As a specialist manufacturer of perforated metal with over 60 years of experience, Locker Group knows how much value this bold and versatile product can add to the interior and exterior of architectural projects.
Locker Group has put together 4 recent examples of perforated metal in architectural projects from across the globe. Each of these projects uses perforated metal in different ways, and displays the amazing potential of the material in architecture.
1. The Miami Museum Garage
Any building constructed in Miami's Design District will have stiff competition when it comes to standing out from the crowd – this area is known for innovative design, art and architecture.
However, the Miami Museum Garage does a pretty good job. The facade is inspired by ant colonies, with the structure representing a similar hive of activity. Public areas such as a playground, a garden and an art space are selectively shown, with the rest of the building disappearing behind an epic perforated metal screen.
This is a perfect example of why perforated metal is excellent for use in facades. Not only is it visually striking, this building also makes use of the material's natural capacity for sun and wind shelter while also permitting great air and light filtration.
2. Yokohama nursery
There are many aspects of the Yokohama nursery that make it a great piece of architecture. From the warm interior feeling created by the plywood boards to the windows designed to resemble traditional dwellings in the area, every aspect is well thought through and well executed.
However, the one aspect of this building that really stands out is the perforated metal facade. Not only does it stand out from the white structures on either side of the nursery, but the perforation pattern has been cleverly arranged to resemble the constellations of a galaxy.
3. Salesforce Transit Center
Opened to the public on the 11th of August 2018, the Salesforce Transit Center is a truly iconic addition to the city of San Francisco. Seventeen years in the making, the building will serve as a central transport hub for the city, and is said to be inspired by nature as well as art and math.
The design features a jaw-dropping 3,992 perforated white aluminium panels, decorated with an intricate geometrical pattern designed by mathematician and physicist Sir Roger Penrose.
For those who want to take things a step further, Locker Group offers a Pic Perf range of facades where images can be precisely perforated into the metal sheet, creating a truly unique and eye-catching design. This structure really shows off the artistic capabilities of perforated metal. What makes it so engaging for architects is the fact that there is an almost limitless variety of patterns and shapes that can be punched into the metal.
4. The Vancouver 'Tree House'
The slopes of West Vancouver will soon be graced by the presence of a 12-storey condo building, which is being called the 'Tree House'. The facade will feature a range of materials including dark painted metal, exposed concrete and perforated metal.
Perforated metal will be used in the soffits of individual units, which will cantilever from the main structure.
Perforated metal was chosen for this project for reasons similar to the Miami Museum Garage, which was to provide visual contrast and shade. The 'Tree House' is designed to blend into its surroundings, and perforated metal, with its proven capacity to establish a natural light flow,will be of great use in achieving this objective.
