Architectural Mesh Systems:

Design Freedom and Flexibility

1
 A R C H I T E C T U R A L M E S H S Y S T E M S

DESIGN FREEDOM
AND
FUNCTIONALITY
1 AIA CES SD/HSW LU

PRESENTED BY

Welcome to “Architectural Mesh Systems: Design Freedom and Functionality”, presented by

Cambridge Architectural. This course is a one-hour AIA CES Learning Unit that qualifies for
Sustainable Design and Health Safety and Welfare credit. Today, we’ll explore a new building
material that’s changing the face of modern architecture – architectural woven metal fabric, or
architectural mesh as it’s more commonly referred. Through this presentation, you’ll gain a greater
appreciation, not only for the unique aesthetic and design freedom mesh provides, but also for the
myriad of functional and economic benefits it affords, as well as the many ways architectural mesh
systems contribute to principles of sustainable design. At the conclusion of this course, you’ll be
given a 10-question quiz. Scores of 80% or higher earn credit.
 BEST PRACTICES

CAMBRIDGE ARCHITECTURAL and The Continuing Architect are Registered

Providers with the American Institute of Architects Continuing Education Systems.
Credit earned on completion of this program will be reported to CES Records for
AIA members. Certificates of Completion are available upon completion.

This program is registered with the AIA/CES for continuing professional education.
As such, it does not include content that may be deemed or construed to be an
approval or endorsement by the AIA of any material of construction or any method
or manner of handling, using, distributing, or dealing in any material or product.

Questions related to specific materials, methods,

and services should be directed to
Cambridge Architectural upon
completion of this program.

(ONLINE VERSION) CAMBRIDGE ARCHITECTURAL and THE CONTINUING ARCHITECT are

Registered Providers with the American Institute of Architects Continuing Education Systems. Credit
earned on completion of this program will be reported to CES Records for AIA members. Certificates
of Completion are available upon completion. This program is registered with the AIA/CES for
continuing professional education. As such, it does not include content that may be deemed or
construed to be an approval or endorsement by the AIA of any material of construction or any
method or manner of handling, using, distributing, or dealing in any material or product. Questions
related to specific materials, methods, and services should be directed to Cambridge Architectural
upon completion of this program.
 COPYRIGHTED MATERIALS

This presentation is protected by U.S. and International copyright laws.

Reproduction, distribution, display and use of the presentation without written
permission of CAMBRIDGE ARCHITECTURAL is prohibited.

© 2010, CAMBRIDGE ARCHITECTURAL

This presentation is protected by U.S. and International copyright laws. Reproduction, distribution,
display and use of the presentation without written permission of CAMBRIDGE ARCHITECTURAL is
prohibited. © 2010, CAMBRIDGE ARCHITECTURAL
 LEARNING OBJECTIVES

> Explore how woven metal fabric (mesh) has expanded its original
use as an industrial product into an architectural product with
significant utility

> List at least four functions that architectural mesh may perform

> Understand the three specification steps required to ensure

maximum functionality from mesh and to achieve your design intent

> Identify at least three ways in which architectural mesh systems

contribute to principles of sustainable design

> Compare and contrast characteristics and costs of other building

materials that architectural mesh may replace in a building design

There are five learning objectives for this course, as follows: First, you will gain an understanding of
how woven metal fabric, traditionally an industrial material, has found entirely new usefulness as an
architectural material. Second, we’ll examine a variety of functions that architectural mesh provides.
You should be able to list a minimum of four of these functions. Third, you’ll learn how architectural
mesh systems are specified in order to ensure their maximum functionality to a building and its
occupants, and to ensure that the mesh system achieves your design intent. Fourth, we’ll look at
how architectural mesh systems – both by their inherent nature and the functions they serve -
contribute to key principles of sustainable design. You should be able to list at least three ways that
architectural mesh systems help to enhance sustainability. And finally, you should be able to
compare and contrast architectural mesh systems with alternative building products in terms of
material characteristics and costs. Let’s begin.
 HISTORICAL ROOTS

Mesh, or woven metal fabric, is a relative newcomer to architecture. For over a century, woven
metal fabric has been used in industry – tucked away in dark factories, hidden behind exhaust fans,
or rolled through scorching hot ovens. Here are some of its industrial applications: An industrial
conveyor belt, a baking belt – the next time you bite into a Ritz cracker, for example, note the mesh
markings on the back of the cracker – and here’s a mesh filter. This finely woven metal fabric helps
to filter away unwanted particulates during the beer making process. Metal mesh’s formability and
strength made it easy to weave into a tough but lightweight material that could withstand the
harshest conditions for an extended period of time.
 HISTORICAL ROOTS

In the 1950’s, rigid panels of tightly woven bronze and/or stainless steel began to be used as a
cladding material for elevator cabs. The material proved a perfect fit for the application. It gave the
elevator cab a refined, upscale look, yet was able to withstand punishing abuse. This is a recent
photo of a 1957 installation of mesh cladding at the Seagram Building in New York City. Over five
decades later, the cladding remains nearly as pristine as the day it was installed. Rigid closed
mesh, like this, would continue to be used architecturally over the next four decades and spread to
elevator doors, lobby walls, and entry doors.
 HISTORICAL ROOTS

But it wasn’t until 1993, that open and flexible metal fabrics – those used as industrial conveyor
belts – began to be used architecturally. French architect Dominique Perrault is credited with the
first large-scale and high-profile architectural application featuring flexible, open metal fabric. For
his design of the French National Library, Perrault shrouds the facility's walls and ceilings in the
material, adding texture to the expansive glass and rich woods that dominate the design. As the
material’s unique aesthetic and functionality were discovered, the following decade saw a steady
adoption of the new architectural material, first throughout Europe, then to the United States and
Canada.
 HISTORICAL ROOTS

Since this time, architectural mesh systems have been developed to achieve specific aesthetic and
functional criteria.
 HISTORICAL ROOTS

Moore Ruble Yudell Architects and Planners

10

For example, some architectural mesh systems are designed to meet fall protection requirements…
 HISTORICAL ROOTS

LS3P Associates

11

…while others are designed to protect people and property from debris propelled by hurricane-force
winds. But these are just two of many functions that architectural mesh systems can perform.
 HISTORICAL ROOTS

Boggs and Partners

12

The wide range of functionality is what fuels the continuing demand for architectural mesh. Today,
architectural mesh is appearing in places never before imagined—from religious facilities…
 HISTORICAL ROOTS

HNTB

13

to airports…
 HISTORICAL ROOTS

Peter Marino Associates

14

To retail stores — both interior…

 HISTORICAL ROOTS

Pompei A.D.

