In the recent renovation of the El Paso Cat Adoption Center, MNK Architects relied heavily on Banker Wire’s SJD-2 wire mesh pattern to create a key exterior architectural installation that was both functional and decorative. Allowing passersby to see the activity of the interior—the interactions between the cats and potential adoptees—SJD-2’s selection was inherently tied to the Center’s vision and mission of better promoting adoptions.

Asian motifs underscore the architecture and design of the Cat Adoption Center—a structure that was built in the early 1990s. Inspired by the building’s original design, MNK Architects’ renovation built on this existing concept, further emphasizing the unique design details that nod to Asia. The exterior wire mesh divider screen is one such installation, created with Banker Wire’s SJD-2—a pattern with a large open area that allows for a visual connection between the interior and exterior.

“We wanted a material that provided safety and security, while allowing visibility to the cats,” says MNK Architects. “Banker Wire’s mesh is elegant, and catches one’s attention in a subdued way—accentuating and elevating the cats on display, and the unique Asian architecture that they sit within.”

SJD-2 is a complex, unexpected woven wire mesh pattern that is stable and strong—ideal for this application, which simultaneously functions as a feature wall and space divider. This pattern also allows natural daylight and airflow to enter the space, while the seemingly infinite wire mesh pattern—visually pleasing in its irregularity—provides physical stability and sturdiness. On the wire mesh screen, the notable ‘Rising Sun’ motif is symbolic of the rising of various cultures recognized in Asia—and also a nod to the varying breeds at the Cat Adoption Center. Signifying the ‘coming together’ of these animals from various regions, the ‘Rising Sun’ design also highlights the unity of El Paso (known as Sun City).

“SJD-2 epitomizes Banker Wire’s customization capabilities—specifically, how our precise weaving process allows the creation of irregular mesh patterns, catering to our customers’ specific design requirements,” says Harrison Horan, Vice President, Banker Wire. “We are inspired by the creative individuals that work with our product, who continue to push the boundaries of what wire mesh can be.”

Overall, the wire mesh provides a subtle yet commanding backdrop, well suited in highlighting the striking ‘Rising Sun’ design. To view the complete project profile and imagery, please visit the Banker Wire website

About Banker Wire

Banker Wire is the world’s leading manufacturer of woven and welded wire mesh for architectural and industrial applications. From intricate design highlights in architectural environments to large-scale industrial applications, the company’s scalable operations ensure every mesh job is precisely manufactured according to the specifications of each order. Durable, sustainable and available in thousands of patterns, wire mesh is the ideal medium to satisfy any project regardless of its function or aesthetic. Founded in 1896, Banker Wire’s state-of-the-art facility in Mukwonago, Wisconsin employs proprietary equipment and processes that have been refined for more than a century, bringing unmatched customization, variety, quality and service to customers globally. For more information visit www.bankerwire.com.

About Architectural Woven Wire Mesh

Pre-crimped woven wire mesh is constructed of individual wires that are crimped prior to being woven together on a loom. Pre-crimping the wires provides a much higher degree of control during the weaving process. This allows for far more intricate and interesting patterns, as well as unique customization, to meet the vision of the designer. Banker Wire has refined and innovated its crimping process more than any other manufacturer, delivering more than 8,000 different spacing, diameter, and crimp combinations, plus endless customization options. As a result, Banker can make any woven wire mesh pattern imaginable – manufactured to specify for any project type.