Client: GSA, Richard Bolling Federal Center

Overview

The Richard Bolling Federal Building (RBFB) is in its fourth and
final phase of extensive, award-winning renovations, led by Kansas City-based Helix
Architecture. Helix has implemented a creative focus to modernize the 1.2 million
square-foot building with innovative aesthetic design and improved working conditions. The firm’s collaborative spirit was a perfect match to that of renowned local artist Anne
Lindberg, who was commissioned to bring color and movement to the central public
space of the RBFB. Her vision was to create a four-storey custom art glass installation.

Goals

To integrate fine art with structural architecture, Skyline Design had to bring to life
Lindberg’s “Curtain Wall” – a bright, multicolored feature wall that runs the entire length
and height of the escalators. “Curtain Wall” would realize the artist’s vision and the
architectural potential of the space, but it would be a very exacting process, especially
at such a grand scale. Skyline’s Advanced Screening Technology (AST™) and durable
Vitracolor® technique was the ideal process to execute the artist’s intent.

Process

To integrate fine art with structural architecture, Skyline Design had to bring to life
Lindberg’s “Curtain Wall” – a multicolored feature wall that runs the entire length
and height of the escalators. Skyline’s Advanced Screening Technology (AST™) and durable
Vitracolor® technique was the ideal process to execute the artist’s intent.Once chosen, Lindberg worked within the framework designs and glass specifications provided by the
architect. She created a dual layer image, ultimately establishing a composition of color, line width, and etching that changes the sense of speed and movement of the space.
Each panel of glass has its own identity. The work consists of five rows of glass, each including a
different set of colors. , Skyline, Helix and the artist worked with a spreadsheet of some 360 detailed image files.Sixty percent of the panels are dual layer, with first surface Eco-etch® and second surface AST bold colored stripes. The other forty percent of the panels are solely composed of AST backside colored stripes, adding a glossy finish to the installation. Skyline’s
opaque back-paint enhances the second side of all of the panels; it also ensures the longevity of the design and ease of cleaning for this public space.

Additional Information

The GSA’s ARRA stimulus did more than just fund Lindberg’s project. It furthered the effort to bring architecturally integrated art into our federal buildings, creating beauty in public sector spaces. The RBFB was awarded a 2013 American Institute of Architects Kansas City Allied Arts and Craftsmanship Merit Award, and the GSA are delighted that the artwork has rejuvenated the heart of the building. Skyline so enjoyed working with Anne Lindberg that she is now a featured artist in the Digital Glass Portfolio; four of her colorful “Pulse” designs are currently available.