Pharmaceutical Company HQ, Dublin.

This project began with an ambitious architectural vision: to create a landmark feature bandstand for a global pharmaceutical campus that would function as both a sculptural focal point and a storytelling surface within the landscape. Rather than a conventional cladding solution, the design team proposed a large-scale perforated image integrated into architectural metalwork, capable of delivering two distinct visual experiences—subtle texture and detail during the day, and a dramatically illuminated image at night through integrated LED lighting.

From the outset, the concept presented significant technical and design challenges. The primary difficulty was translating a photographic image into a perforated metal format while retaining clarity, contrast and recognisable detail at architectural scale. Unlike standard perforated panels, which use uniform patterns, or even the more 'standard picture perf jobs, this project required a variable perforation strategy where hole size and open area changed continuously across the surface to generate tonal variation. This immediately introduced complexity in terms of design control, structural integrity, and manufacturing feasibility.

A further challenge was scale and proportion. Images that work in digital or printed form do not automatically translate successfully to building-scale surfaces. When enlarged across multiple architectural panels, fine detail can be lost, and key compositional elements risk being distorted or visually diluted. Early design reviews revealed that certain aspects of the image were not resolving effectively within the available panel dimensions. This required multiple iterations of layout, cropping and rebalancing to ensure the composition remained legible and visually impactful from both near and distant viewpoints.

Lighting integration added another layer of complexity. The feature was designed to be backlit using LED systems, meaning the perforation pattern had to perform under two entirely different conditions: ambient daylight and controlled artificial illumination. Decisions around perforation diameter, pitch, and open area directly influenced not only the daytime appearance but also how light would pass through and define the image after dark. This required close coordination between the architectural team, lighting designers and Graepels to ensure both visual modes were considered simultaneously rather than sequentially.

Manufacturability was a critical constraint throughout. The design could not rely on standard perforation processes or uniform tooling. Instead, a bespoke PicturePerf approach was required, demanding precise control over perforation variation while still maintaining structural performance, panel consistency and installation practicality. Achieving this balance required continuous testing of what was visually desirable against what was physically achievable.

Graepels played a central role in resolving these challenges from the earliest design stages. Rather than working from a fixed specification, the team actively supported the evolution of the concept. This included developing digital image overlays, producing visual mock-ups, and conducting perforation studies that allowed the design team to understand how different configurations would behave when translated into metal. These tools were essential in bridging the gap between architectural intent and manufacturing reality.

Through iterative collaboration, Graepels guided decisions on image optimisation, advising on contrast adjustments, resolution limits and compositional refinement to ensure the artwork would remain legible when perforated. At the same time, technical input was provided on panel sizing, perforation density, structural constraints and fabrication methodology, ensuring the design remained grounded in what could be reliably produced and installed.

The project evolved through a series of coordinated design reviews, where each adjustment to the image or perforation strategy was evaluated not only for its visual impact but also for its performance under real-world conditions. This process of refinement was essential in achieving a final outcome that successfully balanced artistic ambition with engineering precision.

The completed installation brings together all of these elements into a cohesive architectural feature. During daylight, the perforated metal creates a textured, layered surface that reveals subtle detail and depth. At night, the integrated lighting transforms the same surface into a vivid illuminated image, dramatically altering the perception of the structure and reinforcing its role as a focal point within the environment.

What distinguishes this project is not only the final visual effect, but the process required to achieve it. The journey from concept to completion depended on sustained collaboration, technical problem-solving and a willingness to continuously refine the design in response to manufacturing and performance constraints. Graepels’ involvement ensured that the architectural vision was not diluted by practicality, but instead reshaped into a solution that complemented both.