Overview

Switchable™ glass is used across a wide range of environments where controllable privacy, clean design, and modern glazing performance are required. By instantly changing between transparent and opaque states, it provides flexible visual control without mechanical shading systems such as blinds or curtains. Its laminated PDLC (Polymer Dispersed Liquid Crystal) technology allows privacy to be integrated directly into the glazing.

Switchable™ glass is commonly specified in commercial, healthcare, residential, and specialist architectural applications.

Commercial and Office Environments

Switchable™ glass is widely used in commercial settings where adaptable privacy and open design are important.

Typical uses include:

• Meeting rooms and conference spaces
• Glass partitions and internal office walls
• Executive offices and boardrooms
• Reception areas and collaborative spaces

It allows spaces to remain open and light-filled while providing instant privacy when required.

Healthcare and Clinical Settings

Switchable™ glass is frequently used in healthcare environments due to its hygienic, easy-to-clean surface and ability to provide privacy without fabric curtains or moving parts.

Common applications include:

• Patient rooms and observation areas
• Treatment and consultation rooms
• Clinical partitions and privacy screens
• Controlled and sterile environments

Its smooth glass surface supports hygienic maintenance and infection-control practices.

Residential Applications

Switchable™ glass is used in residential environments where modern design and flexible privacy are required.

Typical residential uses include:

• Bathroom privacy glazing
• Internal glass partitions
• Feature glazing and architectural elements
• Skylights and glazing panels

It allows privacy without blocking natural light, helping maintain brightness within living spaces.

Hospitality and Hotel Environments

Switchable™ glass is commonly used in hotels and hospitality settings to provide adaptable privacy and a clean, contemporary appearance.

Typical uses include:

• Hotel bathroom glazing
• Conference and meeting spaces
• Private suites and partitions
• Reception and shared areas

Its ability to switch instantly enhances both functionality and guest experience.

Retail and Display Environments

Switchable™ glass is used in retail and display settings where dynamic visibility control is required.

Typical applications include:

• Display screens and partitions
• Privacy zones within retail environments
• Showrooms and product presentation areas

It allows spaces to alternate between visible and private while maintaining a clean visual appearance.

Specialist and Controlled Environments

Switchable™ glass is also used in environments requiring controlled access, privacy, or specialised performance.

Typical applications include:

• Secure or restricted access areas
• Architectural glazing systems
• High-spec commercial environments
• Custom installations requiring integrated privacy

Its laminated structure and controllable behaviour make it suitable for specialised glazing solutions.

Why Switchable™ Glass is Chosen in These Environments

Across all applications, Switchable™ glass is selected for its ability to:

• Provide instant, controllable privacy
• Maintain natural light while diffusing visibility
• Eliminate the need for blinds or curtains
• Offer a clean, modern appearance
• Require minimal maintenance
• Deliver long-term performance

These characteristics make it suitable for both functional and architectural use.

Learn More

To understand how the technology works, see How Switchable™ Glass Works.

For a complete overview of performance, benefits, and specification, see the Complete Guide to Switchable™ Glass.

For a clear definition, see What is Switchable™ Glass?

You can also explore further explanations and comparisons within the Your Questions Explained knowledge hub.

For a clear explanation of pricing factors and what influences specification costs, see Switchable Glass Cost UK.

For a detailed comparison of laminated Switchable™ glass and applied smart film technology, see Switchable™ Glass vs Smart Film.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Switchable™ glass suitable for offices?
Yes. It is widely used in meeting rooms, partitions, and office glazing where flexible privacy is required.

Is Switchable™ glass used in hospitals?
Yes. It is commonly used in healthcare environments due to its hygienic surface and ability to provide privacy without curtains.

Can Switchable™ glass be used in homes?
Yes. It is often used in bathrooms, internal partitions, and architectural glazing features.

Is Switchable™ glass suitable for large commercial spaces?
Yes. It can be specified for large panels depending on design and installation requirements.

Why is Switchable™ glass used instead of blinds?
It provides instant privacy without mechanical parts, maintaining a clean appearance and reducing maintenance.

In simple terms, Switchable™ glass is used in spaces where privacy needs to change instantly without blocking light.