Locker Group developed a mesh profile for installation as a facade to a new purpose built research and development facility in Melbourne.
SKM Architects were commissioned by Agilent Technologies to design the facility as an extension to its Head Office in Melbourne’s South East. The vision for the facade was to create a light veil that would encapsulate the building perimeter, and provide sun shading characteristics.
Locker Group worked closely with the architectural team and two engineering teams, Bonacci and Tensys to develop the concept to completion.
Following a feasibility study for the cable placement to balance the requirements of aesthetics and engineering, the mesh profile was specifically developed for the project by Locker Group. Modelled on an existing profile, the resulting Sun 125A profile met the architect’s design objectives.
Locker Group also designed a new fixing method to attach the expanded metal to the stainless steel cables.
Mechanical testing along with detailed engineering analysis was conducted for all of the components and connections to ensure the facade would meet the design criteria and intent, and withstand any wind loads.
Locker Group installed the stainless steel cables and provided assistance in the installation of the mesh. Detailed preparation and planning ensured the installation was fast and efficient.
The intricate nature of the facade meant that the stag ends on each piece of expanded mesh needed to align to the next sheet. This required higher than usual manufacturing tolerances, which Locker Group was able to provide.
The mesh profile by Locker Group looks spectacular day or night. At night the facade is backlit by LEDs at each level, providing a striking vision for passing traffic.