15

…and exterior, to virtually every market sector, both commercial and residential. We’ll now explore
the anatomy of an architectural mesh system.
 ANATOMY OF A SYSTEM

Three components of an architectural mesh system are:

1. Application
2. Attachment Hardware
3. Metal Fabric Pattern

Use these as three steps of design/specification.

SmithGroup

16

There are three components to any architectural mesh system. When designing with architectural
mesh, it’s important to understand each of these components and in which order each should be
considered so that you achieve your design intent while maximizing the functionality of your mesh
system. Not adhering to this order, for example, may result in choosing a particular pattern of
architectural mesh that isn’t compatible with a specific application, or selecting attachment
hardware that isn’t compatible with the mesh you want. Of course, if you’re ever unsure about how
to correctly design or specify an architectural mesh system, at least one manufacturer maintains a
fully-staffed engineering department to assist you with this process. Now let’s examine each of
these components in detail.
 FUNCTIONS OF MESH

> Sculpt space

How should mesh function
within my design?
> Guide foot traffic
> Protect people or property
> Provide ventilation
> Transmit light
> Reduce glare and solar heat gain
> Static or dynamic
> Functional or purely decorative

Pelli Clarke Pelli

17

First is Application: that is where and how you plan to use mesh. Ask yourself, “How will the mesh
function as part of my design?” For example, among many other things, mesh can: sculpt an
interior or exterior space, guide foot traffic, protect people and property, provide ventilation, transmit
light through a space that would otherwise be walled off, or reduce glare and solar heat gain.
Should the mesh be static or movable. Is the mesh meant to serve a functional purpose at all, or is
it purely for decorative effect.
 APPLICATION CATEGORIES

> Open Structures

> Daylighting & Shading
Popular application
> Interiors
categories for mesh include:
> Security & Safety
> Facades

Lendall Mains Architect/Martinez & Johnson Architecture

18

To help define an application, here are five popular application categories that maximize the
functionality of mesh. We’ll look at each application more closely, enumerating the functions
provided with each. Of course, this represents just some architectural mesh applications. It’s
impossible to predict how imaginative architects will next apply architectural mesh.
 OPEN STRUCTURES

> Fall Protection

> Ventilation
> Enhanced visibility
Primary functions include:
> Light pollution reduction
> Sun shading
> Glare reduction

Sequeira & Gavarrete

19

First, is open structures. Here, architectural mesh provides six fundamental functions. We’ll look at
each function in detail.
 OPEN STRUCTURES

SBLM Architects Parking Structures

20

Owing to mesh’s open nature, its use on the exterior of open structures – like this parking garage –
maintains the requirements of open structures.
 OPEN STRUCTURES

SmithGroup Stair Towers

21

Or this open stair tower. In both cases, architects and owners appreciate the economy of cladding
these structures in wide, extremely long panels of mesh held in tension.
 OPEN STRUCTURES

SBC-1999/SBCCI-Southern Building Code Conference International

IBC-2000/ICC-International Code Council

BOAC-1999-Building Officials and Code Administrators (reference ASCE7-95)

Fall Protection

22

Fall protection is the most obvious functional benefit of these systems. The mesh panels in
combination with the method used to attach it to the open structure, easily meet all major building
codes ensuring fall protection safety.
 OPEN STRUCTURES

Ventilation

23

Some metal fabric patterns provide an open area of greater than 60%. This means that ventilation
systems can be reduced or eliminated entirely.
 OPEN STRUCTURES

SmithGroup Ventilation

24

The ability of mesh to maximize ventilation is advantageous. It accommodates a continuous supply

of fresh air and helps dissipate smoke in a fire event.
 OPEN STRUCTURES

Clarke Caton Hintz Architects Ventilation

25

Similarly, in parking garages, auto exhaust is easily vented.

 OPEN STRUCTURES

Bellomo Architects Enhanced Visibility

26

Architectural mesh systems also maintain views to the inside of a structure, enhancing occupant
safety, by deterring theft or assault.
 OPEN STRUCTURES

Gensler Headlight Attenuation

27

In parking structures, mesh also helps to attenuate car headlights at night, that can otherwise be a
regular annoyance for occupants of adjacent buildings.
 OPEN STRUCTURES

DNK Architects, Inc. Sun Shading

28

Similarly, mesh shades sunlight. As a result, it helps to keep vehicles more comfortable on hot
summer days.
 OPEN STRUCTURES

Glare Reduction

29

Mesh also cuts the glare of the sun, especially at dawn and dusk, making for a more enjoyable user
experience.
 OPEN STRUCTURES

Spagnolo Gisness & Associates, Inc.

30

With architectural mesh systems, today’s architects are elevating parking garage design to entirely
new levels of sophistication.
 OPEN STRUCTURES

HKS

31

They are designing structures with true curb appeal…

 OPEN STRUCTURES

Acock Associates Architects

32

…far more visually interesting and inviting compared to parking structures of the past…
 OPEN STRUCTURES

DNK Architects, Inc.

33

…structures more tightly woven into the fabric of a community…

 OPEN STRUCTURES

Clarke Caton Hintz

34

…that reflect and complement surroundings…

 OPEN STRUCTURES

Moore Ruble Yudell Architects & Planners

35

…that stretch the imagination and redefine the true potential of a utilitarian structure.
 DAYLIGHTING & SHADING

> Heat gain reduction

> Glare reduction
Primary functions include:
> Maintain views
> Occupant comfort

Bellomo Architects

36

The next application category is Daylighting and Shading. Architectural mesh offers four functions
as part of a building’s holistic daylighting strategy. For this learning program, we’ll briefly touch on
each. However, a separate comprehensive one hour AIA CES learning unit entirely on the topic of
using architectural mesh for Daylighting and Shading is also available.
 DAYLIGHTING & SHADING

Geier Brown Renfrow Architects Heat Gain Reduction

37

Unreasonable solar heat gain is an unfortunate consequence of attempts to deliver natural sunlight
into a building. Low-e glass or window tinting can help to limit heat gain. But combining these
strategies with architectural mesh shading systems, located on the exterior of building, even more
impressive heat gain reductions are achievable.
 DAYLIGHTING & SHADING

HNTB Glare Reduction

38

Another challenge of effective daylighting is controlling glare. A blast of direct sunlight in the eyes is
never a pleasant experience. Architectural mesh helps to cut glare, creating a more visually
comfortable interior.
 DAYLIGHTING & SHADING

Maintain Views

39

In an attempt to control glare and heat gain, some products, like louvers or blinds, can go too far by
reducing views. Not so with architectural mesh. Mesh effectively reduces heat gain and glare, yet
maintains an occupant’s view to the outside world. Architectural mesh daylighting and shading
systems result in building interiors with ample diffused daylight, comfortable temperatures, and
views to outdoors all of which contribute to occupant comfort and well-being.
 DAYLIGHTING & SHADING

