Bulkhead
Bulkhead refers to a partitioned area or framework closure of a space. Bulkheads are a common term in marine design and often refer to partitions that are resistant to pressure or fire that can be shut off, for example from engine rooms or or sources of gas, fire or water.
The term is also used in construction often used to describe high level strips or areas that are closed off, for service runs or other reasons, such as in office spaces or above doors and hallways. In a similar way to its use in marine design bulkhead is used to describe something that function to retain or enclose another element, in a similar way to a retaining wall. Though a retaining wall acts to retain a structure in soil or with soil to one side, a bulkhead might have for example soil on one side and water on the other.
[edit] Related articles on Designing for Buildings
Featured articles
Check out some of the best features and news from Designing Buildings as well as key stories from around the web.
The cost of employing people remains a concern.
Code of Practice for Electrical Energy Storage Systems.
ECA calls on members to comment on draft 4th edition.
Bringing together expertise and creating cultural benefits.
CIOB celebrates positive Ofsted report.
The Building Safety Regulator announces a call for evidence.
Government approach could undermine delivery and regeneration.
World's first mass timber data centre.
The overlooked environmental aspect of data centre development.
Introduction to radon awareness
New technical information sheet published by CIOB.
Updated supplier guide can help electrical contractors engage with NHP.
CIAT confirm the winners of the 2026 architectural technology awards.
Government launches a one stop shop for flood preparedness.
Sir Edwin Lutyens: Britain's greatest architect? Book review.
















