The wall was designed by New Burke architect Tom Kundig, whose work is well known for this type of feature, and his long-time collaborator Phil Turner, Olson Kundig’s gizmologist. Turner Exhibits provided mechanical and structural design, fabrication, and technical direction during installation.
The pivoting window wall is hinged above the café roofline. When fully rotated to the horizontal position, it creates a clear opening and an overhanging awning at the east end of the café. The wall opening is approximately 24’ wide by 20’ high, and including its large flying counterbalance, the entire system stands over 30’ tall.
Skanska crews install the pivoting window wall on a rainy day.
Skanska crews install the pivoting window wall on a rainy day.
The wall weighs just over 22,000 lbs. and is operated by turning a hand wheel at an indoor control station.
Turning the hand wheel at the indoor control station will open the pivoting window wall.
Blue prints of the pivoting window wall's series of gears, bearing and shafts.
Through a series of gears, bearings and shafts, the mechanism moves a toothed, rigid arm that pushes the window wall open and pulls it closed.
Posted: April 30, 2018
Donors who generously supported the new pivoting window wall gathered on June 6 to celebrate the completion of the wall and honor Phil Turner for his work and his role as an inspiration to the work of Olson Kundig.
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Special thanks to Greg Cain of Turner Exhibits for his contribution to this article.