> Veil
> Visor
Primary exterior shading
> Fin
configurations include:
> Canopy

40

There are four basic configurations in which mesh can be installed on the exterior of a building –
veil, visor, fin, and canopy. Strategic use of these configurations provides a whole building shading
solution.
 DAYLIGHTING & SHADING

Perkins+Will Veil

41

For example, depending upon the angle of the building and the desired result, mesh can veil a
façade by running parallel to it, here is a veil system attached in tension to glass curtain wall.
 DAYLIGHTING & SHADING

Bellomo Architects Veil

42

Veil installations are excellent for south facing facades, but are also great for east and west sides to
cut the glare in early morning and late afternoon.
 DAYLIGHTING & SHADING

George Armour Ewart Visor

43

The next configuration is visor. This shading strategy is employed to handle peak sun hours when
the sun is well overhead. Instead of louvers, mesh is used as the shading material for a visor,
creating an interesting articulated accent.
 DAYLIGHTING & SHADING

NAC Architecture/Opsis Architecture Fin

44

With a fin configuration, mesh is installed perpendicular to a façade. Fins are useful for shading
sunlight entering a building at an angle. Here, large continuous panels of mesh fabric are
suspended in tension at the top and bottom. Intermediate attachments keep the mesh panels
aligned.
 DAYLIGHTING & SHADING

Arbuckle Costic Architects, Inc. Fin

45

To fine tune shading, this architect supplements traditional louvered sunshades with an array of
mesh fins.
 DAYLIGHTING & SHADING

Gould Evans Associates Canopy

46

The final shading configuration is canopy. This library features a mesh canopy at its entrance.
 DAYLIGHTING & SHADING

Zimmer Gunsul Frasca Partnership Canopy

47

And this large-scale ramada structure employs rows of mesh fabric panels held aloft in tension
using stainless cables and fittings to create a canopy.
 DAYLIGHTING & SHADING

NAC Architecture/Opsis Architecture

48

Architects are just beginning to explore this remarkable new, highly durable exterior shading
material.
 DAYLIGHTING & SHADING

Perkins+Will

49

Its intriguing aesthetic belies its ability to perform such important functions.
 DAYLIGHTING & SHADING

Arbuckle Costic Architects, Inc.

50

Architectural mesh shading systems transform a traditional exterior into a sleek, modern design.
Imagine how ordinary this exterior would look without its exterior mesh shading system. Now, let’s
move to the interior to see how architects are using mesh for shading.
 DAYLIGHTING & SHADING

Meyers, Scherer & Rockcastle Curtain

51

Here, flexible mesh is installed as a moveable curtain. While not as effective in reducing heat gain,
due to its interior location, it still provides effective glare reduction while maintaining a spectacular
view of the city.
 DAYLIGHTING & SHADING

HKS, Inc. Shade

52

In this hospital lobby, a reception desk faces a large wall of windows. To shade these windows,
long floor-to-ceiling panels of mesh are installed in tension…
 DAYLIGHTING & SHADING

HKS, Inc. Shade

53

…helping to make the reception area more comfortable for patients, guests and employees.
 DAYLIGHTING & SHADING

Robert A.M. Stern Architects/Alley Poyer Macchietto Architecture Shade

54

And here, at the International Quilt Museum in Lincoln Nebraska, a series of mesh shades adorn
the lobby windows. Whether used on the interior or exterior of a building, architectural mesh plays
an important role in effective daylighting and shading strategies.
 INTERIORS

> Cladding
> Space sculpting
> Ventilation
Primary functions include:
> Acoustics
> Light transmission
> Masking

Voorsanger and Associates Architects

55

Next, let’s look at six functions mesh can perform when employed for interior design applications.
 INTERIORS

BG Studio International Cladding

56

As mentioned earlier, rigid woven metal panels have been used as cladding for elevator cabs for
nearly sixty years.
 INTERIORS

Cladding

57

Step into an elevator of our nation’s oldest skyscrapers and you’ll likely come face to face with
intricately woven stainless steel or bronze panels like this.
 INTERIORS

Cladding

58

For high traffic spaces, under a continuous assault from banging briefcases, dollies, and luggage,
the virtual indestructibility of architectural mesh make it a perfect match for such applications.
 INTERIORS

Cladding

59

For this reason, mesh claddings are often extended outside of elevator cabs, to the exterior of
elevator doors...
 INTERIORS

Cladding

60

…and to the exterior of the building, for entrance doors and for the surrounding walls of entryways.
 INTERIORS

Robert A.M. Stern Architects Cladding

61

Sophisticated, upscale architectural mesh cladding makes an excellent first impression. Here, at
Comcast headquarters in Philadelphia, architectural mesh clads reception and security counters in
refined elegance.
 INTERIORS

Ryall Porter Sheridan Architects Cladding

62

And here in the lobby of a New York City apartment complex, woven metal fabric beautifully clads
the lower portion of a column.
 INTERIORS

Jones & Greenwald Space Sculpting / Light Transmission / Ventilation

63

Another popular function of mesh in interiors, is space sculpting. With mesh, this restaurant creates
distinct rooms or spaces, without traditional opaque walls. Intimacy is established without sacrificing
openness. Light and air flow freely through the mesh curtain boundary. However, like a theatrical
scrim, depending upon the direction of lighting, this same transparent mesh can be made to look
opaque, simply by shifting the lighting scheme.
 INTERIORS

Lendall Mains Architect/Martinez & Johnson Architecture Space Sculpting

64

Yet another fine example of space sculpting with architectural mesh is found at a theatre facility at
Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino in Las Vegas. Here, a series of flexible mesh panels can be
raised and lowered at the push of a button to reduce the seating capacity of the theatre to give the
impression of a full-house no matter how small an audience.
 INTERIORS

Beck Group Space Sculpting / Light Transmission

65

Here, at the Fashion Industry Gallery in Dallas, Texas, entrances to individual galleries are large
sliding doors made with architectural mesh infill. The mesh doors allow the sites, sounds and air to
flow freely throughout the floor.
 INTERIORS

Boggs and Partners Space Sculpting

66

Inside the Jewish chapel at the US Navel Academy, architects designed large, curved mesh panels
to soar above the congregation like the masts and sails of our country’s first naval fleets. These
mesh panels also softly diffuse sunlight streaming through upper level windows.
 INTERIORS

Voorsanger and Associates Architects Space Sculpting

67

Mesh can also sculpt overhead space. Here, flexible mesh undulates gracefully across a ceiling
expanse.
 INTERIORS

HLW International Space Sculpting

68

Mesh creates a beautiful boundary or backdrop.

