Uncovering design possibilities with architectural film finishes

by sadia_badhon | March 15, 2019 11:06 am

by Jake Oberle

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Whether starting a project right from scratch, preserving historic structures, or refreshing existing spaces, architects and designers are always seeking innovative ways to push the envelope. Every day, new product options are introduced into the marketplace as manufacturers attempt to create the best tools for design challenges. Architectural film finishes provide a strong solution for individuals looking to create an immediate impact.

Offering a more turnkey and dynamic choice as compared to paints and coatings, architectural film finishes offer architects the opportunity to turn their design vision into a reality quickly and efficiently. Saving on the time and energy needed to gut a space and start from scratch, architectural finishes can transform a space with minimal downtime. From decorating a glass door to refreshing outdated cabinetry, these products provide customizable solutions for an array of design projects.

Making a home for the Vikings

U.S. Bank Stadium—located just blocks from the Mississippi River in Minneapolis and home of the National Football League’s (NFL’s) Minnesota Vikings—opened its doors in 2016 and is now an integral piece of the city’s skyline. Before the stadium was built, the team played at the Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome for more than three decades.

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In 2013, under the weight of heavy snow from a bitter Minnesota winter storm, the Metrodome’s roof had collapsed. The end of an era led to a new beginning, but it necessitated hard work and detailed design.

At 163,580 m² (1.75 million sf), U.S. Bank Stadium is twice the size of its predecessor and the largest project ever built in the state. Both architectural impact and fan experience were paramount when conceptualizing the interior and exterior design elements.

“With other stadiums in the marketplace being as sound as they are, and knowing the passion of our fan base, there was pressure to do it right and ensure that we include the amenities the fans want,” said J.P. Paul, vice-president of relations and corporate development for the Minnesota Vikings.

When designing the stadium, comfort, accessibility, and ease of navigation were top priorities. Project managers wanted every part of the fans’ experience to be not only enjoyable, but also memorable and awe-inspiring. The design team also strived to ensure the Vikings aesthetic and branding components themed the entire space, contributing to a sense of both team and state pride.

To achieve a variety of design goals, three different architectural film finishes were installed throughout the stadium.

Wood-grain film finishes

In an effort to make navigating the large space as easy as possible, specific design components were assigned to different areas. For example, natural wood-grain architectural finishes were added to the concession stands to help them stand out. Concession stands are a vital stop for a fan on his/her way to watch the big game, and the uniformity ensures visitors are able to quickly identify food-service stations from afar.

Glass film finishes

In the stadium, eight mini-suites on the turf were constructed using glass dividers. To maintain privacy between the connected rooms while also providing a cohesive aesthetic, glass finishes were installed. As an added benefit, the frosted appearance of the film allows guests to enjoy the game in private comfort without sacrificing the natural light pouring in from the stadium’s one-of-a-kind glass roof. This is crucial to keep the stadium functioning year-round due to the frigid Minnesota winters.

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Additionally, glass finishes were employed in the administrative offices as well as other surfaces in the stadium such as the glass walls where the Vikings logo was etched onto the film.

Graphic films

Throughout the stadium, as well as in the team’s administrative offices, graphic films were applied to windows and walls to bring the classic Vikings aesthetic to life. The designs on these films include tributes to legendary Vikings players and coaches as well as the history of the football team and its fans.

Graphic films provide architects and designers with a design solution allowing them to expand the creative impact of glass. The design possibilities are virtually endless with the ability to mix and match patterns. Additionally, creating new designs and layering films unlocks even more ways to optimize the look of a space. This versatility is ideal for spaces such as stadiums, restaurants, and shopping centers.

It is important architects consider the wide variety of uses for graphic films. As seen in the U.S. Bank Stadium, graphic films can be employed to create consistent branding, but there are many other applications as well. In addition to wall and window use, these films can be employed in floor applications to make a great addition to a public space. Floor graphics can be used as wayfinding tools to guide guests throughout the space, making a structure easy to navigate and minimize confusion. Appropriate surfaces for floor graphic installations include waxed vinyl, sealed concrete, marble, ceramic tile, sealed wood, and terrazzo.

