The completion of the new classroom complex at Carlsbad High School in Carlsbad, CA represents the third and final phase of a total campus renovation that began in 2008. The new complex, designed by Perkins + Will – Los Angeles, CA, complements the existing buildings, while adding a more contemporary look to the campus. Featured on the exterior of the complex are perforated metal panels from Morin – A Kingspan Group Company.
The design of the complex includes cantilevered walls with perforated sunscreens, creating a walkway that connects the buildings within the complex. The design required an aluminum product that could be perforated in a variety of patterns and had the ability to span open framing. Perkins + Will selected MORIN to manufacture a perforated version of their U-12 profile that could be incorporated into their “Light Screen” design.
The perforated screens serve two purposes. First, they shade the walkways, and provide additional shading to the complex in the afternoon, helping to reduce energy use. Second, when combined with the cantilevered walls, they create a striking contemporary look to the exterior of the two story building, making them a main focal point of the overall design.
MORIN’s sales manager, Tim Del Monte, worked closely with the architect in determining the right material, perforation patterns, and finishes needed to meet the aesthetic, shading and structural criteria for the project. Aluminum was the ideal choice of material due to the proximity to the ocean to prevent corrosion, providing the school district with an attractive yet maintenance free passive solar shading feature.
The project incorporates three different perforation patterns, each with a different-sized perforations: 1/16”, 3/16” and 1/4” diameter round holes. The selected colors of Seafoam Green Metallic and Weathered Zinc Metallic helped complete the aesthetic requirements of the project.
The panels were installed by California Sheet Metal Works, Inc., located in El Cajon, CA. They have partnered with MORIN in the past and knew they could rely on them to provide a high quality product that would be delivered on time.
The U-12 panel is part of MORIN’s Concealed Fastener Series and is available in painted Galvalume steel, aluminum, stainless steel, zinc and copper as well as a variety of colors and finishes.
Project Highlights:
• 24,000 S.F of U-12 profile. The U-12 panel is a 2” X 2” square rib design with a 2” spacing between ribs. Each 12” wide panel contains three ribs.
• Material: .040 aluminum
• Custom Options: Three separate perforation patterns all 23% open area
• Finish / Colors: Valspar’s Fluropon Premier three coat finish in Seafoam Green and Weathered Zinc colors.
Photos by: Brett Drury Architectural Photography, Inc.