Boston 743A, a square woven mesh profile from Locker Group was selected to create lightweight panels for a facade design on a heritage building.

SJB Architects designed a canopy for the refurbishment of this heritage building. To meet the requirement of high visibility, the original design featured a mixed arrangement of small and large aperture woven panels manufactured in brass; robust, yet fine enough to allow high visibility.

Kubic Constructions set out to create the structure, calling upon Ronstan to provide a minimal framework solution, which resulted in a tensioned cable system. Locker Group worked closely with SJB, providing samples to add physicality to the design at the concept stage. As the project evolved, it became clear that a singular aperture design would create a more consistent visual aesthetic.

Since the use of brass was going to be difficult, given the complexity of the installation process, Locker Group was able to create the perfect solution, without compromising the design requirements to produce an open space with structural integrity.

The final specification was for Locker Group’s Boston 743A, a square woven mesh with a 17mm aperture made from 4mm diameter wire, providing a high percentage of open area. The mesh was produced in aluminium, a first for Locker Group on this scale. Combined with a gold anodised finish from AAF, the mesh panels have a brass appearance without the accompanying weight issues, providing ease in handling and installation. The material was produced into a panelised system and integrated with sliding windows.