The benefits of architectural film finishes

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Architectural film finishes can offer a number of competitive benefits. One significant advantage of utilizing architectural finishes is their sustainable characteristics. As these products can be used to transform existing spaces, designers are able to minimize waste as well as save on costs by working with what is already readily available. Without the need to completely renovate a space and install

new products, architectural finishes can be used to repurpose existing surfaces, creating a fresh look.

Design/construction professionals can also employ architectural film finishes to reduce the use of certain stains and varnishes that can release harmful volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air. Additionally, architectural film finishes are lightweight and easy to transport, decreasing fuel usage on delivery. Implementing architectural film finishes can help with achieving sustainability goals as well as save on installation and labor costs.

Another benefit is these products can be applied to almost any surface. Ultimately, ideal surfaces for product application are smooth, hard, and nonporous. If applied to an incompatible surface, the film may be prone to bubbling, peeling, curling, or simply not sticking. However, if properly prepped, surfaces such as drywall and wood can also make acceptable substrates.

The preparation process varies from surface to surface. For example, certain manufacturers require a Level 5 with two coats of primer, as well as a sealer on porous surfaces such as drywalls. Adhesion test kits are also available to determine what preparation is needed for each application (i.e. whether or not isopropyl alcohol [ISO]/water cleaning or additional primer or sealer is required).

Versatility in applications makes architectural finishes compatible with a wide variety of existing and new spaces.

Unique uses of architectural film finishes

As showcased in U.S. Bank Stadium, there are numerous uses for architectural film finishes. Certain film finishes are designed specifically to improve aesthetics and can be used on both the interior and exterior of a building. Certain film architectural finish manufacturers have developed proprietary technology inside the layers of the film that protects it from harsh environments as well as increases the lifespan that can be between five and 10 years depending on the climate. From an array of rich wood grains nearly indistinguishable from the genuine material to texture-woven finishes, many options are available to improve a space’s appearance. Ideal for façades, signs, and pillars, these products help tie the space together and can reflect the personality of a structure. They can also serve a purpose, as seen on the concession stands in the U.S. Bank Stadium.

For facilities that encourage collaboration and creativity, architectural film finishes can transform walls into whiteboards. Whether applied in just a small section or an entire hallway, these are suited for educational facilities.

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As mentioned earlier, architectural film finishes can also be applied to glass, whether to increase privacy, bring a splash of color to a space, or add intricate designs to a glass surface. For example, colored glass finishes can create an engaging and inspiring space with bright and dynamic colors. Not only do distinctive and eye-catching glass finishes set a building apart from the outside, but on sunny days, the color also reflects internally, thereby creating a stained-glass feel at a fraction of the cost. Additionally, certain films have dichroic technology that changes color appearance with viewing angle. These finishes are a good choice for spaces striving to excite and inspire, such as schools, stadiums, and other public facilities.

Another type of glass architectural film finish, which was also featured in the U.S. Bank Stadium, is translucent and patterned transparent film. These products are often used for decor or to increase privacy, but can also be employed to create detailed custom graphics, logos, or window displays. There is also the option to fully cover a glass window, door, or wall to provide complete privacy without sacrificing natural daylight. These films can be used in areas designed to accommodate private events or gatherings, as well as offices, healthcare centers, and retail spaces.

In addition to resolving common design challenges, the diverse applications of architectural films can help inspire architects and designers to approach their projects from a different angle. Further, the product’s easy application process makes it a simple design solution that can transform a space in a matter of hours, not weeks. By keeping downtime to a minimum, project managers can save their customers time and money, increasing efficiencies and return on investment (ROI).

Conclusion

Along with their contributions to aesthetic considerations, the waste-minimizing benefits of architectural film finishes help facilities realize sustainability goals. Whether creating a visual identity, making a guest’s experience stress-free, or providing an intimate feel in private spaces, architectural film finishes are a quick and easy way to take a project to the next creative level.

Jake Oberle is the US marketing supervisor for 3M Window Film & Architectural Finishes. He is responsible for creating and executing the US Flat Glass Strategic and Operating Plan for the company as well as launching new products to the market.

Source URL: https://www.constructionspecifier.com/uncovering-design-possibilities-with-architectural-film-finishes/

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