 INTERIORS

Peter Marino Associates Space Sculpting

69

For example, architectural mesh is a recurring corporate theme for Louis Vuitton stores.
 INTERIORS

Corgan Associates Space Sculpting / Masking / Light Diffusion

70

Panels of mesh can sculpt a vast interior space while performing other functions, like masking the
inner workings of the large airport terminal, while diffusing light and cutting glare from sunlight
entering through windows at the top of the space.
 INTERIORS

Polshek Partnership Space Sculpting / Masking / Light Diffusion

71

Color-coated mesh ceiling panels at the Newseum in Washington, D.C., mask electrical and HVAC
systems and softly diffuse overhead lighting for optimal viewing of giant overhead video screens.
 INTERIORS

William Rawn Associates Acoustics

72

At this grand concert hall, bronze mesh wall panels are part of the room’s acoustic system. The
specific mesh pattern was selected based upon its acoustic transparency.
 INTERIORS

SmithGroup Acoustics

73

Similarly, here, a single panel of flexible woven metal fabric is suspended horizontally in tension
across the ceiling of a theatre. Draped acoustic fabrics, located above the mesh panel, absorb
sound energy transmitted through the mesh. The mesh panels along the upper walls perform in the
same fashion.
 INTERIORS

Orne & Associates

74

From indestructible protective claddings for lobby walls and elevator cabs to ceiling systems that
mask mechanical systems and softly diffuse lighting…
 INTERIORS

Design Collective

75

…interior architectural mesh systems can perform a multitude of useful functions…

 INTERIORS

PageSoutherlandPage/Gromatsky Dupree & Associates

76

…in addition to simply looking fabulous.

 SAFETY & SECURITY

> Fall protection

Primary functions include: > Security
> Projectile protection

The Westfield Group

77

The next application category is safety and security of people and property. Let’s explore these
three key functions.
 SAFETY & SECURITY

Kostow Greenwood Fall Protection

78

A popular safety and security application for architectural mesh is railing infill to provide fall
protection, both for interior applications…
 SAFETY & SECURITY

HNTB Architecture Fall Protection

79

…and exterior. Once a structure type with little focus on aesthetics, many of today’s pedestrian
bridges are designed to be elegant and inviting. This pedestrian bridge and access ramp feature
architectural mesh infill for fall protection, but also to elevate the structure’s aesthetic appeal.
 SAFETY & SECURITY

The Westfield Group Fall Protection

80

Here, mesh is used as stair railing infill. Also, large flexible panels of mesh, installed in tension,
provide an extra level of fall protection for two levels of exterior balconies.
 SAFETY & SECURITY

SmithGroup Fall Protection

81

This student housing apartment complex located in downtown Tempe, Arizona employs
architectural mesh for fall protection. Open air courtyards on each floor are made possible with
architectural mesh. The mesh also provides much needed solar shading during the day.
 SAFETY & SECURITY

Steven Ehrlich Architects Fall Protection

82

And mesh is used here on the interior balconies of this large facility.
 SAFETY & SECURITY

Security

83

Next, mesh can provide security. This theatre uses flexible architectural mesh for its entrance
security curtain.
 SAFETY & SECURITY

Bentel & Bentel Architects Security

84

As does this upscale sandwich shop, located within an indoor shopping mall.
 SAFETY & SECURITY

Security

85

Designers also specify architectural mesh for protecting valuable merchandise without hiding it.
 SAFETY & SECURITY

Peck Peck and Associates Security

86

Here, a museum employs architectural mesh to provide patrons with a relaxing first floor outdoor
setting, but without compromising museum security.
 SAFETY & SECURITY

Sequeira & Gavarrete Projectile Protection

87

There are even architectural mesh systems that are designed specifically to protect buildings and
their contents from high velocity projectiles during hurricanes or tornados. This system can
withstand gusts up to 140 miles per hour and achieves Miami-Dade certification.
 FACADES

> Corporate branding

Primary functions include: > Space Sculpting
> Masking

SBLM Architects

88

The next application category is Facades. Sometimes architectural mesh systems are incorporated
into a building’s façade for reasons other than solar shading, fall protection, or ventilation. Other
functional reasons for using mesh also include corporate branding, space sculpting and masking.
 FACADES

Rosenbaum Design Group Corporate Branding

89

Here, an architectural mesh wall for signage is constructed off the face of this building to increase
visibility of the stores inside.
 FACADES

Pompei A.D. Corporate Branding

90

A mesh façade system was selected for this retail clothing store based upon a specific aesthetic
standard for the brand.
 FACADES

URS Greiner Space Sculpting / Masking

91

Space sculpting and masking are other functions of architectural mesh façade systems. At
Baltimore Washington Airport, for example, architectural mesh masks the steel support structure of
the underside of this massive roof, while curving upward to form the the outer shape of the
structure.
 FACADES

Barnes Gromatsky Kosarek Architects Space Sculpting / Masking

92

Mesh was used extensively in the redevelopment of a city block in downtown Austin, Texas. The
block is comprised of the city’s convention center, chiller plant, and an open structure public parking
garage. Architects used mesh panels for the facility’s parking garage – shown here on the far left –
then unified the development design by wrapping the chiller plant façade with an undulating mesh
façade system comprised of individual curved mesh panels.
 FACADES

Pelli Clarke Pelli Space Sculpting / Masking

93

LEED Gold Certified Aria Resort and Casino in Las Vegas features a similar type of mesh façade.
In this case, mesh undulates along a podium structure, dressing exterior walls and screening a pool
deck's exit stairway.
 FACADES

Pelli Clarke Pelli Space Sculpting / Masking

94

Unlike the previous project in Austin, however, for this project, lateral curving is created by installing
single fifty foot panels of flexible mesh, in tension, to curved attachments located at the top and
bottom of the panels.
 MESH EFFECTS

> Lighting
Types of effects include: > Etching
> Color coating

HKS, Inc.

95

Next, let’s discuss effects that are commonly applied to architectural mesh. These effects include:
lighting, etching and color coating.
 MESH EFFECTS

Beck Architecture Lighting

96

Architects and lighting designers enjoy the effects of illuminating mesh installations at night.
 MESH EFFECTS

Pelli Clark Pelli Lighting

97

Mesh’s highly reflective stainless steel surface reflects electric lighting beautifully and is commonly
washed with light, upward …
 MESH EFFECTS

Clarke Caton Hintz Architects Lighting

98

…or downward. Of course, white light is just one option.

