An iridescent sapphire blue canopy that evokes shimmering summer waves was the winning entry in the annual “Inspired by Móz” photo competition, sponsored by Móz Designs of Oakland, Calif. Architectural / design firm MVE Institutional Inc., Irvine, Calif., won top honors in the national competition and a $1,000 cash prize.
Suspended dramatically overhead and lit with a heightened intensity, the blue wave is designed to attract diners to Ocean Grill, a trendy venue in the new Sandhu Dining Hall at Chapman University in Orange, Calif.
Created by MVE and fabricated by Móz Designs, the undulating formed metal canopy features a dazzling, light-reflective waterslide pattern with companion panels installed on the mesquite grill face and accent areas.
Ocean Grill is one of several specialty concessions in the newly built 600-seat dining hall, which was designed by MVE. Each specialty food area or “platform” was given a distinct visual presence.
Because the facility is so large—with more than 26,000 square feet (2,415 m2), including a conference center and other themed mini-restaurants— the design intent was to break down the large hall into separate, smaller-scale areas that relate to the Southern California lifestyle.
Lead architect on the Sandhu Hall project was MVE associate partner Mark Kim, AIA, LEED AP, and the interior design was directed by Robert Puleo, Associate IIDA, MVE associate partner and director of interiors.
“Ocean Grill represents the beach, complete with cabanas and Móz-inspired surf simulating ocean waves,” said Puleo. “We investigated a number of products, including glass and acrylic, but nothing provided us with the ability to create such a dramatic impact, particularly with the customization we required. The durable polycoat finish also made Móz a practical choice in a high-traffic area, like the Grill counter front.”
Creating the unique Catch a Wave setting presented a range of challenges.
“The fact that the ceiling was curved was a challenge in itself,” said Móz Designs General Manager Ernie Ngo. “That coupled with the canted profile and undulation of the panels made for a unique layout for the cutting and forming of the material. We essentially created a conical shape that not only tapered, but curved in and out.”
The site had a limited ceiling height and the design team had to carefully maneuver ductwork and structural elements to make sure the metal artwork would not be obstructed and could be installed without inhibiting the building systems.
To provide support for the canopy, and to achieve the desired canted appearance, a heavyduty metal structure was constructed, mounted to the ceiling and braced laterally against the wall.
“The unit was prefabricated in several segments that connected to a tube frame support structure, which was also pre-fabricated,” said Ngo. Installation was completed by Earl Corporation of Irwindale, Calif.
Reflecting on why MVE choose Móz decorative metals, Puleo said: “We discovered that Móz had a range of advantages: It’s lightweight, easily adapts to curving, undulating forms and the company has an exceptional selection of patterns, colors and perforation options available.
“The durable polycoat finish responded to the installation requirements of the site and the material is 80 percent post-industrial recycled aluminum that contributes to LEED 2.0 MR Credit 4-recycled content.”
The “Inspired by Móz” competition was initiated to recognize the creative use of Móz decorative materials in unique installations, including residential, commercial, healthcare, educational and institutional environments. The competition was open to all industry professionals. Winning entries and a range of runners-up can be seen in an animated video on the Móz Designs website at www.mozdesigns.com.
Ocean Grill, Sandhu Dining Hall, Chapman University, Orange, Calif.
Award: First Place, Inspired by Moz Photo Competition
Architect: MVE Institutional, Irvine, Calif.
Installation contractor: Earl Corp., Irwindale, Calif.
Formed metal canopy: Móz Designs, Oakland, Calif., www.mozdesigns.com
