Special Effects
THREE RECENT PROJECTS GIVE FAMILIAR MATERIALS UNIQUE EXPRESSIONS
1 SET IN STONE
The newly retrofitted Hong Kong Museum of Art features a dynamic exterior that mimics the undulating waves of nearby Victoria Harbour, achieved via the installation of Equitone’s Tectiva range of throughcoloured cement panels. An ode to traditional Chinese masonry patterns, the customized aluminum-framed modules are each made from five separate pieces; cut at differing angles, they create shadow joints that enhance the 3D effect. Soundinsulating and resistant to water damage, extreme temperatures, fungi and bacteria, the material has a sanded surface and is available in nine standard colours. equitone.com
2 OUTER WEAR
Wrapped in 8,500 custom panels of Lorin Industries’ Clearmatt series of anodized aluminum, the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum in Colorado (designed by Diller, Scofidio + Renfro) evokes a sense of movement fitting for a building dedicated to sport and athleticism. Made by MG Mcgrath, the lightweight yet extremely durable diamond-like segments were coil anodized so as not to oxidize or scratch, ensuring their longevity; the material also reflects and refracts light to further the three-dimensionality. Offered in a range of finishes, it’s 100 per cent recyclable and low maintenance. lorin.com
3 FABRIC INFLUENCED
For a textile company in Foshan, China, Lucien International—masanori Designs devised an exterior that recreates the symmetry of yarn on a loom using slender white-toned aluminum bars. Stretching from the second level to the first, the rigid material appears to billow softly around the building, lifting gently to offer a glimpse inside. masanoridesigns.com