30th March 2022

THE ROLE OF DEMOUNTABLE PARTITIONING IN WELL BUILDINGS & BREEAM

What is the role of demountable partitioning in meeting the exacting requirements of the WELL Building Standard and delivering on BREEAM sustainable value? The answer lies in acoustic performance and sustainable manufacturing. But what does this have to do with the MIDDAS partitioning systems?

 

What is the WELL Building Standard?

The WELL Building Standard is a framework for buildings and organizations to deliver more thoughtful and intentional spaces that enhance human health and wellbeing.  Its strategies are backed by scientific research and focus on design interventions, operational protocols and policies to promote the health and wellbeing of building occupants. One of the 11 concepts of the standard is ‘sound’, which looks at acoustical comfort parameters that shape occupant experiences in the built environment. The important aspect for internal space is a provision for the adequate level of sound reduction and isolation.

 

What is BREEAM?

Using standards developed by BRE, BREEAM is a third party assessment method for sustainability in the built environment and measures the environmental, social and economic sustainability performance of a development. BREEAM rated projects are sustainable environments that also enhance the wellbeing of the people who live and work in them. Additionally, BREEAM also measures several categories for sustainable value such as reducing the impact of construction materials and waste management.

 

How does this apply to MIDDAS Partitioning?

Simply put, our bi-panel system carries excellent acoustic performance ratings and can help optimise your project for sound reduction. We also hang our hat on many sustainable manufacturing processes, like minimising waste, recycling and reusing materials wherever possible. In fact, this helped us secure a fantastic opportunity to supply our partitioning system for The Royal College of Physicians’ new base at The Spine, Liverpool.

 

MIDDAS partitions were selected for the prestigious project not only for our outstanding acoustic performance (to meet the challenging demands of the WELL Building Standard) but also for our ability to meet BREEAM for sustainable material selection and manufacturing efficiency. The Spine was ultimately awarded WELL Platinum certification, with key aspects of the project revolving around minimising waste, off-site manufacture and product reusability.

 

 

Our panels are manufactured offsite to bespoke sizes for each project using recyclable materials, meaning waste is minimised during on-site installation. A primary benefit of the bi-panel partition system that helped this project achieve high standards is its reusability. The MIDDAS system is fully demountable and non-progressive, so the entire system, including framework, head / floor tracks and panels, can be dismantled and reinstated in a new location with ease. This was another important factor for the client as it allows them to open their teaching rooms by removing walls to create larger spaces for exams and conferences as required.

 

For more information on acoustic ratings or to discuss your next project, talk to us today on 01743 294 141 or email us at info@middas.co.uk.