All over the globe, architects seek new and innovative materials to implement into their architectural design process. Doing so allows them to turn their vision into a reality and provide customers with an aesthetically pleasing product.
In order to discover unique design materials, such as Architectural Mesh, you must continuously enroll in AIA Presentations and conduct online research.
That said, what exactly is architectural mesh?
Having worked in the world of architectural design for over 20 years, W.S. Tyler is here to help you become an architectural mesh expert and determine if its right for you.
In this article, we will establish what architectural mesh is, its applications, its variations, and its pricing.
Architectural wire mesh mesh is a high-tensile, grade 316 stainless-steel mesh that is commonly produced from 80% recycled material. Similar to the cloths we wear, the material consists of several individual wires that are woven on large weaving looms at Haver & Boecker, our German-based parent company.
While woven wire mesh appears rigid and unyielding at first glance, the material is rather flexible when tensioned over a certain length. This allows it to be used in a variety of applications.
Due to its versatile properties, architectural mesh is an ideal design solution for both exterior and interior applications.
Façade
Outfitting a structure with a mesh façade is one of the most common uses of architectural mesh. This is because mesh façades provide a sleek, one-of-a-kind appearance for arenas, commercial buildings, conference centers, educational institutions, parking garages, stadiums, theaters, and more.
For example, the same façade can appear reflective or transparent, depending on a number of factors. They can even modernize an existing building by fusing classic and contemporary design elements.
Canopies
Mesh elements can be used to create effective canopies. By deploying architectural mesh panels to deflect or filter sunlight, architects can better moderate the indoor climate.
In fact, woven wire mesh provides shade and reduces the temperature in the summer while maintaining warmth and reducing heating costs in the winter. Despite efficient sun protection, mesh canopies also offer transparent views from the inside of the structure.
Architectural mesh is an excellent material for balustrades and other infill panels. The mesh, which is made of corrosion-resistant stainless steel, adds a textile elegance to balconies, bridges, guardrails, staircases, or terraces while maintaining safety and stability standards.
In addition, infill panels with mesh elements create different optical effects, depending on the viewing angle.
Mesh offers a timeless blend of luxury and versatility. For that reason, and its ability to be manipulated, it is the ideal material for free-configuration projects.
Whether it’s aviaries, exhibitions, or various design objects, the versatile properties of wire mesh provide near-limitless possibilities.
Mesh is well-suited for interior applications, too. Installing a mesh ceiling combines sophisticated aesthetics with functional benefits.
Decorative mesh panels can be used to conceal unsightly technical installations while adding another layer of protection. In addition, lighting the mesh from different angles can achieve a number of appearances, from a shimmering finish to an opaque shell to a semi-transparent design.
Wall
Mesh panels are also an excellent choice for interior walls. Its exclusive appearance can be used to accentuate features within the room or serve as the highlight of the space itself.
Similar to ceiling panels, it can be used as cladding to conceal and protect technical installations.
Mesh is an ideal material for creating an acoustically effective environment. The round wires scatter sound in different directions and serve as a support for other acoustic materials.
The design possibilities of woven wire mesh are almost limitless. As a result, there are dozens of mesh profiles, each offering a different benefit or optical effect to the designer or architect.
The most common, diversified mesh for exterior applications. It offers the choice of warp and weft wires, as well as the weave type.
A versatile mesh for specialty façades. It incorporates vertical cables for tensioning. Weave type creates different mesh geometries, with custom optics and light effects.
The most common mesh for interior applications. While far more delicate than cable or wire mesh profiles, fine mesh offers low apertures.
Custom mesh profiles offer unique patterns for both exterior and interior applications. Unique colors and shapes can also be applied offer a solution that is truly one-of-a-kind.
The price of an architectural mesh system depends on a variety of factors, including mesh type, fabrication, quantity, aperture, and weight.
Weight is the biggest determining factor in the cost of wire mesh. The more stainless steel used, the heavier the material. The heavier the material, the higher the price.
Mesh types with more open area will track toward the cheaper end of the spectrum.
Cable mesh tends to be more expensive than wire mesh because of the vertical cables that are incorporated into its design. And, while the cables themselves are inexpensive, they must be spot-welded to prevent any fraying.
Fine mesh tends to be lighter, but the structure of it makes each pattern more difficult to weave.
The fine-weaving loom must be set up to accommodate the design. Labor is the driving factor here, as it can take several days to set up the loom.
Custom patterns require more fabrication and, therefore, more labor. In addition, the designs are drastically different, making an accurate estimation tough.
For more information regarding the cost of architectural mesh, refer to our article: How Much Does Architectural Mesh Cost?
Architectural mesh is a high-performance, versatile material with a wide range of exterior and interior applications. It is simultaneously capable of lending a timeless elegance with a modern, state-of-the-art appearance.
Maximizing the design is often a matter of selecting the ideal mesh type. Whether it’s cladding a contemporary building with a shimmering façade, or redeveloping a classic structure, offer ideal befits to virtually any project.
With over 20 years of experience working with architectural mesh, W.S. Tyler strives to ensure you integrate the material needed to turn your vision into a reality.
To learn more about architectural mesh and make the most of all its beneficial qualities, review our Architectural Wire Mesh product guide.
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