IO AT Types of Mesh for Sun Protection

KPMB, an 80-personnel architectural firm in Toronto, Canada, utilizes IO's AT 15 type of mesh and installed an exterior shading to serve as sun protection in one part of the McGill University building as shown in the photo above. The metal fabrics are built in large panels situated slightly slanting from one another. IO's AT 15 type of mesh are designed to apply 50% open area to provide enough shade. What caught my attention to write about this photo is how it displays the mechanical balance and durability of the metal fabric used as large panels in this project.

Cocoon - SwissLife Insurance

One of the most innovatively-designed workplaces is the Cocoon Swisslife Insurance in Zurich Switzerland designed by Camenzind Evolution. Using metal fabric from WS Tyler, the structure's use of the metal fabric accentuates the building as a whole. It is dashingly covered with stainless steel wire mesh which gives a see-through effect on the inside of the building especially when lighted from the inside as shown in the photo above. The wire mesh serves another function other than its aesthetic contribution to the whole structure. It serves as a curtain which rolls upwards. When rolled down it serves its special purpose in sun protection. No wonder this project has been nominated at the World Architecture Festival Awards 2008 under the Office Category.