,

Company:
Fabric Images Inc. Elgin, IL

Project Details

Fabric 1

ezoBord
Producer: Proprietary


Engineer Company 1
Fabric Images, Inc.

Design Company
Fabric Images, Inc.

Architect Company
4orm Studio

Fabrication Company
Fabric Images, Inc.

Subcontractor Company
Fabric Images, Inc.

Project Manager Company
4orm Studio

Installation Company
4orm Studio


Please describe the project specifications

When renovating the rooftop terrace at West 77 in Chicago, an environment was envisioned with fluid motion and energy, one that would embody the contemporary urban lifestyle of the residents. Taking inspiration from waves, the pool deck captures this concept with the integration of a flowing overhead canopy.


What was the purpose of this project? What did the client request?

Using a cross-hatched design, the canopy was customized to the 15ft x 30ft size and undulating form. It serves two purposes based on the client’s request and needs of the space.
1. The canopy offers the space a visual contrast of form and color. The grid design plays with the ambient lighting and offers variation from light to dark. The color speaks to the brand persona while adding vibrancy and life to the space.
2. Made with ezoBord™ acoustical felt material, the canopy acts as an acoustical sponge. The soft density of the material combined with the cellular design reduced noise by 60% and increased speech clarity.


What is unique or complex about the project?

While visually complex, the design was generated by our team using automated 3D modeling software, figuring in the curvatures, grid and integrated locking mechanisms. Calculates were run based on the cell size of the grid to ensure adequate sound management within the space.

Once detailed, the ezoBord™ slats were cut on a precision CNC cutter and labeled according to placement. Due to the large over-all size, assembly took place in eight modules. The packaging of each was coordinated with the order of install. Between the careful planning and dedicated installation team, set-up was completed within one working day.


What were the results of the project?

Integrating the acoustical canopy within the pool deck afforded dynamics that were needed to dress the space and control the noise that is common with a public pool area. As stated by David Pinson, Innovation Specialist at 4orm Studio, “We explored many options before presenting the final choices to our client. Not only did the Hatch canopy reflect our vision, but more importantly it addressed the sound attenuation that the space so desperately needed. The entire (team) went above and beyond to help us meet our deadlines and exceed our client’s expectations.”


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