Woven metal fabric manufacturer GKD-USA Inc., Cambridge, Md., has two transparent media façade offerings: Mediamesh and Illumesh. As the pioneer of this complex and state-of-the-art architectural solution, GKD has defined the parameters of the category implementing such critical factors as installation methodology, safety procedures and system variations. Ideal for large-scale applications, GKD’s Illumesh illuminated metal fabric system allows system-integrated LED lighting to project light onto the reflective metal mesh surface creating a brilliant projection. GKD’s Mediamesh has been embraced by the architectural community for its versatility and ability to enhance a façade. Through digital technology and the visual power of energy-efficient LEDs, everything from branding graphics to video and live broadcast to conceptual art are possible.
One such application is the Mellon Independence Center Building in Philadelphia, or as Philadelphia residents know it, the Lit Brothers Department Store, which occupied the building for nearly a century. This beautiful building was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1979 and currently houses the regional headquarters for the Mellon Bank with retail space on the ground level.
An iconic element has existed for years on the building rooftop-stationary transparent signage that spoke to the surrounding area. In an effort to retain the significant icon, but to modernize it as part of the overall upgrading and restoration effects, Mediamesh was selected to assume this important role. Primary building owner, Brickstone, was pleased with the decision to use a woven stainless steel fabric with integrated LEDs as a digital display. Brickstone knew that the display would appeal to both the City and the Philadelphia Historic Commission, who set strict city codes related to advertising on buildings.
In addition to GKD’s Mediamesh v4 h4.25, Tigris was also used for the rooftop installation. The 359- by 14-foot-tall display was attached using GKD’s Woven In Bar method with Triangular Brackets on top and I Bolts on the bottom. The GKD materials were chosen for their transparency, open design, ease of control of system and their ability to create a high-performance display visible from required viewing distances.
The combination of historic and modern architectural building materials is often controversial, as it is common for observers to want to keep the integrity of the original structure. While the Mediamesh serves as a great juxtaposition to the historic building, it showcases our movement as a society toward technological ingenuity.
Mellon Independence Center, Philadelphia
Completed: 2015
Customer: A2aMedia, Boston
Architect: Stantec, Philadelpha
Metal fabric: Mediamesh v4 h4.25, Tigris by GKD-USA Inc., Cambridge, Md.
—
Steve Culver is the director of business development for Mediamesh at GKD-USA Inc., Cambridge Md. For more information, visit gkdmediamesh.com or gkdmetalfabrics.com.