 MESH EFFECTS

Acock Associates Architects Lighting

99

The mesh on this university parking garage, for example, is accented in a wash of the school’s
color.
 MESH EFFECTS

Gwathmey Siegel Architects Lighting

100

Lighting effects are also applied to interior mesh installation. Here, colored wall slot lighting bathes
this mesh in deep purples.
 MESH EFFECTS

Smith-Miller+Hawkinson Architects Etching

101

When driving into the United States, at this port of entry located in New York State, a translucent
metal fabric, etched with the country’s name, provides glare reduction for drivers in the early hours
of the day.
 MESH EFFECTS

Boggs and Partners Color Coating

102

Finally, mesh can be colored with a highly durable and long lasting coating. For the US Naval
Academy’s Jewish Chapel, the sail like mesh panels are appropriately coated in white.
 ANATOMY OF A SYSTEM

Three components of an architectural mesh system are:

1. Application
> 2. Attachment Hardware
3. Metal Fabric Pattern

Use these as three steps of design/specification.

Sequeira & Gavarrete

103

This completes our discussion on the first part of an architectural mesh system - the application –
or, how architectural mesh will function within a project. The next component of an architectural
mesh system is the attachment hardware, the method used to attach architectural mesh to a
building’s exterior or interior structure.
 ATTACHMENT HARDWARE

Three common types of architectural mesh attachment hardware include:

1. Tension
2. Frame
3. Curtain

104

Attachment hardware for architectural mesh systems come in three general varieties - each with
their own unique benefits. They include Tension attachment hardware, Frame attachment
hardware, and Curtain attachment hardware. Let’s explore each.
 TENSION ATTACHMENT HARDWARE

Holds metal fabric panels, up to 200’ in length, in “tension”

105

Tension attachment hardware describes how flexible metal fabrics are suspended in tension.
Panels of mesh up to 200 feet in length can be installed vertically in tension...
 TENSION ATTACHMENT HARDWARE

Stainless tubes and/or cables are used for tensioned systems

106

Or horizontally. Here the tension attachment system is comprised of stainless steel tubes and
cables.
 TENSION ATTACHMENT HARDWARE

Tension attachment hardware is visible…

107

Some tension attachment hardware is visually revealed. The support structure – the stainless steel
tube – becomes part of the aesthetic.
 TENSION ATTACHMENT HARDWARE

Or, concealed behind the metal fabric

108

While other tension attachment hardware is visually concealed by the metal fabric, keeping the
focus on the metal fabric itself by hiding the attachment behind it.
 TENSION ATTACHMENT HARDWARE

Special re-tensioning hardware withstands winds up to 140 mph

109

This tension attachment hardware protects people and property against hurricane-force winds, up
to 140 miles-per-hour. The hardware is engineered to gently release during high wind load
conditions and to re-tension the metal fabric automatically after those conditions have passed.
Projects using this attachment hardware can meet Miami-Dade certification requirements.
 TENSION ATTACHMENT HARDWARE

Cost savings achieved from minimal embedded supports required

110

There are significant cost savings associated with tension attachment hardware due to the minimal
embedded supports that are required for installation.
 TENSION ATTACHMENT HARDWARE

Cost savings achieved from reduced labor costs due to very large panel sizes

111

Also, by accommodating very large panel sizes - up to 200 feet in length- installation time and labor
are reduced considerably compared to other cladding options.
 TENSION ATTACHMENT HARDWARE

Dick & Fristsche Design Group Excellent choice when considerable coverage is required

112

For this reason, tension attachment hardware is the perfect choice for projects that require
considerable coverage.
 TENSION ATTACHMENT HARDWARE

Elements of Tension Attachment Hardware:

1. Load Bar/Tension Rod

• Located at the connection points where the

panel of metal fabric meets the top and
bottom support brackets.

• Size spacing and location of these

components is determined during the design
of the system.

113

Let’s now look at the components of typical tension attachment hardware. First is the Load Bar/
Tension Rod. These elements are located at the connection points where the panel of metal fabric
meets the top and bottom support brackets. Size spacing and location of these components is
determined during the design of the system. Most attachment methods provide flexibility for minor
tolerance adjustments at the job site.
 TENSION ATTACHMENT HARDWARE

Elements of Tension Attachment Hardware:

2. Support Brackets

• Designed to attach the load bar/tension rod

components at the top and bottom of each
panel of the metal fabric to the structure.

• Size, spacing and location of the brackets is

determined during the design of the system.

• Nominal bracket spacing varies depending on

the metal fabric panel size, orientation of the
panel to the structure, and load conditions for
regional areas.

114

Next are Support Brackets. These elements are designed to attach the load bar/tension rod
components at the top and bottom of each panel of metal fabric to the structure. Size, spacing and
location of the brackets is determined during the design of the system. Nominal bracket spacing
varies depending on the metal fabric panel size, orientation of the panel to the structure, and load
conditions for regional areas.
 TENSION ATTACHMENT HARDWARE

Elements of Tension Attachment Hardware:

3. Intermediate Brackets

• These components are non-structural

support elements designed to minimize
vertical deflection of the metal fabric.

• Typical spacing for intermediate brackets is

10-12 feet of panel length (in the vertical
dimension), and are spaced horizontally
depending on the metal fabric panel size,
orientation to the structure, and regional
load conditions

115

Finally, there are Intermediate Brackets. These components are non-structural support elements
designed to minimize vertical deflection of the metal fabric. Typical spacing for intermediate
brackets is ten to 12 feet of panel length in the vertical dimension, and are spaced horizontally
depending on the metal fabric panel size, orientation to the structure, and regional load conditions.
 TENSION ATTACHMENT HARDWARE

Elements of Tension Attachment Hardware:

1. Load Bar/Tension Rod

2. Support Brackets

3. Intermediate Brackets

Tension attachment hardware systems

require minimal structural support

116

With tension attachment hardware loads are carried at the top and bottom attachments, reducing
the need for additional structural or embedded support. Intermediate brackets only serve to
minimize deflection of the mesh fabric and therefore require minimal structural support.
 FRAME ATTACHMENT HARDWARE

Three common types of architectural mesh attachment hardware include:

1. Tension
> 2. Frame
3. Curtain

117

The second form of attachment hardware is Frame.

 FRAME ATTACHMENT HARDWARE

Produces rigid panels of woven metal fabric

118

Frame attachment hardware transforms woven metal fabric into rigid panels.
 FRAME ATTACHMENT HARDWARE

Framing element can be visible…

119

Like tension attachment hardware, frame attachment hardware can also become a visible part of
your design. Here, metal fabric shown is tack welded to a u-binding frame with mitered corners that
are welded and ground smooth for a polished finish.
 FRAME ATTACHMENT HARDWARE

Or concealed

120

Frame attachment hardware can also be concealed by the metal fabric. Here, the metal fabric folds
around the corners of an angle frame to conceal it.
 FRAME ATTACHMENT HARDWARE

Elevator cab cladding

121

Elevator cabs feature frame attachment hardware.

