CASE STUDY EXAMPLE:
32BJ SEIU Headquarters

Design Challenge:

Create a custom solution that emulates the look of historic steel factory windows while meeting the demands of a modern office:

• Accept commercial-grade door hardware
• Incorporate electromagnetic locking
• Support a high volume of daily use
• Maintain the desired aesthetic without relying on true steel fabrication
• Integrate curved glass walls and layered visibility where needed, such as in security areas

Custom Solutions:

To achieve the desired “old factory steel window” aesthetic with modern capabilities, PK-30 System engineered a fully customized solution. Key elements included:

• Satin Black Anodized Frames: Delivered the industrial look of steel with the weight, precision, and clean edges of aluminum, allowing for faster fabrication and easier installation.
• Integrated Hardware Support: Engineered frames that accommodate electromagnetic locks and ANSI Grade 1 Full Mortise Locks while maintaining slim profiles. The system accepts standard North American lock cylinders, making service and future upgrades seamless.
• Mini Divided Lites: Instead of using true divided lights, PK-30 fabricated laser-cut aluminum overlays applied to both sides of the glass. This method created the visual rhythm of traditional factory glazing without compromising thermal or acoustic performance.
• Custom Curved Security Office Wall: Designed and fabricated a segmented, curved glass wall using laminated one-way mirrored glass. To execute this with precision, PK-30 developed a bespoke joiner block to transition the segmented panels along the curve while keeping all profiles aligned.
• Specialized Office Fronts: Delivered glazed fronts that combined transparent and opaque laminated glass with tailored height lockboxes, meeting a mix of privacy and access control needs throughout the headquarters.

Results:

The result is a dynamic, multi-layered office environment that looks timeless and operates with state-of-the-art functionality. PK-30’s work allowed the architectural vision to come to life without compromise, combining beauty, resilience, and custom detailing at scale.

• The satin black system visually anchors the space, reinforcing the brand’s identity while delivering durable, maintainable systems.
• The integration of modern hardware and locking components enables both security and accessibility.
• The curved glass security wall became a focal point of the space, exemplifying the union’s forward-thinking approach to member services.

Conclusion:

PK-30 System’s role in the 32BJ SEIU headquarters project highlights its unmatched ability to deliver custom-engineered architectural solutions with precision and artistry. From concept to installation, PK-30 supported the design team with deep technical knowledge and creative fabrication techniques—ensuring that the final space not only met operational demands but also reflected the strength and unity of the 32BJ community.