A Creative Solution For A Chicago Train Station

When you think of futuristic design, almost no example is better than the recently completed train station at the Cermak-McCormick Place stop in Chicago. Besides its elegant, modern appearance, it makes incredibly smart use of material — namely, perforated steel.

An Innovative Use of Space and Material

The Chicago rail station is a notable example of perforated architecture that is both aesthetically pleasing and highly functional. Designers and engineers used perforated stainless steel and polycarbonate to essentially reimagine the Chicago train station without re-aligning tracks or widening the workspace. The result was a sleek perforated tube with just the right balance of transparency and shield from the elements.

The Functional Benefits of Architectural Perforated Metal

For this particular project, perforated metal was an ideal solution that allowed in sunlight while blocking unwanted elements like rain and wind. In Chicago, however, it’s not always easy to strike that balance when you must contend with bright sun and unpredictable weather—not to mention the sounds of the city.

To the passenger, the structure is seemingly an impressive, artistic tubular structure that stands out from the standard train station. Both of these purposes — functional and aesthetic — were made possible because of perforated metal.

What We Can Do for You

At Accurate Perforating Company, we help architects and designers realize their innovative ideas, like the Chicago train stop. We know the limits and benefits of every material we offer — from copper and iron to carbon and stainless steel. Our capabilities run the gamut and allow us to meet specifications for any project like this. Our hole-size options range from 2 inches in 5/16-inch steel plates to tiny .046-inch perforations in .020-inch aluminum.

We also recognize that projects as complex as the Chicago train stop require a deep understanding of the materials used, which is why we offer project consulting, component engineering, prototyping, assembly, and much more.

Contact Us for More Smart Solutions

We work closely with our manufacturing and design customers and are always eager to learn about your unique project. Contact us today to learn more about our capabilities and to request a quote.