No one would be shocked to find Leonardo da Vinci in the history of metal art screens; after all, he created the Mona Lisa. But, da Vinci’s contribution to metal art screen systems has nothing to do with his paintings. He designed the first rolling mill process, which led to the production of sheet metal 100 years later. Although technology has improved the way sheet metal is made, the rolling mill concept is still the core process for thinning metal into sheets.
Sheet metal can be made from a variety of materials, including aluminum, steel, copper, brass, nickel, tin, and titanium. The metal is melted, augmented if necessary, and poured into molds. Once hardened, the metal can be pressed to any size and thickness. Like a blank canvas, sheets of metal can be turned into works of art.
Art Screen Systems
Screens are one of the more versatile design elements. They can be made of different materials with varied finishes and can range from plain panels to intricately designed screen systems. Screens can be used to:
- Define public spaces in lobbies, atriums, and gardens.
- Conceal building equipment such as utility meters and HVAC systems.
- Divide residential spaces such as patios, great rooms, and swimming pools.
- Enrich public and private landscape designs.
With the range of materials and finishes, metal screen systems provide an opportunity for functionality to meet aesthetics for unlimited possibilities.
Define Public Spaces
Creating a screen system using geometric shapes provides visual separation while maintaining fluidity. The free spaces in the design retain the openness of an area while providing some privacy on either side of the panels. Today’s art screens go beyond a typical wrought iron panel. Technology makes it possible to incorporate the artistry of Japanese folding screens into metal art screens.
Large public spaces such as building lobbies are perfect places to add a screen system. Use an abstract designed screen to separate reception from the rest of the space. Carry the conceptual design into the waiting area to partition off semi-private seating. How the screens are placed in the space can reflect the geometric screen designs.
Adding screens with polished designs to outdoor public spaces provides privacy without distracting from the natural setting. Strategically placed panels can protect against the elements to make the outdoor experience more enjoyable. Coordinate a screen design with water treatments and lighting for a spectacular display even at night.
Conceal Equipment
Nothing ruins the aesthetics of a building like HVAC equipment or utility meters. Rather than hide the equipment with utilitarian screens, place artistically designed panels around them. The screens can incorporate open patterns to allow for better circulation and remote reading of utility meters. Adding extra space around the devices means maintenance doesn’t have to be performed in full view of the public.
No offense to dumpsters, but they are civilization’s eyesores. No one enjoys looking at trash. Designing a screen system that blocks the dumpster from view but allows the sanitation crews to remove the trash is a perfect compromise. Adding a design or a logo to the screen can provide visual interest and contribute to brand awareness.
Divide Residential Spaces
Art screen systems aren’t just for commercial use. Screens can be used in almost any room in a house. In the bathroom, use a screen to separate the shower or bath from the rest of the room. With today’s materials, moisture is not a problem. Go ahead and create a design that brings a sense of relaxation to the space.
Open floor plans are great until they aren’t. Sometimes, people need a little privacy. What happens when part of the family wants to watch a movie, but the rest want to play a board game? With art screen systems, families can partition a larger space into functional areas for playing games or having a quiet conversation.
Home offices are another place where art screen systems can make a design statement while providing the separation needed for work. Carving out a space using metal panels can ensure a safe place for work-related materials without distracting from the home decor. With the wide selection of materials and finishes, there’s sure to be a screen to please everyone.
Enrich Landscape Designs
Whether it’s a commercial or residential landscape, art screen systems can be functional and visually interesting. Placing beautifully crafted art screens around a patio or pool area creates a private oasis in which to decompress at the end of the day. The design can incorporate a range of geometric shapes or depict a scene that evokes calm or chaos. There is no limit to the possibilities.
Commercial landscapes can use art screens to direct foot traffic. They can depict a little corporate history or incorporate a company logo as they shield people from the elements. Well-placed art screens can guide employees and visitors through a corporate campus. They can also help to deflect light, heat, wind, and rain. A carefully designed art screen system can contribute to a company’s corporate culture by sharing key moments in its history.
A World of Possibilities
Leonardo da Vinci used his engineering skills to devise the rolling mill process. He used his artistic talents to turn canvases into masterpieces. Because of da Vinci’s combined talents, we can turn blank sheets of metal into personal works of art. All it takes is a little imagination and the skilled professionals at MFR’s Metalco.
Over the past two decades, Metalco’s Architectural Screen Systems have combined art and engineering to meet the most demanding design needs. From educational facilities to outdoor spaces, Metalco has delivered functional art to companies throughout the country. Browse the screen gallery for a glimpse of our work. Then, contact our experienced team of professionals to receive a quote.