At Marquette University in Milwaukee, Wisc., EXTECH’s KINETICWALL takes on an entirely different expression—as environmental art. Installed in the new Wellness + Helfaer Recreation Facility, the 515 m2 (5,538-sf) feature wall serves as both a landmark and a healing instrument. Designed in collaboration with renowned environmental artist Ned Kahn, the kinetic façade seeks to reconnect people with nature through light, air, and motion.
In a recent interview with Marquette Today, Kahn said, “What if the entire building could function as a healing instrument for the university and the community?” Kahn said. “Visually connecting people to the mysterious and beautiful air that we breathe … transforming the entire building into a healing, fluid environment.”
EXTECH fabricated the feature wall from 152 mm x 152 mm (6 x 6 in.) aluminum kinetic elements, spaced 25 mm (1 in.) apart to optimize movement and visual effect. Each flapper is coated in a calming blue Kynar finish, chosen to evoke the shimmering surface of nearby Lake Michigan. Pre-assembled into panels measuring approximately 1.78 m (5.83 ft) wide by 3.35 m (11 ft) tall, the system was installed in three vertical tiers to form a seamless animated surface. The kinetic movement of the wall creates an ever-changing mosaic of light and texture, reflecting wind patterns and the surrounding environment.
The kinetic design continues inside the building, where four smaller kinetic tile arrays echo the exterior theme and extend the sensory experience to interior spaces. The result is a space that not only serves physical wellness but also inspires mental and emotional clarity.
Metal façade: EXTECH, Pittsburgh, Pa., extechinc.com