 FRAME ATTACHMENT HARDWARE

Peck Peck and Associates Railing infill

122

It’s also used frequently in railing infill applications…

 FRAME ATTACHMENT HARDWARE

Corgan Associates Translucent interior wall with a grid look

123

And to create walls with a grid look.

 CURTAIN ATTACHMENT HARDWARE

Three common types of architectural mesh attachment hardware include:

1. Tension
2. Frame
> 3. Curtain

124

The third category is curtain attachment hardware.

 CURTAIN ATTACHMENT HARDWARE

Flexible woven metal fabric can fold and travel horizontally…

125

One form of curtain hardware allows flexible metal fabric to travel – either manually or mechanically
– along a track like a traditional curtain.
 CURTAIN ATTACHMENT HARDWARE

Bentel & Bentel Architects Or vertically

126

Another curtain attachment hardware allows flexible metal fabric to move vertically. With this
hardware, metal fabric Is raised and lowered automatically with the touch of a button.
 CURTAIN ATTACHMENT HARDWARE

Even rolled up or down through a motorized reel system

127

Yet another type of hardware – using a concealed, overhead-mounted, motorized reel – both
releases the metal fabric downward and retracts it upward for concealed storage.
 CURTAIN ATTACHMENT HARDWARE

Meyer, Scherer & Rockcastle, LTD Divide space or provide shading as needed

128

The major advantage of Curtain attachment hardware is its ability to move mesh as needed.
 ANATOMY OF A SYSTEM

Three components of an architectural mesh system are:

1. Application
2. Attachment Hardware
> 3. Metal Fabric Pattern

Use these as three steps of design/specification.

SmithGroup

129

The third and final part of an architectural mesh system is the woven metal fabric pattern.
 WOVEN METAL FABRICS

Woven by artisans on looms

130

Metal fabrics are woven by artisans on looms similar to those used in the textile industry.
 WOVEN METAL FABRICS

Virtually indestructible

131

They are virtually indestructible.

 WOVEN METAL FABRICS

Most commonly woven from stainless, but also aluminum, copper, brass and bronze

132

Most metal fabrics are woven from stainless steel, but custom weaves can be fashioned from
aluminum, copper, brass, or bronze.
 WOVEN METAL FABRICS

Performance varies by:

> Material
> Openness
> Thickness
> Width
> Length
> Flexibility

133

There are a wide variety of mesh patterns and each provides a distinct look and feel. Depending
on your application, each pattern will perform differently depending upon its unique physical
characteristics. Beyond aesthetics, here are some of the characteristics to consider.
 WOVEN METAL FABRICS

Openness

The percentage of air and

light that can pass through
a given mesh pattern

134

The ‘openness’ of a pattern refers to the percentage of air and light able to pass through it.
 WOVEN METAL FABRICS

Thickness

The depth of the pattern

front to back at its thickest
point

135

‘Thickness’ like gauge, measures the depth of a pattern at its thickest point.
 WOVEN METAL FABRICS

Width

The maximum distance

from left to right of the
loom upon which the mesh
pattern is woven

136

“Width” measures maximum distance, left to right, of the pattern. This distance is is determined by
the loom upon which the pattern is woven.
 WOVEN METAL FABRICS

Length

The distance from top to

bottom. Length can be
infinite for some mesh
patterns.

137

“Length” refers to the distance top to bottom of a pattern. Some patterns can be woven to an infinite
length. It’s not uncommon for lengths to exceed 100’.
 WOVEN METAL FABRICS

Rigid Flexible

138

Metal fabric patterns come in two broad categories – Rigid and Flexible.
 WOVEN METAL FABRICS

Flexible

Roll/Fold Flex

139

Most flexible patterns can roll or fold in one direction by hand, and can flex in the other.
 WOVEN METAL FABRICS

Flexible

5% to 76% open area

140

The percentage of open area that flexible woven metal fabric patterns can provide range from 5 to
76%.
 WOVEN METAL FABRICS

Rigid

Do not roll or
fold by hand,
but are still formable

141

Conversely, rigid patterns do not fold or roll in either direction by hand and only some will flex by
hand, but usually to a lesser degree than flexible weaves. Of course, because they are made from
metals, ultimately, even rigid mesh patterns are formable and can be mechanically shaped into
curves or bent to form corners.
 WOVEN METAL FABRICS

Rigid

0% to 58% open area

142

The open area of rigid patterns can range from 0 to 58%.

 ANATOMY OF A SYSTEM

Three components of an architectural mesh system are:

1. Application
2. Attachment Hardware
3. Metal Fabric Pattern

Use these as three steps of design/specification.

143

This completes the anatomy of an architectural mesh system. To recap: First, determine your
“Application” - how you want to use mesh on your project, and the functional purpose behind the
mesh - for ventilation, for solar shading, for safety & security…Next, select Attachment Hardware
appropriate for your application - tension, frame, or curtain. And finally, select a Metal Fabric Pattern
compatible with your selected Attachment Hardware and your Application. Design with and specify
architectural mesh systems in this order to maximize both beauty and functionality. Now, let’s look
at three case histories, each from a different application category starting with this project at
Western Washington University.
 DAYLIGHTING CASE HISTORY

Western Washington University Academic
Instructional Center
Location: Bellingham, WA
Facility End Use: Educational Center
Architect: NAC Architecture – Seattle, WA
Opsis Architecture – Portland, OR
"The aesthetic was very desirable to us,
especially the way it is fabricated and the
texture that it brings to the building.”
− Mark Gifford
Associate Principal, NAC Architecture

144

This architectural mesh shading system dresses the southwest-facing exterior of the building. Long
panels of woven metal fabric are installed in tension, perpendicular to the structure’s windows in the
fin configuration so that they meet the sun at the proper angle. The sleek, modern architectural
mesh panels add another layer of design, bringing an entirely new texture and point of interest to
the building.
 DAYLIGHTING CASE HISTORY

Functions

> Solar shading

> Maintains ventilation
> Preserves outside views
> Reduces solar heat gain
> Facilitates daylighting
> Improves occupant performance

