#Product Trends
Wire Mesh Guided ZGF Architects’ Sophisticated Design Scheme for the Building-at-Large
To provide a show-stopping lobby experience in commercial office building 4747 Bethesda, located in Bethesda, Maryland, ZGF Architects created a dramatic staircase feature wall utilizing Banker Wire mesh pattern SZ-4.
Spanning three stories—from the lobby to the above two office floors—the wire mesh flanks the ceremonial staircase, creating a glamorous focal point that underscores the sophisticated design scheme of the building-at-large.
From the street, an iron and glass curtain wall facade provides passersby with crystal clear views into the lobby. Throughout the lobby, multiple glass panes with varied levels of transparency provide visual cues to encourage circulation, and draw visitors through the space. The reception desk is set against the backdrop feature wall comprised of Banker Wire’s SZ-4 wire mesh, fabricated by Synergi. Specified in a stainless steel and copper wire mesh finish, the theatrical scrim focal point provides intriguing glimpses to the statement staircase and beyond.
“Contrasting the bronze-embossed glass that clads the building, the lobby is articulated as a jewel box,” says Ruben Quesada, designer, ZGF Architects. “In regards to the wire mesh finish, the combination of the copper and stainless steel is not only unique, but sophisticated. It pairs well with the other timeless materials in the space—bronze, Italian marble, and walnut wood—creating a cohesive design message. The high quality of the material warrants a front-of-house application; this mesh should not be hidden.”
A ribbon of wood slats runs along the ceiling and down the opposite wall where the wire mesh staircase feature wall sits, continuing the gesture initiated by the wire mesh screen while providing added warmth to the space. Stainless steel melded with bronze-aged copper—a round wire melded with a flat wire—the SZ-4 wire mesh pattern utilizes modern technology to create a unique weave that changes with the viewer’s angle. A very strong, multipurpose pattern, SZ-4 is suitable for such divider screen and stairway railing applications—providing value through its simultaneous aesthetic, structural, and safety abilities.
“When designing the lobby, the transparency of SZ-4 was a key factor in our decision-making process,” adds Quesada. “Essentially, we wanted a mesh that was transparent enough to see the other end of the lobby, but still provide enough mystery as to who was walking behind it. This single characteristic allowed us to lean on the wire mesh as the main material and focus of our design.”
Giving credence to the notion that first impressions count, 4747 Bethesda’s striking wire mesh lobby staircase feature wall provides building inhabitants with an elevated design experience
