benefits in winter. Furthermore, this property’s iconic feature enhances the quality of life for tenant companies, making it a more desirable location when leasing space.
The roof can be altered to filter the sun, slow the wind, or keep out the rain, making it the most desirable spot in the house. The courtyard, which is now more than merely usable, has the most desired seats.
A rooftop bar was built in 2020 to take advantage of the spectacular Colorado mountain views. The operable over-stationary roof access allows light into the stairwell and restaurant below when closed, ensuring that no customer views are obstructed. Locals and visitors who stay at the hotel are both drawn to the luxurious experience.
Interested in Retractable Glass Roofs? We Have You Covered.
Retractable glass roofs are an excellent choice for businesses looking to create appealing, functional, comfortable spaces.
Start by scheduling a no-obligation consultation with us today.