145

The Academic Instructional Center required an exterior facade that could shade the sun while
maintaining ventilation and preserving outside views. The inherent nature of architectural mesh
allows it to block light, but remain transparent at the same time. Installing the mesh system on the
southwest-facing wall allowed for maximum solar shading, and as a result, the perpendicular panels
were able to reduce solar heat gain. The mesh panels also facilitate daylighting to optimize the
interior environment and ultimately improve the performance of building occupants.
 DAYLIGHTING CASE HISTORY

Affordability

> Cooling cost reductions

> Material savings
> Labor savings
> Reduced maintenance
> No replacement needed

146

To fit the overall design and project needs at Western Washington University, the architectural mesh
manufacturer worked closely with the architect to produce a strategically-designed exterior,
specifically built to improve energy efficiency. The shading system reduces cooling loads to the
building, which ultimately cut energy costs. By installing single panels of mesh using tension
attachment hardware, savings were realized in both material and labor costs. Additionally, stainless
steel architectural mesh is virtually indestructible, outlasting most other materials in durability and
ultimately reducing the need for maintenance and repair and eliminating the need for eventual
replacement.
 DAYLIGHTING CASE HISTORY

Sustainability

> Energy conservation

> 100% recyclable
> High percentage of
recycled content
> Daylighting and views
> Long lifecycle

147

The 120,000-square-foot facility incorporates a number of green building elements that prompted
the University to apply for LEED® certification. By employing streamlined and sustainable concepts
like woven metal fabric shading, the Academic Instructional Center has been able to reduce energy
usage and optimize building operations. The architectural mesh shading system is also 100%
recyclable and contains a high percentage of recycled content. It contributes to daylighting and
views by decreasing glare and improving quality of light. Finally, metal fabric systems are extremely
durable, with a lifecycle far outlasting that of alternative products.
 INTERIORS CASE HISTORY

Montgomery College Cultural Arts Center
Location: Tacoma Park, MD
Facility End Use: Performing Arts Theatre
Architect: SmithGroup – Washington, DC
The mesh placement, in combination with how it’s
highlighted by architectural lighting, creates a
beautiful, innovative interior design element.”
− Adrian Vaughn
Senior Project Manager, Bovis Land Lease, Inc.

148

The next case history is an interiors application. The project: A 500-seat performing arts theatre on
the campus of Montgomery College in Tacoma Park, Maryland. An interior architectural mesh
system was specified for its functionality and style. Flexible woven metal fabric panels installed in
tension envelop the house in elegant, clean lines and create a revolutionary tensioned ceiling
system using metal fabric that can be specified for any requested length and remain completely flat.
 INTERIORS CASE HISTORY

Functions

> Acoustic attenuation masking

> Ventilation facilitation
> Space sculpting
> Interior lighting design

149

The acoustic transparancy of the mesh specified for this project made it an excellent masking
material for panels of sound absorbing acoustic fabric located across upper walls and across the
ceiling of the theatre, while maintaining optimal ventilation for the theatre’s HVAC System. Vertically
installed mesh panels create an intimate space by isolating house seating from exterior aisles and
provide a dramatic reflective surface for lighting effects.
 INTERIORS CASE HISTORY

Affordability

> Material savings

> Labor savings
> Reduced maintenance
> No replacement needed

150

What makes this architectural mesh application particularly affordable is due to the system’s
tensioned installation. Just three 50-foot panels of mesh are installed in tension horizontally across
the width of the theatre to create a perfectly flat mesh ceiling. Vertical wall mesh panels are installed
the same way. Compared to a panelized system, the amount of structural materials required is
greatly reduced. Also, both fabrication and installation costs are dramatically reduced. Of course,
the system will last the entire lifespan of the building, so no replacement will ever be necessary.
 INTERIORS CASE HISTORY

Sustainability

> 100% recyclable

> High percentage of
recycled content
> Low maintenance
> Long lifecycle

151

Of course, the entire system is 100% recyclable, contains a high percentage of recycled content
and provides a long, low maintenance lifecycle.
 OPEN STRUCTURES CASE HISTORY

Cincinnati Children’s Hospital “The contemporary, shimmering, diaphanous look

locked us in on the product.”
Location: Cincinnati, OH
Facility End Use: Parking Garage − Raffi Tomassian
Architect: DNK Architects – Cincinnati, OH Designer, DNK Architects

152

DNK Architects strive to push the technology of architecture, while fine-tuning every project through
a research-before-design framework. This framework is especially prominent in the Northern
Avenue Parking Garage of Cincinnati Children’s Hospital. Knowing the demographics of the area to
be primarily African American, DNK drew upon African influences on American culture, like weaving
and braiding, to determine the structure's architectural motif. The outcome was a final design
concept based on a metaphor for the neighborhood as a whole: a tight-knit aggregate of "old and
new, institutional and residential." The weaving and braiding concept was employed on the garage's
exterior facade with architectural mesh, perfectly matching DNK's design theme. The result: A
curved, intersecting metal fabric system – the first-ever application of both longitudinal and
latitudinal curved mesh – now adorns the exterior of the hospital’s new parking facility, creating a
modern and innovative basket weave facade befitting of a world-class institution.
 OPEN STRUCTURES CASE HISTORY

Functions

> Acoustic attenuation masking

> Ventilation facilitation
> Space sculpting
> Interior lighting design

153

The architectural mesh solution was designed primarily for safety and fall protection purposes. The
mesh has an openness ratio that allows it to function as a secure fall protection barrier while
remaining transparent enough to allow views into the well-lit garage deck at night, an important
safety consideration for most parking facilities.
 OPEN STRUCTURES CASE HISTORY

Affordability

> Material savings

> Labor savings
> Reduced maintenance
> No replacement needed

154

Two methods of attachment were used for the project. For the flat surfaces, wide single panels of
architectural mesh are installed with tension attachment hardware. For the surfaces that weave,
architectural mesh is attached to a curved structural substructure. The hardware used does not
require embedded supports and allows large panels of mesh to be installed at one time,
dramatically cutting down on project costs. Stainless steel metal fabric is also unparalleled in
durability, especially in heavily used, high-traffic areas like parking garages.
 OPEN STRUCTURES CASE HISTORY

Sustainability

> 100% recyclable

> High percentage of
recycled content
> Light pollution reduction
> Provides fresh air
> Long, low maintenance lifecycle

155

Again, the architectural mesh system is 100% recyclable and incorporates a high percentage of
recycled content. The system helps to reduce light pollution from headlights and helps ventilate auto
exhaust. The architectural mesh system is engineered to last a lifetime with minimal maintenance.
The material is unfazed by the harsh winters and warm, humid summers of Cincinnati.
 NATURALLY SUSTAINABLE

156

We’ve touched on many of the sustainable benefits of architectural mesh systems, but let’s focus
on this topic in greater detail.
 NATURALLY SUSTAINABLE

HNTB Architecture Long lifecycle

157

Today, we all recognize that building products or systems with short lifecycles can hardly be
considered green. Simply put, architectural mesh systems are engineered and built to last.
 NATURALLY SUSTAINABLE

All components are metal. All contain recycled content. All readily recyclable.

