Spaces that require versatile configurations–such as community rooms, offices, convention halls, and more–use movable walls to quickly adapt the size and shape of the room.
The industry leader in movable walls (also called operable partitions) is Kwik-Wall. They offer a wide array of partition types and styles to ensure you achieve the exact look and functionality your space needs.
In this blog post, we’ll go over some common applications of operable partitions, and which Kwik-Wall product is right for you.
#1: If your room will need to be partitioned frequently – Accordion Doors
Is your space a rentable community room compatible with different size groups? If so, your top priority is an easy and quick movable wall that requires minimal effort to pull and latch into place.
Kwik-Wall Accordion Doors are the fastest and simplest operable partition solution. Developed more than 70 years ago, these walls have stood the test of time and set the standard for ease of use. Kwik-Wall’s VL Accordion Partition series features an easy-grip handle that makes moving and latching the partition almost effortless. The built-in air release system makes operation smoother, reducing the force required for movement and minimizing wear and tear on the track.
How to specify your Accordion Partitions
- Sound control: Choose between 3 models in the VL series based on the sound control your space requires. If only visual separation is needed, opt for the MK series of non-acoustic accordion partitions.
- Finish: Accordion partitions are available in standard, heavy-duty vinyl, fabric, or carpet finishes. Choose based on the amount of wear and tear your partition will undergo, as well as the design that best matches the look of your existing space.
- Track: Accordion partitions come with straight or radius curve tracks, based on how you want your separated space to look.
- Configuration: Single panel accordion walls offer the greatest flexibility for complex layouts or large openings, while paired (hinged) panels are slightly easier to operate.
- Dimensions: The largest Kwik-Wall Accordion model offers a width of 25’ with a max height of 16’. The smallest extends 16’ with a max height of 12’.
#2: If your room requires acoustical separation – Flat Panels
Although most Kwik-Wall products offer some level of acoustical insulation, the best-performing option is 3000 Series Operable Walls, with STCs of up to 56.
The 3000 Series is part of Kwik-Walls Flat Panel product line, also called Airwalls, folding panel partitions, or room dividers. Along with offering the best acoustical separation, Flat Panels are also the most space and cost efficient partition option, and available in flexible layout and storage configurations.
How to specify your Flat Panels:
- Configuration: Choose between individual panels, hinged-paired panels, or continuously hinged panels based on the constraints of your space and storage.
- Finish: Most Kwik-Wall Flat Panels are available in vinyl, carpet, fabric, HPL laminate, C.O.M. material, tack board, or uncovered.
- Glass inserts: If you want your movable wall to allow some visibility between spaces, specify STC-rated insulated glass inserts, which are available in a variety of dimensions.
- Opening height: Based on the model, opening heights range from 14’2” up to 30’.
- Pass door panels: If you want to allow easy movement from one side of a partitioned space to the other, specify single or double pass doors.
#3: If aesthetics are a top priority of your space – Glass Walls
Kwik-Wall offers a line of Luminous Glass Walls that combine premium aesthetics with top-of-the-line functionality.
Luminous Glass Walls feature robust sound control, panel automation, smart glass, and multiple layout, configuration, and finish options. They are commonly used in offices, meeting rooms, museums, and open-plan environments that maximize natural light and require flexibility.
There are five models of Luminous Glass Walls, each of which offers distinct advantages and configurations.
How to specify your Glass Walls:
- Sound control: The Stella line of Glass Walls offers STCs of up to 50. If no acoustical insulation is necessary, Ava and Mata are non-acoustic options.
- Configuration: Choose between individual multi-directional panels, centerline hinged-paired panels, centerline individual panels, continuously-hinged panels, pivoting and stacking individual panels, or single and telescoping slider panels.
- Automation: Several Glass Wall models offer automated, programmable self-driving panels, as well as semi-automated seals.
- Pass doors: To allow movement from one side to another, specify full-height, inset, or full-height and hinged pass doors.
- Frame finish: Options include clear anodized, black, white, powder coated, sublimated wood, or stained.
- Glass type: Most models offer tempered, laminated glass, switchable, child-safe, and fully back-painted glass.
Need help selecting or specifying?
The Nettles operable partitions team has decades of experience installing all types of Kwik-Wall operable partitions. We have worked in schools, community centers, hospitals, and many other building types and industries.
Contact us to discuss your space division needs, and we’ll help you choose, specify, and install the movable wall solution that’s best for you.
