CASE STUDY EXAMPLE:
AKIN GUMP OFFICE

Akin Gump, one of the nation’s most respected international law firms, sought a unique architectural solution for their Los Angeles office that would seamlessly blend style, flexibility, and functionality. The design centered around a large, multi-purpose space framed by a striking curved glass curtain wall offering sweeping views of the city. The challenge? The space needed to effortlessly transform from a grand event venue into a functional conference room while contending with structural limitations that could impact the operable partitions.

PK30 collaborated closely with the design and engineering teams to tackle the complex challenge of supporting the suspension track in a way that could accommodate significant deflection. Structural analyses revealed the potential for the track to move by as much as 1.5 inches due to heavy loading on the floor above—well beyond what traditional partition systems could handle.

PK30 pioneered a groundbreaking “floating shoe” system through multiple design iterations and brainstorming sessions. This innovative solution introduced a 1.5-inch tolerance within the panel assembly, allowing the system to absorb movement and maintain functionality without exerting pressure on the glass panels.

After successfully testing the floating shoe concept with a full-scale mockup, the solution was approved and integrated into the final PK30 shop drawings for fabrication, resulting in a flexible, sophisticated space that meets both aesthetic and functional needs.

This project demonstrates PK30’s ability to deliver custom-engineered solutions that overcome even the most demanding design challenges, ensuring that client vision is fully realized.

CHALLENGE:
Devise a solution to cope with an excessive degree of deflection in the ceiling structure.

SOLUTION:

The PK30 System developed, engineered, and rigorously tested a custom “floating-shoe” solution to address the challenge of ceiling deflection. This system offers a 1.5-inch margin of safety to ensure the stability and functionality of the panels, even under potential structural movement.

KEY FEATURES:

• Seamless Appearance: The system eliminates the need for continuous floor guides by using foot bolts in dust-proof floor strikes. This design prevents visual or physical barriers when the wall is retracted, maintaining an uninterrupted space ideal for events.
• Fully Retractable Panels: Twelve operable PK30 panels stack neatly into a closet, completely disappearing to create a wide, open, multi-functional space.
• Robust Panel Capabilities: The system can support panel weights of up to 330 lbs and reach heights of up to 12 feet, providing versatility for a range of architectural needs.

This custom solution highlights PK30’s expertise in delivering high-performance, adaptable systems tailored to unique project requirements.