158

Perhaps the best aspect of architectural mesh systems is that they are made entirely of metals,
both the metal fabric and the attachment hardware - stainless, brass, aluminum, etc. - most of
which contain varying degrees of recycled content and all of which are 100% recyclable. Better yet,
unlike some building materials that can only be recycled into materials of lesser value or utility, at
the end of their long lifecycle, these materials can be up-cycled into products with equal or superior
value and utility, according to the tenets of Cradle to Cradle design methodology.
 NATURALLY SUSTAINABLE

Minimal maintenance

159

Architectural mesh systems require little if any maintenance. Interior woven metal fabric is cleaned
easily with a soft cloth, water soluble detergent, or even a vacuum cleaner. For exterior
applications, periodic power washing is recommended, but no harsh or dangerous chemicals are
needed.
 NATURALLY SUSTAINABLE

Reduced structural support requirements

160

The greenest building product – is the product you do not use. This adage is applicable to
architectural mesh systems. When installed in tension, architectural mesh requires less structural
support than alternative materials, which not only reduces the amount of structural material
required, but also saves on material and labor costs.
 NATURALLY SUSTAINABLE

Light pollution reduction

161

Light pollution control is also a sustainable category that is achievable with architectural mesh.
Here mesh cuts the spill of electric lights and car headlights.
 NATURALLY SUSTAINABLE

Steven Ehrlich Architects Ventilation effectiveness

162

Ventilation effectiveness is yet another sustainable benefit: A natural strength of architectural mesh.
 NATURALLY SUSTAINABLE

Dick & Fritsche Design Group CFC reduction for HVAC&R

163

Because of the strong ventilation capability of architectural mesh, in applications such as stairwells
and parking garages, exhaust systems can often be downsized or entirely eliminated, reducing
CFCs for HVAC&R.
 NATURALLY SUSTAINABLE

NAC Architecture/Opsis Architecture Daylight and Views

164

Giving occupants of a building better access to daylight and natural views is also a green strength
of architectural mesh.
 NATURALLY SUSTAINABLE

Moore Ruble Yudell Architects and Planners Building reuse

165

Architectural mesh used for façade rehabilitation in building re-use applications is also a natural use
for the material. Urban redevelopment projects are especially well-suited for architectural mesh.
 NATURALLY SUSTAINABLE

Zimmer Gunsul Frasca Partnership Thermal comfort

166

Thermal comfort is another sustainable attribute achievable with architectural mesh. Independent
tests demonstrate architectural mesh’s excellent ability to reduce a building’s interior solar heat
gain, providing increased thermal comfort to building occupants.
 NATURALLY SUSTAINABLE

Geier Brown Renfrow Architects Optimized energy performance

167

And as a corollary to thermal comfort, a building that can reduce solar heat gain is one that requires
less energy for cooling, in this respect, combined with potential for reduced exhaust system
requirements, and natural daylight harvesting, architectural mesh systems contribute significantly to
optimized energy usage.
 LEED

> Optimized energy

performance

LEED credit may be earned for : > Incorporation of recycled

content
> Reduction of glare as part of
daylighting and views

168

Since many LEED credit categories require integration with other products and systems, at least
one architectural mesh systems manufacturer has LEED APs on staff who can provide consultation
and direction on a project-by-project basis to maximize LEED credit.
 COST COMPARISONS

169

Finally, let’s look at the affordability of architectural mesh systems. This chart shows a cost-
comparison between architectural mesh systems and other alternatives. Column A lists
architectural mesh systems installed with tension attachment hardware, along with four alternative
systems including: architectural louvers & vents, architectural grilles & screens, architectural
perforated panels, and glass curtain wall. Column B compares the relative installed dollar cost per
sq. ft. range of these five systems. Architectural mesh systems are as price-competitive as all other
alterative systems. Column C compares structural support requirements. Due to its lightweight
nature and large panel size — up to 20’ X 200’ — woven metal fabric requires far fewer embedded
structural supports. Unlike alternative systems, these supports are only required at the top and
bottom of the panel of metal fabric. Intermediate embedded structural supports or side embedded
structural supports are required. Column D compares size options for the five systems. Clearly, you
are able to cover far more area with an architectural mesh panel measuring 20’ X 200’ than with
individual 6’ X 8’ panels. That translates into big cost savings for installation. Column E shows how
architectural mesh systems can be specified to meet open structure requirements by virtue of the
open area of its metal fabric pattern.
 DESIGN ASSIST THROUGH INSTALLATION

Consult your manufacturer in early project development

170

It is advisable to consult with a full-solution provider of architectural mesh early in the project who
can help with all phases from design through installation. This helps protect the design intent and
streamline the overall process. Some manufacturers of architectural mesh systems employ a
seasoned staff who can guide you through the specification process to ensure that you achieve
your desired aesthetic and functional purpose. More importantly, since they are expert with these
types of systems they also know how to derive the maximum economic benefit from these systems.
The earlier in the design process that you consult with your architectural mesh manufacturer, the
better the result.
 A R C H I T E C T U R A L M E S H S Y S T E M S

DESIGN FREEDOM
AND
FUNCTIONALITY
THANK YOU. THIS CONCLUDES YOUR 1 AIA CES SD/HSW LU.

PRESENTED BY

1-866-806-2385 www.CambridgeArchitectural.com

171

Architects are inventing entirely new architectural mesh applications every day, creating fresh and
unique designs with beautiful, functional, architectural mesh systems. Now, what will you imagine in
mesh? This concludes your 1 hour AIA Continuing Education Systems Learning Unit “Architectural
Mesh Systems: Design Freedom and Functionality” presented by Cambridge Architectural. To
receive credit for this course you must take a 10-question quiz and pass the quiz with a score of
80% or better. You may take the test as frequently as is necessary. If you have any questions
related to the content of this program, please contact Cambridge Architectural toll-free at
866-806-2385. Also, be sure to visit Cambridge Architectural online at CambridgeArchitectural.com
 Thank you for comp et ng Architectural Mesh Systems: Design
Freedom and Functionality

Th s course was brought to you by Cambr dge Arch tectura

To earn more about Cambr dge Arch tectura :

Call toll-free: 866-806-2385

CambridgeArchitectural.com

To receive credit for this course you must

pass a 10-question quiz.

Visit http://www.thecontinuingarchitect.com/course.asp?id=21
to take your 10-question quiz.

172